Olmix PHL collaborates with UP Visayas to reward academic excellence and seaweed research

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In a significant development for academic recognition, Olmix Philippines has partnered with the University of the Philippines Visayas’ College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences (UPV-CFOS) to honor students who have shown remarkable academic prowess and research innovation.

Olmix Philippines, a leader in algae-based bio-solutions and natural additives for agriculture and aquaculture, has demonstrated its commitment to fostering excellence and research among the youth.

During a ceremony held on February 19, 2024, at the New Admin Conference Room on the Miagao campus of UP Visayas, Dr. Jose Nicandro C. Atienza, Olmix Group ASEAN manager, and UPV Chancellor Clement C. Camposano, formalized this partnership by signing two Memorandums of Agreement (MoAs).

The first agreement centers on the UPV-CFOS Class Valedictorian for the Academic Year 2023-2024, with Olmix Philippines offering a medal and a cash grant of P20,000 to the top-performing student. This initiative underlines the value placed on scholastic achievement and the support extended to individuals who strive for academic distinction.

A second collaboration focuses on the Best Seaweed Thesis award, aimed at motivating students to pursue innovative research in the field of seaweed, encompassing basic science, algae application, and cultivation techniques. Open to undergraduate thesis students for the Academic Years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, the award comprises a medal and a generous cash grant of P40,000.

Expressing gratitude for the joint venture, Dr. Atienza from Olmix recognized the impact of such collaborations, “We are not only assisting the student but also supporting the family they belong to. We look forward to deepening this partnership. Thank you so much.”

The implementation of these awards is attributed to the diligent efforts of the UPV-CFOS Seaweed Research and Innovation Group, headed by Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Prof. Encarnacion Emilia S. Yap and Asst. Prof. Iris Ann G. Borlongan.

The MoA signing was witnessed by CFOS Dean Prof. Harold M. Monteclaro, Asst. Prof. Borlongan, Prof. Yap, and Ma. Catherine Joyce S. Eusebio, Territory Manager of Olmix Philippines, Inc. The event was also attended by key members of the UPV-CFOS Seaweed Research and Innovation Group, including Assoc. Prof. Victor Marco Emmanuel N. Ferriols, Asst. Prof. Jonalyn P. Mateo, and Asst. Prof. Leonilo F. Endoma, Jr.

This partnership stands as a testament to the synergy between the private sector and academic institutions in nurturing talent and advancing critical research domains. It promises to pave the way for a new generation of scholars and researchers equipped to contribute significantly to the nation’s development in the fields of fisheries and ocean sciences. (Ms. Lenilyn B. Gallos, CFOS)