BUCS faculty join in 37th PCC in Bacolod; Chemistry head presents cacao study
by Syndel Lugena & Samuel Bobiles
Bicol University Chemistry Department Head Dr. Samuel C. Bobiles successfully presented his research paper on “Comparison of Fermentation and Drying Parameters between an Optimized Small Scale and Traditional Cacao Bean Fermentation,” at the 37th Philippine Chemistry Congress (PCC) at SMX Convention Center, Bacolod City from July 26 to 28, 2023.
Dr. Bobiles’ study promotes agriculture and food security. The small-scale fermentation set-up he used in this study recently received Registration of Utility Model from the Bureau of Patents.
In an interview, Dr. Bobiles said that his research would benefit specifically the small-scale cacao farmers thus he expressed his utmost gratitude for the opportunity given to him to share his work in the recently concluded 37th Philippine Chemistry Congress sponsored by the Integrated Chemists of the Philippines National and Bacolod Chapter with the theme, “Chemistry for Agriculture 4.0 and Food Security.”
Other faculty members of the Chemistry department, who participated in the event were Prof. Ma Corazon Barrameda, Prof. Ivane Malaluan, Prof. Maria Crispina Baltazar, Prof. Syndel Lugena, Prof. Kimbhierly Ludovice, Prof. Johnor Bobiles and retired professor Dr. Lucy Estioko, including alumni of BU College of Science. Alumnus Christopher Millena from the Department of Science Technology Regional Office V also presented his research paper.
The PCC is the biggest annual conference of chemists, chemistry teachers, and chemistry researchers in the Philippines. The 37th PCC also focused on the importance of chemistry in raising agricultural production to achieve food security, among Filipinos.