Marine scientist, Ramon Magsaysay awardee Angel Alcala dies at 93

A pioneer of marine biodiversity and marine conservation, Dr. Angel Chua Alcala, has died on Wednesday at the age of 93, Silliman University (SU) announced.

"SU mourns the loss of a scientist, administrator, trustee, professor, morally upright family man, and public servant," the university said in a statement.

"To the country and to the world, Dr. Alcala is an acclaimed biologist and conservationist."

Alcala graduated from SU with a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree, magna cum laude and completed his Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences at Stanford University in California.

He became the College of Arts and Sciences dean, Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences director, and university President from 1991 to 1992.

Alcala, the University said, is known for his pioneering work in establishing marine protected areas in the Philippines, the concept of community-based coastal resource management in the promotion of marine biodiversity, the use of artificial reefs as models for fisheries development in the Philippines, extensive research on Philippine amphibians and reptiles since the mid-1950s.

Alcala received a number of awards, recognition for is work including Outstanding Sillimanian Awardee in Biological Sciences, National Scientist in 2014 for his contributions to Philippine biological sciences, Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service in 1992, ASEAN Biodiversity Hero in 2017, among others.

He also served as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources secretary from 1992 to 1995 and the Commission on Higher Education chairman from 1995 to 1999.

Alcala continued to be active as a Professor Emeritus, Board of Trustees member, and chairman of the Board of Advisers of the SU-Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management in the last few years.

"To honor him, the university is putting the flag at half-mast," the University said, adding that a memorial service will be announced in a later date. -- BAP, GMA Integrated News