Mitzi Joy Pasco, News, College of Science
Undergraduate scientists from the Ҵý’s College of Science demonstrated academic excellence on the national stage after securing the Best Undergraduate Thesis Award in mycology at the 27th Annual Scientific Meeting and Symposium of the Association of Filipino Mycologists Inc. (AFM).
The award was given to undergraduate Biology students John Rell Ramos, Trixy Mer Daquiz, and Mitzi Joy Pasco, together with their faculty mentors and co-authors Mr. Danielito L. Dollete and Dr. Lourdes V. Alvarez, for their outstanding research contribution in fungal biotechnology. The team received the prestigious Dr. Tricita H. Quimio Best Undergraduate Thesis Award during the event held on June 4, 2026, at the College of Arts and Sciences, Ҵý of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Laguna.
The winning study titled “CUTIE-SAN: A Rhizopus oryzae-Derived Chitosan Patch Enriched with Tannic Acid and Aloe vera Extracts for Combating Selected Cutaneous Bacterial Pathogens,” was recognized for its innovative approach to developing a fungal-derived biocomposite patch with antimicrobial potential against skin pathogens associated with acne and related infections. The research highlights how fungal biomaterials can be transformed into practical and accessible biomedical solutions.
The study aligns strongly with UN SDGs, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through its contribution to improved infection control and skin health, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by advancing biotechnological innovation in material development, and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the use of bio-based and potentially sustainable fungal-derived materials.
The AFM Annual Scientific Meeting, themed “Innovative Mycological Solutions for Health, Agro-Industrial Applications and Environmental Resilience,” served as a national platform gathering leading scientists, researchers, and students to advance mycological research and its applications across health, agriculture, industry, and environmental sustainability.
The achievement further strengthens the Ҵý's growing presence in scientific research and innovation, underscoring the university’s commitment to producing impactful, solution-driven studies. It also reflects the dedication of Iskolar ng Bayan to advancing science and technology in service of national development and public welfare.
Edited by: Brent Soriano, Communication Management Office
Please click/tap the appropriate link to help you in your navigation of our services
Applicant Student Faculty Member or Employee Researcher or Extensionist Alumni Campus Life Sustainable Development Goals Back to Ҵýpage