PILI, Camarines Sur --- The role of Physics in national development through disaster risks reduction will be the focus of the 31st National Physics Convention to be held here at Camarines Sur State Agricultural College from April 1 to 4.

According to Dr. Gerardo C. Maxino, national president of the Philippine Physics Society (PPS), the convention will feature lectures, workshops, short courses, equipment construction and utilization, exhibits, and educational field trips at selected sites in line with the theme, Physics and Natural Disasters.

"This year's convention will highlight the important role of Physics in understanding our environment based on our appreciation of the principles and concepts of Physics in order to properly address and manage both man-made and natural disasters," the national president, who was also the former chairperson of the Physics Department of Silliman University, said.

Maxino said the convention is open to all physicists, college and high school physics teachers, as well as research and development practitioners in industry.

To be held simultaneously with the convention is the 22nd National Physics Olympics andd 17th National Physics Fair, he revealed.

The Physics Olympics will involve application of physics principles and use of creativity in the competitions like paper tower, egg drop, egg transport, large barge, super magnet, bamboo bridge, master robot, and paper airplane. The Physics Fair, on the other hand, will showcase investigatory projects by students and teachers in both high schools and college.

"A new feature will be added in this year's convention as we will also launch our first national water rocket challenge," he said.

Top caliber physicists, physics teachers, and industry practitioners were invited to give lectures, present research papers, and share their classroom or industry experience during the convention.

For more information, visit http://philippinephysicssociety.org. (Antonio M. Manaytay)