Rian Lorenzo V. Mascariñas, a dedicated research scholar from the University of the Philippines (UP) Tacloban College, has made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
Mascariñas, known for his passion for research, has identified a promising solution in the natural products of the Lapnisan tree, more commonly known as the Agarwood tree.
His research, which has garnered significant attention within the scientific community, focuses on the potential of Agarwood’s natural compounds to combat antimicrobial resistance, which is a serious challenge to modern medicine.
The study suggests that Agarwood’s natural compounds possess potent antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of resistant pathogens. This discovery could lead to new and effective antimicrobial treatments, revolutionizing the fight against infectious diseases.
Mascariñas’ discovery has the potential to extend beyond medicine to the economic value of the Agarwood tree. His research could lead to sustainable methods for utilizing the tree’s resources, benefiting human health and the economy.
Breakthrough
This breakthrough underscores the importance of continued research and exploration of natural resources in the fight against global health challenges.
Mascariñas’ dedication to research and his innovative approach to tackling antimicrobial resistance have earned him recognition as a rising star in the field of scientific discovery.
His thesis is entitled “Antibacterial Activity of Bark Fungal Endophytes from Aquilaria Malaccencis.”
The Lapnisan Tree, or the Agarwood Tree, is scientifically called Aquilaria Malaccencis Lam. It’s a non-timber tree used for its sap or resin in the perfume industry and is considered the world’s most expensive tree.
The research aims to develop a locally sourced antibiotic as a sustainable alternative to existing medicines on the market, focusing on the critically endangered Agarwood tree.
He received a cash prize of P30,000 and a certificate of recognition for his exceptional work at the 2024 Department of Science and Technology—Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) Undergraduate Thesis Grant in Natural Products Oral Research Paper Competition at the PICC Forum Tent in Pasay City on September 21, 2024.
Mascariñas chose this research topic due to challenges in the country’s healthcare system, including high medicine costs and overcrowded bed capacity in public hospitals.
He believed it was essential to identify a problem that resonates deeply with the researcher and ignites their passion. This strong connection to the subject will make the journey enjoyable and serve as a source of motivation.
Find a problem na you really care about and you’re passionate about; para an imo magiging thesis, you enjoy doing it, kasi iba po kung if we enjoy doing something, baga’t na dali nala himuon, bisan makapoy, gingaganahan ka, na mo-motivate kita,” he said.
(Find a problem that you really care about and are passionate about so that you will enjoy working on your thesis. It’s different when we enjoy doing something; it becomes easier, even if it’s tiring, because we look forward to it and it motivates us.)
Mascariñas, a DOST-SEI merit scholar, sought to maximize government research funding by pursuing the DOST-PCHRD Undergraduate Thesis Grant, which offers a substantial P50,000 research grant. He and five others emerged as finalists among 19 grant recipients.
The grant supported his research by covering laboratory chemicals, transportation expenses, and other necessary materials. His scholarship also provided financial support for his studies and research needs.
Challenges
He openly discussed challenges throughout his research, such as unexpected results and observations.
He dedicated extensive hours to laboratory work, often exceeding 8 hours and occasionally missing classes in pursuit of achieving high-quality results.
“Damo po gihap an mga shortcomings. May mga results po nga diri an amon gusto nga results, may mga observations kami nga diri asya an amon gusto ma-observe, but then again, gin-report la po namon tanan ha DOST-PCHRD because we wanted people to know nga mayda talaga sugad ha research nga false results, mga failed methods,” he explained.
(There were also many shortcomings. Some results were not what we wanted, and some observations didn’t match what we aimed to see. But still, we reported everything to DOST-PCHRD because we wanted people to know that there are instances of false results and failed methods in research.)
Despite encountering numerous challenges, Mascariñas completed his research study with the support of his professors at UP Tacloban, his thesis research adviser, Prof. Rolly G. Fuentes, and his co-researcher, Jeremy D. Serojales.
According to Dr. Jaime Montoya, Executive Director of DOST-PCHRD, the studies demonstrate that research goes beyond laboratories and classrooms. It is an active effort to solve practical problems, help communities, and improve the quality of life for many individuals.
Mascariñas currently works as a research assistant at UP Tacloban and plans to pursue graduate studies. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Biology program in July 2024, earning the distinction of magna cum laude.
His success highlights the impact of government research funding in fostering innovative solutions for real-world issues. His journey demonstrates the influence of research in driving positive change and inspiring future researchers to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancements. (AAC, PIA Leyte)
