By Gabriela Baron
National scientist and former Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Angel Alcala passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 1, the Silliman University (SU) confirmed.
Alcala, who was a pioneer of marine biodiversity and marine conservation in the Philippines, died at the age of 93.
He served as president of SU from 1991 to 1992. He was also a recipient of the Outstanding Sillimanian in Biological Sciences Award in 1988.
“SU mourns the loss of a scientist, administrator, trustee, professor, morally upright family man, and public servant,” the University said in a statement.
An acclaimed biologist and conservationist, Alcala is known for pioneering work in establishing marine protected areas in the Philippines which protects marine ecosystems and promotes sustainable fishing.
According to SU, his extensive research on Philippine amphibians led to the discovery of 50 additional species out of the 400 known species in the country.
Alcala was named a National Scientist in 2014. He also received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service in 1992 and was included in the ASEAN Biodiversity Hero in 2017.
He also served as the Commission on Higher Education chairperson from 1995 to 1999.
He graduated from SU in 1951 and completed his Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences at Stanford University in California in 1960 and 1966, respectively.
“Behind the titles and recognitions, Dr. Alcala was a man of competence, character, and faith,” SU added. –ag