PNoy confers National Scientist awards on ex-DENR chief, 3 others

A former environment secretary, two marine biologists and a horticulturist who helped boost mango production in the country were conferred National Scientist awards on Tuesday.

 

President Benigno Aquino III handed the awards—the highest national recognition for Filipinos involved in physical sciences and technology—to Drs. Gavino Trono, Angel Alcala, Ramon Barba and Edgardo Gomez at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday morning.

 

Aquino issued presidential proclamations earlier this year naming the four awardees as National Scientists.

 

Trono was recognized for his research activities on tropical marine phycology, which benefited the local seaweed industry.

 

Alcala, who served as environment chief during the presidency of Fidel Ramos, was commended for his seminal work on marine biodiversity, such as the invention of artificial coral reefs. He also conducted research on Philippine amphibian and reptiles.

 

Barba was meanwhile awarded for developing a plant growth enhancer, which paved the way for the availability of fresh mangoes in the Philippines all year round.

 

Gomez, for his part, was credited for his studies on the reproduction of marine invertebrates, which prevented the extinction of true giant clams.

 

The National Scientists were selected from a list submitted by the National Academy of Science and Technology, the President's advisory body on all matters concerning science and technology in the country.

 

Like National Artists, National Scientists are granted cash awards, monthly life pensions, and medical and hospitalization benefits. — TJD, GMA News