Dr. Lilian P. Villamor, senior science research specialist and head of the DA-PCC’s Cryobank Section under the Research and Development Division, has been recognized as one of the eight awardees in the 9th Filipino Faces of Biotechnology.

Dr. Villamor was conferred the title of “Outstanding Leader in Livestock Biotechnology Advancing Genetic Conservation and Cryopreservation for Philippine Livestock” for her leadership and contributions to livestock biotechnology. The award highlighted her dedication to advancing genetic conservation and her efforts to improve the livelihood of small-scale Filipino farmers through research and development in livestock biotechnology.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Villamor expressed gratitude for the award, stating, “I humbly accept this national award as a testament to my commitment to contributing impactful science for our livestock farmers. My sincere gratitude goes to the DA Biotech Program and the awarding bodies for recognizing the potential of biotechnology to address societal needs.”

Since joining the DA-PCC in 2014, Dr. Villamor has been instrumental in advancing the operations of the Cryobank Unit. Her efforts included drafting DA Administrative Order (AO) No. 31, Series of 2021, which declared the DA-PCC Cryobank as the National Livestock Cryobank (NLC), and Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 04, Series of 2022, which detailed the implementing guidelines for the NLC.

Her contributions also extended to developing protocols for the collection, cryopreservation, and databanking of animal genetic resources (AnGR), facilitating access to AnGR, and conducting awareness campaigns.

Dr. Villamor described the National Livestock Cryobank as a “biological vault” or a “modern Juan’s ark” that preserves valuable livestock species. She emphasized the role of biotechnology in safeguarding these resources against challenges like climate change.

“The significance of the Cryobank is undeniable, particularly with the application of biotechnology at its core. Sa Cryobank, may forever lalo na kung may application ng biotechnology!” she quipped.

In addition to her work on cryopreservation, Dr. Villamor led a research project under the DA-Biotech program that revealed the genetic diversity of the Philippine Carabao. This project identified the carabaos of Calayan Island, Cagayan, as a pure-type swamp buffalo, leading to the establishment of a carabao sanctuary. She also spearheads a team of young researchers on two national projects funded by the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Agricultural Research and the National Livestock Program. These projects focus on optimizing the cryopreservation of genetic resources from swine, cattle, and goats for conservation and management at the National Livestock Cryobank.

The Department of Agriculture Biotechnology Program presented the award during a ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on December 5, 2024.

Dr. Villamor joins the ranks of DA-PCC leaders, including former Executive Director Dr. Libertado Cruz and Scientist IV Dr. Claro Mingala, who were also recognized as Filipino Faces of Biotechnology in 2018 and 2019, respectively.