The Institute of Weed Science, Entomology and Plant Pathology (IWEP) of the College of Agriculture and Food Science, UPLB celebrated its 8th year anniversary from January 30, 2025 to February 7, 2025. With the theme “Leading the Way to Pest Science and Management,” the week-long event commemorated IWEP’S eight years of groundbreaking research, innovation, and leadership in pest science and management, marking its significant contributions to crop protection and sustainable agriculture.
The festivities kicked off with a program on January 30, 2025. This day also marked the launching of the IWEP Seminar Series, a monthly event aimed at fostering knowledge exchange. The inaugural session featured two esteemed entomologists: Dr. Michael A. Catangui, who talked about “Opportunities for Entomology in Livestock and Poultry Production in the Philippines”, and Dr. Luis Rey I. Velasco, who presented “Guide Principles In Research (Ecology and Pest Management for Entomology Students).” On January 31, the celebration continued with an inhouse seminar on “Ethics in Academic Workplace.” This was delivered by Mr. Ricardo Amiel V. Reveche of the UPLB HRDO and was attended by IWEP faculty and staff.
On the third day of the anniversary celebration (February 3), a welcome party for IWEP new major students was held. This was participated by IWEP faculty, staff, and students. On the morning of February 4, booths and exhibits that showcase the institute’s research, innovations, and scientific contributions were put up along the IWEP hallway.
To add some fun to the festivities, a lively Zumba session titled “Zumbayanihan” was arranged on the afternoon of February 5. The following day, February 6, brought the seminar by Dr. Thierry Bourgouin, a research scientist from Museum National d’ Histoire Naturelle in Paris, France. He gave a talk on “Trophobiosis and Beyond: Investigating Some Enigmatic Life Traits of Planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha).” In the afternoon of the same day, the IWEP Squid Game competition, inspired by the popular Korean series “Squid Game,” ensued. More than 40 participants, including faculty, staff, and students, took part in the thrilling contest.
The 8th year anniversary celebration of the institute concluded with a recognition and awarding ceremony. The event honored outstanding personnel, which made significant and impactful contributions to the institute. Among the awardees include Mr. Patrick Emmanuel C. Masa (Outstanding Administrative Award – Blue Collar Category), Mr. Ariel L. Hirao (Outstanding Administrative Award – Technical Staff Category), Dr. Jessamyn R. Adorada (Outstanding Teacher – Senior Teacher Category), Assistant Professor Julie Aiza L. Mandap (Outstanding Teacher – Junior Teacher Category), Dr. Ireneo B. Pangga (Outstanding Researcher – Senior Researcher Category), and Dr. Susan T. Bacud (Outstanding Extension Personnel). Likewise, service awardees who have dedicated years of their lives to the institute were also recognized. (Rachele L. De Torres)
