The Philippine Association for the Advancement of Science, Technology, and Innovation (PhilAASTI) marked a monumental milestone as it celebrated its 75th Anniversary and Annual Convention at The Manila Hotel. Among the highlights of the celebration was the unveiling of a brand-new recognition category designed to honor exceptional trailblazers in the national science and technology community: the PhilAASTI Fellowship Award.
Standing out among the inaugural cohort of recipients is Engr. Alfonso A. Aliga, Jr., who was officially named one of the four pioneer PhilAASTI Fellows.
A Highest Distinction for Sustained Excellence
The creation of the PhilAASTI Fellow distinction marks a significant evolution in how the organization honors leaders in the country’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem.
According to Dr. Alvin B. Culaba—National President of Sci and Tech Philippines and Head of the Committee for the Dr. Michael R.I. Purvis Award for Sustainability Research—the PhilAASTI Fellow conferred title represents the highest honor bestowed by the association. It is reserved exclusively for individuals who have demonstrated outstanding, long-standing, and sustained contributions across sectors such as science, technology, innovation, education, industry, and public service.
“The distinction signifies not only professional excellence but also service to the scientific community and society.” — Dr. Alvin B. Culaba
Engr. Aliga’s inclusion in this inaugural group highlights his role in shaping the nation’s technological landscape and advancing scientific initiatives that serve the broader public interest.
The Inaugural Class of Pioneer Fellows
Engr. Aliga shares this elite pioneer recognition with three other distinguished leaders across various fields:
- Engr. Alfonso A. Aliga, Jr.
- Atty. Froilan A. Bagabaldo
- Maria Ester Follosco-Bautista
- Dr. Jose Paolo S. Campos
Together, these pioneer fellows embody the multi-disciplinary strength that PhilAASTI has fostered since its founding on September 15, 1951.
Honoring a 75-Year Legacy
The conferment took place under the leadership of PhilAASTI President and NAST PHL Academician Fortunato T. De La Peña during an event themed “Building Foundations, Strengthening Pillars, Delivering Solutions.”
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. emphasized in a message that PhilAASTI continues to serve as a vital cornerstone bringing together government, academia, and industry. By bestowing the inaugural Fellowship Award on leaders like Engr. Aliga, PhilAASTI reinforces its commitment to instilling a culture of excellence, integrity, and social impact among Filipino scientists and engineers for decades to come.
