24 November 2014 –A 12-member delegation from the University of the Philippines (UP) headed by Dr. Rhodora V. Azanza, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director for Institutional Linkages and Professor at the Marine Science Institute and officials from the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA) and National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) put the spotlight on Philippines’ active participation and sharing of learnings in the 16th International Conference on Harmful Algae (ICHA 16) from October 28 to November 01 in Wellington, New Zealand.
The delegates presented scholarly papers on a broad spectrum of studies on harmful algal blooms (HAB) and other related subjects. Professors and post-graduate students from the University of the Philippines, together with the PNRI, DOST, DA, NFRDI, engaged actively with the host organizers and international participants and extensively networked with delegates from New Zealand and other countries.
The Philippine Embassy Team warmly welcomed the delegates with Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez hosting a dinner in their honour at “Ang Bahay” (Ambassador’s residence) on October 29. It was a wonderful and enjoyable opportunity to learn more about the work of the Filipino scientists who are making distinctive contributions and enhancing the Philippines’ excellent reputation in marine science and related fields.
“It is a privilege for us at the Philippine Embassy to receive and take care of the UP delegation and meet the other officials who made our country and people proud during ICHA 16. Their presence, presentations and participation highlighted the Philippines’ impressive track record and experiences in various aspects of marine science and their areas of specialization,” Ambassador Benavidez stated.
Dr. Azanza thanked the Philippine Embassy for the warm hospitality and the “kindness that will be long remembered and cherished.” She is closely collaborating with Ambassador Benavidez for institutional tie-ups and faculty and student linkages between UP and universities in New Zealand. END