DepEd opens National Science Fair, urges use of technology to key challenges

The Department of Education on Wednesday opened the 2026 National Science and Technology Fair (NSTF), with Education Secretary Sonny Angara urging Filipino learners to develop technology-driven solutions to pressing national and global challenges.

Angara encouraged young innovators to pursue research that could help address issues such as sustainable energy, food production and nutrition, and disaster resilience.

“In line with the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to leverage science and technology for a better quality of life, we urge our learners to pioneer solutions that address our most critical national challenges,” Angara said.

The NSTF, held annually by DepEd, is the country’s top platform for high school students to showcase research and innovations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Pathway to global science competition

The competition also serves as the Philippine qualifying round for the International Science and Engineering Fair, considered the world’s largest pre-college science competition.

Angara cited the recent international recognition of students from Patin-ay National High School in Agusan del Sur for their research on medicinal plants as proof of the global competitiveness of Filipino youth in science and research.

“By mastering rapidly evolving technologies today, the Filipino youth serve as the primary architects of a more innovative and resilient Bagong Pilipinas,” he said.

STEM research and innovation showcase

Participants from across the country are competing in several NSTF activities, including the Tuklas (STEM Research Competition), which features projects in Life Science, Physical Science, Robotics and Intelligent Machines, and Mathematics and Computational Science.

The fair also includes the STEM Innovation Expo, where students present market-ready technologies addressing issues such as food safety, water conservation, renewable energy, cybersecurity, and health.

Other activities include the STEM Academy conference and Agham Bayanihan, a community exhibit where partner institutions demonstrate science-based technologies and services to the public.—LDF, GMA Integrated News