Amnesia-causing diatoms found in Luzon shellfish farms

Wazzup Pilipinas!?


Philippine scientists have just confirmed the presence of two toxin-producing diatom species in Luzon shellfish farms. P. pungens and P. brasiliana produce the neurotoxin domoic acid, which can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and even the permanent loss of short-term memory in a condition known as "amnesiac shellfish poisoning".

The densely-populated island of Luzon is home to over half of the Philippines’ population, many of whom consume shellfish on a regular basis. An international team of scientists has just confirmed the presence there of two species of Pseudo-nitzschia diatoms capable of producing a dangerous neurotoxin that can cause severe sickness and memory loss.


Light microscope and transmission electron microscope photographs of Pseudo-nitzschia pungens var. Pungens (top two photos) and Pseudo-nitzschia brasiliana (bottom two photos) found in Luzon shellfish farms. Both species produce domoic acid, a dangerous neurotoxin. CREDIT: Botavara et al.


Poetically described as “algae that live in glass houses,” diatoms are microscopic aquatic organisms that cover themselves in protective milk-colored silica shells. While most diatom species are harmless, half of the 58 known species from the genus Pseudo-nitzschia are notorious for producing domoic acid (DA). A person who has eaten DA-infected shellfish may experience vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. In some cases, DA has even caused the permanent loss of short-term memory in a condition known as “amnesiac shellfish poisoning” (ASP).


Despite this danger, little is known about the extent of Pseudo-nitzschia proliferation in the Philippines. This prompted scientists from the Ateneo de Manila University Department of Biology and from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak to study the physical and genetic characteristics of the diatoms in water samples from shellfish farms in Bacoor Bay and Pagbilao Bay in Luzon.


“It is important to be aware of the toxic potential of these diatoms and to monitor them accordingly, but such efforts must begin by establishing their presence in our waters. To our knowledge, the molecular taxonomy of Pseudo-nitzschia in the Philippines is virtually nonexistent,” said researchers Lorenzo A. Botavara, Janice A. Ragaza, Hong Chang Lim, and Sing Tung Teng.


They confirmed the presence of the DA-producing diatoms Pseudo-nitzschia pungens and Pseudo-nitzschia brasiliana in the samples. They also noted that this is the first time that P. brasiliana has ever been found in Luzon.


At times of excessive growth called harmful algal blooms (HABs) or “red tide,” DA can accumulate in large amounts in filter-feeding shellfish such as mussels and clams. Thus, “Confirming species identities of a genus with half of its constituents known to produce DA is essential to HAB monitoring (in the Philippines),” the scientists underscored.

DOST-SEI empowers women in STEM, hosts data analytics workshop for girls

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Inclusivity in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) has once again been championed in the local science community as the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) organizes the Data Analytics for the Future (DAF-X) workshop for girls.


Female students from regular and science and technology-oriented junior high schools around Metro Manila and nearby provinces gathered to participate in the said workshop, held in September 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, as part of the second National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF).

Conducted in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños - Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Physics (UPLB-IMSP), the workshop aimed to introduce the basics of data analytics to young students. It specifically offered lectures on beginner-level dataset preparation using R, dashboarding, basic quantitative tools, and data mining using open-source data applications.

During the workshop, participants learned about the essentials of data analytics through a series of lectures facilitated by esteemed professors of UPLB-IMSP, led by Dr. Destiny S. Lutero. The activities of the workshop focused on data analytics and visualization using Google Looker Studio, where students were taught particularly on how to add data, add charts, and use controls to make dashboard pages interactive to users.

After the workshop proper, the students then proudly presented their dashboards – using DOST-SEI's Women in STEM study data and gave their analysis of the meaning and relationship of the variables presented.

[Left to right] Dr. Destiny S. Lutero, Assistant Professor 5 of UPLB-IMSP leads the series of lectures and discussion about the basics of data analytics. Mr. Kemuel Quindala III and Mr. Jcob Malaguit, Assistant Professors of UPLB-MSP and facilitators of DOST-SEI's nuLab:STEM in Motion, guide participants in completing their workshop outputs.

Facilitators and mathematicians from UPLB-MSP are all smiles as they prepare for the data analytics workshop.

Some of the facilitators also offered a career talk to the participants, sharing some of their memorable experiences in studying, working with data, and pursuing their dream career in STEM. They also encouraged the students to apply for the DOST scholarships both in their undergraduate and graduate education.

Prior to the workshop proper, Ms. Bern Irish Arguelles, Science Research Specialist II of DOST-SEI and a former DOST scholar, inspired the young girls as she provided an overview of DOST-SEI's publication “Women in Science” and shared about women’s involvement in the S&T workforce of the country. The said publication paved the way for the Tagisang Robotics Competition: Girls & Gears, the first and only all-female robotics competition in the country, which also began its second run last October 7, 2024.

