WHEREAS, Section 24, Article II of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that, "The State shall recognize the vital role of communication and information in nation building";

WHEREAS, Section 10, Article XIV states that "Science and Technology are essential for national development and progress . . .";

WHEREAS, Section 10, Article XVI .further state that "The State shall provide the policy environment for the . . . emergence of communication structure suitable to the needs and aspirations of the nation and the balanced flow of information in, out and across the country . . .";

WHEREAS, there is a need to promote and share science, and technology ("S & T") information to the general public to hasten the development of S & T culture among Filipinos;

WHEREAS, there are now government and private groups implementing S & T promotional projects and activities, and award-giving bodies that promote science and technology writing and reporting;

WHEREAS, there is a need to sustain and enhance the interest and current efforts in disseminating science and technology and other development-oriented information towards the development of a strong republic.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare the third week of July of every year as "Science Journalism Week".  The Philippine Science Journalists Association, Inc. is hereby authorized to undertake appropriate commemorative activities in connection therewith with the support of the Department of Science and Technology and other government agencies as well as the private sector.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 11 day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Three.

By the President:

ALBERTO G. ROMULO
Executive Secretary