This year's challenge: “Advancing Inclusive Growth in Southeast Asia by Leveraging Data and AI for Food Security”

Your team is asked to work with one national government in Southeast Asia to inform the development of a five-year strategic plan to address food insecurity through a food systems approach. This government wants to employ the power of artificial intelligence (AI) but acknowledges the limitations of AI, including the shortcomings of data currently available. For more information, read https://www.apru.org/event/the-10th-annual-apru-global-health-virtual-case-competition-2025/

Registration deadline is extended from April 19 to April 30 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time! Please register your team through the online registration system. In the APRU Global Health Virtual Case Competition 2025, teams of 3–6 students will prepare a video of up to 10 minutes in English proposing a realistic, well-designed, innovative solution. Three videos will be selected for the final round at the APRU Global Health Conference 2025 on October 28–31, 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. A prize of US$1,000 will be awarded to the winning team. Every student who participate will receive a certificate.

How to Participate?

Please register your team through the online registration system by April 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.

Teams can be comprised of students from different universities but they must all come from APRU member universities or from any university in Malaysia. Read more about the requirements.

Timeline:

• June 6 – Final video submissions due by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time

• August 31 – Three finalist teams announced via email

• October 29 – Final judging of competition

For inquiries, please contact Prof. Mellissa Withers at mwithers@usc.edu. 

Faculty members from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, namely, Prof. Ma. Leonora dL. Francisco, Assoc. Prof. Myrna Benita Z. Luna, Assoc. Prof.  Rowena Grace R. Sanchez, and Asst. Prof. Cecile Klaudine C. Cabigas participated in the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗔𝗹𝗽𝗵𝗮 𝗠𝗢𝗦 𝗔𝘀𝗶𝗮 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 held on 4 March 2025 at the Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel, Thailand.

The workshop highlighted cutting-edge sensory and chemical analysis technologies, featuring the E-nose, E-tongue, and E-eye—state-of-the-art equipment for sensory evaluation. A new device for aroma evaluation training was also introduced. Participants gained firsthand experience through demonstrations of Alpha MOS software and explored various applications of these advanced tools.

This engagement provided our faculty members with valuable insights into emerging industry technologies and inspired new research directions in food science and nutrition.

The Department of Food Science and Nutrition bagged the "Best Short Film" award during the 63rd UP Diliman College of Home Economics Foundation Celebration last 23 September 2024.

The Short Film entries of the different departments in the College of Home Economics showcased the origin story of each department and/or its degree programs.

The short film video of the DFSN was made possible through the support of the faculty members especially to:

Our podcasters Ms. Gerieka Anapi and Prof. Cecile Leah Bayaga, and Ms. Airisse Rae Basinang as the director and editor of the video.

Additional thank you to Assoc. Prof. Rowena Grace Sanchez, Assoc. Prof. Benelyn Dumelod, and Asst. Prof. Antonio Palomeno for the content contribution to this video.

Representatives from the UP Diliman College of Home Economics including Dean Shirley V. Guevarra (presenting the paper of her thesis advisee, Andrea Salem), four faculty members (Dr. Maria Leonora dL Francisco, Dr. Myrna Benita Z. Luna, Dr. Rowena Grace R. Sanchez, and Dr. Casiana Blanca J. Villarino) from the UP Department of Food Science and Nutrition, and MS Food Science graduate student, Samantha Kathryna V. Katigbak, presented scientific posters and oral papers at the 22nd World Congress of Food Science and Nutrition in Rimini, Italy, from September 8 to 12, 2024. The event, themed “The Future of Food is Now: Development, Functionality & Sustainability,” attracted over 1,500 scientists and stakeholders globally. It covered essential topics in food science and technology, such as nutrition, consumer science, product development, food safety, new processes and technologies, functional foods, meat analogues, analytical methods, and sustainability.

Additionally, Dr. Luna and Dr. Sanchez conducted benchmarking activities with the University of Milan’s Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS) before the congress. They gathered details about the department and its degree programs, toured teaching and research facilities, and engaged with faculty and administrators. The milestones and resources presented by DeFENS, including faculty profiles, cross-disciplinary programs, publication outputs, research grants, patents, and partnerships, were impressive, and there was a strong willingness to collaborate with UP Diliman.

