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Ofcial Research, Development, and Extension News

of the University of the Philippines Los Baos

Vol.1 No.1
June - September 2015

Visit the UPLB RDE Portal at http://ovcre.uplb.edu.ph

Pagtuklas and ConExtS highlight


Loyalty Day Celebrations
by Maria Rowena Beatriz Q. Inzon

UPLB links
up with
USAID-STRIDE
by Lavinia Marie A. Manaig

Powering inclusive growth through


Science, Technology, and Innovation is
what USAID-STRIDE is all about.The
PhP 1.3B Science, Technology, Research,
and Innovation for Development
(STRIDE) Program,
a five-year
initiative by the United States Agency
for International Development (USAID)
started in 2014.

To mark UPLBs 97th Loyalty Day


Celebrations, the Office of the Vice
Chancellor for Research and Extension
(OVCRE) held the Pagtuklas symposium
and the ConExtS conference which
showcased the important contributions
of UPLB personnel in the fields of
research and extension.
Dubbed as Pagtuklas, the UPLB Research
Symposium aimed to present the quality,
diversity and novelty of outputs of
research projects funded by the UPLB
Basic Research Program to the UPLB
community and its valued partners.

government agencies for potential future


collaboration. Indeed, Pagtuklas could
both very well mean presentation of
discoveries and a chance to discover
valuable information and new
partnerships. Invited partner agencies
were the Department of AgricultureBureau of Agricultural Research (DABAR), the Department of Science and
Technology-Philippine Council for
Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural
Resources Research and Development
(DOST-PCAARRD) and the
Commission on Higher Education
(CHED) to name a few.

Selected research projects were presented


by their proponents to partner national

On the other hand, ConExtS featured


papers on extension programs from the

various units of UPLB. With the theme


Nurturing the tradition of distinctive
excellence through extension: UPLBs
contribution for a globally competitive
Philippines, this years UPLB
Conference on Extension Services
(ConExtS) highlighted the unique brand
of extension services and modalities of
different UPLB units. It aimed to
convene extension personnel to sharing
their experiences and insights.
Pagtuklas and ConExtS were held on 08
and 09 October 2015, respectively at the
Obdulia F. Sison Hall, UPLB. More than
a hundred participants, mostly
researchers and extension personnel,
attended the events.

Four UPLB alumnae recognized in DOST exhibit


by Regina Mae C. Ongkiko

both her M.S. in Economic Entomology


and Ph.D. in Systematic Entomology
from the University of Wisconsin in
1950 and 1957, respectively. She was also
granted a postdoctoral degree in 1958 by
the US National Museum, Smithsonian
Institution in Washington DC.

The She for We exhibit celebrated the contributions of Filipina scientists. (Photos by RMC Ongkiko)

Twenty Filipina scientists were featured


in a major exhibit organized by the
Department of Science and Technology
- Science Education Institute (DOSTSEI), Philippine Science High School
System (PSHSS), and the National
Academy of Science and TechnologyPhilippines (NAST-PHL).
The exhibit was displayed during the
National Science and Technology Week
(NSTW) at the SMX Convention
Center, Mall of Asia Complex last 24-28
July 2015.
The exhibit proponents rationalized that
at different points in time, science has
been thought of as a male-dominated
field. It is but time to recognize the many
important contributions of our female
scientists.
The selected women were Filipina
scholars and scientists which PSHS, SEI,

and NAST have produced through their


programs and four of them were
graduates of the University of the
Philippines Los Baos (UPLB).
Entitled She for We: Highlighting the
Role, Life and Achievement of Filipina
Scientists in the Local and International
Scientific Community, the exhibit
featured women in different fields such
as biotechnology, astrophysics,
forensic science, engineering,
mathematics education, science
leadership, and entrepreneurship among
others. The exhibit explored the role of
women as pioneers, movers, builders,
innovators, dreamers, wallbreakers,
technopreneurs, icons, and torchbearers.
Icons: Dr. Clare R. Baltazar and
Dr. Dolores A. Ramirez
Dr. Baltazar graduated from UPLB as a
summa cum laude in 1947. She finished

Known as the Mother of Philippine


Entomology, Academician Dr. Baltazar
was conferred as a National Scientist in
2001. Even before this, she had already
provided a number of publications which
laid the groundwork for future biological
control in the Philippines. In fact, her
publication Philippine Insects was the
first ever authoritative text on Philippine
insects. Dr. Baltazar has discovered quite
a number of genera, species, and
subspecies of wasps, as well as a
subgenus.

UPLB is gearing its efforts towards a


series of potential USAID-STRIDE
collaborations. Given that STRIDE
opportunities are coming one after
another, the Office of the Chancellor
formed the UPLB-STRIDE Committee
last 07 September 2015.
The committee was constituted to
spearhead research and extension
activities aimed at promoting innovation
partnerships for inclusive growth. Vice
Chancellor for Research and Extension
Rex B. Demafelis heads the committee
while Special Assistant to the Chancellor
for Institutional Research Linkages Dr.
Jewel A. Capunitan co-chairs the group.
The committees major tasks include:
1) identifying opportunities for UPLB
that will promote collaborative industryuniversity research projects; 2) providing
assistance in developing frameworks
which will help to harmonize, coordinate
and integrate the different initiatives of
the university; 3) searching for possible
nominees to the various externship and
research exchange programs of STRIDE;
4) initiating roundtable discussions and
other forms of participatory industrial
diagnostics aimed at helping other
universities manage their respective
research projects; and 5) conceptualizing
the innovation workshops among
research institutions and industry partners
to address the current research gaps.
The USAID-STRIDE competitive grants
program encourages universities to work
jointly with either a U.S. university or a
Philippine industry or company. With
grant funds up to PhP 4.3M, it aims
to intensify the capacity of Philippine
universities and to build a pool of scientists
and technologists who will support and
propel an innovation-led inclusive growth
in the country.

For her work in Entomology, she was


awarded the Rizal Pro Patria Award in
1980. Now retired, she is a Professor
Emeritus with an iconic legacy. Indeed,
Dr. Baltazars research contributions are
recognized all over the world.

To date, there are three newly approved


UPLB projects awarded under the
Philippine-US
Research
Exchange
(PURE) and Collaborative Applied
Research with Industry (CARWIN)
grants of USAID-STRIDE.

An article in the Philippine Science


Letters stated that Academician Dr.
Dolores A. Ramirez could have been a
physician or a major asset of a big
pharmaceutical company, but she chose

Furthermore, another group has also been


convened to develop proposals as part of
the USAID-STRIDE Sugar Technology
Industry Program.

