Unveiling the Future of Basic Research: The NRCP 7th Annual BRS Symposium Redefines Scientific Exploration

The annual NRCP Basic Research Science symposium event has evolved into an influential platform for advocacy, elucidation, and the exchange of insights. Its significance transcends the boundaries of academia, resonating with the local and national government, thereby capturing the attention of pivotal organizations such as the House of Representatives, the Department of Health (DOH), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This symposium, curated by NRCP, marks the genesis of a more profound and sustained dialogue.

The symposium surpassed scholarly paper presentations, revealing overarching themes demanding continued exploration. The intricate nature of these issues necessitates a deeper understanding of their origins and the potential implications of the proposed solutions. Moreover, it serves as a bridge, connecting local and national colleges and universities within Metro Manila and across the regions.

In a world continually evolving, the 7th Annual Basic Research Symposium underscores the boundless nature of scientific exploration, delving into the realms of science, research, and innovation with esteemed guests such as Dr. Marian P. De Leon, Chair of the Biological Sciences Division at DOST-NRCP. Her contributions to Microbiology have been acknowledged by the Philippine Academy of Microbiology, Inc., certifying her as a Registered Microbiologist. Dr. De Leon shared her expertise on “Bat Guano against Pathogenic Bacteria,” illuminating nature’s solutions to combat harmful bacteria.

Subsequently, Dr. Rodney H. Perez enlightened the audience about “Food-grade Bacteriocins against Mastitis Infections in Cattle,” showcasing innovative approaches to address health challenges in the agricultural sector. Dr. Perez, a Career Scientist and an expert from the UPLB National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH), has garnered recognition both locally and internationally for his pioneering research in Microbial Technology.

Dr. Ron Leonard V. Dy, the Deputy Director for Academic Affairs at the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, followed as the third distinguished speaker. He also holds the title of Postdoctoral Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology in Germany.

The fourth speaker, Dr. Jose Enrico H. Lazaro, an Associate Professor at the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, UP Diliman, shared his experiences in producing, purifying, and characterizing heptyl prodigiosin from a Serratia marcescens isolated from a Philippine sponge. He illustrated the compound’s potency as an antimalarial agent in a mouse Plasmodium berghei model. Dr. Lazaro is currently engaged in studying bacteria from unconventional sources like hyperalkaline springs and mine tailings, with a focus on potential secondary metabolites and bioremediation strategies.

The fifth distinguished presenter, Dr. Fleurdeliz Maglangit, an Associate Professor in Chemistry at the University of the Philippines Cebu, boasts over 15 years of teaching experience and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK. Dr. Maglangit is actively involved in the search for antimicrobials from thermophilic, mesophilic, and alkaliphilic bacteria, particularly in Mainit Hot Springs, Cebu. Her dreams revolve around the discovery of novel drugs and antibiotics.

The final notable presenter, Mr. Noel H. Tan Gana, holds the title of University Researcher II at the Philippine National Collection of Microorganisms (PNCM), National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH), University of the Philippines Los Baños. His work encompasses bacterial and yeast taxonomy, microbial genomics, and fundamental microbiology.