IN its 18th run, this year’s ASEAN Food Conference aims to enhance the Philippines’ food safety and nutrition through scientific and technological expertise, exploring innovative solutions for sustainability, and fostering strategic collaborations.
The Department of Science and Technology XI (DOST), together with the Philippine Association of Food Technologists, Inc. (PAFT), highlights knowledge exchange, building resiliency, as well as guiding principles on nourishing science and scaling with inclusion that ensures innovations will benefit farmers, fisherfolk, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“Our gathering through this conference comes at a crucial moment. Across ASEAN, our food systems face rising demands, shifting climates, and limited resources. At the same time, consumers are increasingly conscious of safety, sustainability, and nutrition,” DOST XI regional director Dr. Anthony Sales said during the opening at SMX Convention Center on Sept 23
Themed as “Nourishing ASEAN: Innovating for Resilient and Sustainable Food Futures,” the conference is aligned with the ASEAN declaration on strengthening food security and the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) global roadmap
The event runs from Sept 23 to 25, and the opening was attended by young professionals, students, and guests from ASEAN countries of Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, and Brunei Darussalam.
Activities include pre-workshop conference, plenary sessions, panel discussions, exhibits, competitions, and many more.
Dr. Leah Buendia, DOST undersecretary for research and development, said the Philippines climbed to the top 50th country in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025 out of the 139 countries, being the most consistent innovation climbers. The country also ranks 3rd among lower-middle-income group economies
Davao City was chosen as the venue for the annual event due to its agricultural biodiversity, commitment to sustainability, strategic location, and a food innovation hub. The city also serves as the gateway to Mindanao to world-class cacao, coffee, and tropical fruits.
According to an article from the DOST’s Industry Strategic Science & Technology Program Information System (ISP-IS) website on Mar 4, 2025, the Philippine government declared a food security emergency by enforcing price controls and releasing NFA stocks amid increased imported rice prices.
