Sen. Kiko Pangilinan praised six Filipino scientists named by the Asian Scientist Magazine as among the 2026 Asian Scientist 100 honorees for bringing “immense pride and prestige” to the country.
The senator filed Senate Resolution 462 to honor Marcela Navasero, Romulo Davide, Mary Donnabelle Balela, Garry Benico, Aurelio de los Reyes V, and May Anne Mata.
They were cited in The Asian Scientist Magazine’s eighth edition of the Asian Scientist 100. It is an annual list that honors the most outstanding researchers and scientists in the Asia Pacific region.
“Their dedication to scientific excellence and innovation will inspire future generations of Filipinos to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” Pangilinan said.
Navasero led research on natural pest control and agricultural biosecurity; Davide is hailed as the “Father of Philippine Nematology” for his work in plant pathology and nematology; Balela developed modular kapok booms for marine oil spills; and Benico led studies on taxonomy and diversity of harmful microalgae.
De Los Reyes is being cited for his work on infectious disease modeling and translating biological processes into dynamical systems and equations, while Mata researched infectious disease modeling and analysis, applied mathematics, mathematical biology, and operations research.
The Asian Scientist 100 recognized top researchers and scientific leaders in the Asia-Pacific region who have advanced scientific knowledge and innovation to protect people and the environment, have received a national or international award from a recognized body, and have made significant scientific discoveries.
“This recognition proves that Filipino ingenuity and talent can compete with the best in the region and the world,” Pangilinan said.
“It is also a reminder of the need for us to support research and development and strengthen our scientific and academic institutions to create opportunities for Filipinos to contribute to nation-building through science,” he said.