The Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) is a research and development (R&D) organization of the Philippines, operating under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Established on 30 January 1987 by Executive Order No. 128 issued by President Corazon Aquino, ASTI is tasked with advancing scientific research and technology development in the fields of information and communications technology (ICT) and microelectronics.
Location
ASTI’s headquarters are situated in the U.P. Technology Park Complex, Quezon City, Metro Manila (coordinates 14°38′50″ N, 121°04′18″ E).
Mandate and Activities
The institute’s core functions include:
- Conducting scientific research and development in advanced ICT and microelectronics.
- Undertaking long‑term projects aimed at modernising the nation’s technological capabilities.
- Providing technical expertise and solutions to support national development initiatives, including participation in programs such as the Philippine Scientific Earth Observation Microsatellite (PHL‑Microsat) program.
Organizational Structure
ASTI is led by a Director; as of 2024, the position is held by Dr. Franz Asunta de Leon. The institute employs approximately 75 staff members (2024 data).
Funding
The agency’s annual budget was reported at ₱508.06 million for fiscal year 2021.
Historical Context
ASTI originated from the National Science and Technology Authority’s (NSTA) expansion of R&D capabilities during the 1980s, responding to rapid advances in ICT and microelectronics. Its creation coincided with the reorganisation of the NSTA into the DOST.
Affiliations
ASTI collaborates with other DOST‑affiliated research bodies, including the National Academy of Science and Technology, the National Research Council of the Philippines, and various sectoral research councils.
References
- Executive Order No. 128, s. 1987 – Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines.
- Department of Budget and Management, Staffing Summary Fiscal Year 2024.
- “About DOST‑ASTI.” Advanced Science and Technology Institute official website.
Note: Information reflects publicly available sources as of April 2026.