March 1, 1929 is the birthday of Philippine National Scientist Dr. Angel C. Alcala!

In the biodiversity field, the name "Angel Alcala" or the initials "ACA" are celebrated among biologists and conservationists. His work in establishing marine protected areas, empowering local communities, and discovering new species has made a lasting impact on research and conservation.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be related to Lolo Angel and to have known him as family in Dumaguete. He inspired my passion for the sciences during my time at Philippine Science High School, and has motivated my creative endeavors today!

To look back at how much he has done for the Philippines, I would need a bigger canvas. His impact has been truly immeasurable.

As a marine biologist, Lolo Angel is known for artificial coral reefs and establishing the Apo Island and Sumilon Island Marine Protected Areas, which serve as global models for community-managed marine reserves. He founded the Silliman University Marine Laboratory, conducting the first studies on Philippine marine mammals, like the Dugong. As a herpetologist, he has discovered a staggering 50 new species of reptiles and amphibians in the Philippines! He also authored papers on both the Saltwater and the Philippine Crocodile through Crocodylus Porosus Philippines Inc.

Beyond Marine Biology and Herpetology, his knowledge extends to other fields of Biology. Lolo Angel shared fascinating stories of birds, such as the Philippine Eagle, Negros Bleeding-hearts of SUAKREM, and being the last person to have seen the Negros Fruit-dove of Kanlaon. Lesser known are his works on Mammals, like the behavior of the Visayan Spotted Deer, made with his son, Uncle Ely. As a conservationist, he championed movements to protect the forests of Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes from deforestation. During his time at DENR, he worked to limit logging and mining, including through DAO 1993-33, which protects today's Masungi Georeserve.

Lolo Angel lived a colorful life. You can see it here, with all the wildlife that Lolo Angel has discovered, described, named after, researched, and helped conserve.

Happy Birthday, Lolo Angel!