The Department of Food Science and Nutrition proudly congratulates Dr. Mary Rose Gemma Rodriguez, an alumna of the BSFT program, who was recognized as one of the Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Women of Power for her dedication to preserving Antique's culinary heritage.

Dr. Rodigruez, president of Advance Central College (ACC) in Antique, initiated a project in 2012 to document and safeguard the province's traditional recipes and culinary practices. Collaborating with 370 students from ACC's Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management program, she meticulously compiled stories, rituals, and recipes that define Antique's rich culinary identity. This endeavor culminated in the publication of her book, "Culinary Heritage of Antique," on December 9, 2024, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the region's gastronomic traditions.

Lagi't lagi, para sa bayan

You can read more about this recognition here: https://plus.inquirer.net/.../mary-rose-gemma-rodriguez.../

Photo credits: Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last February 7, 2025, the Department of Food Science and Nutrition had an inspiring afternoon with our esteemed BSFT alumni, Dr. Dulce Paredes and Dr. Sarah Martinez who shared their journeys in navigating the ever-evolving world of food science, offering valuable insights for the next generation.

We were also joined by other alumni from their batch along with Dr. Teresita Acevedo and Dr. Miflora Gatchalian, students from the BS Food Technology program, faculty members of DSFN, and Dean Shirley Guevarra, for this special event.

Members of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition joined the annual convention of the Philippine Association of Food Technologists last 15-16 October 2024 held at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan, Quezon City, Metro Manila.

Faculty members of the Food Technology section participated in the two-day event where some members shared a presentation on their respective research fields.

Mr. Dominic Panaligan talked about their published paper on harnessing artificial intelligence in microbial food safety: global progress and implications in the ASEAN region.

Prof. Casiana Blanca Villarino, joined by her team, presented the results of their study entitled "Nutritional Quality of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives Sold in the Philippines".

Prof. Ma. Leonora Francisco also shared a presentation entitled "Together in Ethics: Fostering Professional Integrity in Sensory and Consumer Research" and "Understanding and Addressing Ultra Processed Foods" during the plenary session.

Thirty six BSCN graduates took their oath under the Professional Regulation Commission as newly registered nutritionist-dietitians last December 15, 2024, at the Manila Hotel. During the ceremony, UP Diliman was recognized as among the Top Performing Schools with  11 of its graduates as topnotchers. 

UP Diliman was represented by Dean Shirley V. Guevarra, Chair of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition Dr. Rowena Grace Rumbaoa-Sanchez, Nutrition Section head Asst. Prof. Maria Carmela Taob. Also in attendance was Dr. Maria Fema Aquino. Ms. Frances Dominique Agustin, the 1st placer of the 2024 NDLE, delivered the response speech. The guest speaker Ms. Dinah Campanaro is also a BSCN graduate and a board topnotcher during her time.

The UP Department of Food Science and Nutrition attended the 2024 Oath-Taking Ceremony of the newly licensed Professional Food Technologists held last October 3, 2024, at the PICC, Pasay.

The DFSN also held a testimonial activity last October 5, 2024, for the success of the recently concluded Food Technology Licensure Exam. The activity was joined by the passers, faculty members of the DFSN, students, and staff with the unwavering support of the UP Diliman College of Home Economics Dean Shirley V. Guevarra.

Sa muli, isang masigabong pagbati para sa mga bagong Professional Food Technologists. Lagi't lagi, para sa bayan.

The UP Department of Food Science and Nutrition proudly congratulates its faculty members who have been awarded UP Diliman Centennial Professorial Chairs and Faculty Grants for the 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 cycle.

UP Diliman Centennial Professorial Chairs and Faculty Grants are awarded in recognition of the importance of advanced degrees, research and creative work, and mentoring in the overall advancement of teaching in the University.

Professorial Chair:

Assoc. Prof.  Myrna Benita Z. Luna, PhD

Faculty Grant:

Prof.  Cecile Leah T. Bayaga, PhD

Prof.  Casiana Blanca J. Villarino, PhD

The Department of Food Science and Nutrition is proud to announce its outstanding performance in the 2024 Nutritionist-Dietitian Licensure Exam (NDLE), where the University of the Philippines Diliman was recognized as one of the top-performing schools with a consistently remarkable passing rate of 100%. Several graduates from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition also ranked among the top 10 examinees.

