Montoya added that NAST receives funding from the DoST for analysis and improvement, together with help for its award applications, and can mark its fiftieth anniversary on 16 December 2026.
The finalists for the 2026 NAST Talent Search for Young Scientists embody researchers from varied universities presenting research in fields reminiscent of synthetic intelligence in engineering, most cancers analysis, environmental well being, aquatic ecosystems and meals security.
The winners of the 2026 competitors will likely be acknowledged in the course of the forty eighth Annual Scientific Meeting of NAST PHL on 9 July 2026. The first prize winner will obtain a P100,000 money award and a P50,000 analysis grant from the DoST for an authorised mission.
Montoya burdened the significance of recognizing Filipino scientists, calling them “modern heroes” amid nationwide challenges.
“You always hear negative news like corruption and lack of funds. But this is something positive — we have scientists who are improving the lives of Filipinos,” he stated.
Veteran scientist Dr. Antonio-Velmonte, 87, inspired young researchers to pursue inquiry and discovery.
“If you want to achieve something in the future, do research. Search for answers to your questions,” she stated.