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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, 3120 Nueva Ecija, Philippines

NAST Names Dr. Garry A. Benico as 2025 Outstanding Young Scientist for Pioneering Aquatic Bioscience Research

Jun. 16, 2025

StratCom | SCO

Dr. Garry A. Benico, a Professor at the Department of Biological Sciences, has been named one of the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Outstanding Young Scientist (OYS) Award by the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL). Awarded in the field of Aquatic Bioscience, Dr. Benico is widely recognized for his expertise in the taxonomy and systematics of microalgae, particularly harmful marine dinoflagellates that pose significant risks to food safety, aquaculture, and coastal ecosystems. Dr. Benico holds the distinction of being the first Filipino scientist to formally describe new species of dinoflagellates from Philippine waters, with three marine microalgae now officially recognized: Karlodinium azanzae, Heterocapsa philippinensis, and Scrippsiella luzonensis (italicized). These discoveries highlight the Philippines’ rich yet underexplored microalgal biodiversity. Notably, several of these species are toxic or fish-killing, and Dr. Benico’s research plays a critical role in enhancing the monitoring, prediction, and management of harmful algal blooms (HABs) that threaten both public health and the fisheries industry. As the founding head of the CLSU–Algal Diversity and Bioresources Laboratory (ADB Lab), Dr. Benico has built a thriving hub for algal research and capacity building in Central and Northern Luzon, mentoring future phycologists and supporting collaborative research at the national and international level.

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CLSU, NAPESS-PH Formally Sign MOA to Advance Physical Education & Sport Science

With an aim to further promote physical education, the Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through its College of Education – Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Leisure Studies (CED-ISPELS), and the National Association for Physical Education and Sports Science of the Philippines Inc. (NAPESS-PH) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on August 6, 2025. The MOA signing was led by CLSU President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, alongside CED Dean Dr. Florante Ibarra, and ISPELS head Dr. Jennifer De Jesus. Joining them virtually were NAPESS-PH President Teejay D. Panganiban, Vice President John Ian V. Cumal, and Board Chairman Dr. Joseph T. Lobo. The said partnership will focus on capacity building and professional development for faculty, staff, and students, and will also involve the joint development of training programs, workshops, and educational resources to enhance the competencies of physical education teachers and advance knowledge in the field.

Aug. 07, 2025

RAATI 2025 Recognizes CLSU ROTC Unit as Region's 1st Runner-Up

After a rigorous inspection last May, the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Unit was officially named the 1st Runner-Up in the Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI) for the Academic Year 2024-2025 during the awarding ceremony held on July 28, 2025, at Camp General Servillano A. Aquino, Tarlac City. Representing the unit were National Service Training Program (NSTP) Director Prof. Armando S. Santos and CLSU ROTC Unit Commandant Maj. Melanie G. Antonio, (AGS) PA (RES), accepted the award on behalf of the university. They received a plaque of recognition and a streamer, celebrating the unit's impressive performance. The CLSU ROTC Unit achieved an outstanding overall average of 99.03%, earning perfect scores in multiple categories of the inspection. This achievement highlights the dedication, discipline, and professionalism of the cadets, training staff, and university leadership. Additionally, one of the unit's outstanding cadets, Mr. Joseph Daryll N. Dela Cruz, was recognized with the Academic Proficiency Award. Among the 236 cadets who participated in the ROTC Summer Camp Training and Advanced ROTC Academic Phase Training, Dela Cruz stood out with a general average of 89.095. The award not only celebrated the unit's hard work but also solidified its standing as one of the top ROTC units in the region.

Aug. 06, 2025

CLSU Maestro Singers Clinches Gold at Taipei Choral Competition

The CLSU Maestro Singers once again showcased their exceptional vocal talents on an international stage, earning the gold award in both the Youth Choir Category and the Contemporary Music Category during the Taipei International Choral Competition, which took place from July 28 to August 4, 2025, in Taipei, Taiwan. The group is composed of 24 students, 3 alumni, and 7 faculty and staff who performed under the direction of Dr. Florante Ibarra, Dean of the College of Education and head of the Cultural Affairs Office. For the Youth Choir performance, the group delivered their unique rendition of "Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord" by Alejandro Consolacion II, "Hard By A Crystal Fountain" by Thomas Morley, and "Symbolum Nicaenum" by Darren Vega. In the Contemporary Music category, they showcased their talent with performances of "Crux Fidelis" by Alejandro Consolacion II, "Jubilate!" by Chris O’Hara, and "Luppiter" by Michael Ostrzyga. Congratulations, CLSU Maestro Singers!

Aug. 04, 2025

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