PAGE 4

RDE Chronicle

UPLB shines in
PRC Licensure
Exams
by Jose Elmo H. Azores

Consistently in the past, UPLB has


received several recognitions from the
Professional Regulation Commission
(PRC) as top performing school in
various licensure exams.
Once again, UPLB aced several PRC
licensure/board exams held from June to
September 2015.
The licensure exams within the period
include the Agriculturist, Forester,
Nutritionist-Dietitian, Agricultural
Engineer, Chemist, and Veterinarian
Exams.
The passing rates of UPLB for each exam
as well as the names of the students
included in the top ten are as follows:
Agriculturist Licensure Examination
National passing rate: 31.05%
(1,888 out of 6,080)
Passing rate: 98.61% (71 out of 72)
Top 2 - Rohilyn Bertillo Egle
Top 4 - Darwin Magsino Landicho
Top 5 - Izy Santos San Jose
Top 10 - Michelle Ann Magat

Calubaquib and

Ma. Christine Gabatino

Ortiguero

Forester Licensure Examination
National passing rate: 47.97%
(461 out of 961)
Passing rate: 100% (85 out of 85)
Top 3 - Herbert Caagbay Molinyawe
Top 5 - Jonathan Rafael Seradilla
Redimano
Top 7 - Alexandra Jewel Libunao Rosas
Top 9 - Lawrence Adolph Mangue
Amada
Nutritionist-Dietitian Licensure
Examination
National passing rate: 64.74%
(705 out of 1,089)
Passing rate: 100% (110 out of 110)
Top 1 - Paul Alteo Afurong Bagabaldo
Top 2 - Marjorie Anne Abratique Layosa
Top 8 - Ma Leslie Bachoco Ulmido
Top 9 - Lorilyn Alyssa Francisco
Gonzales
Top 10 - Jesel Real Bagos
Agricultural Engineer Licensure
Examination
National passing rate: 40.43%
(340 out of 841)
Passing rate: 89.74% (35 out of 39)
Top 3 - Aaron Rogers Juvida Lachica
Veterinarian Licensure Examination
National passing rate: 41.59%
(299 out of 719)
Passing rate: 94.23% (49 out of 52)
Top 5 Gladys Maria Villegas Pangga
Top 6 Vincent Edward Albayda Reyes
Chemist Licensure Examination
National passing rate: 53.70%
(414 out of 771)
Passing rate: 87.5% (26 out of 29)

Laguna MSMEs go digital


by Daniel Dave J. Batayo

The Laguna Micro, Small, and Medium


Enterprises (MSMEs) went digital with
a sleek display of lights and sounds last
27 August 2015 at the University of the
Philippines Open University CCDL
Auditorium. With a symbolic push of
a giant power button on a giant LED
display, the Department of Trade and
Industry (DTI) officials and its partners
powered up and launched Laguna
MSMEs in the digital age.
Over 200 entrepreneurs, cooperatives,
banking institutions, and private groups
attended the free caravan entitled Be
online. Think Digital. Go E-commerce!
(The Digital Revolution of Lagunas
MSMEs).
The event was spearheaded by the
Association of Laguna Food Processors
(ALAFLOP) in partnership with DTILaguna. It gathered the top Information
Technology (IT) providers and
e-commerce business solutions to provide
Lagunas MSMEs with information and
opportunities in having businesses
online. The event is also part of
ALAFLOPs initiatives to capitalize on
IT opportunities that may help drive
MSMEs to advance their goals.
DTI Laguna Provincial Director Susan
Palo said that the event is in line with
the current objectives of the DTI to have
green development in the MSME sector
and emphasized that going digital is
going green. These points were echoed
by DTI Region IV-A Director Malou
Toledo and she added that what they
want the most is for Lagunas SMEs to
reach global markets.
The short program was filled with
informative presentations which
featured taking advantage of Google and
PLDT SME Nation services for efficient
business management, learning what

Director Baticados shares his experience on how to be a smart entrepreneur. (Photo by DDJ Batayo)

financial leverage is and how to use it for


business growth, and gaining the insights
of an experienced entrepreneur.

go, he said. He cited examples of the


various applications and services that
Google provides to help businesses.

Google: connecting people and ideas

He ended by saying that Google can help


SMEs get in touch with current trends
and that its services work seamlessly on
all platforms (from mobiles and tablets to
PC). Plus, most of these services are free.

Marky Taano of IP Converge, a local IT


company, provided an overview of what
Google is and how it can work with
SMEs. According to him, Google
understands SMEs because the company
itself was founded in a garage as an
SME. He featured how over five million
organizations around the world now use
its services, and among these are the 58
percent of Fortune companies, as well
as 74 out of 100 top universities in the
United States.
Taano explained that in the past years,
more and more people engage in work
and business using their smartphones
and tablets. This he reflects from statistics
showing that 73 percent connect with
customers remotely. Work happens
everywhere and people now work on the

SyenSaya at Kabataan meet again at the


2015 LBSCFI Wonderama Exhibit
by Maria Rowena Beatriz Q. Inzon

For almost a decade now, UPLB, through


the annual LBSCFI Wonderama Exhibit,
has played host to the meeting of science
and the youth. This years version has
further highlighted the role of science
and technology and the youth in
national development.
Organized by the Los Baos Science
Community Foundation Inc. (LBSCFI),
the Wonderama Exhibit was held from
12-14 August 2015 at the E.B. Copeland
Gymnasium at UPLB with the theme,
SyenSaya at Kabataan: #WOWTLG!
As one of the 24 member-agencies of the
LBSCFI, UPLB through its various units
took part in the display of fun and games
aimed to engage the youth in learning
basic concepts in subject areas such as
math, physics, biology, engineering,
biotechnology, agriculture, and
environmental science.
By using games familiar to kids like
FarmVille and Clash of Clans, the UPLB
booths made science appealing to

students who visited the three-day affair.


The most sought-after UPLB booths
included the Biodiversity Mind
Challenge of the Museum of Natural
History (MNH), the chemical reaction
experiments of the National Institute of
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
(BIOTECH), the miniature agroindustrial machineries of the College of
Engineering and Agro-industrial
Technology (CEAT), the Bed of Nails
and the Ring of Integers of the College
of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the
animal skeletons displayed by the College
of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). There
were also free services like the Nutrition
Counseling by the College of Human
Ecology (CHE) and the Entrepreneur
Assessment Quiz of the Center for
Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship (CTTE).
More than 5,000 grade school and high
school students from all over
CALABARZON visited the exhibit.

Growing your business using financial


leverage
Access to finance is one of the hurdles
that have blocked the growth of the
MSME sector in the country. However,
a representative of Philippine National
Bank said that this is now being addressed as more and more banks are
opening up their doors to MSMEs.
He discussed the benefits of financial
leverage, or the use of debts to acquire
additional assets. He also stressed the
importance of getting financial leverage
PAGE 5

DAME-CEM
conducts ex-ante
economic analysis
of projects
by Gemma U. Reyes

Experts from the Department of


Agribusiness Management and
Entrepreneurship of the College of
Economics and Management (DAMECEM) are currently conducting an
ex-ante economic analysis of
PCAARRDs Industry Strategic Science
and Technology Plan (ISP) project
proposals for the forestry sector. The
analysis started in June 2015 and is
expected to be completed in May 2016.
The goal is to determine if the project
proposals will yield economic benefits.
The proposals under analysis are related
to commodities such as cacao, bamboo,
and industrial trees.
Program leader Prof. Amelia L. Bello
heads the team analyzing proposals
related to cacao. Prof. Dinah Pura T.
Depositario and Dr. Arvin B. Vista are
heading the teams analyzing proposals
related to bamboo and industrial trees,
respectively.
PAGE 3

June - September 2015

New directors of OVCRE


supervised units appointed
by Daniel Dave J. Batayo and Sairah Mae R. Saipudin

Prof. Glenn N. Baticados is the second director of


UPLB CTTE. (Photo from CTTE)

Dr. Bella C. Cruzana is the new Gender Center


director. (Photo from Gender Center)

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for


Research and Extension (OVCRE) has
five supervised units each with their own
directors. New directors for both the
UPLB Center for Technology Transfer
and Entrepreneurship (UPLB CTTE)
and the UPLB Gender Center have
recently been appointed.

