To provide training and development opportunities to stakeholders, Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos, Scientist IV and chief of the Training Division of the DA-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI), served as a resource speaker in back-to-back activities organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 02 in partnership with the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) and the Outstanding Young Scientists, Inc. (OYSI) on May 10-11, 2023 in Batanes.

Dr. Santos presented his works on aquatic species genetics to high school students in Batanes through a presentation titled, “Saving Nemo and Friends using DNA Forensics.” This was part of the Symposium for the Youth or ScienTeach, a series of episodes that showcase different topics and highlight the achievements of NAST members and awardees who were experts in their respective fields. The symposium aimed to promote science and technology, bring Filipino scientists closer to the youth, and encourage students to pursue a career in science.

Furthermore, he shared his experiences and practical tips in designing methodologies and developing appropriate Gantt charts and budgets for research proposals to teacher-researchers from different senior high schools and colleges in Batanes and government employees of the provincial government. This was part of the “Training-Workshop on Writing and Presenting Proposals towards Building Science Culture (Module 1)” under the Research Upgrading and Performance Evaluation (RUPE) Program.

RUPE aims to improve research by promoting idea-sharing and collaborations within the scientific community, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the quality of scientific outputs and publications.

Dr. Santos is a NAST Academician and an OYSI member. Other resource speakers were NAST academicians and OYSI former presidents. ### (Cyrenes Moncawe)