Article by: Rodalene Langcao, UC Biology Society
Graphics by: Denisse Sison, UC Biology Society
A group of Research in Biology students from the University of the Cordilleras (UC) was recently recognized for their academic excellence, securing the Third Best Paper award in the Tertiary Category at the Biology Teachers Association of the Philippines–Cordillera Administrative Region (BIOTA-CAR) Regional Convention.
The winning research team, composed of students Dela Cruz, Villanueva, Ramos, Mamaradlo, and Sanglay, was led and advised by Dr. Alma Cheryl T. Bengao. The award was officially conferred on April 25, 2026, following the 2025 regional convention which was held virtually via Zoom.
The team was recognized for their innovative study entitled, “Exploring the Role of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) and Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray) Leaf Extracts in Attracting Insects Interacting with Lemon Trees.”
During the event, the paper was lauded not only for its contribution to biological research but also for its alignment with global sustainability initiatives. By investigating natural insect attractants, the study directly champions several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The research promotes SDG 2: Zero Hunger (Target 2.4) through its push for sustainable food production systems and resilient agricultural practices that maintain healthy ecosystems.
Furthermore, the study advocates for the environmentally sound management of agricultural resources, aligning with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4) by reducing the sector’s reliance on synthetic chemicals. By focusing on plant-based alternatives, the students’ work also supports SDG 15: Life on Land (Target 15.5) by protecting non-target insect species and helping to halt biodiversity loss within agricultural lands.
Following the conferment, the UC Biology Society extended its warmest congratulations to the student researchers and Dr. Bengao, celebrating the group’s milestone as a testament to the university’s ongoing commitment to scientific inquiry, research excellence, and sustainable innovation.
