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December 23, 2024Dr. Edward A. Barlaan, a professor emeritus at the University of Southern Mindanao, was recognized as one of the outstanding individuals who have made a significant impact on the field of biotechnology during the 9th Filipino Faces of Biotechnology, held as part of the Filipino Excellence and Innovation in Biotechnology celebration on December 5, 2024, at the PICC Complex in Pasay City.
The prestigious event was led by Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and Regulations Atty. Asis G. Perez, along with Biotechnology Program Office Director Dr. Paul C. Limson.
Dr. Barlaan is a multi-awarded researcher who has spearheaded various locally and externally funded projects on key commodities, including banana, coconut, cacao, mango, and rice. He is widely known for his exceptional leadership in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology for High-Value Crops, as well as advancements in disease detection and fermentation techniques.
He has received numerous prestigious awards, including the 2023 Outstanding Professional of the Year in the Field of Agriculture from the Professional Regulation Commission, the Best R&D Paper Award at the highly competitive National Symposium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development 2023, and the 2022 Outstanding Government Worker Award from the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
This year’s award stands as a testament to his excellence, hard work, and achievements, which have significantly advanced biotechnology in the Philippines and positioned the country at the forefront of this field.
Other awardees honored during the event included Dr. Estrella Alabastro, Ms. Maria Antonia Arroyo, Dr. Emiliana Bernardo (posthumous awardee), Dr. Antonio Laurena, Dr. Edison Riñen, Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin, and Dr. Lilian P. Villamor.