First Printing Press in the Philippines

The Dominican fathers pioneered printing using xylography when Fray Francisco de San Jose established the first printing press in the Philippines in 1593. The first published book was “Doctrina Christiana” by Juan de Plasencia.” This press eventually became the University of Santo Tomas Press. On the other hand, the first Filipino printer was Tomas Pinpin, … Read more

Father Blanco

Father Blanco Father Manuel Blanco was an Augustinian botanist. He is known for writing one of the first botanical books in the Philippines, the “Flora de Filipinas,” which contained descriptions of plants, fruits, and vegetables found in the country. His botanical garden at the Augustinian convent in Intramuros was famous for the diversity of its … Read more

Perla S. Ocampo: National Scientist

Perla S. Ocampo: National Scientist Born on July 25, 1931, renowned pediatrician and National Scientist Dr. Perla S. Ocampo is another woman in science notable for her contributions to the twin scourges of diarrheal diseases and malnutrition that have contributed to the elucidation of etiologic factors and planning of control measures that reinforced international recommendations … Read more

Jose Maria Zaragoza

Jose Maria Zaragoza (1912-1994) is a Filipino architect known for designing several edifices during the postwar era. His works include the Meralco Building in Ortigas, Union Church of Manila, and Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City. While he made a mark in the Philippine architectural scene, there is a need to look into his prolific … Read more

Gabi

As we continue to celebrate Nutrition Month, today’s Tropical Thursday feature is the nutritious Taro (Colocasia esculenta Linn), locally called “Gabi”. Gabi belongs to the genus Colocasia in the family Araceae, a plant that grows largely in humid tropical environments. It is an erect long-stalked herbaceous plant with wide, green ovate leaves and a tuberous … Read more