The Department of Science and Technology-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) bannered its sustainable innovations for the creative industry during the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week (NSTW) celebration in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
Last November 20, the Institute gathered perfume and essential oils enthusiasts thru the Scents and Sounds: Forest Products for the Creative Industry forum. The event highlighted DOST-FPRDI’s science-based innovations in fragrances and presented various local aromatic plants that can be processed into essential oils.
“Along with leading local perfumers, DOST-FPRDI is helping lay the ground for a fragrance industry that embraces green innovation and celebrates both nature and culture,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. “To local entrepreneurs venturing into the fragrance business, I invite you to partner with DOST-FPRDI and explore how technologies can open new income streams for the fragrance industry,” he added.
“At DOST-FPRDI, we ensure that the process of extracting oils is both sustainable and ethical. We continue to study how forest resources can be used for innovative and market-ready products to support the livelihood of local communities,” explained DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon.
Thru the Green Fragrances project under the Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology Program (F3TP), the Institute is expanding the country’s raw material base by studying Philippine aromatic plants, such as cinnamon, lemon grass and citronella, among others.
It is also developing sustainable methods to produce high-quality essential oils. Currently, the Institute is using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) method, which is more eco-friendly and generates higher yield than traditional methods.
In his presentation, renowned artisan perfumer Oscar Mejia III highlighted fragrances as a significant part of Filipino heritage, and a source of national pride. Mejia shared his mission to
elevate locally sourced essential oils into artisan scents, and expressed optimism in reclaiming the country’s spot in world perfumery.
“Perfume may be a luxury, but fragrance can be democratized. When people come home and are greeted with a warm hug, they also want to smell good. A simple scent can uplift self-worth and open door to a finer quality of life,” expressed Mejia.
In collaboration with Mejia, DOST-FPRDI is set to launch a fragrance collection dedicated to the Men and Women of Science in 2026.
Apart from fragrances, the Scents and Sounds forum also featured DOST-FPRDI innovations on bamboo musical instruments, which culminated with participants’ community playing of bamboo instruments.
The DOST-FPRDI is a research and development arm of the DOST and is part of the government’s efforts to build a strong science and technology ecosystem in the country. The Institute continues to promote sustainable and responsible forest use through science-based innovation. ### (Apple Jean C. Martin- de Leon, 20 November 2025)
DOST-FPRDI is set to launch a fragrance collection in partnership with artisan perfumer Oscar Mejia III
Also displayed during the forum are several essential oils & perfumes developed thru the Green Fragrances project
Capping off the forum is a community playing of bamboo musical instruments
