The recently-reconstituted Scientific Career Evaluation Committee (SCEC) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) held a meeting on 18 January 2023 at the Crop Research Biotechnology Center, Philippine Rice Research Institute, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija to discuss the terms of reference of the committee and evaluate the applicants for possible conferment to the Scientific Career System.

Dr. Mudjekeewis D. Santos, Scientist IV and chief of the Training Division of DA-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), as the newly designated committee chairperson, presided over the meeting and was joined by DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research director Joell H. Lales, as the co-chairperson, members of the evaluation committee, and secretariat. 

Created in 1990, the DA-SCEC is tasked to conduct the screening and evaluation of documents submitted by the nominated applicants from DA units; conduct validation of accomplishments and other relevant functions of the applicants based on the guidelines set by the Scientific Career Council of the Department of Science and Technology and the Civil Service Commission; and recommend qualified applicants to the DA Secretary for endorsement to the DOST Secretary.