National Scientist Ramon Barba dies at 82

Dr. Ramon Barba, the national scientist responsible for the year-round production of mangoes, passed way on Sunday. He was 82.

In a statement, the Department of Science and Technology remembered Barba's contributions in the field of plant physiology and micropropagation.

Barba developed a plant growth enhancer called FLUSH, which "accelerates the growth cycle of trees and advances their flowering and fruiting stages."

"The discovery guaranteed regular or controlled flowering of mango trees and in many dry areas like Cebu and Guimaras, hence, the flowering period for the whole country was not just confined to March and April but has extended to several months, promising a supply of mangoes throughout the year," DOST said.

"This mango induction technology was patented not only in the Philippines but also in other countries, such as USA, England, Australia, and New Zealand. He did not collect any royalty from the patent so that ordinary farmers can freely use the technology."

He and his research team also developed micropropagation protocols for more than 40 important species of ornamental, fruit, and plantation crops, aquarium plants, and forest trees including cassava, white potato, rattan, bamboo, ramie, derris, garlic, shallot, banana, and sugar cane.

Barba was conferred the Order of National Scientist in 2014. It is the highest recognition given by the President of the Republic of the Philippines to a Filipino man or woman of science in the Philippines who has made significant contributions in one of the different fields of science and technology.

A product of the University of the Philippines, he pursued graduate studies in horticulture at the University of Georgia and University of Hawaii in the United States. He returned to the country shortly after to teach.

Barba served as the first program leader of the Plant Cell and Tissue Culture Laboratory. He also held positions in private institutions, serving as consultant and research director.

He received numerous awards for his research, including The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines for Agriculture in 1974. In 2004, he was elected as member of the National Academy of Science and Technology.

—MGP, GMA News