Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan is widely recognized as a distinguished researcher and academician who has made significant contributions to the field of nanotechnology, with particular emphasis on its applications in fisheries and aquaculture. He is currently the Center Director and Principal Investigator for Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories and the Center for Microplastics Research and Innovation. Additionally, he is the Director for the International Affairs and Linkages Office at Mindanao State University at Naawan.

His academic journey began with a BS in Chemistry from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, followed by an MS in Chemistry from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. He furthered his studies with a Ph.D. in Chemistry from National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan, completing the prestigious Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP). His academic achievements are underscored by an impressive h-index of 12, indicative of his scholarly impact.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Capangpangan has demonstrated exceptional research prowess, publishing over 80 papers in esteemed journals and contributing chapters to three books published by Springer, focusing on nanotechnology and the circular economy. He has presented his research findings at numerous local and international conferences. Furthermore, he serves as Associate Editor for the Annals of Studies in Science and Humanities and the Journal of Ecosystem Science and Eco-Governance and as a reviewer for various ISI- and Scopus-indexed journals. He is also a regular member of the National Research Council of the Philippines, the Philippine Association of Research Managers, Inc., the Mindanao Consortium on Advanced Functional Materials and Nanotechnology, the International Association of Advanced Materials, and a Lifetime Member of the Kapisanang Kimika ng Pilipinas.

His pioneering work has garnered numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Faculty Researcher Award (2023), the Photon Loyalty Award from the Samahang Pisika ng Visayas at Mindanao, and recognition as a DOST-PCIEERD EPIC Awardee and National Awardee of the Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS). He has also been honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Research, the Best Employee Award, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Resource Generation.

Dr. Capangpangan’s visionary leadership extends to the establishment of the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories (REY Labs) and the Center for Microplastic Research and Innovation. At these centers, he spearheads groundbreaking research initiatives focused on microplastics in the Philippines, exploring their environmental impacts and innovative solutions. His research portfolio encompasses nanomaterials, computational nanotechnology, sensor development, and polymer science, addressing critical challenges in fisheries and aquaculture. Notable projects include developing nanomaterial-based sensors for detecting contaminants in aquaculture systems and creating sustainable nanotechnologies to reduce microplastic pollution in marine environments.

Dr. Capangpangan’s research on microplastics has been pivotal in understanding their distribution, sources, and impacts on marine ecosystems in the Philippines. His work involves interdisciplinary collaboration with ecologists, chemists, and engineers to develop innovative mitigation strategies. One of his significant projects includes the use of advanced nanomaterials to degrade microplastics in aquatic environments, thereby reducing their harmful effects on marine life.

As a testament to his international stature, Dr. Capangpangan has successfully led projects funded by agencies such as DOST, CHED, and DA. His collaborations transcend borders, with appointments as a JSPS HOPE Fellow and visiting researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel. These roles enable him to drive scientific advancements and foster international partnerships, cementing his reputation as a leading scientist in chemical research worldwide.

Dr. Capangpangan’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing environmental challenges through nanotechnology underscores his commitment to excellence and innovation in academia. His visionary efforts are not only contributing to the academic community but also paving the way for practical solutions to environmental issues. By integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology with ecological conservation, Dr. Capangpangan is inspiring a new generation of researchers and setting a transformative path toward a sustainable future. His ongoing efforts promise to have a profound impact on both local and global scales, shaping the future of scientific research and environmental sustainability.

Glenn C. Apostol, a distinguished alumnus of Mariano Marcos State University with a BS in Chemistry (2002) and a graduate of the Leadership Management Development Program at Ateneo Graduate School of Business (2011), currently serves as the Technical Director at Chemrez Technologies, Inc. With two decades of experience in Research & Development and Business Development, Glenn has spearheaded pioneering advancements in manufacturing processes and upcycling technologies, leading to the creation of innovative, sustainable ingredients for diverse industries. His visionary leadership has propelled Chemrez Technologies to expand its global market reach and enhance its product offerings. Among his notable achievements, Glenn has secured two patents and several pending inventions, including the acclaimed Laurin MCT Oil, which won the 2024 Gawad Yamang Isip (GYI) Award for Best Invention by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. His remarkable contributions have not only driven the company’s growth but also elevated the global reputation of Filipino-made products. An active member of several prestigious professional organizations, Glenn exemplifies a steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation in his field.

Dr. Angelo Mark Walag is a distinguished full professor at the Department of Science Education, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education with a specialization in Chemistry, laying a robust foundation for his extensive research portfolio. His scholarly expertise spans game-based learning, gamification, inquiry-based learning, and chemistry education, through which he has authored numerous high-impact publications. 

