Angel Alcala
- Born:
- March 1, 1929, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, Philippines
- Nationality:
- Filipino
- Profession(s):
- Biologist, Marine Biologist, Ecologist, Herpetologist
Early Life and Education
- Earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Silliman University in 1951.
- Obtained a Master of Arts degree from Stanford University in 1960.
- Received a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Stanford University in 1966.
Career and Major Achievements
- Pioneered research on Philippine amphibians and reptiles, identifying over 50 new species.
- Established the first marine reserve in the Philippines, contributing significantly to coral reef conservation.
- Served as Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines from 1992 to 1995.
- Appointed as a National Scientist of the Philippines in 2014.
- His work on community-based coastal resource management has been adopted globally.
- The impact of this biography filipino chemist is felt throughout marine conservation.
Notable Works
- Authored over 200 scientific publications.
- Contributed significantly to the understanding of coral reef ecosystems and their conservation.
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service | 1992 |
| Pew Fellows Award in Marine Conservation | 1997 |
| National Scientist of the Philippines | 2014 |
Legacy and Impact
Angel Alcala's groundbreaking research and advocacy for marine conservation have had a profound and lasting impact on the Philippines and the world. His contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of Philippine biodiversity and promoted sustainable resource management practices.