Mabuhay, Inc., a social enterprise


managing a backyard poultry contract
growing agreement with Bounty Ventures,
Inc. He is also an incorporator of two
newly established companies engaging in
dairy, food processing, and agriconsolidation. Armed with his impressive
business and management background
and a genuine passion for his work, Prof.
Baticados has lofty visions for the UPLB
CTTE. I want us to be recognized as a
world-class center in food and
biotechnology commercialization and
technopreneurial innovation in the next
three years. said Prof. Baticados during
CTTEs strategic planning held last
30-31 July 2015.

Prof. Glenn N. Baticados, CTTE


The UPLB CTTE now has its second
director since its establishment in 27 July
2007. Glenn N. Baticados, Assistant Professor at the Department of Agribusiness
Management and Entrepreneurship
(DAME), has been appointed as the new
director of the CTTE effective 01 August
2015.
Prior to his appointment, he served as
CTTEs officer-in-charge since 01 July
2015 after Dr. Enrico P. Supangco,
CTTEs former director, was appointed
dean of the College of Agriculture.
Prof. Baticados earned his Bachelor of
Science in Agribusiness Management
graduating cum laude and his Master of
Management major in Business
Management from UPLB. He is also a
Lifelong Education Scholar of Michigan
State University, USA.
A passionate teacher and mentor, he has
taught business and entrepreneurship
courses for four years at the De La Salle
University and almost eight years at the
University of the Philippines Los Baos.
He is also part of the Angelpreneurs
program of Go Negosyo under the
Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship.
Also a seasoned entrepreneur, Prof.
Baticados has more than 15 years of
experience in business and market
research, enterprise development and
management, and strategic planning with
particular focus on Micro, Small and
Medium Enterprises.
He established successful business
ventures in the past 10 years such as
stepUP, a management and business
development consulting company; PC
City (Le@seIT) Company, a local chain
of IT stores in Laguna; and Manok

DAME-CEM...

PAGE 2

The ex-ante economic analysis of ISP


project proposals under the forestry
sector was prompted by the successful
ex-ante economic analysis of ISP project

The new director is currently in close


consultation with Dr. Supangco and Vice
Chancellor Rex B. Demafelis as he sets
new directions for the center.
Dr. Bella C. Cruzana, Gender Center

UPLB participates in UP OVPAA conducts


National S&T Week
Procurement
2015 celebrations
Seminar in UPLB
by Lawrence N. Garcia

by Ailene M. Florece

The University of the Philippines Los


Baos participated in this years National
Science and Technology Week (NSTW)
held 24-28 July 2015 at the SMX
Convention Center, Mall of Asia
Complex, Pasay City.

The UP Office of the Vice President for


Academic Affairs (OVPAA), together
with the Office of the Vice President
for Administration (OVPA), conducted
a Procurement Workshop-Seminar last
28 September 2015, at the New CAS
Auditorium, UPLB. The seminar
was attended by project leaders, managers,
and staff of the different research projects
in UPLB and UP Open University
(UPOU). It aimed to address procurement
concerns that cause delay in activities
of research projects of the university.

With the theme Philippines: A Science


Nation Innovating for Global
Competitiveness, UPLBs booth
showcased technologies from its
Nanotechnology Program. Experts from
the university also gave lectures and
presentations throughout the event.
During the NSTW Agri-Aqua Forum on
Coping up with Cocolisap, two experts
from UPLB talked about the Coconut
Scale Insect (CSI) or Cocolisap.
Dr. Barbara L. Caoili from the Crop
Protection Cluster of UPLBs College of
Agriculture (CPC-CA-UPLB) discussed
CSI Species Identification through
DNA Barcodes while Mr. Mario V.
Navasero from the National Crop
Protection Center of CPC-CA-UPLB
discussed the Use of Biological Control
Agents against CSI.
In the ABAKADA ng Abaca forum,
Dr. Teodora O. Dizon of UPLBs
Institute of Plant Breeding under the
Crop Science Cluster of the College
PAGE 7

The event focused on topics and


concerns related to R&D procurement,
such as the preparation of project
procurement management plan (PPMP)
and the annual procurement plan (APP);
development of technical specifications
for equipment and other items;
formulation of the cost estimate for
the item to be procured; generation
of price quotation or canvass; and
determination of the appropriate mode
of procurement and their requisites. The
participants were also acquainted with
outsource procurement agents such as the
Philippines
International
Trading
Corporation
(PITC)
and
were
provided with information on recent
circulars from the Department of
Budget and Management (DBM), the
Government Procurement Policy Board
PAGE 7

Balik Scientists share expertise


at BIOTECH

Dr. Bella C. Cruzana, Associate Professor


at the Department of Basic Veterinary
Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine,
by Belinda Lucille B. Costales
has been appointed as the new director of
the UPLB Gender Center effective July
2015. She succeeded Dr. Maria Helen F. The UPLB National Institute of
Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). The
Dayo who steered the center for six years. Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
test can be used for virus-free plantlet
(UPLB-BIOTECH) hosted Dr. Angelita production and monitoring of field
Dr. Cruzana finished her Doctor of
D. Talens and Dr. Aldwin M. Anterola
occurrence of BBTV.
Veterinary Medicine degree from UPLB
who are current Balik Scientists of the
and Ph.D. in Veterinary Sciences at the
Department of Science and Technology - It was also during her post-doctoral
United Graduate School of Veterinary
Philippine Council for Industry, Energy
research fellowship at the International
Sciences, Gifu University. She served as
and Emerging Technology Research and
Rice Research Institute that she
Chair of the Department of Basic
Development (DOST-PCIEERD).
developed
a
nucleic
acid-based
Veterinary Sciences from 2005-2010.
diagnostic test for Rice Tungro Virus.
The Balik Scientist program was
She plans to focus on the awareness of
established in 1975 by the DOST to
Dr. Talens spent three months (from 18
university constituents of the existence
encourage highly-trained overseas
March to 28 June 2015) at the National
of the Gender Center and not merely
Filipino experts to return to the
Immunology Testing Laboratory where
be known for the Office of Anti-Sexual
Philippines to share their knowledge.
she conducted capacity development on
Harassment. She would also like to clear
Lateral Flow Immunoassay in Agriculture
misconceptions on the issue of gender
Dr. Angelita D. Talens
in banana and abaca. She also gave a
bias in some sexual harrassment cases.
lecture and performed demonstrations on
Dr. Talens is an alumnus of UPLB with
virus and antibody purification.
She hopes to strengthen the three offices a B.S. degree in Agriculture, major in
under the Gender Center: Gender for
Plant Pathology and M.S. degree in Plant She also spearheaded a training on
Rural Development Office, Office of
Pathology. She obtained her doctorate
production of lateral flow immunoassay
Anti-Sexual Harassment, and the
degree also in Plant Pathology from
for microbial and virus detection.
Reproductive Health Office, so they can
Iowa State University through a USAID
Aside from these, she shared her
better serve not just the university, but
scholarship. At present, she is a faculty
insights during consultations on the
also its immediate community.
member of the University of Phoenix,
development of research proposals for
Seattle-Bothell, Washington, USA where the Phase 2 of projects of BIOTECH on
she teaches courses in biology and
Nanotechnology for Agriculture.
environmental and health sciences.
Dr. Talens also provided technical
During the time she worked for the
assistance to the BIOTECH Research
proposals under the crops, livestock, and UPLB National Crop Protection Center, Program on Nanobiosensors for food
one of her notable accomplishments was
aquatic resources sectors. During this
and feed contaminants and diagnosis of
the completion of the enzyme linked
previous analysis, 14 faculty members
plant diseases.
(ELISA)
immunodiagnostic
test
for
from DAME-CEM were involved.
PAGE 7

