SU Biology faculty named 2025 Balik Scientist Awardee, highlights Philippine Spotted Deer conservation efforts
Dr. Aye Mee F. Bartocillo, part-time faculty member of the Silliman University (SU) College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Biology Department, was recognized as one of this year’s Balik Scientist Awardees by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in a ceremony held at Hilton Manila on October 3, 2025.
The Balik Scientist Award honors outstanding Filipino scientists, technologists, and experts who return to the Philippines to share their knowledge and expertise in advancing research, innovation, and national development.
With the theme “Balik Scientists in Action: Real-world Impact, Powered by Filipino Minds,” this year’s convention showcased the significant contributions of returning scientists across the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR), Health, and Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology sectors. Bartocillo represented the AANR sector, joining two other distinguished Balik Scientists in highlighting the program’s role in scientific advancement and capacity building in the country.
Dr. Aye Mee F. Bartocillo shares her TED Talk, “When We Return Home: Igniting Hope through Conservation and Genomics,” highlighting the call to bring genomics to the provinces and advance science-based policies for wildlife conservation.
During the event, Bartocillo presented Silliman University’s Philippine Spotted Deer Genetic Diversity Project, emphasizing the impact of the BSP in strengthening research initiatives at the university. Her presentation underscored three key areas:
- Upgrading Research Facilities. The cell and molecular laboratory of the Biology Department was renovated and equipped with world-class facilities through the support of DOST-PCAARRD’s Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD) and Industry Development Division (IDD), with counterpart funding from Silliman University. The improved laboratory now serves as a hub for training and collaborative research.
- Genetic Diversity and Conservation. Through the Philippine Spotted Deer Genetic Diversity Project, Bartocillo’s team aims to understand the genetic diversity of the endangered species. “Understanding genetic diversity enables us to breed wisely, guard against inbreeding, and strengthen individuals for reintroduction into the wild,” she explained.
- Collaborative Conservation Efforts. In partnership with the Talarak Foundation, West Visayas State University, and Silliman University’s Center for Tropical Studies (CENTROP), the project translates laboratory findings into real-world conservation actions—reshaping conservation policies and exploring initiatives such as animal exchanges among breeding sites.
“This is bigger than science. It is stewardship,” said Bartocillo.
“Our heartcry is simple: to bring genomics to the provinces and promote science-based policies for wildlife conservation.”
Meanwhile, SU was also awarded a certificate as a BSP Host Institution. Dr. Nadia P. Abesamis, SU CAS Biology faculty member, accepted the award.
Dr. Nadia P. Abesamis (center) receives the certificate for the BSP Host Institution. She is joined by (L-R) Dr. Juanito T. Batalon, Deputy Executive Director for Research and Development of DOST-PCAARRD; Dr. Leah J. Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development; Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Executive Director of DOST-PCAARRD; and Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, DOST Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management, and Support Services (OED-ARMSS).
The convention also recognized the contributions of Balik Scientist Awardees and host institution representatives from DOST-PCAARRD, DOST-PCHRD, and DOST-PCIEERD for their efforts in strengthening the country’s research landscape and promoting innovation across disciplines.
Since its establishment in 1974, the Balik Scientist Program has honored only 664 awardees nationwide. Bartocillo stands out as the sole Balik Scientist Awardee from Negros Oriental in 2025, representing both Silliman University and the province in the country’s continuing pursuit of science-driven development.
