Among the invited schools in Zamboanga Peninsula, three (3) groups of BS Biology students from the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) qualify for the national search for Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis in Herbal Medicine.
The entries are 1) “Phytochemical screening and study on the antibacterial property of Kalachuchi” by Ms. Fatima Fersayda Ukkoh and Ms. Fatima Ezra Viray; 2) “Synergetic antibacterial effects of Piper betle L. (piper leaf vine) and Areca catechu (areca nut) extracts against common dermal and gastrointestinal tract pathogens” by Mr. Abdelaziz Maldisa and Mr. Cooper Nikko Chavez; and 3) “Cytotoxic and antibacterial activities of the crude secondary metabolites of two mangrove species, Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophorastylosa, from the Great Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga City” by Mr. Mark Phillip Ycaza and Ms. Monique Praico
The DOST-PCHRD Gruppo Medica Award is an annual recognition given to relevant and innovative research work on herbal medicine undertaken by undergraduate students. The award highlights research that can lead to practical and/or commercial applications. It expects to provide the motivation for students with the technical guidance of their faculty advisers, to view undergraduate thesis not merely as an academic exercise, but as an excellent opportunity to contribute to national interest.
The award is open to all undergraduate students from the Colleges of Pharmacy, Chemistry, Nursing, and Arts and Sciences who have completed theses project on medicinal plants. The projects must have been completed within the current school year.
The winning entries will be receiving 60,000, 40,000, and 20,000 pesos respectively to be announced during the Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week Celebration on August 10-12, 2016 in City State Asturias Hotel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. (Mark B. Madarang, DOST IX PRESS RELEASE)