RDE Chronicle
2014 UPLB Journal Publications

167

UPLB showcases
technologies at
11th DA-BAR exhibit
by Lawrence N. Garcia

167 articles published in


refereed journals
64% are published in
ISI-indexed and Scopus-listed
journals
The College of Agriculture has
the most number of articles
published in refereed journals.

2014 UPLB Paper Presentations

241

241 papers (oral and poster)


presented in conferences.
84% were presented in
local conferences.
The College of Arts and
Sciences has the most number
of papers presented.

2014
UPLB Books
and/or
Chapters in
Books

16
16 books and/or chapters in
books

Data processed by Czarlina May E. Magnata and Eriberto E. Roxas, Jr.

The College of Public Aairs


and Development has the most
number of published chapters
in books.

The University of the Philippines Los


Baos showcased its various products and
technologies at the 11th Agriculture and
Fisheries Technology Forum and Product
Exhibition held last 7-9 August 2015 at
SM MegaTrade Hall 2 in Mandaluyong
City.
Hosted by the Bureau of Agricultural
Research of the Department of
Agriculture (DA-BAR), the events
theme was Teknolohiyang Pangsakahan
at Pangisdaan: Tulay sa Mas Maunlad
na Pilipinas Patungo sa Pandaigdigang
Kakayanan.
The trade exhibits opening was graced
by Sen. Cynthia S. Villar, chairperson of
the Committee on Agriculture and
Fisheries, who served as the keynote
speaker. Also present was Agriculture
Secretary Proceso J. Alcala who gave an
inspirational message. Other speakers
included BAR Director Nicomes P.
Eleazar, who gave the welcome remarks,
and Dr. William D. Dar, founding
director of DA-BAR.
The opening ceremonies ended with the
launch of three new books. One of those
books presented to the public was The
Philippine Biofuels Industry authored
by UPLB experts Dr. Roberto F. Raola
Jr. of the College of Economics and
Managements Department of
Agricultural Economics, Dr. Jovita
L. Movillon from the Department of
Chemical Engineering - College of
Engineering and Agro-Industrial
Technology, and Prof. Rex B. Demafelis,
current Vice Chancellor for Research and
Extension.

PAGE 1

Four UPLB alumnae...


to specialize in plant breeding and
geneticsa field usually associated then
with male scientists. Even in her college
years she heard different forms of
discrimination against women involved
in plant breeding.
She certainly beat the odds when she
graduated magna cum laude with a B.S.
degree in Agriculture. She also completed
her M.S. in Cytogenetics from the
University of Minnesota and her
doctorate in Biochemical Genetics from
Purdue University.
She was simple, upright, and straightforward when handling Biology and
Agronomy subjects. She believed that
no UP student is average and she never
compromised quality.
She is also known for her research
collaboration with Dr. Evelyn Mae
Tecson-Mendoza, that led to the
elucidation of the macapuno gene which
became the basis for the artificial
production of the macapuno endosperm.
Her other studies focused on the genetics
of chemical resistance factors against
Cercospora kex leaf spot in mungbean,

and cytogenetics of rice hybrids with


related wild species which traced
sterility causes in some hybrids.
Eventually, Dr. Ramirez was conferred as
a National Scientist.

genetics and genomics was done in


ORNL as an awardee of the U.S.
Department of Energys (DOE)
prestigious Alexander Hollaender
Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship.

In the past, she was the only female


member of the Board of Trustees of the
International Maize and Wheat
Improvement Center based in Mexico.
Indeed, she is an icon because of how she
defied stereotypes and how she served as
one of the pioneers in the instruction of
genetics.

Her studies led to the discovery of the


NELL1 signaling protein in pathways
controlling the growth and maturation of
the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. This is the foundation
of NellOne Therapeutics, a regenerative
medicine company of which Dr. Culiat
is the founder, chief scientific officer, and
scientific board chairman.

Builders: Dr. Cymbeline T. Culiat and


Dr. Ma. Victoria O. Espaldon
Dr. Cymbeline Bem Culiat is a
superwoman. She finished her B.S.
degree (cum laude, Cell Biology) and
M.S. degree (Genetics) both at UPLB.
Later on, she received her doctorate in
biomedical sciences as a full scholar of
the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
(ORNL) University of Tennessee and
the Hilton-Smith Fellowship where she
also received the prestigious Chancellors
citation for Professional Promise. Her
postdoctoral work in molecular

Her scientific breakthroughs have made


her one of the most prestigious Filipina
scientists in the world. Aside from being
a scientist-entrepreneur, she mentors
students and the young scientists of the
future.
A high school batchmate of Dr. Culiat,
Dr. Ma. Victoria O. Espaldon is
internationally known and recognized as
an expert on ecosystems.
Her commitment to engage communities
in determining their own developmental
path eventually led to her involvement in

sustainability studies of communitybased natural resource management


approaches as well as related rural
development programs all over Asia.
She earned her B.S. degree in Biology
and M.S. degree in Forestry in UPLB,
while her Ph.D. in Geography was
completed at the University of Guelph,
Ontario, Canada.
She became a fellow of the Beahrs
Environmental Leadership Program of
the University of California Berkeley,
USA and served as a Visiting Scientist at
Wageningen University in the
Netherlands and University of Brest in
France.
In UPLB, she served as the Vice
Chancellor for Research and Extension
following her term as the Dean of the
School of Environmental Science and
Management. She is currently mentoring
young minds and spearheading projects
such as SARAI (Smarter Approaches to
Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry
in the Philippines). She is always on the
go, continuously on the lookout for
developments which may benefit our
country.

June - September 2015

by Florante A. Cruz and Leobel Colona

Laguna MSMEs...
from reputable institutions such as banks
over informal lenders because banks
provide security and lower interest rates.
E-commerce: expanding your market

LEFT: Aretidris buenaventei sp.n; RIGHT: Aretidris clousei sp.n. (Photos by DM General)

The discovery by myrmecologist David


Emmanuel M. General of the UPLB
Museum of Natural History of two new
species of ants was recently announced
by Myrmecological News in its
September 2015 issue. The two species
represent a new genus, Aretridis,
composed of ground-foraging ants
apparently restricted to elevations above
900 meters above sea level. The new
genus name combines two Greek words
arte (excellence) and idris (ant).
According to the article by General in
Myrmecological News, the first species
was first collected from Mt. Isarog in
2003 by Generals undergraduate student
in Ateneo de Naga, Ms. Bambet Alto.
The single specimen collected by Alto
was imaged and DNA-sequenced but
was lost while being examined by other
scientists, General said during an
interview. Fortunately, the ant was
again collected by Dr. Ronald M. Clouse
during an expedition to Mt. Bulusan in
2014, he added. The ant was referred
to General for taxonomic identification
who later determined it as new. He
named it Aretridis clousei sp. n. after Dr.
Clouse who collected all the type
specimens.

