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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

  • 6

    Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

  • 9

    Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

  • 12

    Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

  • 13

    Goal 13: Climate Action

  • 16

    Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

  • 17

    Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals

Other Stories

CLSU Mushroom Center Spawns 35 Years of Excellence

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the Center for Tropical Mushroom Research and Development (CTMRD), kicked off the 4-day celebration of its 35th Founding Anniversary with the theme “Honoring 35 Years of Pioneering Excellence: Cultivating Legacy, Advancing Innovations, and Sustaining Service for Generations” on July 20, 2026, at the RIE Amphitheater. Prominent individuals in the mushroom industry delivered an inspirational message, including Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Director and Board of Regents member, Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, CTMRD founder and Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) President, Dr. Renato G. Reyes, and Science City of Muñoz City Agriculturist Mr. Lionel Parugrug, representing Hon. Baby Armi L. Alvarez. They reminded the audience of this milestone's significance and honored the achievements of those who have contributed to the growth of both the mushroom initiative and the CTMRD. Meanwhile, Mr. Carl Vincent D. Gapasin, a CLSU alumnus and the current Program Head Coordinator of the Department of Agriculture's National Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture Program, highlighted the center's critical role in agricultural development. “This is precisely why institutions like CTMRD are indispensable; you serve as a bridge between scientific discovery and practical application," Gapasin stated. "Every technology developed creates new opportunities for agencies like the Bureau of Plant Industry and the Department of Agriculture to bring these innovations closer to our communities,” he added. Furthermore, one of the highlights of the event was the launching of Mush. PH: Mushroom Philippines Innovation Network and the oath-taking of its elected officials, and the book launching of CTMRD’s Mykollet: A compendium of Tropical Mushrooms of the Philippines. Among those in attendance were representatives from ASCOT, Bulacan State University, Visayas State University, Iligan Institute of Technology, Golden State College, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Pangasinan State University, Adamson University, De La Salle University, Far Eastern University, and the Muñoz Local Government Unit.

Jul. 21, 2026

CLSU, LGU Muñoz Advance Proposed S&T Park Development Through Strategic Engagements with PEZA and PPP Center

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the Office of the Vice President for Business Affairs (OVPBA), continues to strengthen the development of the proposed CLSU Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) Park through strategic engagements with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines. On July 7, CLSU met with officials from the PPP Center including Assistant Secretary and PPP Center Deputy Executive Director, Mr. Eleazar E. Ricote and the Local Capacity Building Division Assistant Chief, Mr. Ysrael Camacho to explore Public-Private Partnership opportunities that could support the University's infrastructure and innovation priorities. The discussions highlighted the PPP Center's technical and advisory services, as well as potential partnership models that can help accelerate the realization of the KIST Park and other strategic development initiatives. Building on this initiative, Dr. Karenina B. Romualdo, Vice President for Business Affairs and Chair of the Special Economic Zone Act (SEZA), CLSU KIST Park and PPP Committee, joined the delegation from the Science City of Muñoz led by the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO), headed by Engr. Jose A. Ruiz, Jr., in a high-level consultation with PEZA on July 16, to discuss the proposed registration of specialized economic zones in the city. The PEZA officials were led by Ecozone Development Department Manager, Mr. Ludwig O. Daza and Project Development Officer, Ms. Kyle Paula N. Espinoza, who discussed the establishment of PEZA-registered economic zones that will boost investments and strengthen the city's competitiveness. During the consultation, the Science City of Muñoz presented its investment profile and proposed economic zones for the agro-industrial, commercial, and information technology sectors. CLSU, meanwhile, presented its vision for innovation- and research-driven economic zones that will promote technology commercialization, industry collaboration, and investments in pharmaceutical manufacturing and research. Both meetings marked the culmination of a series of consultations and technical discussions between CLSU and the Science City of Muñoz to align development strategies, identify priority investment areas, and refine the proposed ecozone for PEZA registration. These engagements demonstrate CLSU's commitment to transforming research and innovation into drivers of economic growth through strategic partnerships, sustainable investments, and industry collaboration. The University remains dedicated to working closely with government agencies and local stakeholders in advancing the KIST Park as a catalyst for science, technology, innovation, and inclusive regional development in Central Luzon. #SievingForExcellence

Jul. 20, 2026

CLSU Spearheads Tree-Planting Activity of CLAARRDEC to Kick-off its Golden Anniversary

Early this morning, July 3, the Central Luzon State University (CLSU), serving as the base agency of the Central Luzon Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (CLAARRDEC), spearheaded a tree-planting activity to officially kick off the Consortium’s pre-celebration of its 50th Founding Anniversary. Held in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, the activity was graced by Hon. Ricardo Manucdoc, Vice Mayor of Carranglan, who joined and led the volunteers in planting more than a thousand robusta coffee seedlings. In his message, Vice Mayor Manucdoc shared that the municipality has been conducting similar initiatives since 2022 as part of its efforts to rehabilitate mountain areas devastated by forest fires. “Nagpapasalamat kami dahil ang CLSU ay laging tumutugon sa ating mga pangangailangan at adbokasiya,” said Vice Mayor Manucdoc. “Kami po ay aasahan ninyong maging kapartner sa mga ganitong adhikain,” he added, reaffirming the municipality’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable partnerships. Around 50 participants from CLSU and CLAARRDEC took part in the activity, led by Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, University President and Chair of the CLAARRDEC Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council, together with Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension and Consortium Director; Mr. Neal A. Del Rosario, Director of the Small Ruminant Center and Consortium Deputy Director; and Assoc. Prof. Maria Adrielle S. Estigoy, Presidential Assistant for Strategic Communication and Regional Science Communication Cluster Coordinator. In his message, President Abella expressed his gratitude to the LGU of Carranglan for warmly welcoming CLSU and CLAARRDEC, emphasizing that the activity gave greater significance to the Consortium’s golden anniversary celebration. “Natutuwa po kami sa patuloy ninyong pagbahagi sa aming gawain. We continue to be partners for development,” he stressed. Anchored on the theme, “CLAARRDEC at 50: Connecting Science, Society, and Sustainability,” the tree-planting initiative symbolizes the Consortium’s enduring commitment to advancing sustainable development in agriculture, fisheries, environment, and natural resources. The planting of more than five hundred robusta coffee seedlings reflects CLAARRDEC’s continuing efforts to promote environmental conservation while strengthening partnerships with local communities. The activity was further supported by various civic organizations and vloggers/influencers and was made possible through the assistance of the CLSU Center for Climate Change and Environmental Management. In solidarity with the celebration, other CLAARRDEC member institutions will likewise conduct a tree-planting activity in their respective areas, demonstrating the Consortium’s shared commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation as it marks five decades of service to the region.

Jul. 03, 2026

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