Dr. Walag has made substantial contributions to research in chemistry education by conducting studies on the effectiveness of innovative instructional materials with emphasis on game-based learning. Through rigorous investigation and analysis, he has provided valuable insights into their practical application and pedagogical impact, thereby improving chemistry instruction. His research endeavors not only contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field but also inform evidence-based teaching practices, benefiting chemistry educators and students alike. He has published several papers in the Journal of Chemical Education published by the American Chemical Society.

Beyond his research, Dr. Walag is deeply committed to student training and mentorship, teaching various chemistry and research courses from undergraduate to graduate levels. He supervises student research projects and collaborates with students to develop innovative learning materials in chemistry. His mentorship has been instrumental in the success of his students, many of whom have secured foreign graduate scholarships, became outstanding teachers, and established themselves as researchers in chemistry education. 

Dr. Walag has been leading community extension projects, focusing on the professional development of science teachers in Northern Mindanao Region. As a program and project leader, he has initiated partnerships with various Department of Education offices, training science teachers in content and pedagogical knowledge, science process skills, laboratory management, ICT in teaching, and inquiry-based learning. His efforts have earned him recognition as a valued stakeholder by DepEd. 

Dr. Walag’s vast experience as a peer reviewer for high-impact journals in chemistry and chemistry education further underscores his expertise and commitment to advancing the field. His critical insights and evaluations help maintain the high standards of academic publications and contribute to the ongoing development of robust chemistry education research.

Dr. Adoracion P. Resurreccion has been leading the Board of Chemistry at the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) since 2004, overseeing significant changes in how the chemistry profession is regulated. For 10 years she actively participated in supporting the Integrated Chemists of the Philippines in creating the Chemistry Profession Act (RA No. 10657), a law that since 2015, has shaped standards and safety in more than a thousand chemical laboratories across the country.

Under her leadership, the Board of Chemistry introduced reforms in the administration of the Chemistry Licensure Examinations (CLE) that contributed to the improvement of the national passing rate in the CLE. Dr. Resurreccion represented the BOC in the CHED Technical Committee/Panel in Chemistry at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for 4 years , where she helped set educational standards and improve chemistry teaching at universities. Among the reforms implemented were; the instutionalization of the an updated Table of Specifications for the CLE that was aligned with the CHED Policies, Standards, and Guidelines(PSG) for the BS Chemistry program in the country and the upgrading of the Chemistry Testbank encoding and extraction process.

Inspite of personal mobility difficulties, compelling her to undergo major surgeries, Dr. Resurreccion indefatigably spearheaded a rigorous inspection and monitoring program for chemical establishments, to ensure that requirements for safety and professional standards set by the Chemistry Law are complied with. These efforts significantly impacted on the conditions of chemistry professionals in the country, among these: the recognition of the essential role of chemists in chemical establishments; safer working conditions in laboratories, including grant of hazard pay for hundreds of chemists and chemical technicians; and improved ethical practices among chemistry professionals.

Apart from her regulatory work, Dr. Resurreccion chairs the Continuing Professional Development Council of Chemistry, which encourages chemistry practitioners to keep learning and maintaining high ethical standards in their work. She is also known for sharing her knowledge and insights at seminars and discussions on topics like the chemistry law and continuing professional development.

Dr. Resurreccion’s career in public service is defined by her dedication to excellence, integrity and her unflinching efforts in the implementation of the Chemistry Profession Act. Consequently, the promotion, regulation and protection of the professional practice of chemistry in the country, ensures its continued development and adherence to high international standards. Her leadership continues to benefit and inspire chemistry professionals and drive positive change in the chemistry profession.

Mr. Gerry Dy Tan is a registered chemist who graduated magna cum laude from the Silliman University in Dumaguete City and was among the top 10 placer in the 1986 Chemistry licensure examination conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission. He is also a graduate of Master in Business Administration program (MBA) from the Ateneo Graduate School of Business in Makati City. He is the current the President and Chief Executive Officer of SBS Philippines Corporation (SBS), a publicly-listed company with the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), and one of the country’s leading third-party chemical distribution companies that offers comprehensive selection of chemical products serving a diverse set of industries which include food and beverage, industrial and detergents, feeds and agriculture, water treatment, pharmaceuticals and personal care, building and constructions, and industrial manufacturers. Concurrent to his CEO responsibility at SBS, he is also an elected member of the Company’s Board of Directors, and the Chairperson of its Executive Committee.

