Occidental, Mindoro, Philippines — In a moment of continuous pursuit for research and innovation, Dr. Ma. Edelwina M. Blasé, Vice President for Research and Extension, received the esteemed Best R&D Award under Human Development Research Category on May 28, 2025 at the OMSC Gymnasium, Occidental Mindoro, for her pioneering work on the DOST-MIMAROPA-assisted project entitled “Development of a Non-Dairy Probiotic Drink using Coconut Sap as a Substrate”.

Dr. Blasé received the award together with Executive Assistant, Ms. Lenie Z. Rodriguez, who represented MarSU President, Prof. Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta. Dr. Blasé’s dedication to innovation continues to push the boundaries of research, paving the way for advancements in nutrition and wellness. Additionally, MarSU showcased various products from the MarSU Gasan FTBI such as cocobagoong, bagoong, patis and arrowroot pulp products from Arrowroot Project.

This year’s 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week featured MIMAROPA Science, Technology, and Innovation Awards, Centerpiece Exhibit, Smarter MSMEs Summit, Beyond Invention: A Look on Market Ready Innovation, Oceans of Opportunity: Innovations for Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture; and Building Sustainable and Connected Communities. Part of the team that also attended the event were Ms. Geleen Del Prado from the Arrowroot Project and Dr. Randy T. Nobleza.

(D. Sto. Domingo | Photos: JR Mullanida)

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