These results highlight not only the strength of our academic programs but also our unwavering commitment to excellence.  This success, following last year’s outstanding 100% passing rate, is a testament to the University’s consistent quality of education and support given to its students.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the successful examinees and express deep gratitude to everyone in the department, college, and University who contributed to this shared achievement. Together, we continue to raise the bar for food technology education in the Philippines.

The Department of Food Science and Nutrition is proud to announce its outstanding performance in the 2024 Food Technology Licensure Exam (FTLE), where the University of the Philippines Diliman was recognized as the number 1 top-performing school with a remarkable passing rate of 96.43%. Several graduates from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Home Economics, also ranked among the top 10 examinees.

This achievement reflects the hard work, determination, and excellence of our students, whose success in the FTLE underscores their dedication to their craft. It also speaks volumes about the collective efforts of the entire department and college—from the faculty and staff who guide and support our students, to the administrators who ensure a strong academic environment, and other members of our community who continuously advance the field of food technology.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the successful examinees and express deep gratitude to everyone in the department, college, and University who contributed to this shared achievement. Together, we continue to raise the bar for food technology education in the Philippines.

[Scholarship Opportunity]

We are now accepting applications for Ingredient Brothers Fellowship for the first semester of the academic year 2024-2025.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be a bona fide freshman student of the University of the Philippines Diliman;

• Must be enrolled in BS Food Technology;

• Must have obtained a general weighted average of "2.50" or better and must have carried a load of at least 15 units with no grade of "5.0" or unremoved "4.0" or "Inc." in the semester immediately preceding the application;

• Must be enrolled in at least 15 units at the time of the award of the grant;

• Must not be a recipient of any scholarship grant;

• Must be financially needy, parents' annual gross income must not exceed P500,000.00; and

• Must not have been the subject of any disciplinary action.

BENEFITS:

Monthly Stipend: Php 8,800.00

Housing Allowance: Php 5,000.00 per month

Miscellaneous (Lab Supplies/PE Uniform/Emergency Fund): Php 6,200.00 per month

DEADLINE of Applications: August 31, 2024 .

For more information, please visit this link.

The UP Department of Food Science and Nutrition congratulates the students and their respective thesis advisers who participated in the 50th Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) Seminar Series Undergraduate Research Competition last July 3-4, 2024 held at Sheraton Hotel, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

The undergraduate theses of students from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition were recognized and awarded during the said event.

Under the Nutrition and Dietetics Category, the study entitled Nutrition Knowledge, Eating Practices and Maternal Characteristics Among Selected Filipino Female Adults under the Sandwich Generation presented by Alyssa Arnaco, Juan Diego Caña, Marc Ishmael Pulido, and Dominique Nicole Ricardo with their thesis adviser Dr. Maria Fema Aquino bagged the first place award.

In addition, the thesis studies entitled Detection of Honey Adulteration with C3, C4, and CAM Sugar Syrups using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy by Jeremiah Abog with thesis adviser Dr. Ma. Leonora Francisco, and the Development of an Analog Meat Product using Philippine-sourced Elkhorn Seamoss (Kappaphycus alvarezii) Protein Concentrate by Elise Yabut with thesis adviser Mark Paulo Tolentino were awarded as 1st and 3rd place, respectively, under the Food Science and Technology category.

Mabuhay ang mga kabataan ng agham at teknolohiya! Padayon, mga Iskolar ng Bayan!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming webinar, "Novel Opportunities in Philippine Food Technology", via Zoom on January 24, 2024 (Wednesday) at 10:00 AM - 12:00 NN PHT. This webinar is a culminating activity organized by MS in Food Science students enrolled in Seminar in Food Science (FS 290) this First Semester AY 2023-2024.

This webinar discusses novel developments in different aspects of the Philippine food value chain, particularly in processing and preservation, with FS 290 students as speakers. The presentation topics are as follows:

Application of Edible Coating for Egg Preservation in the Philippines

Relevance of Psychrotrophic Microorganisms in the Quality and Safety of Refrigerated Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Rice Meal Products in the Philippines

Mung bean (Vigna radiata) Proteins in Focus: Properties, Applications, and Potential in the Philippine Setting

This free webinar targets a broad audience ranging from general consumers, food industry workers, food science and technology practitioners in the industry and the academe. Attendance from constituents of your institution would contribute significantly to fostering an atmosphere of enriching discussion during the webinar proper.

