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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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The Research, Innovation, and Development Festival (RIDe Fest) is an annual event that highlights the university's discoveries, knowledge, and impact in the community. This year’s festival began with the official Opening Program and the ceremonial inauguration of the Innovation and Extension Exhibit, setting a celebratory tone. This was followed by the rigorous 37th Annual In-House Review of Completed and Ongoing R&D Projects and the Research Poster Showcase. To conclude the first day of the festival, a Knowledge-Sharing Session on "Communicating Science Effectively through Social Media” with Content Creator and UPLB Asst. Prof. Ethan Hernandez was held, and attended by over 200 students, faculty members, and science communicators from nearby agencies. Day two fused community spirit with academic pursuits. The early morning Community Parade was followed by events that highlighted the talents, humor, and research-oriented mindset of the CLSU community, including the competitive RIDe Fest Quest and an enthusiastic Cook-off. Furthermore, research and innovation were amplified through the Student Researchers' Day, the continuation of the In-House Review, and an insightful Plenary Session: International Spotlight, featuring crucial updates on the Banana and Cacao Disease Management Project. The excitement continues with the highly anticipated Innovation Pitch Off and the Sustainability Summit, alongside the final day of the exhibit.

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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines 3120
  • Central Luzon State University, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
  • op@clsu.edu.ph
  • (044) 940 8785

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