by: Clara Ysabel Alumaga | Resistome
Biotechnology
combines biological science and technology to create innovative solutions, from
healthcare advancements to agricultural improvements. By leveraging living
organisms and cellular processes, biotechnology plays a crucial role in
developing vaccines, sustainable crops, biofuels, environmental restoration
methods, and sustainable raw materials for industries.
As
the Director of BIOTECH and a leading figure in the Philippines' biotechnology
sector, Ms. Fides Marciana Z. Tambalo (Batch Operons) has spent her career
advancing science and driving innovations to address national needs. In this
interview, she reflects on her journey and vision and the challenges in
bridging scientific research with real-world applications.
A
Young Scientist’s Catalyst
Growing
up in Cabagan, Isabela, Ms. Tambalo was introduced to the sciences from an
early age by her father, a plant pathologist. His electric microscope allowed
her to explore microorganisms, sparking her interest in biology. Her studies in
BS Biology - Microbiology at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)
eventually led her to BIOTECH, where she started by developing diagnostic kits
for plant pathogens and later focused on industrial enzymes. She found her
passion in biotechnology, appreciating its ability to provide quick solutions
to industry challenges.
The
Tenacity of a Woman in STEM
Ms.
Tambalo’s journey is marked by resilience and determination. After losing her
father on her high school graduation day, she shifted her focus from medicine
to science, resolving to be the best at whatever she pursued. Early in her
career, she faced a pivotal choice: pursue a PhD or prioritize her family.
Choosing family, she stepped back from her doctoral studies but remained
committed to advancing in biotechnology. She reflects, “This choice shouldn’t
limit me from achieving my goals as a scientist,” demonstrating her dedication
to her work, even through unconventional paths.
A
Rainbow Begins with Red
Among
her accomplishments, Ms. Tambalo is known for developing the BIOTECH Monascus
Red Colorant, a microbial-based dye designed as a safer alternative to
synthetic colorants that can harm children's health. “Synthetic colorants can
cause attention deficits, hormonal disruptions, and hyperactivity,” she
explains. By using microorganisms instead of plants or animals, she ensured a
stable, year-round production process. Her vision for the product extends to a
range of microbial-based colors, though attracting investors who understand
biotechnology’s potential in the Philippines remains a challenge.
Navigating
the Hurdles of Biotechnology
Ms.
Tambalo has encountered numerous challenges in advancing biotechnology in the
Philippines. Bureaucratic delays in funding and regulatory approvals slow
progress, while regulatory agencies often lack the knowledge to manage new
biotechnological innovations. “Regulatory agencies must work alongside
scientists to keep up,” she asserts, stressing the need for regulatory updates
to match biotechnological advancements.
Securing
investors is another challenge, as biotechnology is still met with public
skepticism, particularly around biosafety and genetically modified organisms.
To combat this, Ms. Tambalo and her team engage directly with communities,
local governments, and schools to educate the public and build trust in
biotechnology. “We do the groundwork ourselves,” she emphasizes, highlighting
her commitment to reducing stigma and demonstrating biotechnology’s potential
to meet societal needs.
Biotechnology
for the People
Ms.
Tambalo measures success not by titles but by the real-world impact of her
work. She finds fulfillment in seeing her innovations improve communities and
mentoring the next generation of scientists. “Public service makes me and most
researchers happy,” she reflects.
GeneSoc,
the organization that nurtured her during her university years, also shaped her
path. “It inspired me because when I look around, everyone is successful in
their own way,” she shares. Surrounded by a group of driven individuals
excelling in various fields, she gained the inspiration and determination to
pursue biotechnology.
Today,
Ms. Tambalo channels this passion to help the Filipino people, especially
farmers and children, while also inspiring future biotechnologists. As part of
her efforts, she co-chairs the UPLB Steering Committee for National
Biotechnology Week in November 2024, a crucial initiative aimed at increasing
public understanding of biotechnology’s benefits. Through this event, she hopes
to break down misconceptions and encourage more Filipinos to explore careers in
biotechnology, believing the field holds tremendous promise for the country.
Biotechnology, she asserts, is a path forward that cannot be ignored.
SOURCES CITED
Araguas, K. E. (2022, April 7). Goodbye “red alert” with Monascus Red!. National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH). https://biotech.uplb.edu.ph/featured/goodbye-red-alert-with-monascus-red/
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