BukSU launches Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory

Bukidnon State University has officially inaugurated its Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, situated on the 3rd Floor of the New CAS Building, marking a significant milestone on January 16, 2024.

Established to serve as a learning and research hub, the laboratory will be essential for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology with focus on Biotechnology, those pursuing a BS in Environmental Science with an emphasis on Environmental Heritage Studies, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education with a specialization in Biology.

The facility is committed to cultivating indigenous, rare, endemic, endangered, medicinal, and economically significant plant species through tissue culture.

Dr. Lesley C. Lubos, who serves as the Director of the Botanical Gardens and Herbarium (BGH) while concurrently heading the Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, emphasized the laboratory’s importance within the broader framework of BGH.

“The cultured plants from the Laboratory will be relocated to the Botanical Gardens for extensive propagation and continuing care,” said Lubos.

University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol highlighted that the plant tissue culture laboratory “stands as a beacon of our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, exemplifying BukSU’s dedication to becoming a green university by fostering cutting-edge research in plant sciences for a more sustainable and resilient future.”

The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of the university’s top management, led by President Mirasol, who spearheaded the ribbon-cutting alongside the three Vice Presidents: Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela (VPAA), Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso (VPREI), and Mr. Dante S. Victoria, Jr. (VPAF).

In attendance were other university officials, including Dr. Maribel G. Valdez (CAS), Dr. Lalevie C. Lubos (CPAG), Dr. Nestor Y. Cipriano (COB), Ms. Rosanna S. Generato, and Ms. Kristine Fevi O. Gewan. Additionally, present were the chairperson of Natural Sciences, Ms. Desiree Christine C. Arbutante, along with faculty members of the BS Biology program, such as Ms. Marites M. Egar, Ms. Aurefeli D. Nietes, Ms. Eva Joie G. Amestoso, and Ms. Cristine Mea A. Ortizano.

The participation of BuKSU BS Biology major students specializing in Biotechnology further enriched the event.The blessing of the Laboratory was conducted by Rev. Arnulfo Paña. (Botanical Garden and Herbarium with information from Dr. Lesley C. Lubos)