The second species, named


A. buenaventei sp. n. by General, was
collected by Philippine National
Museum researcher Perry Archival C.
Buenavente in 2010 from Mt. Palali,
Nueva Vizcaya. A. buenaventei was
found when a rotten log on the forest
floor containing the nest was disturbed
in the dying light of late afternoon,
General reported.
The two newly-described species now
brings the number of valid species and
subspecies of ants in the Philippines to
510, although General estimates that the
number maybe even more than a
thousand.
The Philippine ant fauna is very rich,
but it has not been fully studied,
primarily because only few scientists
study ants in the field, General said.
The importance of ants in the
environment, according to the researcher,
should never be discounted.
Ants are very responsive bioindicators
which can be used for monitoring
and assessment of environments very
prone to fire, grazing and logging, and
other disturbances by humans, General
added.

TREES concludes training on climate change


by Felisa L. Malabayas

A nine-week training on Climate Change


Adaptive Sustainable Forest Management
and Development (20 July 2015-16
September 2015) was conducted by the
Training Center for Tropical Resources
and Ecosystems Sustainability (TREES)
of the College of Forestry and Natural
Resources (CFNR). Seven Assistant
Conservators of Forest for various provinces of Bangladesh under the Climate
Resilient Participatory
Afforestation Reforestation Project
participated in the said training.
The course was designed to equip the
forest managers with climate
change-adaptive sustainable forest
management and development concepts,
approaches, tools, methodologies, and
strategies in the context of changing
climate and its impacts on forest
ecosystems and local communities.
Specifically, they were expected to
explain basic concepts and principles
on climate change-adaptive sustainable
forest management and development; to
demonstrate the various techniques and
methodologies on climate
change-adaptive sustainable forest management and development; to analyze
contemporary forest resources manage-

ment issues and problems in the context


of changing climate; and prepare re-entry
plans for applying the newly acquired
methodologies and concepts in climate
change-adaptive sustainable forest
management and development.
The training course employed mixed
teaching styles such as hearing and
seeing in the form of lecture-discussions
in all topics, learning by doing for
some topics that need exercises in
computations, as well as observation/
participation in the form of field visits
to various places in Laguna, Batangas,
Quezon, Nueva Viscaya, and Palawan.
These places showcased various projects
related to climate change and
community participation. In addition,
cultural tours were also scheduled every
weekend in order to showcase what
participants need to experience while in
the Philippines.
Selected CFNR faculty members acted
as resource persons. Dr. Diomedes A.
Racelis and Prof. Elsa P. Santos served as
coordinator and assistant coordinator,
respectively. Dr. Felisa L. Malabayabas
served as the evaluator of the training
course.

Gabby Cui, PLDT SME Head of


Community Engagement Services, led
everyone into a timehop by showing a
picture of a ball pen and a cassette tape
and then asking the crowd to raise their
hands if they know the relationship of
the two objects. He discussed the
difference between Digital Natives, the
generation born at the turn of the
century, and the Digital Immigrants, or
the older generations who have adapted
to current trends of using digital
technologies in their daily lives.
Cui recognized that a lot of entrepreneurs
in the country are not tech savvy
but said that it should not hinder
them to become Digital Immigrants.
According to him, out of the 950,000
enterprises in the country, MSMEs
account for 99.58 percent.
The growth of this sector is
important. He said the limitations of its
growth have now become blurred due to
current innovations in Information
Technology. Because of this, he hailed
today as the dawn of small businesses.
He cited that out of the 100 million Filipinos, 44 million are active online and
the number is expected to blow up to
50 million in the next few years. Of this
number, 40 million have social media
accounts and 32 million access them
through mobile phones.
These are potential markets missed by
entrepreneurs by not going digital.
Cui said that PLDT understands that
going digital might sound daunting.
Because of this, the company has
launched PLDT SME Nation. He
discussed how the services of PLDT
SME Nation can help entrepreneurs ease

Two new ant species discovered


from Luzon Island mountains

PAGE 2

into the digital trends, citing success


stories of various online businesses.
How to be a smart entrepreneur
Energy and enthusiasm reverberated in
the auditorium as Prof. Glenn Baticados,
UPLB assistant professor and UPLB
CTTE director, took the stage. A Go
Negosyo Angelpreneur, Prof. Baticados
provided insights on how to become
a smart entrepreneur. Though short,
his talk was interactive. He defined an
entrepreneur as someone who adds value
to goods and services.
He gave three major points. The first
step in becoming a smart entrepreneur
is finding the value of your product or
service. According to him, entrepreneurs
must be able to define what makes their
goods or services unique and why people
would buy it.
His second point focused on finding the
ERs which make goods and services a
cut above the rest. Entrepreneurs must
find ways to make their goods and services
bettER, fastER, or TastiER, whichever
applies.
And last but not the least, smart
entrepreneurs must have a combination
of passion, consistent delivery, and market
fit. Prof. Baticados said that these three
things must always come hand in hand
and that neglecting one would lead to
failure.
Inspired to begin
A rae was drawn to give out umbrellas,
car window sun proofs, travel bags, and
two brand new Samsung tablets.
Mr. Clarke Nebrao, ALAFOP Chairman
and President, officially closed the event.
He expressed his gratitude to the DTI and
partner organizations for the successful
event. He hoped that this event would turn
into an annual event and and drive MSMEs
forward.

BIOTECH conducts strategic


planning workshop
by Carlo G. Custodio, Jr.

The UPLB National Institute of


Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
(UPLB-BIOTECH) conducted a
strategic planning workshop last 28-29
July 2015 at the Development Academy
of the Philippines (DAP), Tagaytay City.
The activity was an initiative of
BIOTECHs new Director, Dr. Rosario
G. Monsalud, with funding support
from UPLB Chancellor Fernando C.
Sanchez, Jr. The workshop was carried
out to strategize directions and
formulate the plans of the Institute for
the next five years.
In keeping with her administrations goal
of being consultative and participatory,
all program leaders, project leaders and
representatives of laboratory technicians
and administrative staff participated
actively during the workshop.

Vice Chancellor Rex. B. Demafelis


also attended the planning workshop
in Tagaytay. The workshop facilitator
was Mr. Christopher Lomboy, a
graduate of UPLB and the Asian
Institute of Management (AIM). He
also facilitated planning workshops
for UPLB and its units in the past.
The expectations for the planning
workshop were laid out and the staff were
introduced to management concepts.
An Operation Plan, consisting of
objectives, key result areas (KRAs),
and performance indicators (PIs), was
completed during a post workshop session
held last 31 July 2015 at BIOTECH.
The participants then revised future
programs and projects based on the
formulated Operational Plan.

