PUT VALUE ON RESEARCH

I want to thank Filipino marine geophysicist Jenny Anne Barretto for her untiring efforts in conducting research that led to the discovery of possibly the largest caldera in the world. The research paper describing a large caldera with a diameter of around 150 kilometers within Benham Rise, an underwater plateau off the waters of Aurora and is considered part of the Philippines’ continental shelf, is perhaps a breakthrough research work in this area. I admire her patience and endurance. I also hope and pray there will be more investments on research, especially in areas that would uplift the lives of ordinary Filipinos.

While we’re on the topic of research, I’m disappointed in Sen. Cynthia Villar’s adverse comments on the research funds for a certain government agency. It’s clear that the senator does not know the value of conducting further studies. It’s disgusting how an elected official does not give premium or value to the works of researchers in our country.

I hope the policies or the proposed bills that Villar sponsors undergo proper research so they can truly address the problems and needs of the Filipino people.

REGINE MAMAGATAGAPAY, rmamagat888@gmail.com