In a significant stride towards advancing bilateral relations in science and technology, the Philippines and the United States convened the 1st PH-US Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) on Science and Technology on April 30, 2024, in Washington, D.C., USA.
The meeting, led by Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia from the Philippines’ Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Deputy Assistant Secretary Rahima Kandahari from the US State Department, served as a platform to identify priority areas for collaboration in key areas such as OneHealth, biotechnology, biosecurity, artificial intelligence, energy, environment, and scientific enhancement.
Undersecretary Buendia highlighted the pivotal role of the meeting in providing a clear and focused direction for the next two years. The commitment to collaborate was evident in the constructive dialogue and shared vision for fostering innovation and knowledge exchange between the two nations.
This meeting marked the first bilateral gathering since the signing and renewal of the PH-US Science and Technology Agreement in 2019. It symbolizes the enduring partnership between the Philippines and the United States, signifying a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.
In attendance were the Executive Directors of the Councils of the DOST – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), and the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP). Also present were the Agriculture Counsellor and the head of the Economic Section of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Looking ahead, the outcomes of the first PH-US JCM will lay the groundwork for a resilient partnership characterized by mutual respect and shared goals.
