Leaders of Change: The Legacy of Filipino Biotech Champions
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Every year since 2016, the Philippine Agriculture and Fisheries Biotechnology Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA Biotech) has awarded outstanding Filipino individuals through the Filipino Faces of Biotechnology. This is to recognize the exceptional contributions of Filipino researchers, scientists, farmers, fisherfolks, communicators, advocates, journalists, and students in the advancement of biotechnology in the country. This prestigious award encompasses individuals working in various facets of biotechnology–agriculture, health, environment, information and education, and policy.
ISAAA Inc., as part of the Know the Science project with DA Biotech, compiled the stories and accomplishments of the Filipino Faces of Biotechnology awardees from 2016 to 2022 to feature a pictographic account of the awardees’ lives, accomplishments, and contributions to biotechnology in the Philippines and abroad.
Biotechnological innovations touch upon nearly every aspect of human life. Its implications have positively impacted various facets of our society. Indeed, the Filipino Faces of Biotechnology awardees have not only revolutionized industries but have also helped improve the lives of millions of Filipinos. Through their expertise and passion, they have pioneered groundbreaking discoveries and served as powerful symbols of the positive impact that biotechnology has brought to the Philippines.
The first issue of Filipino Faces of Biotechnology features the following awardees from 2016 to 2022:
- 2016 - Dr. Saturnina C. Halos, Dr. Desiree M. Hautea, Dr. Benigno D. Peczon, Dr. Nina G. Gloriani, Dr. Flerida A. Cariño, Ms. Rosalie M. Ellasus, Mr. Edwin Y. Paraluman, Dr. Edita T. Burgos, Ms. Angelina B. Resurreccion, and Dr. Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr.
- 2017 - Dr. Evelyn Mae Tecson-Mendoza, Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Mr. Angelo B. Palmones, Dr. William G. Padolina, Dr. Emil Q. Javier, Dr. Segfredo R. Serrano, and Atty. Edgardo J. Angara
- 2018 - Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita, Fr. Emmanuel C. Alparce, Dr. Libertado C. Cruz, Dr. Custer C. Deocaris, Dr. Jocelyn E. Eusebio, Dr. Leonardo A. Gonzales, Dr. Randy A. Hautea, Dr. Dolores A. Ramirez, and Bishop Jesus Y. Varela
- 2019 - Dr. Cynthia T. Hedreyda, Dr. Milagros M. Greif, Dr. Nathaniel P. Dugos, Dr. Ernelea P. Cao, Dr. Gisela P. Concepcion, Dr. Claro N. Mingala, Dr. Candida B. Adalla, Dr. Maria Monina Cecilia A. Villena, and Dr. Gabriel O. Romer
- 2020 - Mr. Arthur R. Baria, Dr. Teresita M. Espino, Dr. Ma. Carmen A. Lagman, and Dr. Mary Beth B. Maningas
- 2021 - Dr. Ramon C. Barba, Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio, Ms. Alicia G. Ilaga, and Mr. Juanito T. Rama
- 2022 - Dr. Mariechel J. Navarro, Dr. Violeta N. Villegas, Dr. Lourdes D. Taylo, Dr. Leny C. Galvez, Dr. Camila Flor Y. Lobarbio, and Dr. Fortunato T. Dela Peña
The Filipino Faces of Biotechnology awardees exemplify the spirit of Filipino excellence and commitment to the betterment of the nation. These individuals have become the catalysts of positive change in the country, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and practical applications. Their stories serve as a testament to the potential of biotechnology to uplift communities, empower individuals, and create lasting social and economic impact. As readers delve into their stories, ISAAA Inc. hopes to bring biotechnology closer to people and accelerate acceptance and support of the use of biotechnological innovations in various aspects of society.
The coffee table book on the Filipino Faces of Biotechnology is written by Ms. Charizze De Castro, Ms. Janine Cyren Escasura of ISAAA Inc., Mr. Kaymart Gimutao, Ms. Kristine Grace Tome of ISAAA Inc., Ms. Michaela Jyra Melo, Mr. Mikael Angelo Francisco, Ms. Rona Niña Mae Azucena, and Ms. Zabrina Bugnosen. The illustrations were crafted by Ms. Steph Bravo-Semilla and laid out by Mr. Eric John Azucena of ISAAA Inc. Ms. Annalyn L. Lopez was the DA Biotech Program Director-Coordinator in 2019 and 2020-2022 and wrote the foreword for this publication. The editors were the ISAAA Staff, including Ms. Escasura, Ms. Tome, ISAAA Senior Associate Scientist Mr. Panfilo De Guzman, and ISAAA Executive Director Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita.
Download the Filipino Faces of Biotechnology (2016 - 2022 awardees) from the ISAAA website.
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