AN ASSOCIATE professor from the University of the Philippines Visayas has been named the recipient of the 2024 Idlab Merit Award by the Department of Science and Technology Region VI.

Dr. Victor Marco Emmanuel Ferriols, who serves as director of the Institute of Aquaculture at the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, was one of seven distinguished scientists and innovators in Western Visayas to receive the prestigious honor.

Ferriols was recognized for his impactful research and development efforts in fisheries, particularly within the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sectors.

The awarding ceremony took place earlier this month at the Iloilo Convention Center, Iloilo City, to celebrate the region’s outstanding contributions to science and innovation.

Launched in 2022, the Idlab Awards is DOST-6’s merit and reward system designed to recognize outstanding scientists, researchers, engineers, and innovators based in Western Visayas whose outputs in research and development have significantly contributed to the socio-economic development of the region.

The awards accept nominations in the fields of basic research; agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources; industry, energy, and emerging technologies; and health.