RDE Chronicle

MNH exhibits art of the late William L.R. Oliver


by James DV. Alvarez

The UPLB Museum of Natural History


launched an exhibit featuring the life and
art of the late William L.R. Oliver last
14 September 2015. The exhibit honors
Oliver for his significant contributions
to the conservation and protection of
endemic and endangered species in the
Philippines through his paintings and
other forms of art.
The launch was attended by colleagues
from various institutions that were
inspired, institutionalized, and helped
by Oliver including the Biodiversity
Management Bureau (formerly Protected
Areas and Wildlife Bureau), Philippine
Biodiversity Conservation Foundation,
Inc. (PBCFI), as well as MNH curators
from various UPLB units.
Some of us may not have heard of
William Oliver until his passing a year
ago, but to some of us who have
unswerving commitment and passion
in conserving rare and endemic species,
we know that William Oliver is a rare
species on his own, said Vice Chancellor
for Academic Affairs Portia G.
Lapitan who read a message on behalf of
Vice Chancellor for Research and
Extension Rex B. Demafelis.
In a testimonial, Dr. Errol A.
Gatumbato, PBCFI Vice President and
Managing Director, shared his memories
of William Oliver during the formative
years of the organization. He further
highlighted the accomplishments of
PBCFI including the expansion of the
Polillo Islands Biodiversity Conservation

by Maria Rowena
Beatriz Q. Inzon

William Oliver: His Art and Science is displayed at the lobby of the UPLB Museum of Natural History.
(Photo by LN Garcia)

Foundation, Inc. from the islands of


Polillo to the whole of Southern Luzon.
He is well loved by Filipino wildlife
biologists who were inspired by his
commitment to protect the unique
wildlife of the Philippines, said
Dr. Leticia E. Afuang, MNH curator.
William Oliver was instrumental in the
formation of the Philippine Biodiversity
Conservation Programme which
pioneered the conservation of the
Visayan Spotted Deer, the Calamian
Deer, and the Visayan Warty Pig in
partnership with the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources and
other conservation partners. Through
his efforts, the conservation activities
expanded to other taxa and areas in the
Philippines.
In celebration of his life, the UPLB
Museum of Natural History proudly
features the artworks of William Oliver
who, even though was not a Filipino, fell

deeply in love with our flora and fauna,


said MNH Director Dr. Juan Carlos T.
Gonzalez.
In a review of Olivers artworks, Prof.
Romeo dela Cruz of the UPLB Office
for Initiatives in Culture and the Arts
pointed out that artworks like paintings
and photography are just replicas of
reality, and further reproduction causes a
decrease in their original value.
However, he lauded William Oliver for
presenting conservation science in a
revolutionary form through his art.
These artworks regain their value in
arousing public interest on a particular
issue in this case, the conservation of
unique wildlife species.
Because of these artworks and the
influence they made, it is but right to
consider William Oliver as the Father of
Philippine Conservation Art, said
Director Gonzalez.

Makiling Artist Reinvents


Salo-Salo in Different Art Pieces
by Rae Rival-Cosico (as published in http://www.choosephilippines.com)

Whats your concept of Pinoy salo-salo?


This inspiring artist gives a different take!
Lamon devours on the ever-present
power struggle between consumers and
capitalists, how the ones controlling the
system creates a kind of hunger that is
never satisfied. The collection reminds us
of a system where we consume and starve
in return. It is a full-course meal that
leaves viewers feeling full with altered
notions of food, eating and consumption
as penance.
As you enter Sining Makiling Art
Gallery, the familiar buzz of a
jam-packed cafeteria welcomes you. The
celebrities and icons in Marc Cosicos
Lamon come alive.
The subjects in Cosicos Lamon are not
literally gorging on their Kangkong and
rice or their Chicken Joy. In fact, it seems
as though they are simply posing with
their meals. Manny Pacquiao and his
eight arms seem to endorse adobo and
rice, Mia of Pulp Fiction holds a digital
console in front of her spaghetti, and we
see Joker and a Madonna And
Child-parody in a Fast Food Feast
Fiasco.
The collection feasts on traditions and
recreates them, like the traditional fiesta

UPLB presents
food security
contributions
during APEC
delegates tour

in a piece called Salu-Salo. We see


various cosplayers, figures painted by
children and a lechon. This particular
piece is a collaboration between the artist
and children from Mandaluyong. After
completing a workshop with the
children, Cosico began working on
Salu-salo, but the children wanted to
continue painting. Having run out of
paper, he decided to let the children
dabble with his work, producing a
banquet of characters and techniques.
Recreating old traditions by recreating
old works seem to be at the helm of
Lamon. Cosico paints over a graffiti by
students of Philippine High School for
the Arts and Philippine Science High
School in Playful Mind.
In Sumo-sonang Simpson, he paints a
Homer-looking Pnoy holding a hotdog
bun in front of a set originally made for a
ballet recital.
As curator Toto dela Cruz describes, By
borrowing concepts from politics,
religion and pop culture, Cosico used
these icons and images to remind us of
the ideological contexts of conspicuous
and individuous consumption. The
exhibit gnaws at the idea of devouring
and being devoured by the culture of
consumerism.

(Photos by Bhojeck Sibal)

The Department of Science and


Technology (DOST) led the Asia Pacific
Economic Cooperation (APEC)
delegates for Policy Partnerships on
Science, Technology and Innovation
(PPSTI 6) to an exhibit at the Institute
of Plant Breeding (IPB) last 12 August
2015.
The APEC delegates were presented with
an exhibit on STI: Towards Food
Security featuring displays of UPLB
technologies on food production and
processing. Shown at the exhibit were
products from the various clusters of the
College of Agriculture (CA), Institute of
Plant Breeding (IPB), National Institute
of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
(BIOTECH-UPLB) and the College of
Engineering and Agro-industrial
Technology (CEAT). Successful
extension programs and commercialized
technologies were also presented.
Serving as the APECs primary forum in
engaging government, private sectors and
the academe in joint scientific research,
the PPSTI 6 supports the development
of science and technology cooperation
and effective innovation policy in APEC
economies.
Aside from Food Production and
Security, the PPSTI is also focusing on
the following priority areas:
Environment, Disaster Prevention,
Climate Change and Energy, Marine
economy, Biodiversity and Conservation,
Smart Analytics and Engineering
Innovations, and Health Systems.

June - September 2015

90th Go Negosyo Center locates


at Los Baos by Daniel Dave J. Batayo

Dr. Calixto M. Protacio is


new PhilRice executive director
by Richard T. Hermoso

President Benigno Aquino III has


appointed Dr. Calixto M. Protacio, a
professor and researcher from the Crop
Science Cluster, College of Agriculture,
UPLB, as the new executive director of
the Philippine Rice Research Institute
(PhilRice).

