Written by the Web Team
Dr. Evelyn B. Gergon, plant pathologist of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), was conferred the G.O. Ocfemia Outstanding Plant Pathologist Award in Research by the Philippine Phytopathological Society, Inc. during the recent 42nd Anniversary and Annual Scientific Conference of the Pest Management Council of the Philippines, Inc.
Gergon, head of PhilRice’s Germplasm and Seed Health Division, was recognized for her pioneering research in nematodes attacking rice and onion in rice-based cropping system and the development of technology on the use of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizae, a biofertilizer for vegetables, upland rice, and corn that can help farmers save on fertilizer use by up to 80 percent.
A recognized rice seed pathologist, Gergon conducted researches on the management of other diseases attacking rice including bakanae, blast, and sheath blight. Currently, she is working on the use of biological control for major rice diseases.
She has authored and co-authored research papers in scientific journals, handbooks, bulletins, and book chapters; participated and presented papers and posters in various local and international conferences; and received awards given by prestigious organizations.
The Department of Science and Technology-Scientific Career System also conferred to her the Scientist 1 rank in 2008 owing to her leadership, accomplishments, and scientific productivity.
The Philippine Phytopathological Society, Inc is one of the scientific societies constituting the Pest Management Council of the Philippines, Inc.
