Edgardo Gomez, Filipino marine science icon, 81

A prominent Filipino marine scientist has passed away at the age of 81, according to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

In a statement, the DOST said National Scientist Edgardo Gomez passed on Sunday.

Gomez, an authority in invertebrate biology and ecology, giant clam culture and restoration, and coral reef assessment and conservation, was the founding director of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) Marine Science Institute.

His research also laid the groundwork for UP’s Archipelagic Studies Program.

Gomez’s pioneering research on the damage to coral reefs served as the impetus for global conservation initiatives, including the Global Reefs and Risk Analysis, Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, and the International Coral Reef Action.

His research work also became the basis for the government’s conservation programs for marine resources.

Gomez also contributed to the Philippines’ baseline mapping of the disputed Spratly Islands.

Born on November 7, 1938, the national scientist obtained his bachelor’s degree in education from the De La Salle University, masters in biology from St. Mary’s University Minnesota, and doctorate in marine biology from the University of California San Diego.

Some of his many awards include the Global 500 Roll of Honour from the United Nations Environment Programme in 1989, The Outstanding Filipino in Science (Marine Biology) in 1992, and Outstanding Science Administrator from the DOST in 1996.

Gomez became a member of the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines in 1993 and was proclaimed a  National Scientist in 2014. —Julia Mari Ornedo/LDF, GMA News