Under his leadership, SBS has been recognized as one of the Top Performing Publicly Listed Companies in the Philippines under the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (“ACGS”) for four consecutive years and counting. On the sustainability front, Gerry is leading SBS in partnership with several companies to promote innovative and sustainable solutions in areas like recycling of reclaimed asphalt pavement, potential use of soil biology boosters for chemical-free sustainable farming, and the introduction to the Philippine market of a new alternative to flexible plastic packaging that dissolves and biodegrades in water to mitigate pollution problem created by unmanaged disposal of single-use plastic in the country.

Prior to SBS, Gerry had spent 18 years in Singapore and Hong Kong managing silicones chemical business operations in Asia-Pacific for Rhodia Asia Pacific and Bluestar Silicones Hong Kong, respectively, including an oversight responsibility of its application development activities in Shanghai, China. During this period, he established international business relations with many foreign manufacturers and led the business expansion of his former company across Asia including setting up of application laboratories in China and Korea. He also gained valuable insight and develop the ability to assess, screen and commercialize a product from laboratory concept to industry applicability and market success.    His more than three decades of experience in the chemical industry with focus on business development, innovation, product safety, sustainability and service excellence has uplifted the availability and delivery of chemical raw materials in the Philippine manufacturing landscape, thereby supporting product innovation among its customers and help cultivate the entrepreneurship spirit especially of the small and medium enterprises in the country.  He has also positively impacted the stakeholders’ understanding of chemicals and the chemical industry as a partner for sustainable economic growth of our country.

Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes received her BS (2000) and MS Chemistry (2006) degrees from the University of the Philippines Diliman under the mentorship of Dr. Amelia P. Guevara and Dr. Gisela P. Concepcion. She obtained her PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences-Medicinal Chemistry (2013) from the University of Florida under the supervision of Professor Hendrik Luesch. Dr. Salvador-Reyes joined the University of the Philippines Diliman Marine Science Institute (UPMSI) in 2013, where she is currently a Professor and the Deputy Director for Instruction. She has been a Scientist I since 2017 under the UP Scientific Productivity System (SPS).

Dr. Salvador-Reyes has worked extensively on natural products purification, structure elucidation, and bioactivity assessment. She obtained new compounds and worked on the preclinical development of several cyanobacterial natural products. She was awarded the 2012 Kilmer Prize by the American Society of Pharmacognosy and the American Pharmaceutical Association for her PhD work on elastase inhibitors from marine cyanobacteria. She is a prolific natural products chemist with 45 scientific publications in high-impact factor journals and an h-index of 17.  She has also given over 100 oral and poster presentations at international and national scientific meetings. The National Academy of Science and Technology also recognized the contributions of Dr. Salvador-Reyes to the field with the 2019 Outstanding Young Scientist award.

Dr. Salvador-Reyes returned to the Philippines as a UP Balik PhD to mentor the next generation of natural products chemists and continue strengthening the field. As a science educator, mentor, and researcher, she aims to encourage and engage students to venture into science and train the next generation of young Filipino scientists who can undertake excellent research in a developing country and communicate their passion for science. Her teaching and mentoring philosophy is summarized as ‘PRIME’: Provide a high level of support to students and promote their welfare; Rigorous didactic and practical training of students; Identify and nurture a student’s strengths and build on this; Motivate students to have more profound learning and engagement with science; Encourage students to discuss their learnings and discoveries with scientists and the general public. Aside from receiving their degrees, most of her mentored students have co-authored publications and patents with her and have presented their work at an international conference. Several of her students have continued their passion for science and research and pursued getting their PhD in universities abroad.

Dr. Salvador-Reyes’ current research focuses on discovering natural products from marine organisms such as bacteria, cyanobacteria, sponges, and mollusks. She combines the time-tested traditional method of bioactivity-guided purification with advanced methodologies in genomics, metabolomics, and high-throughput screening for the discovery of bioactive natural products. Dr. Salvador-Reyes also bolstered the biobanking efforts of marine microorganisms and compounds. She is currently the curator of the Marine Natural Products Legacy Collection at UPMSI. This collection comprises over 5000 marine microorganisms, 6000+ extracts and fractions, and over 100 pure compounds. These resources can be utilized for future discovery campaigns or industrial applications.

Transforming marine organisms into valuable products is made possible with extensive chemical characterization of the compounds produced by these organisms. Dr. Salvador-Reyes and fellow researchers at UPMSI established the mariculture of biomedically-important marine sponges. Her work identifies the high value characteristics of these organisms and factors that influence the production of bioactive compounds. Dr. Salvador-Reyes also utilizes chemistry in her research on harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the Philippines. With the changing oceanic conditions, HAB occurrences have been spreading together with the appearance of new HAB-causative organisms. Her work is directed at understanding the chemical basis of the toxicity of marine organisms and identifying emerging toxins from the Philippine seas. Dr. Salvador-Reyes hopes her work on the chemistry of marine organisms will yield not only high value products from the Philippines but also better protection of our marine resources.

