Faculty and students from the Natural Science Department of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) presented their research studies at the Association of Systematic Biologists of the Philippines (ASBP) International Symposium, held at the University of Santo Tomas from May 26 to 28, 2025. With the theme “Future Horizons: Developing Systematic Biologists to Sustain Global Biodiversity,” this international symposium underscored a shared commitment to conserving natural resources—ranging from the discovery of new species to addressing the impacts of climate change. It was a truly enriching experience for the young systematists and faculty researchers, who remain dedicated to their projects and continue to share their findings with the broader scientific community.
The symposium served as a vital platform for advancing knowledge and identifying emerging trends in biodiversity conservation. It not only addressed pressing environmental issues but also inspired and engaged the younger generation to pursue studies and careers in this field. During the conference, the esteemed faculty and students of CAS actively participated in discussions with fellow researchers and experts across various taxa, fostering academic exchange and collaboration.
In addition to the presentations, the event featured a series of skill-building workshops focused on proposal writing, policy development, environmental degradation assessment, and specimen illustration techniques aimed at producing high-quality images for scientific publications. These sessions provided practical tools to support the professional growth of participants.
Notably, this scientific gathering provided valuable opportunities for participants to explore graduate studies and build meaningful connections with experts for future collaborations and mentorship. A proud highlight of the event was the recognition of two BS Biology students, who were among the 20 recipients of the ASBP Next Gen Fellowships. This achievement reflects the strong support of the ASBP community in nurturing and empowering the next generation of systematists to pursue their aspirations and make lasting contributions to the field.
Established in 1982, ASBP aims to promote and represent the science and practice of taxonomy, systematics, and natural history in the Philippines. Initially formed by a core group of Filipino biologists and researchers based at the National Museum, its membership has grown to include professionals, students, and enthusiasts across the country and abroad. In recent years, its scope has expanded beyond basic taxonomy and systematics to encompass ethnobiology, biodiversity conservation, and public education.
