CHSI Faculty Wins 2025 BCYF Innovation Award
Dr. Dana G. Vera Cruz, a faculty researcher from the College of Home Science and Industry (CHSI), was honored with the 2025 Benita & Catalino Yap Foundation (BCYF) Innovation Award on March 28, 2025, for her groundbreaking work in developing Daerry’s Tilapia Ice Cream and cookies. The Daerry's Tilapia Ice Cream and Cookies is a unique dessert combining steamed and roasted tilapia flakes with the creamy richness of carabao’s milk, offering a high-protein but free from the fishy aftertaste. This targets to address the declining fish consumption among children and provides a creative solution to malnutrition and undernourishment. Dr. Vera Cruz expressed her appreciation for this recognition, noting that the award signifies her commitment to making a positive impact within the food industry and advancing toward a sustainable and healthier future. “Winning the BCYF Innovation Award reinforces our mission to continue to transform research into meaningful impact. It’s a reminder that innovation thrives where passion meets purpose,” said Dr. Vera Cruz. The Award is part of BCYF’s Comprehensive Social Development Program, which consists of Research, Education, Events, and Developmental Social Enterprise. It highlights the dedication to leveraging science and creativity to foster and improve nutrition to support sustainable practices and local farmers. #SievingForExcellence