TAGUIG CITY — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. recently signed Proclamation No. 643, s. 2024, conferring Dr. Romulo G. Davide the Order of National Scientist.
Dr. Davide becomes the 44th Filipino to be honored with this prestigious award, joining an esteemed group of individuals who have significantly impacted scientific research and knowledge in the Philippines.
National Scientist Romulo G. Davide is recognized for his groundbreaking and substantial contributions to the agricultural sciences, particularly in plant pathology and nematology. His dedication is exemplified by his work on the epidemiology, host range, life cycle, taxonomy, and management of plant-parasitic nematodes.
Dr. Davide’s development of the Farmer-Scientist Training Program (FSTP) has positively impacted the lives of 70,000 Filipino farmers. Through his steadfast mentorship and commitment as a professor, his students and mentees now lead the field of plant pathology and nematology, earning him the title “Father of Philippine Nematology.”
Dr. Davide obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture – Plant Pathology from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 1957. He earned his Master’s degree in Plant Pathology from Oklahoma State University in 1962. He completed his Doctorate degree in Nematology-Plant Pathology from the North Carolina State University in 1965.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Davide was elected to the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) in 2002, 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. —A. A. Navarro via NAST PHL/MF