Those interested can register for the webinar through https://forms.gle/vsjmgtAqDuQi2FdK9 so they may be furnished with the Zoom link. For questions and concerns, you may contact Ms. Audrey Marcos at aemarcos1@up.edu.ph.

Thank you, and we hope to see you at the webinar! 

The Department of Food Science and Nutrition. UP College of Home Economics takes immense pride in honoring one of its esteemed faculty members, Dr. Ma. Patricia V. Azanza, with the prestigious appointment as Professor Emeritus of the department last March 14, 2023. This well-deserved accolade is a testament to Dr. Azanza's exceptional contributions, profound expertise, and exemplary achievements in the field of food science.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Azanza has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation. As a Professor, she has been instrumental in shaping the Department of Food Science and Nutrition and fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and scientific rigor among her students and colleagues. She was also recently recognized as UP Scientist III under the UP Scientific Productivity Award for her exceptional research output, scientific productivity, and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge that have resulted in pioneering advancements, enabling improved food safety measures and fostering innovative approaches to food production.

Dr. Azanza's influence extends beyond her academic role. Previously serving as the Director IV of the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), she played a pivotal role in spearheading technological advancements in the scientific arena. Her visionary leadership and guidance have contributed significantly to enhancing scientific research, promoting innovation, and strengthening industry-academic collaborations.

As Professor Emeritus, Dr. Azanza's contributions to the university will continue to enrich the academic and research endeavors of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition. Her presence as a mentor and advisor will inspire the next generation of scholars and scientists to follow in her footsteps and make a meaningful impact on society. 

The appointment of Dr. Ma. Patricia V. Azanza as Professor Emeritus is a momentous occasion for the university, celebrating her lifelong dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and making a difference in the world of food science. 

Check out what Dr. Cecile Leah T. Bayaga, DFSN professor and principal investigator of Breastmilk Laboratory, highlighted on the Observance of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month.

On the Observance of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month

The DOH continues to highlight the importance and benefits of breastfeeding as a cost-effective, public health intervention to prevent illness and malnutrition, especially stunting in children.

Ngayong buwan ng Agosto, patuloy tayong umaapela sa bawat pamilya at komunidad na isulong ang ligtas at malusog na pagpapasuso. Gayundin, palaging tandaan na ang Breastfeeding ay TSEK o Tama, Sapat, at Eksklusibo bilang panimulang nutrisyon at pagkain ng sanggol sa loob ng unang anim (6) na buwan. 

Ayon sa ating tema ngayong taon, ugaliin na alamin ang inyong karapatan bilang working lactating mother. Patuloy nating itaguyod ang pagkakaroon ng ligtas at healthy workspaces na nakapaloob sa Expanded Breastfeeding Act.

MS. ABIGAIL MONTEDERAMOS

Nurse IV, Child Adolescent and Maternal Health Division,

Disease Prevention and Control Bureau

Department of Health

In case you missed it, kindly access the Kapihan through this link:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAFGhXF7AP4

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100064703437033/videos/155983810851476 

The UP Department of Food Science and Nutrition proudly congratulates the BS Community Nutrition students Charlene Denise Esteban, Selina Alforte, Hanazel Superal and Rex Menard Cervales, Aira Jane Gonzales, Philina Ritzel Acob for winning the 1st and 3rd places, respectively, at the Undergraduate Thesis Competition during the 49th DOST-FNRI Seminar Series last 5-6 July 2023 at Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati City, Metro Manila.

The winning thesis studies were:

1ST PLACE 

Charlene Denise Esteban, Selina Alforte, Hanazel Superal

Thesis Adviser: Dr. Cecile Leah T. Bayaga

Thesis Title: Association among knowledge on infant and young child feeding recommendations, dietary fat content of complementary foods, and complementary feeding practices of mothers of children with down syndrome aged 6-23 months

THIRD PLACE

Rex Menard Cervales, Aira Jane Gonzales, Philina Ritzel Acob

Thesis Adviser: Asst. Prof. Maria Carmela C. Taob

Thesis Title: Factors affecting complementary feeding practices of mothers in selecting barangays in Roxas City, Capiz

Again, congratulations!