The University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA) Alumni Awards

UPAA Awardees

The University of the Philipppines Alumni Association (UPAA) Alummni Awards is an award program that recognizes UP graduates with outstanding achievements in the chosen fields, careers, and vocations.

These contributions give substantial honor and benefit to Philippine society, including a considerable distinction to the University as their alma mater.

This year, two members from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI) were awarded the Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award to Dr. Lourdes J. Cruz and Dr. Gisela Padilla-Concepcion.

Dr. Lourdes Cruz is widely recognized for her contributions to the biochemistry of toxic peptides from the venom of fish-hunting Conus marine snails. Her studies partially led to the biochemical characterization of over 50 biologically active peptides from Conus venom and the development of conotoxins as biochemical probes for examining the activities of the brain.

Dr. Gisela Concepcion is notable for her outstanding work in marine natural products. Her research has led to the discovery of new compounds with anticancer, antibacterial, antituberculosis, antimalaria, anti-inflammatory, and immunosuppressant properties. She has also developed targeted drug delivery systems and studies on the biochemistry of cancer and infectious diseases.

The work she does applies chemistry in other fields including biotechnology, pharmacology, toxicology, phytochemistry, microbiology, and medicine.

The University of The Philippines Alumni Association will hold the awarding ceremonies of the 2023 UPAA Alumni Awardees at Ang Bahay ng Alumni, UP Diliman, Quezon City.