QUEZON CITY (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Proclamation No. 643, s. 2024, conferring the title of National Scientist of the Philippines on Dr. Romulo G. Davide.
Davide becomes the 44th Filipino to be honored with this prestigious award, joining an esteemed group of individuals who have made significant contributions to scientific research and knowledge in the Philippines.
National Scientist Davide is recognized for his groundbreaking work in the agricultural sciences, particularly in plant pathology and nematology. His research on the epidemiology, host range, life cycle, taxonomy, and management of plant-parasitic nematodes has been highly effective.
Davide’s development of the Farmer-Scientist Training Program (FSTP) has positively influenced the lives of 70,000 Filipino farmers. Through his dedicated mentorship, he has trained a new generation of leaders in the field of plant pathology and nematology, earning him the title “Father of Philippine Nematology.”
Davide obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture – Plant Pathology from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 1957, his Master’s degree in Plant Pathology from Oklahoma State University in 1962, and his Doctorate in Nematology-Plant Pathology from North Carolina State University in 1965.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Davide was elected to the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) in 2002, further cementing his status as a distinguished figure within the scientific community.
The Order of National Scientist Award (Orden ng Gawad ng Pambansang Alagad ng Agham) is the highest national recognition given to a man or woman of science in the Philippines, administered by the NAST PHL, and conferred by the President of the Philippines upon recommendation of the Academy. (JVD/PIA-NCR)