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Dr. Wilfredo L. Barraquio (1947-2006)
It only works when it’s open. This is only one among the many things I’ve learned under Dr. Wilfredo L. Barraquio, about the mind and the understanding of microbiology. His unexpected passing on January 2, 2006 has brought sadness to his family, friends, colleagues & students. At the same time, it has also brought hope and inspiration to many for the future of microbiology in the country.
Dr. Barraquio was born on July 17, 1947 in Santa Rosa, Laguna. He
was a dedicated husband to Ma’am Virginia and the loving father to
Anne. He took his primary education in Balibago Elementary School in
1959, secondary education in Sta. Rosa High School in 1963, and college
diploma at the College of Agriculture in UPLB in 1969. He pursued his
love for microbiology as a graduate student in UPLB in 1976, in the
University of Tokyo in 1981, and finally in McGill University, Quebec,
Canada in 1989.
He was an accomplished researcher and microbiologist. He has published journal articles and received important awards from international and nationally acclaimed institutions. The Philippine Society for Microbiology, Inc (PSM) of which he was a past president, truly recognizes his skills and abilities and was thus bestowed with different awards and recognition. He was a recipient of best poster, best paper and most outstanding micobiologist awards. Aside from PSM, he was an active member of 17 other organizations, which included the Canadian Society of Microbiology, the American Society of Microbiology, and the International Board of Ambassadors for the International Society of Microbial Ecology.
The research works done by Dr. Barraquio had benefited the young science of microbiology in the country. Conducting research hand in hand with teaching microbiology since the late ‘70s up to his passing had put his skills and technical and theoretical expertise in microbiology in practice. He produced a lot of students in microbiology. Some teach microbiology in local colleges and universities. Others are medical doctors here and abroad. As the PSM’s past president, he was able to preach and promote microbiology in a number of universities. According to him, it was research and keeping an open mind that molded and nurtured his positive and progressive attitude towards harnessing good microorganisms for the benefit of mankind.
Dr. Barraquio was loved and respected by many. May his life and dedication inspire more members of the Society to work towards the advancement of Microbiology.
Note: Dr. WL Barraquio is the recipient of the 2006 Hugh Greenwood Environmental Science Award in recognition of his work on nitrogen fixation and bioremediation. This award given by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) recognizes one’s outstanding research work in environmental protection and conservation.
by
Gil M. Penuliar