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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, 3120 Nueva Ecija, Philippines

CLSU Prof Discovers New Species of Microalgae in Coastal Waters of Luzon

Feb. 19, 2025

StratCom | SCO

Dr. Garry A. Benico, a distinguished professor at Central Luzon State University (CLSU) and one of the leading phycologists in the country, has made a significant contribution to marine biodiversity by discovering new species of marine microalgae, particularly dinoflagellates, in the coastal waters of Obando, Bulacan, in Central Luzon. Along with his research assistant, Ms. Samantha Esteban, and Japanese scientists, he identified a newly discovered species, Scripsiella luzonenis Benico, Esteban, Kuwata, et Iwataki. This is the first Scripsiella species described in the Philippines, named after Luzon, the island where it was discovered. The species was isolated in a fish farming area prone to recurring fish kills. While it has not been directly linked to fish mortalities, biological toxicity assays are currently being conducted at the CLSU Algal Diversity and Bioresources Laboratory to assess its ecological impact. Dr. Benico’s expertise in microalgal taxonomy has led to significant contributions in the field. With this latest discovery, he has now described five species, including three microalgae species found in Philippine waters. His work underscores the country’s rich marine biodiversity and underscores the importance of continued research in microalgal taxonomy. Considered a “rare species” of scientist for his dedication to taxonomy, Dr. Benico combines traditional classification methods with modern microscopy and molecular techniques. “My approach ensures accurate identification and classification of microalgae, which is crucial for understanding their ecological roles and potential impacts, including harmful algal blooms that affect marine life and coastal economies,” he added. The discovery further cements CLSU’s reputation as a hub for scientific research and strengthens the University’s commitment to advancing knowledge in agriculture, biological research, and allied fields. As marine ecosystems face increasing threats from climate change and human activities, this research provides valuable insights into the diversity and ecological significance of microalgae in Philippine waters.

Related SDGs
  • 4

    Goal 4: Quality Education

  • 12

    Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

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    Goal 13: Climate Action

  • 16

    Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

  • 17

    Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals

Other Stories

NAP, CLSU Hold Seminar Workshop on Basic Records and Archive Mgmt

The National Archives of the Philippines (NAP), in partnership with Central Luzon State University (CLSU), initiated a two-day seminar workshop on the importance of Basic Records and Archive Management (BARM) in government offices across the province. It was held on April 23-24, 2025 at the OVPAA Amphitheater in CLSU. The seminar on BARM informed the different agencies' record keepers on the overview of the Records and Archives Management Program (RAMP), including records maintenance, security, and preservation of records, among others. Senior Records Management Analyst, Ms. Ehxia R. Dondonilla, Senior Archivist, Ms. Cheryl B. Alvares, Training Specialist, Mr. Gerald F. Requesto, and Chief, Training and Information Division, Ms. Gina M. Papa from NAP served as the resource persons who shared their knowledge and experiences, as well as the techniques in Basic Records and Archive Management. Vice President for Administration Dr. Ariel G. Mactal conveyed his sincere appreciation to the NAP for their presence and unwavering dedication to enhancing records management across all government agencies within our province. He emphasized that the seminar workshop transcends more than the technical skills and management systems as it concerns the preservation of collective history. “Each document must be safeguarded, every record properly filed, and each archive preserved contributes to the broader narrative of our province, our institution, and our nation. These are not merely papers; they embody the story of our identity,” said Dr. Mactal. The event was attended by representatives from state universities and colleges (SUCs), including CLSU and NEUST; attached agencies from the Department of Agriculture such as the Philippine Rice Research Institute, Philippine Carabao Center, and Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization; Local government units (LGUs) from Talavera, General Natividad, Bongabon, Carranglan, Aliaga, Cuyapo, Science City of Muñoz, General Tinio, Palayan; other institutions such as Civil Service Commission Field Office in Nueva Ecija, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center in Cabanatuan, Talavera General Hospital, and Palayan City Hospital.

Apr. 29, 2025

CLSU, TAO Foods Company Sign Agreement to Commercialize PhilSCAT-bred Rice Varieties

University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, together with Mr. Julio D. Sy, Jr., Owner of the TAO Foods Company Inc. (TFCI), signed a new licensing agreement to commercialize four new hybrid rice varieties bred by experts from the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT). The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place during the North Luzon Innovation and Technology Transfer Summit 2025, held on April 23-24 in Baguio City. This event, hosted by the Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera Autonomous Region, attracted innovators, technology adopters, and higher education institutions from the region, as well as from Regions 1, 2, and 3. The agreement provided the TFCI the right to commercialize the Hybrid Rice Mestizo 125, 126, 127, and 128 for a period of 6 years. In return, CLSU as the owner of these varieties, will receive royalty fees from this agreement that will later on benefit the ongoing and future research activities of the university. Director Dr. Julius Cesar Sicat from DOST R3 expressed his support to this initiative by gracing the event, along with CLSU faculty member Dr. Jerwin Undan, who served as a witness during the MOA signing.

Apr. 23, 2025

CLSU Climbs to 16th Spot Nationally in AD Scientific Index 2025; Highlights Strong Researcher Presence

Central Luzon State University (CLSU) is making significant strides towards its goal of being recognized as a world-class National Research University. According to the latest Alper-Doger Scientific Index (AD Index), CLSU has risen to 16th place among 388 institutions in the Philippines, up from its previous position of 19th. This ranking assessed the scientific performance and productivity of universities and R&D institutions as well as its researchers, and it includes a notable representation of 221 CLSU scholars. Dr. Elmar M. Villota leads the group with the highest H-index, followed by Dr. Hazel Monica M. Peralta, Dr. Wendy C. Mateo, Dr. Rich Milton R. Dulay, and Dr. Sofronio P. Kalaw. With its dedication to research excellence, CLSU maintains its strong standing among public universities in the Philippines, ranking 7th in H-index value and 10th in citation count.

Apr. 16, 2025

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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines 3120
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