Two scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) have been honored with the 2024 NSTW (National Science and Technology Week) Outstanding Research and Development Award for Basic Research by the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL).

Dr. Pia Bagamasbad of the UPD-CS National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (UPD-CS NIMBB) and Dr. Aurelio de los Reyes V of the UPD-CS Institute of Mathematics (UPD-CS IM) were commended for their exceptional contributions to Philippine society through their research.

NAST PHL recognized Dr. Bagamasbad for her research on the connection between stress, altered light-dark cycles, and breast cancer. Her study identified KLF9 as a gene connecting cortisol and circadian rhythm disruptions to breast cancer risk and progression. “The knowledge that is generated from basic research provides the solid foundation that enables us to answer many practical problems,” said Dr. Bagamasbad, noting that many Nobel Prize Laureates in Physiology or Medicine were recognized for understanding molecular and cellular processes without immediate practical aims.

The Academy also acknowledged Dr. de los Reyes for his groundbreaking research on hormone-based contraceptives, awarding him the outstanding research prize. “Our research on contraception dosing strategies goes beyond controlling population growth. It’s about empowering women by giving them safer, more informed ways to decide when to conceive and start motherhood. This is about supporting their health, their choices, and their futures,” he shared. “Using mathematics, we aim to design strategies that not only improve medical outcomes but also ensure that these decisions can be made confidently and with better understanding.”

NAST PHL, mandated with recognizing outstanding contributions to science and technology by Filipino scientists across all fields, honors individuals and institutions that have made significant advancements in knowledge generation, research, and the promotion of science and technology in the Philippines.

Dr. Bagamasbad and Dr. de los Reyes will be awarded the Eduardo A. Quisumbing Medal for basic research, along with a plaque and cash prize, during the opening ceremony of NSTW on November 27. They are also invited to present their research at the ScienTeach: Symposium for the Youth on November 28.

Both scientists will be featured in #PilipiNAST Kapehan, a series of discussions between NAST PHL and media and science communicators designed to highlight the Academy’s programs, activities, awardees, members, and relevant national issues.