Dr Allen A Espinosa is an associate professor of science education at the Philippine Normal University (PNU) where he handles undergraduate and graduate courses in science education and currently serves as the director of the Educational Policy Research and Development Center (EPRDC), the university’s specialized research center focused on policy research and studies on teacher education.

Prior to his stint as EPRDC director, he was also appointed as senior program manager at the Philippine National Research Center for Teacher Quality (RCTQ), an Australian government-funded research center based in PNU. At RCTQ, he managed programs and research studies which led to the creation of learning support materials and policies on strengthening teacher quality eventually adopted by the country’s Department of Education (DepEd).    

As a scholar, his areas of research interests span a broad range of topics such as policy research in education, teacher education, information disorder, and social justice in education. He completed his PhD in Biochemistry Education as a full scholar at the University of Melbourne, Australia, his MA in Education major in Chemistry Education from the University of the Philippines Diliman (with thesis grants from UP and the Commission on Higher Education), and his Bachelor in Secondary Education major in Chemistry, cum laude, from PNU Manila.

Presently, he leads three internationally-funded big-ticket projects: (1) a UNESCO-funded project that critically analyzes issues in educational technology in the Philippines; (2) an Edified Energiser Grant-funded project that reviews mental health programs in Philippine higher education institutions under a pandemic; (3) and an Australia Alumni Grants Scheme-funded project that reviews the basic education delivery in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in relation to peace, conflict, and the pandemic.

As an active researcher with focus on science education, he has also published substantial research studies in teaching and teacher education with special focus on science education. His studies on content and pedagogy have appeared in various reputable journals such as the Australian Educational Researcher, Australian Journal of Environmental Education, Australian Journal of Teacher Education, Issues in Educational Research, and the Asia-Pacific Forum on Science Learning and Teaching, among others. Occasionally, he also contributes to the magazine Teaching Science and serves at the editorial board of the top-tier journal Research in Science Education.

For his scholarly work and contribution to the development of science education, he received the 2017 University of Melbourne Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences Award for Learning and Teaching Achievement and the 2019 PNU Research Citation Award. His research productivity is manifested by h-index which has secured him a place in the 2022 and 2023 editions of the Alper-Doger (AD) Scientific Index as one of the top scientists in the Philippines under the subject: Education. He was also invited as a resource person in a series of public hearings by the Philippine Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts, and Culture to talk about his research findings on the spiral science curriculum and the results of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). Dr Espinosa’s other recently accomplished research  consultancy initiatives include a UNICEF-funded project that developed the policy guide for the nationwide implementation of micro-certification in DepEd’s Alternative Learning System (DepEd-ALS); a World Bank-funded project that looked into the role of education technology in the Philippines following the COVID- 19 pandemic and as part of the recovery from learning loss; and a UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP CIDS) initiative that examined the current efforts of integrating the PPST into the pre-service teacher education provision in the Philippines in light of the growing importance of the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) in the Philippine basic education system.

Dr. Jose M. Andaya is the former Campus Director of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) CALABARZON Region Campus for 8 years. During his term, he made sure that quality PSHS education is given to all the deserving students of the region. To date, the PSHS-CALABARZON Region Campus is one of the best performing campuses among the 16 campuses of the PSHS System in terms of their buildings, facilities, performance, and the achievements of their students. Before becoming the Campus Director, he also worked as a Chemistry teacher at the PSHS Main Campus in Diliman, Quezon City, for 25 years.

He graduated from the Centro Escolar University (CEU) with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, and finished his Teacher Training Program on Chemistry Education as a Monbushogakusho Scholar at the Shizuoka University (Shizudai) of Japan. He also has an MS Chemistry, Masters in Public Management, and Doctor of Technology degrees from Centro Escolar University (CEU), Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU), and Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), respectively. As a professional, he has repeatedly served as a resource person for Chemistry-related topics for seminars and trainings for Chemistry and Science teachers. He has published several researches and books such as the “Conceptual Science and Beyond – III” Chemistry textbook and Laboratory Manual which both had won the NBDB Quality Seal Award from the National Book Development Board (NBDB).

As a Chemistry educator, his service can be said more significant because of his burning passion to have Filipino students join the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO). For a country to become a member of the IChO, a Chemistry educator representative of the country must first observe the annual actual Olympiad for two consecutive years. With the help of the PACT, the Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies(PFCS), and the PSHS System, Dr. Andaya took the initiative to observe the IChO from 2015 to 2016, and became the country coordinator of the Philippine team. In 2017, after 48 years, the Filipino students are now finally able to join the IChO and raise the Philippine flag at the Olympiad stage, bringing numerous medals home each year.