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Honoring Michael Agbayani Calaramo on Taxonomist Appreciation Day
"For the love of documenting the region's Biological Diversity that flourished on earth where our ancestors relied on since ancient time, the very reason why we exist today. "
- Michael Agbayani Calaramo
On this Taxonomist Appreciation Day, we honor the unparalleled contributions of Michael Agbayani Calaramo, a luminary in the field of plant taxonomy and exploration in the Northwestern Luzon. Recognized by the National Museum of the Philippines as one of the nation's foremost taxonomists, his work has significantly advanced the understanding of the country's exceptional biodiversity, reinforcing the Philippines' status as a true megadiverse nation.
For nearly two decades, Calaramo has led botanical expeditions into the most remote and uncharted terrains of northwestern Luzon, braving rugged landscapes, perilous cliffs, and dense forests in pursuit of scientific discovery. His tireless efforts have culminated in eleven pioneering publications, each unveiling species previously unknown to science—new life forms hidden within the intricate web of Philippine ecosystems. His meticulous research has not only expanded taxonomic knowledge but also underscored the urgent need for conservation in fragile environments.
Among his monumental achievements is the establishment of the Herbarium of Northwestern Luzon (HNUL), a repository of over 21,000 meticulously curated specimens. This collection stands as a testament to the region’s biological richness, providing an invaluable reference for researchers, students, and conservationists alike. Furthermore, his visionary leadership led to the creation of the Northwestern University Ecological Park & Botanic Gardens (NUEBG), an institution that serves as both a sanctuary for plant diversity and a beacon of scientific excellence. Through this initiative, Northwestern University has gained international recognition, positioning itself as a center for botanical research and conservation.
Calaramo’s unwavering dedication to the documentation and preservation of flora and fauna has not only enriched scientific literature but has also brought prestige and honor to Northwestern University. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of taxonomists, ecologists, and environmental advocates, ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge and the protection of the natural world remain at the heart of scientific endeavor.
Today, as we celebrate the work of taxonomists, we recognize Michael Agbayani Calaramo—not just as a scientist, but as a guardian of biodiversity, a trailblazer of Philippine botany, and a steward of the natural heritage of Northwestern Luzon.
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