The Los Baos Negosyo Center was


officially launched last 14 September
amidst the weeklong celebration of the
towns 400th founding anniversary. Sen.
Paolo Benigno Bam Aquino, principal
author of Republic Act (RA) No. 10644
or the Go Negosyo Act, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony along with partner
institutions, the Department of Trade
and Industry (DTI) officials, and Local
Government Unit (LGU) officials at the
Los Baos Municipal Hall.
The establishment of Negosyo Centers
across the country is brought about by
the Go Negosyo Act which aims to boost
assistance to Micro, Small and
Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by
bringing government services closer to
them and providing information
essential to their growth. The act also
aims to promote entrepreneurship in the
country as a means for inclusive growth
and national development.
All Negosyo Centers provide a
one-stop-shop catering to entrepreneurs
needs in processing requirements
necessary to establish a business. MSMEs
can avail of a Negosyo Centers three

main services which include business


registration assistance, business
advisory services, and business
information advocacy.
A memorandum of agreement between
DTI-Laguna, LGU-Los Baos, the
Association of Laguna Food Processors
(ALAFOP), and the University of the
Philippines Los Baos (UPLB) through
its Center for Technology Transfer and
Entrepreneurship (CTTE) is currently
being pursued to further boost the
capacities of the Los Baos Negosyo
Center in providing technical assistance
to MSMEs.
The launching of the countrys 90th
Negosyo Center was attended by Laguna
Governor Ramil Hernandez, Vice
Governor Karen Agapay, Los Baos
Mayor Ceasar Perez, DTI Undersecretary
Zenaida Maglaya, DTI IV-A Regional
Director Marilou Toledo, DTI IV-A
Asst. Regional Director Marcelina
Alcantara, DTI Laguna Provincial
Director Susan Palo, UPLB CTTE
Director Glenn Baticados, and ALAFOP
President Clark Nebrao.

PAGE 3

UPLB participates...
of Agriculture (IPB-CSC-CA-UPLB)
discussed the Package of Technology for
Abaca Hybrids.
Additionally, Mr. Primitivo Jose A.
Santos of IPB-CSC-CA-UPLB
demonstrated and talked about SNAP
Hydroponics.
Dr. Eduardo P. Paningbatan, Jr., retired
professor of Soil Science, showcased his
SuperPaso during his talk on Enhanced
Potting Preparation in the Halaman at
Gulay pa more forum.

The book Compendium of Extension


and Technology Transfer Modalities in
Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural
Resources in the Philippines was also
launched.
The compendium was published in
collaboration with the Philippine
Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and
Natural Resources Research and
Development (PCAARRD), Department
of Agriculture-Agricultural Training
Institute (DA-ATI), and the Philippine
Extension Advisory Network, Inc.
(PhilEASNet).

PAGE 3

OVPAA...
(GPPB) and the Commission on Audit
(COA) relevant to R&D procurement.
The morning program included lectures.
Questions from the participants were
entertained during the open forum in the
afternoon. This event is one of the five
procurement seminars conducted by UP
System for its constituent universities.

The workshop-seminar started last 17


August in UP Visayas, Tacloban and
Cebu.This was followed by UP Manila
and PGH on 08 September; and UP
Diliman, Baguio and UP System on 21
September. The last seminar will be
conducted in UP Mindanao on 05
October.

Researcher by heart
Dr. Calixto M. Protacio finished his
Bachelors degree in Agriculture and MS
Horticulture at the University of the
Philippine Los Baos. He went to
Pennsylvania State University, USA
where he got his Ph.D. in Plant
Physiology. He also conducted his
post-doctoral research in University of
California, Riverside.
Dr. Protacio has worked as professor at
the University of the Philippines Los
Baos, director of the Institute of Plant
Breeding and Crop Science Cluster for
three years; and editor-in-chief of the
Philippine Agricultural Scientist.
His specialization in the field of Crop
Physiology allowed him to publish
scientific journals, monographs, and
chapters in books that benefit
farmers, breeders, and scientists.
Moreover, private companies and farmers
consult his expertise in handling fruit
and ornamental crops such as mango and
dwarf mussaendas.
He has also led several experimental
studies. Together with his team, he has
produced a field assay for determining
ready-to-flower mangoes. This addressed
the long-standing need of mango growers
for a field assay that can indicate whether
a tree is ready to flower or not.

Los Baos Negosyo Center launched. [Left to Right] Susan Palo, Malou Toledo, Zenaida Maglaya, Mayor Ceasar
Perez, Sen. Paulo Benigno Bam Aquino, Governor Ramil Hernandez, Clarke Nebrao, and Glenn Baticados.
(Photo by DDJ Batayo)

Dr. Protacio was sworn into office last 10


July 2015. He succeeded DA Assistant
Secretary Edilberto M. De Luna who
served as the officer-in-charge after the
retirement of Dr. Eufemio T. Rasco, Jr.
in February 2015.

(Photo by RT Hermoso)

He also pushed for economicallyimportant research projects such as the


development of genetically modified
coconut in 2009 to increase the
production of lauric acid, a substance
found mainly in coconut oil and is used
in making soaps, insecticides and even
cosmetics.
Passion for instruction
As a teacher, he never fails to inspire his
students by setting a good example.
A former student of his said that whenever
they have difficulties, Dr. Protacio would
tell them stories. He told them the
challenges he faced when he was working
as a young University Research Associate.
He wanted their projects to be successful
and to have an impact.
He is described as a hands-on adviser by
his advisees. Dr. Protacio makes sure that
his advisees will not be delayed due to the
checking or editing of their manuscript.
He even arranges a dinner for all of
his advisees to be acquainted with one
another. He still sends messages to check
up on them and asks if they already have
jobs. His hands are always extended to his
advisees for whatever technical advice or
opportunities he could offer.
Setting the path for food security
He does everything in a professional way.
But, its undeniable that he has a pure
intention and burning fire for service.
With his expertise, kind heart and passion,
he could lead PhilRice in ensuring rice
production and sustainability for the
betterment of the Filipino people.

PAGE 3

Two Balik...
Dr. Aldwin M. Anterola
Dr. Anterola is also a graduate of UPLB
with a B.S. degree in Agricultural
Chemistry. Currently, he is an Associate
Professor at Southern Illinois University,
USA with field expertise in Metabolic
Engineering and Synthetic Biology.
His research involves studying the
biosynthesis of plant constituents that
have medicinal or industrial uses.
Dr. Aldwin M. Anterola worked for a
month (from 16 June to 17 July 2015) at
the Nanobiotechnology Laboratory. He
conducted seminars on Metabolic
Engineering and Synthetic Biology:
Applications in Medicine and
Agriculture in BIOTECH-UPLB,
Cavite State University and Batangas
State University. He also wrote and

packaged a research proposal on


microbial metabolic engineering for
possible funding. He also spearheaded
a workshop and several laboratory
experiments.
Dr. Anterola had fruitful discussions
with Dr. Severina B. Exconde, Research
Assistant Professor, at BIOTECH
regarding regulatory aspects of synthetic
biology.
In addition, he met with researchers
from the Philippine Coconut Authority Albay and discussed opportunities on the
kadang-kadang viroid.
The Balik Scientists stints provided the
host laboratories as well as the staff of
BIOTECH with additional knowledge
and skills about the recent trends in
biotechnology.

