Behind The Science Podcast

Dr. Nia Santos shares how she used both genetics and morphology to identify the freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium spp.) in Cairawan River Antique. With 11 species identified, the highest number of species reported from a single river, this study highlights the ecological value of Philippine rivers and their potential for sustainable fisheries. 📚Reference: Santos MNM, Wowor D, Ikeda M, Padilla PI an...

In this episode, chemical volcanologist John Michael Ausejo breaks down his study on primitive arc lavas from the Macolod Corridor. By analyzing the geochemical and mineralogical composition of igneous rocks, he traces the melt generation and magma storage conditions of primitive arc lavas in the Macolod Corridor 42 km beneath the Earth’s surface. ⌛ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Makulod Corr...

Is it safe to exercise while pregnant? In this episode, Dr. Clarissa Velayo shares the results from her clinical study on the effects of Sheng Zhen Gong, a traditional low-intensity exercise, on the wellbeing of both mother and child. ⌛Chapters 00:46 Podcast Introduction and Partners 04:02 Dr. Clarissa Velayo's Journey into Medicine 14:09 Review of Dr. Velayo's Study on Sheng Zhen Gong 16...

Are native chickens really antibiotic-free? In this episode, microbiologist Dr. Rina Opulencia breaks down her research on multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria found in healthy Philippine native chickens. Her team sequenced bacterial genomes and discovered antibiotic resistance genes in Philippine native chickens, which raises important questions about farm hygiene and food safety. Learn how resista...

Marine biologist Dr. Wilfredo Licuanan explains his team’s groundbreaking work in developing a new scale to assess coral reefs. The new letter-grade scale replaces the outdated standards and helps scientists, policymakers, and citizen scientists better understand reef health. This research has already influenced national guidelines and could reshape how we protect our reefs. #CoralReefsPH #MarineS...

Dr. Karmina Aquino reveals her groundbreaking study on geologic hydrogen in Zambales - a natural hydrogen gas released from rocks through water-rock interactions. Her research found one of the highest hydrogen outgassing rates ever measured globally. We also explore her path from geology to geochemistry, the role of ophiolites in hydrogen production, and the potential of geologic hydrogen as a fut...

Dr. Pamela Tolentino breaks down her decade-long research on sustainable river management in the Philippines. From river migration and sediment flow to flood risk and dike failure, she shares how new data, geomorphic insights, and nature-based solutions can reshape how we manage our waterways. We also talk about her journey from biology to geology to fluvial geomorphology, and the challenges of pu...

How do scientists make sure our weather radars are actually accurate? In this episode, climatologist Dr. Irene Crisologo explains how she used satellite data to calibrate ground-based weather radars in the Philippines and overcoming challenges like beam blockage from mountains and urban structures. We also trace her journey from physics to geology and climatology, and how she turned her love for d...

What happens to marine life when the ocean turns more acidic and hotter? In this episode, marine scientist Jerwin Baure shares the results of his experiments on sea cucumbers and top shells under warming and acidification conditions. He also explains why even “no significant results” matter, and how social media became a tool for science communication and activism. From his research journey at UP...

In this episode, we dive into the cultural and scientific story of Plumeria (Kalachuchi) with Filipino researcher Mr. Darel Antesco. Learn why this iconic flower is seen so differently in Hawaii vs. the Philippines, and discover the unique characteristics of 2 species of Plumeria found in the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Darel also shares his journey from Bukidnon to Los Baños to Hawai...

What’s the link between climate change and mental health? In this episode, Dr. Resti Tito Villarino breaks down post-traumatic growth, the mental health impact of disasters, and why local research in the Philippines matters. If you’re into mental health, climate issues, or stories of resilience, this one’s for you. #MentalHealthPH #ClimateChange #PostTraumaticGrowth ⌛Chapters 00:00 Understanding...

Mr. Clint Petilla discussed the unique characteristics of Typhoon Odette and its impacts on the Philippines. The research focuses on landfalling tropical cyclones from 1979 to 2020, and how these provide context for the uniqueness of Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai). ⌛Chapters 00:00 Analysis of Typhoons That Have Passed Through the Philippines 05:36 A Scientist's Journey 19:12 Studyin...

