Mudjekeewis Santos named first-ever Scientist V under Scientific Career System

Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos, also known as "Dr. Pogi," became the Philippines's first-ever Career Scientist V under the Scientific Career System (SCS).

Santos received the rank during the oath-taking of newly conferred and upgraded career scientists on Monday at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

The SCS recognized Santos for his exceptional contributions to fisheries science and governance in the country, highlighted in over 100 scientific publications. His pioneering work includes the application of DNA barcoding protocols for identifying fishery species and their by-products, enabling traceability and labeling.

Santos currently works at the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute. He completed his master's and doctorate degrees at the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology.

Aside from Santos, Dr. Ricardo F. Orge was also upgraded to Scientist III. Four new researchers were also conferred the Scientist rank: Dr. Evelyn C. Ame, Scientist I; Dr. Jaime A. Manalo IV, Scientist II; Dr. Ulysses M. Montojo, Scientist I; and Dr. Minerva Fatimae H. Ventolero, Scientist I.

With this development, the number of scientists conferred under the System now totals 213 since it has been institutionalized in 1983 by then-President Ferdinand Marcos.

The SCS is co-implemented by the Department of Science and Technology and the Civil Service Commission. It is a system of recruitment, career progression, and recognition that awards the scientist rank to qualified research personnel in the government service.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News