Members of the Nannoworks Laboratory actively participated in the recently concluded 18th National Symposium on Marine Science (PAMS18), held from July 10 to 12, 2025, at UP Cebu. The event brought together marine scientists and students from across the country to share the latest developments in marine and paleontological research. Raphael Francis E. Dequilla (BS Geology Batch 2025) and Lorrie Anne S. Torralba (BS Geology Batch 2024) presented results of their undergraduate theses. Also in attendance were Dr. Allan Gil Fernando, the Thesis Adviser of both students and Mr. David Policarpio, one of the co-authors in the paper of Raphael. Another laboratory member, Ms. Dorothy Joyce Marquez (representing DLSU Br. Alfred Shields Ocean Research [SHORE] Center) also presented a paper in the conference.
The posters presented (left – fish otolith, right – mollusks) and the members of Nannoworks Laboratory who attended the conference ([from left to right] David Policarpio, Raphael Dequilla, and Dr. Allan Fernando).
Dr. Fernando presented Lorrie’s research titled “Paleoichthyofaunal Diversity in the Pliocene Marine Sediments of Cabarruyan Island (Pangasinan) Based on Fish Otoliths”, which reconstructed the composition of ancient fish communities in Pangasinan during the Pliocene through the analysis of fossilized fish ear bones (otoliths). Meanwhile, Raphael presented his thesis, “Paleontological and Sedimentological Characterization of the Pleistocene Cabatuan Formation (Iloilo Basin)”, which explored the depositional environment, fossil mollusc content, and stratigraphic significance of the Cabatuan Formation. His outstanding work earned him First Place in the Student Poster Presentation category under the Nemenzo Award for Best Student Presentations.
The Nannoworks Laboratory’s participation in PAMS18 is a testament to its growing role in shaping the field of paleontology in the Philippines. With new discoveries, student achievements, and active involvement in national scientific forums, the Nannoworks Lab continues to pave the way for a deeper understanding of the country’s fossil record and geologic history. Congratulations to the entire Nannoworks Lab team for continuing to push the frontiers of geoscience research in the Philippines!