(by CDCPalao)
The Institute of Biological Sciences (IBS) continues to soar and conquer in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) society. In its week-long celebration, the Institute commemorated its various achievements and highlighted the triumphs of its constituents on its 40th founding anniversary.
The kick-off event was held through the Takbuhay 2.0: IBS Fun Run on March 18 to foster camaraderie among institute constituents and students. Other activities included the seminar series on research ethics and collection permits, a fireside chat with distinguished alumni, and a week-long exhibit showcasing the work and achievements of the different divisions and student organizations of IBS.
With the theme “IBS@40: Transcending to greater heights towards scientific progress in a VUCA society”, a lunch gala and alumni homecoming event was also held on March 25 at the Charles Fuller Baker Hall. Attendees were welcomed with speeches and the launch of the official IBS AVP.
The on-site ceremony was graced by Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr., Vice-Chancellor for Research and Extension Dr. Nathaniel Bantayan, and College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Dean Maribel L. Dionisio-Sese. Dr. Leah J. Buendia, Undersecretary for Research and Development of DOST, delivered the keynote speech. The institute’s executive committee members, headed by Dr. Vachel Gay V. Paller, IBS alumni, faculty, professors emeriti, staff, and students took active part in the event to show their solidarity.
Former IBS Directors, Prof. Pacifico Payawal (1983–1986), Prof. Bonifacio T. Mercado (1987–1990), and Prof. Ludivina S. de Padua (1991–1996), Prof. Macrina T. Zafaralla (1996–1999), Prof. Asuncion K. Raymundo (1999–2006), Prof. Cleofas R. Cervancia (2006–2009), Prof. Damasa M. Macandog (2009–2012), Prof. Nina M. Cadiz (2012–2015), and Prof. Merlyn S. Mendioro (2015–2021) received UP Oblation statuettes to commemorate their honor, excellence, and service in shaping the future of IBS.
Retirees were also recognized: Dr. Damasa M. Macandog (Professor 12), Mr. Isagani O. Catelo (Laboratory Technician I), Ms. Cleofe O. Manatac (Laboratory Technician II), and Mr. Olivio E. Matalog (Laboratory Technician II).
Outstanding student and student organizations, faculty, and personnel were also honored during the event. Awards were given to: Prof. Nacita B. Lantican (Outstanding Researcher- Senior Category), Asst. Prof. Rose Angeli V. Rioja (Outstanding researcher-Junior category), Asst. Prof. Jaymee R. Encabo (Outstanding Teacher–Senior Category), Asst. Prof. Remella T. Beringuela (Outstanding Teacher–Junior Category), Ms. Lailani A. Masungsong (Outstanding REPS), Prof. Inocencio E. Buot Jr. (Outstanding Extension Personnel-Senior category), Mr. Dranreb D. Mariano (Outstanding Student–Senior category), Mr. Myk Timothy H. Masa (Outstanding Student–Junior category) and PHILOBIOSCIENTIA (Outstanding Student Organization). The Conserve Kaigangan Team bagged both the Outstanding Research Team and Outstanding Extension Team Awards.
Guests were treated to a duet and audio-visual presentations highlighting the institute’s humble beginnings. Community singing to the tune of Lea Salonga’s “The Journey” provided the sentimental mood to reminisce on the road IBS took to becoming a progressive institute. The ad hoc anniversary committee members, together with the IBS director and a few executive committee members, showcased a dance performance to further pump up the vibe and break the ice for more festivities and socialization.
The event also featured the IBS Alumni Association Election and induction of officers. Among those who took oath as newly elected officers were Jose Alden O. Arellano (President), Arvin C. Diesmos (Vice President), Maya Linda P. Gorrez (Secretary), Leslie Dalmacio (Treasurer), Albert Remus R. Rosana (Asst. Treasurer), Donald Daniel S. De Padua (Auditor), Kevin A. Elomina (PRO), Joseph Raymond S. Tapang (Member), and Deborah V. Simsuangco (Member).
The institute extends gratitude to our event sponsors and donors: Dr. Henry and Maribel Villegas, Sterix Incorporated, BioAssets, Diamed, Philobioscientia Alumni Association, Noveaulab Asia Corp., and Biotriune, Inc.
Mabuhay IBS for the 40 years of Excellence in Biological Sciences!