 



Former DOST scholar, Ms. Bern Arguelles, shares the “Women in Science” study and inspires the girls to pursue career in STEM.

Senator Francis Tolentino also graced the workshop and congratulated the “future female engineers” of the country. In his message, he encouraged the participants not to be afraid to pursue the field of STEM and said that he looks forward to the great impact they will have on the advancement of the country.





During his 2024 NYSTIF visit, Senator Francis Tolentino attended the workshop and gave an inspiring message to the students, motivating them to pursue careers in the field of STEM.

The Data Analytics for the Future workshop contributes to DOST-SEI's goal of equipping students with 21st century skills and training them to make data-driven decisions that can help solve problems in various communities. And all these were done while also forwarding the advocacy to put more girls into the STEM spotlight and create a more diverse and more inclusive STEM community.

The DOST-SEI thanks the UPLB-IMSP for the successful conduct of the workshop.

LANDSCAPES SOX 2024: A Photography Journey Through SOCCSKSARGEN

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After an exhilarating four-day journey, from October 25 to 28, across SOCCSKSARGEN, the first-ever Landscapes SOX 2024 concluded with resounding success.


Organized by Jay Jallorina Photography, this unique adventure took photographers, vloggers, and nature enthusiasts through South Cotabato’s lush landscapes, vibrant communities, and inspiring culture. From sunrises over mist-covered mountains to intimate cultural encounters with the Tboli community, Landscapes SOX 2024 was more than a photography tour—it was an unforgettable immersion into the soul of Mindanao.

This event wouldn't have been possible without the support of our valued sponsors: Fujifilm Philippines , Summit Creative PH , Radiant Photo PH , and ASUS ProArt. Their generous contributions allowed us to share this rich experience with photographers who could capture the beauty of SOX from behind the lens, crafting images that inspire and connect us all.


Day 1 (October 25): Welcoming SOX’s Landscapes

The adventure kicked off with a welcome at 3G Garden Hotel located in General Santos City where we went off to our first destination were oriented by Jay Jallorina about the Landscapes SOX 2024 Photography Tour, then after a few minutes of checking in at our respective shared rooms, we had our first lunch at Daniella's located at Tiongsons Arcade - a local favorite food place especially at night when it gets crowded.

We then went off to our first adventure of a sunset shoot at the mangroves of Asuncion Beache located in Sarangani. Everyone took with them their tripods to capture and take advantage of the slowly setting sunset light.

We then had our first dinner at Ranchero, another local favorite but this time it's air-conditioned. I was telling Jay that normally, we would pick the air-conditioned one during the day when it's hot, and the Al fresco during the cooler night. But no matter since it's understandable being the first run of the Landscapes SOX 2024.

After our dinner, we went back to the 3G Garden Hotel to sleep overnight, and start the following day with an early morning trip for a sunrise shoot at Koronadal City.


Day 2 (October 26): An attempt to capture Mount Matutum

With a drink of coffee or not, participants gathered to prepare for the visual feast that awaited at the DOLE pineapple plantation. We set out early going there, catching sunrise from the area's viewpoints. Each click of the camera shutter and drone remote captured the awakening landscapes, punctuated by bursts of color as the first light hit the plantation and nearby surrounding mountains even though Mount Matutum was not kind enough to show it's full glory.

The day was filled with landscape photography, where participants honed their skills in framing the land’s natural contours. The vibrant greens, interspersed with silhouettes of other notable elements, added a distinctive depth to the photos—a beautiful merging of signs of humanity (a factory nearby and several passing vehicles, even cyclists, amidst the wonders of nature.

We then had breakfast at the Jollibee Koronadal branch after getting disappointed at our first breakfast destination attempt. With access to fast food restaurants being more convenient even in Mindanao, there is no surprise that even these farflung areas have already been conquered by the biggest iconic pabida when it comes to fastfood.

With our stomachs full of either corned beef, tocino, or beef tapa, plus the side egg that comes with it, our next destination was at a resort in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.


Exploring Lake Sebu’s Cultural Heartbeat

Continuing the second day, we ventured to Punta Isla Lake Resort located in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, a destination known for its enchanting lakes, waterfalls, and, most importantly, the warmth of the Tboli people.

At the Punta Isla Lake Resort, we had our sumptuous lunch onboard their Lake Cruise boat while listening to the stories narrated, and got entertained by the short performances as we traversed the lake admiring the views as well.

We were welcomed earlier by some local T'boli community members where our group had the privilege of photographing traditionally dressed Tboli models. Their stunning hand-woven costumes and intricate jewelry gave participants a glimpse into the cultural richness of this indigenous group.