Dr. Licuanan discussed the current status of Tubbataha Reef, specifically the increase in microalgae and other organisms affecting the reef's benthic cover. He also discussed the possible causes of these changes such as increased nutrient levels from seabird guano. ⌛Chapters 00:00 Tubbataha Reef 12:27 Studying Tubbataha Benthic Cover 20:59 Changes in Coral Reefs 32:15 Analyzing Nutrient Input...

In this episode, Dr. Remika Gupana discusses her journey from her early experiences in science to her current research in remote sensing of water quality. She highlights the importance of phytoplankton and fluorescence in understanding ecosystems and the challenges and opportunities in using satellite data for environmental science. In this conversation, the main themes of remote sensing and fluor...

Cloud physicist Marco Polo A. Ibañez shares his experience in weather modeling and his research on raindrop size distribution during the Southwest Monsoon in Western Luzon. He also shares the importance of measuring the raindrop size in better understanding atmospheric processes. ⌛Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Weather Modeling 03:00 Experience at the Manila Observatory and NASA 06:07 Growing Int...

Marine biologist Marivic Pepino discusses her research on deep sea precious corals in Japan. She explores the ecological significance of these corals, their use in jewelry, and the challenges posed by overexploitation. Marivic shares insights on her work involving artificial fertilization, coral restoration, and genetic analysis to help sustain coral populations. This in-depth conversation offers...

Mr. Raymond Rodolfo shares his research on the gas bubbles coming off the seafloor in a diving site in Mabini, Batangas, which is popular for its marine biodiversity. This is called submarine groundwater discharge, which can have profound implications on our understanding of coral reefs and ocean acidification. This phenomenon is also not unique to Mabini, Batangas, and is reported in many coastal...

Dr. Loraine Pastoriza Primaleon discusses her experience in the geothermal industry. She shares her unexpected journey to becoming a geologist, her decision to pursue a PhD, and the challenges she faced in her research. She also discusses the results of her study on fractures in geothermal systems and the importance of having the right mentor and opportunities in the field of science.⌛Chapters00:...

In this episode of Behind The Science Podcast, we explore disaster resilience in the Philippines with Koji Elegado and Reina Chong. They discuss their climate change and disaster risk research, focusing on Catanduanes, a region often hit by typhoons. We will learn about the factors affecting resilience such as socioeconomic conditions, gender differences, and urban vs. rural vulnerabilities. The c...

Mr. Sandy Rey Bradecina, an associate professor at Central Bicol State University and a PhD student at Kochi University, discusses his research on parasites called trematodes found in marine snails. He explains the complex life cycle of these parasites, their potential impact on both marine organisms and humans, and how they can spread through various hosts, including snails, fish, and birds. He a...

In this episode of Behind the Science Podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating interaction between coral reefs, sea level changes, and tectonics with geoscientist Jeffrey Munar. Specializing in marine acoustics, coastal geomorphology, and geospatial analysis. Jeffrey shares his findings about the morphology of Apo Reef and Tubbataha Reef and how it relates to sea level change and tectonics durin...

Dr. Andrian Gajigan, a microbial oceanographer, shares insights from his research on marine microbes around Benham Rise in the Philippines. He discusses the vital role of these microbes in the ocean ecosystem, their diversity at varying depths, and the methods used to study them. Dr. Gajigan also reflects on the challenges of conducting field research and his future plans to explore marine viruses...

Ms. Tara Abrina shares her unique journey into marine economics, her research on coral reef valuation and fisheries value chains, and her experiences in citizen science initiatives in coastal communities. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating scientific research with community engagement while exploring effective methods for coral restoration. 📚Reference(s): [1] Abrina T.A. an...

Dr. Lorenzo Halasan, a Postdoctoral Researcher at the National Sun Yat-sen University, shares his research on the population genetics of the yellowstripe scad, Selaroides leptolepis, and showed a microevolution into an Asian and Australian lineage. Research spotlight: Halasan LC, Geraldino PJL and Lin H-C (2021) First Evidence of Cryptic Species Diversity and Population Structuring of Selaroides l...

Engr. Joshua Agar, a Civil Engineering professor from UP Diliman, discusses his expertise in wind engineering and its role in assessing the damage caused by Typhoon Odette. He shares his journey from shifting our from BS Political Science to Civil Engineering and specializing in wind engineering. Engr. Agar talks about his research on estimating typhoon wind speeds, his experience with structural...