2012 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee : Romulo Davide

Dr. Davide conducted a 16-year research on nematode survey, identification, host-parasite relationship and interaction with other plant pathogens. This led to the development of Biocon, the first Philippine biological control product that can be used against nematode pests attacking vegetables, citrus, potato, pineapple, rice and other crops. He also discovered various nematodes including Tylenchulus semipenetrans, a major cause of citrus disease in the Philippines; Radopholus similis, which destroys cavendish banana plantations in Davao; and Meloidogyne incognita, which attacks tomatoes, bitter gourd and eggplant.


Dr. Davide's numerous awards and recognitions include the following:
• Distinguished Award in Agriculture from Gamma Sigma Delta International Honor Society of Agriculture in 2007
• Lingkod Bayan Award from the Civil Service Commission in 2006; Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Development in Asia from the Asian Agricultural Research Development Fund Ltd. in Hong Kong in 1995
• Jose Rizal Pro Patria Gold Medal Award, and Presidential Citation as Outstanding Agricultural Scientist from the Department of Agriculture and Pres. Fidel V. Ramos in 1994
• Outstanding Scientist in Nematology-Plant Pathology from DOST Region 7 in 1994
• ASEAN Achievement Award for Research and Development from the ASEAN Business Forum in Bangkok, Thailand in 1993