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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 Shows Strong Commitment to Quality Education, Subjects 7 Programs to AACCUP Accreditation

The Central Luzon State University subjected seven of its key academic programs to a rigorous evaluation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) from December 1 to 3, 2025 demonstrating its unwavering commitment to excellence. The seven programs evaluated were Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, Bachelor of Elementary Education, Bachelor of Secondary Education, Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education, Bachelor of Physical Education, Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, and Bachelor of Science in Food Technology. These programs garnered high praise from the accreditors for their strong commitment to quality and excellence, an active and impressive research culture, exceptional performance in licensure examinations, robust international linkages, and meaningful community engagement. During the closing ceremony, Dr. Ravelina R. Velasco, Vice President for Academic Affairs delivered the Pledge of Commitment, underscoring the University's future direction. “We commit to continuously cultivate an environment that promotes ethical and impactful research for academic advancement and development. We vow to respond to the needs of our communities, ensuring a positive societal impact,” VP Velasco said. She further emphasized the administration's support for infrastructural development and student welfare, stating “For our facilities, laboratories, and learning environment, our administration will provide support funds for conducive learning and workspaces and deliver student-centered services for all CLSUans.” CLSU looks forward to the official AACCUP results, confident that this positive evaluation reaffirms its dedication to enduring quality. #SievingForExcellence

Dec. 03, 2025

GASS Program Leads Zumba for a Cause

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the General Administrative Support and Services Program (GASS), is currently conducting a Zumba for a Cause event. This charitable activity has successfully garnered the participation of more than 100 individuals. All proceeds collected from the event will be directly contributed to the Project HANDOG (Hakbang ng Akademya para sa Nasalanta, Dala ay Oportunidad at Ginhawa) - an initiative to provide assistance and relief to victims of the recent typhoon.

Dec. 03, 2025

CLSU Claims 2nd Spot Among Top-Performing Schools in the 2025 Agriculturist Licensure Exam

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the College of Agriculture, has once again proven its status as a Center of Excellence in the recently conducted Agriculturist Licensure Exam administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) in November 2025. The University was recognized as the second-highest-performing school in the 2025 Agriculturist Licensure Examination, with 208 “Golden Grains” successfully passing, earning CLSU an overall performance rating of 91.63%, up from its previous rating of 82.57%. Congratulations to our new Licensed Agriculturists! List of all passers to follow. #SievingForExcellence

Dec. 02, 2025

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