Dr. Virginia C. Cuevas was recognized for her significant contributions as scientist, educator and mentor in the field of mycology and environmental biology. Her studies on cellulose and lignin degrading fungi led to the development of a rapid composting technology using Trichoderma harzianum as activator, which is now used in organic agriculture in the country. She also developed the Trichoderma Microbial Inoculant (TMI) which enhances crop growth and acts as a biocontrol agent for crop fungal diseases. The TMI has been tested and proven effective against the clubroot disease of cabbage that causes millions of pesos of damage in Benguet. These Trichoderma technologies are being further tested in areas covered by mine tailings and in agroforestry areas in various parts of the country. A recipient of various national and professional awards for her contributions as a scientist, she has also received prestigious teaching awards such as the Metrobank Outstanding Teacher Award (tertiary level) for her contributions as an educator and mentor to more than 30 BS, MS and PhD students and countless students who took her courses.
Birthdate: 6 October 1949
Educational Background:
- B.S. Botany - University of the Philippines Diliman 1969
- M.S. Botany - University of the Philippines Diliman 1977
- Ph.D Botany - University of the Philippines Los Baños 1987
Research Interest:
- Agroecology
- Plant Ecology
- Rehabilitation of Mine Tailing Polluted Agricultural Lands
Honors and Awards Received:
- 1989 - Outstanding Young Scientist - National Academy of Science and Technology
- 1990 - Longkod Baya Award - Civil Service Commission
- 1990 - Pantas Award - DOST PCARRD
- 1991 - Rizal Pro Patria Award - Department of Agriculture
- 1992 - The Outstanding Women in the Nations Service - Association of TOWNS Awardees
- 1995 - Clean Technology Award - UN-ESCAP
- 2001 - Outstanding Microbiologist of the Year - Philippine for Microbiology Inc.
- 2005 - Achivement Awardee in Biology - National Research Council of the Philippines
- 2008 - Metro Bank Outstanding Teacher - Metrobank Foundation
- 2009 - UPAA Distinguished Alumni in Science and Technology - University of the Philippines Alumni Association
- 2011 - UP Scientist I - University of the Philippines System
- 2012 - Hugh Greenwood Environmental Science Award - National Academy of Science and Technology
- 2013 - Best Scientific Poster - Association of Asian Societies of Academy and Sciences and NAST PHL
- 2014 - UP Scientist II - University of the Philippines System
- 2016 Academician - National Academy of Science and Technology