We then proceeded to the location of Lake Sebu's falls called 7 Falls where we firstly encountered mischievous monkeys having gumamela flowers for breakfast. Yes, these flowers are indeed edible, even for humans. The first of the 7 Falls was of course majestic as it was our first time to witness it.

Later in the afternoon we went to Gono S'bong where our group gained a deeper understanding of Tboli customs through their stories and performances, further enhancing the cultural authenticity of the portraits we took of of the T'boli family especially of 12 year old girl Yuri.

The day ended with a dinner of grilled tilapia, adobong baboy and Tinolang manok, then went back to the resort to sleep after saying our goodbyes and thanks.


Day 3 (October 27): Aerials and Bird Watching Adventures

Day three offered a different perspective— further taking photography to the skies. With drones, participants continue to capture stunning aerial views of SOX’s landscapes, from undulating hills to vast stretches of pristine lakes. One unexpected highlight was photographing the elusive Flowerpecker, a rare and vibrant bird species native to the region. For avid bird-watchers and photographers alike, this was a thrill, with the added challenge of capturing these colorful creatures in flight.

Day 3 included a trip to visit more closely the second of the 7 Falls. The rest of the falls were not conveniently accessible but one from our group was able to take a glimpse of the third using her drone that patiently took a video from first to third.

After our short time at the second waterfall location, of course, the day wouldn’t have been complete without tasting Lake Sebu’s renowned native chicken inasal. The resounding verdict? Never hesitate to order seconds or additional dishes even if Jay says to pick one, since the native chicken inasals are undeniably too small for an unlirice meal!

We then head off to a refreshing treat—a buko bowl of halo-halo, probably marking the beginning of a bonding tradition among participants. It was the birthday of one of our fellow participants so she generously paid for all the halo-halo orders. Belated birthday, sis!

Then back to our GenSan hotel, 3G Garden Hotel, where everything started, but only for a few minutes in our rooms because we had to proceed to our dinner destination. Then back to the hotel for our last nap.


Day 4: Lasting Impressions and Shared Memories

The final day started early in the morning with a visit at the General Santos Fishport Complex where we had to rent to wear white boots as a requirement before we are allowed entry. This is where we witnessed how the catch are processed from weighing, to cleaning, and then to temporarily storing them in iced water for a few hours before they are wrapped and packed for delivery. It was then back to the hotel after a few shots and purchase of some pasalubong from.the OTOP Store Outlet at the same fishport. It's at the hotel where we had breakfast that came complimentary from our stay. After which we had to say our goodbyes already to some of members of our group.  The rest of the time was just wait mode for our flights back home. Those who came from Davao by road, already went back home that morning, another one had an earlier flight so she was taken to the airport ahead, while the rest of our group looked for a restaurant where we can have lunch before going to the airport for the later afternoon flights.

This Photography Tour was not just to satisfy our cravings for the best shots but is also all about making memories. From candid moments to creative shots, participants freely explored their photographic styles, whether by camera or drone shots, capturing SOX’s landscapes, residents, other living creatures and each other’s laughter. Whether it was a shared story over lunch or the humorous misadventures of ordering “just one more” native chicken inasal, the group had truly become a family.

We owe a huge thank you to Ms. Hydz Newtemple (on Facebook) aka Heidi Templonuevo of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato for helping us bring this journey to life. Her local knowledge and connections provided us access to SOX’s most captivating landscapes, local stories, and a truly unforgettable photography experience.

Our van service, expertly handled by the hunky Lemuel through coordination with Peter, brought us from GenSan to South Cotabato and back, through narrow mountain paths and unfamiliar backroads, ensuring we reached even the most remote yet breathtaking locations. A special thank you also goes to Brix for his invaluable support—handling logistics, guiding us through routes, and ensuring that everyone was comfortable, safe, and engaged throughout the experience.


The Participants: The Heart of the Journey

Finally, a heartfelt shout-out to our fellow participants—Jonathan, Kari, Dell, Denise, Paolo, Gino, Larry, Tom, and Lauren (aka Ms. Everywhere). You each brought your unique perspectives, energy, and passion to Landscapes SOX 2024. The way you connected with each other and captured the world around you made this experience not just a tour but a shared celebration of art, nature, and culture. And of course, big thanks to the brains, Jay, who creatively organized everything with Brix and Hydz. He was even the one who booked my flight to Cebu several days earlier before the actual days of the event.


Looking Forward: T’nalak SOX Adventure 2025

As we close the chapter on Landscapes SOX 2024, we're already looking ahead! Keep an eye out for the T’nalak SOX Adventure 2025. We’re excited to continue exploring the unparalleled beauty of SOCCSKSARGEN and welcoming new participants to join this journey. Follow Jay Jallorina for updates on upcoming tours and more opportunities to create and connect.

To our next adventure, may the memories, landscapes, and moments we captured together always remind us of SOX’s boundless beauty!