In recognition of his outstanding contribution to wildlife ecology and environmental science particularly on systematic biology, ecology, and conservation of Philippine biodiversity. His research and publications on diverse disciplines including species descriptions, taxonomic revisions, evolutionary biology, biogeography, invasion biology, species status assessments, and natural history, have helped shape national efforts to manage and conserve biodiversity. He has championed herpetological research in the Philippines, making significant contributions that have enriched our knowledge on this field of science. His collaborative research activities have helped bring the Philippines at the forefront of global biodiversity research and conservation.
Birthdate: 4 June 1969
Educational Background:
- Ph.D Biology - National University of Singapore 2009
- M.S. Wildlife Studies major in Wildlife Ecology and Environmental Science - University of the Philippines Los Baños 1998
- B.S. Biology major in Animal Ecology - University of the Philippines Los Baños 1992
Research Interest:
- Ecology
- Biogeography
- Systematics of amphibians and reptiles in Southeast Asia particularly the Philippines
- Biodiversity conservation
- Studies on habitat fragmentation and its impacts on diversity and ecology of herpetofaunal communities in tropical rainforests.
Honors and Awards Received:
- 2021 - Academician - National Academy of Science and Technology
- 2015 - Achievement Award in Biological Sciences - National Research Council of the Philippines-DOST
- 2013 - Fullbright Scholar Grant in the U.S - J. William Fullbright Foreign Scholarship Board
- 2012 - Discoverers of Amazing Wildlife Award - Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau-DENR
- 2011 - Congressional Medal of Excellence in Research and Development - AGHAM Party List
- 2011 - Outstanding Editorial Board - Asian Journal of Biodiversity
- 2008 - Outstanding Young Scientist - National Academy of Science and Technology
- 2000 - Special Award for Research - De La Salle University-Dasmariñas
- 2000 - Luisito S. Cuy Award for Best Masters Thesis in Wildlife Biology - National Academy of Science and Technology
