Manila - The National Research Council of the Philippine Islands was created on December 8, 1933, by virtue of Act No. 4120 of the Ninth Philippine Legislature.
It was established to promote the advancement of science through researches that would build up a body of Filipino men and women devoted to scientific research. It was to convene regularly as an organization and formulate national plans to solve problems on health, sanitation, agriculture, industry, and others.
Its main purpose was to stimulate and support research work in the various fields of multi-disciplinary and humanistic sciences and their related applications. The Council envisioned the advancement of knowledge frontiers, concepts, design frameworks and technologies toward national development and progress.
It has a logo bounded in a circle with cool blue radiating borders embodying the scholastic mindset needed in research work. The 12 scalloped border represents NRCP and its twelve divisions.
A group of 114 prominent scientists and technologists were charter members of a corporate entity known as the National Research Council of the Philippine Islands. It was renamed the National Research Council of the Philippines after the country`s independence in 1946.
During the 1982 reorganization under Executive Order No. 784, the Council was designated as a Sectoral Council engaged in supporting research of fundamental nature. It was attached to the National Science and Technology Authority for policy and program coordination.
In 1987, when Executive Order No. 128 further reorganized the country`s science and technology sector, NRCP was stripped of its functions and responsibilities as a Sectoral Council and its name was changed to the Philippine National Science Society. It, however, remained attached to the Department of Science and Technology. In December, 1990, Republic Act 6974 restored the name of the agency to National Research Council of the Philippines.
Among the principal mandates of NRCP is the provision of assistance for the development of the research capabilities of Filipino scientists. It also acts as an advisory body in select priority sectors to the national government on problems and issues affecting the country.
This year`s NRCP 75th Annual Meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 12, at the historic landmark Manila Hotel with the theme "Basic Research for National Development." The NRCP will also hold its election of division chairmen and launch its membership directory during the meeting.
We congratulate the National Research Council of the Philippines on its 75th Annual Meeting headed by its President Dr. Olivia C. Caoili, its Officers and Members, and wish them success in all their endeavors.
Source: www.mb.com.ph (12 Maret 2008)