RDE Chronicle
Relax with this crossword puzzle!
by Richard T. Hermoso and Jose Elmo H. Azores

Geeky Comics
by Ozzy Boy S. Nicopior

Literary
ACROSS
4. Systematic investigation into and study of
materials and sources in order to establish facts and
reach new conclusions
5. UPLB _____ Center: addresses _____ concerns
in instruction, research, extension and services and
avert incidence of sexual harassment and improve
adolescent reproductive health among UPLB
constituents
6. Function that shows UPLBs relevance in the
development of the country
9. Sweetened concentrated product rolled in white
sugar and wrapped in a strip of coupon bond
secured by a strip of Japanese paper with holes in
the ends
11. Serves as the national research and development (R&D) organization specializing in agricultural,
environmental, food and feeds, and health
biotechnology
12. UPLBs winged carabao
14. A fuel that is produced from renewable
resources, especially plant biomass, vegetable oils,
or treated municipal and industrial wastes.
15. ____ hydroponics is a low-cost hydroponics
system for soil-less vegetable production. It is best
for home-based vegetable production and ideal for
smallspaces typical in urban area
DOWN
1. _______ Fuller Baker Hall: served as a Japanese
internment camp during WWII.
2. statue of Mariang Makiling carrying a clay pot
3. the rst Philippine-bred hybrid papaya
7. Museum of _______ History: serves as a center
for research and documentation of Philippine
biodiversity
8. Common name of UPLBs Fertility tree
10. Research Extension & Professional Sta
13. systematizes UPLBs art and culture programs
and develops medium and long-term plans for the
campus

Through the Glass


by Lieza Johanna Y. Rodriguez
(BS Human Ecology, CHE)

Somebody, help me! It was dad, sitting


on the edge of his bed, looking very
frightened as he screamed furiously. He
was cradling the radio that he owned so
long ago, which he tinkers with everyday
and probably remembers even better
than me. Years ago, this man in yellow
pajamas who has just spoiled his bed
was a famous composer, sought after by
big recording companies until he caught
Alzheimers at 52. Now I - since mother
died giving birth to me - have been
nursing him for 6 years.
Dad, didnt I tell you to call me
earlier? You already peed in the kitchen
yesterday. Wont you learn? On his
bedside table, I grabbed the checkered
rug which has always been there for
exactly this purpose. I cleaned his bed
that now stinks for many times of peeing
on it. Sitting on my knees, I started
wiping the drops on the linoleum floor
when dad screamed once again and
threw his glass of milk far behind me.
I stood up, furious. Dad, what did you
just do?! He looked confused and
avoided my gaze. I give you your meds,
you spit it out. You pee in the kitchen,
I clean it. Even your poop! I clean your
poop! Thats where youre good at, huh?
Youre good at messing things up, at
messing with my life! I tried to contain
myself. Do something right, just for
once. Can you please, even for a minute,

spare me with this sickening life?! Im so


tired of this, dad. I am.
Turning my back on him, I headed to
the other side of the room. I resumed
with what I was doing, this time wiping
everything away pee and milk and
shattered glass and tears and anger and
guilt. Time passed in slow motion as I
plunged in the rooms silence.
Then from my back, I heard faint
squeaks as he hummed. He was tinkering
with his radio again. Sooner a melody
filled the room. It suddenly stunned me.
Despite everything that I felt, I had this
urge to swoon, to stop and listen as if
the song was talking to me, as if the lines
were arrows shooting right through my
heart. I can hear the song whispering: I
wont give you up and I love you.
Then dad spoke as I turned to him. His
words sounded like a murmur.
Monsters were trying to steal this, girl.
They were trying to steal the song! He
held his radio tighter. Yes, this song,
yes His eyes were closed, as if dreaming
of a memory so far away. The doctor he
handed me this little bundle right after
Sara died. Oh, how beautiful she was. But
shes also pale, oh, and so thin. She spent
days in this small, lighted machine, see?
Doctors telling me her hearts weak, she
wont survive, but no, doctor, this time
you arent right. So I wrote her a song til
the hearts strong enough, til everythings
okay. I write as I look at those dimples
from afar, as I sing her a lullaby from that

misty glass, as I put her tiny hands on top


of mine. I write as I wait for my daughter
to come home with me. Do you know
her, girl? Bet youll like her too if you do.
I looked at him, seeing him for the first
time. A mix of pale colors painted his
skin and dry lips. Wide creases lined
his forehead, heavy black circles formed
under his eyes. His eyes they look so
weary, so tired. When has he been like
this, so troubled and in pain? Why didnt
I notice this? No. Why am I not looking?
With all the strength that I still have, I ran
to him like the child I once was and hugged
him tightly like I never did before.

Lipad
by Rainier P. Trinidad
(BS Forestry, CFNR)

Sa araw na isinilang tayo ng ating ina ay


nagkaroon na ng malaking pagbabago
sa lahat. Nabigyan natin ang ating mga
magulang ng ngiti sa kanilang mga labi,
nabigyan natin sila ng mga pangarap na
balang araw ay matutupad, at inspirasyon
upang silay magtrabaho ng mabuti.
Ang panahon ay lumilipas, ang mga tao ay
nagbabago. Ikaw kabataan, ikay nagbago,
isa kabang paru-parong may layang
lipad, o isang paniking nagtatago dahil
sa kasalanang kanyang nagawa? Nasabi ni
Rizal na ang kabataan ay ang pag-asa ng
bayan, isa kaba sa magbibigay ng pag-asa
sa pamamagitan ng iyong layang lipad, o
hindi?

The RDE Chronicle

Ofcial Research, Development, and Extension News


of the University of the Philippines Los Baos

managing editor
Maria Rowena Beatriz Q. Inzon
layout
Regina Mae C. Ongkiko
production/ circulation
Renato E. Apolinario, Jr. Alex C. Genil
Reynaldo T. Magsino Michael B. Biguelme
editorial consultant
Florante A. Cruz
advisers
Vice Chancellor
Rex B. Demafelis
Assistant to the Vice Chancellor
Susan May F. Calumpang

writers/photographers/contributors
Lawrence N. Garcia
Regina Mae C. Ongkiko
Maria Rowena Beatriz Q. Inzon
Ailene M. Florece
Richard T. Hermoso
Jose Elmo H. Azores
Lavinia Marie A. Manaig
Florante A. Cruz
James DV. Alvarez
Sairah Mae R. Saipudin
Daniel Dave J. Batayo
Carlo G. Custodio, Jr.
Belinda Lucille B. Costales
Sairah Mae R. Saipudin
Rae Rival-Cosico
Leobel Colona
Lieza Johanna Y. Rodrigquez
Rainier P. Trinidad
Ozzy Boy S. Nicopior
Czarlina May E. Magnata
Eriberto E. Roxas, Jr.

RDE Chronicle

The
is published semi-annually by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor for
Research and Extension (OVCRE), University of the Philippines Los Baos (UPLB). It contains news and updates
on the various RDE endeavours of the university.
Contributions related to research and extension from UPLB faculty and staff are welcome. Please send articles,
artwork, digital photographs, and literary pieces via email: ovcre.uplb@up.edu.ph. Comments on the published
content can also be sent through the same email address. Requests for use of content for publication should be
addressed to the Editors.
For inquiries, please contact us at: Information Management and Technology Utilization Section
OVCRE, 3F UPLB Main Library, UPLB, College, Laguna 4031 Philippines
Tel. No. (63) 49 536-2354 , Local VOIP: 1515, Email: ovcre.uplb@up.edu.ph.

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