National Scientist Dr. Angel Alcala was featured recently in the book, 100 Filipinos: A Collection of Biographies of Remarkable Men and Women of the Philippines by Noel de Guzman.
Alcala, who served as the ninth president of Silliman University from 1991 to 1992 before serving as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources from 1992 to 1995 under President Fidel Ramos, is recognized in the book for his contributions to biology and conservation.
He is a native of Cauayan, Negros Occidental.
Alcala is known for his pioneering work in establishing marine-protected areas in the Philippines, which safeguard marine ecosystems and promotes sustainable fishing.
In 2017, he was named as one of the ten ASEAN Biodiversity Heroes by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity.
The book also recognizes that Alcala authored more than 160 journal publications and books, and served as the chairman of the Commission on Higher Education from 1995 to 1999.
Alcala is currently leading the Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management as a professor emeritus of Silliman University.
Published in 2020, the book features Filipinos who “have lived through challenges, excelled in their respective fields, conquered their competition, inspired a nation, and even gave their lives for the country.”
“I aim to highlight notable Filipinos and their contributions to the country,” said author De Guzman.
Meanwhile, Silliman President Dr. Betty McCann , in her Yuletide message, said that we should “spread more hope, peace, joy, and love this Season.”
After all, according to McCann, the Christmas story is one of simplicity. “Our Lord and Savior was born in a manger with only his mother and father. His guests were a shepherd, a few animals, and the three magi. It is a heart-warming reminder of the true reason of the season,” she continued.
On the other hand, Ricardo Balbido Jr., chair of the Silliman Board of Trustees, expressed that “the year that passed was a year of serious reflection and discernment on one’s faith in God.” He said that the threats and challenges, especially those that disrupted financial resources, could have led those weak in faith to depression and surrender. “Fear, instilled by this pandemic, is the test to one’s faith in God,” said Balbido.
In like manner, recalled Balbido, the University initially experienced the same feeling of weariness and wariness over the institution’s survival. “But, we firmly believe, that Silliman University, as one of the foundations of God through its mission, shall always stand strong. The resources, both human and assets, were already available and only needed calibration to shift to online teaching using online delivery media. This prompt response to the urgent need for a non-face-to-face learning delivery reassured the long-term survival of the institution.”
The knowledge and wisdom of our faculty and staff and the administration to get the institution promptly responsive to the new learning modality are abundant blessings from the Most High, he said in a hopeful tone,
Both Dr. McCann and Chair Balbido jointly wished that “we stand tall and proud of the strong Christian foundation of Silliman University. We look with high hopes for a better year, with people’s voices of care spreading strong, and with community sharing as a natural way of life. – NWI
