Group 3: Nanotechnology in the

Philippines

Members:
Sy, Christen Darren
Cantancio, Jonas John
Cauilan, Jaime
Cuenco, Gabriel
Comon, Isidro
Loreja, Reynel
Malinge, Renato
Matias, James
I. Introduction of the topic
In developed economies, technological innovations drive growth; thus, strategies that incorporate
developing technology are critical. Many developing and underdeveloped countries are facing numerous
growth and development challenges. Poverty reduction, political and economic stability, and
industrialization are all major challenges in the Philippines. As a result, it makes sense for the government
to devote resources to addressing these pressing issues. Because of that reason, science and technology
are sometimes thrown to the side, despite their importance.
In addition, finding a niche where the Philippines can use its own unique, indigenous natural
resources will give the Philippines a greater shot at nanotechnology. Correspondingly, the Department of
Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research and
Development (DOST-PCASTRD) has begun its nanotechnology research, with the following areas in
need such as semiconductors, data innovation, energy, agribusiness, medicine, and environmental
assurance.
Furthermore, because of its interdisciplinary nature and the lack of distinction between nanotech
and traditional licensing, there is also a tendency to include intellectual property claims. Local intellectual
property laws must be updated to require evidence of progress in nanoscale research. In 2008, the
Philippines' Department of Science and Technology (DOST) convened a multidisciplinary committee of
14 local scientists to develop a national nanotechnology roadmap. The group began by identifying the five
previously mentioned major sectors for nanotechnology application, which corresponded to DOST's
priority areas for research and development support.

II. Evidence of the topic

In the Philippines Nanotechnology is the synthesis, manipulation, design, and application of a
functional system or material at the nanoscale. It draws on multiple disciplines and has a wide
variety of applications, from agriculture to food safety, biosensors, and biomedical diagnostics.
In fact, in 2008 alone, global investment in nanotechnology R & D reached 10 billion USD. The
Philippines has also launched its own nanotechnology research initiative. The Department of
Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research
and Development (DOST-PCASTRD) has the following sectors as its priority: semiconductors,
information technology, energy, agriculture, medicine, and environmental protection. In the area
of agriculture, notable products developed in the strengthened nanotechnology programs of the
University of the Philippines, Los Baos include: 1) nanosilica-based fertilizer that increases
germination and growth rate of tomatoes; 2) fruitect® coating technology, which boosts the shelf
life of high-value fruits such as mango and papaya; and 3) nanoencapsulated plant growth
regulators, which enhance germination and root development of coffee, banana, and cassava. The
growing number of novel nanotechnology products in the country is surprisingly unsupported by
a low number of patent applications. However, due to the sheer number of potential applications
and an overall increase in funding for nanotechnology R & D, there is a projected surge of patent
applications.
III. The Stand
A. Positive stand
Nanotechnology has the potential to bring major advances in medicine. Nanobots could
be sent into a patient's arteries to clear away blockages. Surgeries could become much faster and
more accurate. Injuries could be repaired cell-by-cell. It may even become possible to heal
genetic conditions by fixing the damaged genes. Nanotechnology could also be used to refine
drug production, tailoring drugs at a molecular level to make them more effective and reduce
side effects.
Nanotechnology raises the possibility of microscopic recording devices, which would be
virtually undetectable. More seriously, it is possible that nanotechnology could be weaponized.
Atomic weapons would be easier to create, and novel weapons might also be developed. One
possibility is the so-called "smart bullet," a computerized bullet that could be controlled and
aimed very accurately. These developments may prove a boon for the military, but if they fall
into the wrong hands, the consequences would be dire.
Nanotechnology offers the potential for new and faster kinds of computers, more efficient
power sources, and life-saving medical treatments. Potential disadvantages include economic
disruption and possible threats to security, privacy, health, and the environment.

B. Negative stand
Nanoparticles can cause lung harm. We know that "ultra fine" particles emitted by diesel
engines, power plants, and incinerators can cause significant lung harm. This is due to their size
(they can penetrate deep into the lungs) as well as the fact that they carry additional substances,
such as metals and hydrocarbons, with them.
Nanoparticles can enter the body through the skin, lungs, and digestive system. This may
contribute to the production of "free radicals," which can cause cell damage and DNA damage.
There is also concern that once nanoparticles enter the bloodstream, they will be able to breach
the blood-brain barrier.
The human body has evolved tolerance to the majority of naturally occurring elements
and molecules with which it comes into contact. It has no natural immunity to new compounds
and is more likely to find them hazardous.
Hazards and risks of nanoparticles include increased production of ROS, DNA damage,
genotoxic effects, damage to organs and tissues in humans, effects on growth and yield of crop
plants, and negative impacts on beneficial bacteria in the environment.
C. Final stand
With nanotechnology being touted as the next jump in technology, scientists are already
at work, designing several applications for the same. It is no longer a question of if but one of
when; it is only a matter of time before we see more products being designed with nanotech.
nanoparticles are extremely small in size making them perfect for medical usage, as a way to
deliver key medications effectively, it is also the very reason that we may have to be wary of
using the same for treating patients. For example, given their tiny minuscule size, these
nanoparticles can affect healthy normal cells and what’s more, these nanoparticles do not register
in our immune system because of their size. In short, we need to learn more about
nanotechnology before we start using the same to help treat patients.

IV. References
https://www.dost.gov.ph/knowledge-resources/news/38-2009-news/366-dost-outlines-
nanotechnology-roadmap.html
https://www.nanowerk.com/news/newsid=11226.php
https://smallbusiness.chron.com/advantages-disadvantages-nanotechnology-37398.html
https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=467
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780128135860000018
https://positivenegativeimpact.com/nanotechnology