Mutant ornamental plants... radiation-modified products from carrageenan (a seaweed product) such as hydrogel dressing and plant growth promoter... food products and cosmetic materials treated with radiation... nuclear techniques and services such as gamma irradiation...
These are some of the products and services developed by nuclear technology that will be featured during the celebration of the 34th Atomic Energy Week on December 11 to 15, 2006 at the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) in Diliman, Quezon City. The theme for this year's celebration is Harnessing Nuclear Technology for a Peaceful Tomorrow.
The PNRI is a research and development institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the national authority on nuclear matters.
PNRI Director Alumanda M. dela Rosa said that the AEW celebration aims to generate awareness of the Filipino people on the beneficial uses of nuclear technology in different areas such as in food and agriculture, health and medicine, industry, the environment and on nuclear safety and security.
The keynote speaker for the opening ceremonies on December 11 is Congressman Luis R. Villafuerte, Vice-Chairperson, Committee on Appropriations and Sub-committee on Science and Technology. DOST Secretary Estrella F. Alabastro will give a message.
The daily activities slated for the open house celebration of the Atomic Energy Week are guided tour of the facilities, viewing of exhibits, film showing, radioactive source hunting, and lecture series on nuclear science. The topics for the lecture-series are Fundamental Concepts About Radiation, Biological Effects of Radiation and Radiation Safety; Electricity Generation from Nuclear Power; Radiation Protection and detection; and Effects of Radiation on Ornamental Plants.
An on-the-spot poster making contest for Quezon City high school students will be held on December 13. This activity is sponsored by the Quezon City Office of the Mayor.
For those who are interested to participate in any of the AEW activities and for further information about the celebration, contact Rhodora Leonin or Justina Cerbolles, PNRI Information Officers, at 920-8787 or 929 6010 to 19 ( PNRI Trunkline) local 286.
