IN PHOTOS (L-R): Ms. Joana America (Chief, Institution Development Division – PCHRD), Dr. Agnes Castillo (Judge), Daryl Ceribo,  Dr. Renerio Gentallan, Jr. (Adviser), Dr. Maricar Ching (Judge), and Dr. Evangeline Amor (Judge)

Student researcher Daryl Ceribo of University of the Philippines Los Baños won first place in the Undergraduate Thesis Grant in Natural Products Oral Research Paper Presentation Competition, held as part of the National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF) 2024.

In his winning presentation, Ceribo introduced his study on Philippine Camia, an endemic plant species that holds promise for both organic farming and medicinal applications. His research highlights the urgent need to protect endangered species, while offering insights into the plant’s physical structure, growth patterns, and genetic makeup. 

Ceribo’s study has provided preliminary data on the beneficial chemical compounds present in the Philippine Camia, laying the groundwork for future exploration of its traditional medicinal uses. He emphasizes the importance of traceability in scientific research, stating, “If you have good results in your study but no one can trace your source, that is quite a problem because science should be verifiable and replicable.”

The competition proper was held on September 21, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum Tent in Pasay City. DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime Montoya praised the finalists, emphasizing their role in addressing health research and development challenges.

“Through your papers, you show that research is not just confined to laboratories or classrooms but an active effort that seeks to solve practical problems, help communities, and improve the quality of life for countless individuals,” said Dr. Montoya.

IN PHOTOS (L-R): Dr. Maria Ruth Pineda-Cortel (Moderator), Ms. Joana America (Chief, Institution Development Division – PCHRD), Dr. Agnes Castillo (Judge), Phil John Vincent Datoy (Third Place),  Prof. Kirstin Rhys Seares Pueblos (Adviser),  Daryl Ceribo (First Place), Dr. Renerio Gentallan, Jr. (Adviser), Rian Lorenzo Mascariñas (Second Place), Dr. Rolly Fuentes (Adviser), Dr. Maricar Ching (Judge), and Dr. Evangeline Amor (Judge)

Other notable presentations include study by Rian Mascariñas from University of the Philippines Tacloban who won second place, highlighting his research on  the antibacterial activity of fungi in the bark of Aquilaria trees. Securing the third place, Phil John Datoy from Mindanao State University, also presented his study on the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and deworming properties of the Marang (Artocarpus odoratissimus) core.

With the theme: ‘STEM-VIBE: Engaging the Youth in Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities,’ this year’s NYSTIF also recognized the youth’s potential in contributing to knowledge through science and technology.