Representing University President Kenneth A. Laruan, Maridel P. Langbis addressed the audience with an inspiring speech on environmental stewardship and youth leadership in sustainable change. She emphasized the vital role of young biologists in shaping a more sustainable future.
Adding depth to the discussions, La Trinidad Vice Mayor Roderick Chiok Awingan served as the resource speaker, delivering an insightful talk on the Salient Provisions of Municipal Ordinance No. 11-2019, commonly known as the La Trinidad Environment Code. He elaborated on essential regulations aimed at environmental protection, sustainable development, and responsible resource management.
An open forum, moderated by Biology Department faculty member Cristofer T. Diwa, followed the discussion. Biology students actively engaged with Vice Mayor Awingan and MENRO Designate Arthur A. Pedro, raising concerns regarding the use of water sources for irrigating strawberry farms in La Trinidad. Pedro reassured everyone that MENRO has addressed the issue, ensuring that irrigation water is sourced from designated clean areas and not connected to sewage systems. He further guaranteed the safety of La Trinidad’s strawberries, encouraging the public to consume them with confidence.
One of the highlights of the closing program was the presentation of research studies by BS Biology students specializing in Biomedical Sciences and Microbiology. These presentations served as an inspiration for lower-year students, providing them with valuable insights into conducting meaningful scientific research.
Matthan Iverson L. Ballesteros, a Biomedical Sciences student, presented his research titled Effects of Ultrasonication on Shelf Life, Microbial Load, and Vitamin C Content of Fragaria × ananassa Duch var. Sweet Charlie. His study focused on how ultrasonic treatment impacts fruit quality, revealing that while the method significantly reduced microbial load, it did not prevent decay or negatively affect vitamin C levels.
Meanwhile, another research group composed of Jessy Mae Bagni, Jimaica Cumti, and Glenda Manuel, also from Biomedical Sciences, discussed their study on the Hypoglycemic Effect of Dendrocnide meyeniana (Walp.) Chew Ethanolic Bark Extract in Hyperglycemic Sprague-Dawley Rats. Their findings suggested that the plant extract had a significant ability to lower blood glucose levels, making it a potential natural alternative for diabetes treatment.
In the field of Microbiology, Natasha C. Cayaban, Desiree F. Padkiw, and Geraldine P. Tica-a presented their study on Bioremediation Potential of Heavy Metal and Pesticide-Tolerant Poaceae Endophytes from an Open Pit Mining Area in Luneta, Itogon, Benguet. Their research focused on isolating bacteria and fungi that thrive in mining-affected environments, identifying their potential use in remediating heavy metal and pesticide contamination. Lastly, a study on coffee agroforestry titled Comparative Assessment of Mycorrhizal Diversity and Environmental Conditions in Coffee Under Alnus and Coffee Under Pine was also presented. The study found that coffee grown under Alnus exhibited greater mycorrhizal diversity, superior morphological traits, and better soil conditions compared to coffee under Pine.
The event also celebrated students’ active participation and achievements throughout Biology Week 2025. Outstanding teams and individuals were awarded certificates of recognition for their contributions to various activities and competitions held during the week. To make the ceremony more engaging, the BLS officers hosted a mini parlor game, which brought excitement and entertainment to the crowd.
In her closing remarks, BLS Adviser Joanna I. Alafag expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the BLS officers, faculty members, and students for making the event a resounding success. She emphasized that the success of Biology Week 2025 was a collective effort, stating, “Without your participation, Biology Week 2025 would not have been possible.”
Biology Week 2025 was more than just a celebration—it was a powerful reminder of the role of biology in addressing real-world environmental issues. It not only recognized academic achievements but also highlighted the significance of teamwork and community engagement in tackling environmental challenges.
As the event concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of responsibility and motivation to contribute meaningfully to scientific research, sustainability, and environmental advocacy. With their newfound inspiration, the future of biology at BSU looks brighter than ever.//
: Marieta P. Lami-ing
: Peter Josh Gabriel Porte, Sherein Jesi Ringor
The Biology Week 2025 wrapped up a week-long celebration of teamwork, academic excellence, and environmental awareness with a Closing Program and Awarding Ceremony held at the BSU Gymnasium on March 21, 2025. The event brought together Biology students, the Biology Department faculty, and special guests, marking a grand conclusion to an inspiring week dedicated to biology and sustainability.