A Recap of the 2025 Genetics Week

By: Paul Jefferson H. Arnigo | Fosmid

    Last November 2025, The UPLB Genetics Society decided to brighten the halls of Wing A at the Institute of Biological Sciences with the celebration of Genetics Week 2025, a week-long event held every first semester of the academic year, dedicated to spreading knowledge and enhancing creative appreciation of genetics among students. With the theme, ChronoGENEsis: The Story of Life's Beginning and Becoming in the Language of Genes, the exhibit showcased the relevance of evolutionary genetics in understanding the grass roots of life and the advancement of the field of science and health. 

The exhibit formally opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Assistant Professors Riaflor M. Alcabedos and Ivy Amor F. Lambio, together with the resident members of GeneSoc. The ceremony marked not only the beginning of the exhibit but also the organization’s renewed commitment to making genetics more accessible and engaging to students. The exhibit’s design drew inspiration from the board game “Monopoly,” where each player begins at a common starting point and navigates different paths. This concept mirrors evolution, where life originates from a shared ancestry yet diverges into diverse genetic trajectories over time. Elements such as dice and chance cards symbolized random mutations and environmental factors that influence evolutionary outcomes, reinforcing the idea that chance plays a crucial role in shaping life.

Complementing the exhibit were educational and interactive activities, including a bioinformatics workshop conducted by GeneSoc alumnus Andrew D. Montecillo. The workshop introduced participants to fundamental tools and concepts in bioinformatics, emphasizing its growing importance in analyzing genetic data and understanding biological systems. Through guided discussions and hands-on learning, attendees gained insights into how computational approaches are used in modern genetic research.

Meanwhile, GeneSoc’s Open Tambayan provided a more relaxed and inclusive space for dialogue among students held last November 19, 2025. This activity provided free foods and drinks for students in the Institute. 

Through these activities, Genetics Week 2025 successfully highlighted the importance of education, creativity, and engagement, all while promoting the science of genetics.