The University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) has once again demonstrated its academic prowess, with a team from the College of Home Economics (CHE) securing 1st Place in the Nutrition and Dietetics Category of the 51st DOST-FNRI Undergraduate Thesis Competition. The prestigious event, part of the DOST-FNRI Seminar Series: “Food Security for a Well-Nourished Country,” was held on July 8–9, 2025, at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel in Makati City.
Carla Berino, Sarah Robielos, and Micah Banatao, all former thesis advisees of Dr. Maria Fema S. Aquino from UPD’s CHE, triumphed with their groundbreaking research titled “Diet Diversity and Micronutrient Adequacy of Preschool Children among Transnational Families in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.” Their victory highlights the university’s commitment to addressing critical issues in public health and nutrition.
The achievement was not only a testament to the students’ dedication and hard work but also recognized the invaluable role of academic mentorship and institutional support. Dr. Aquino’s guidance and expertise were clearly instrumental in this remarkable journey of success, underscoring how a dedicated thesis adviser can significantly impact student achievement and the quality of research produced. The team’s win came with a cash prize and plaques for the students, their thesis adviser, and the College of Home Economics UP Diliman, acknowledging the collective effort poured into advancing nutrition research.
This success underscores the vital platform provided by DOST-FNRI for young researchers to showcase their work and contribute to a well-nourished and food-secure Philippines. The UP Diliman community celebrates this remarkable accomplishment, which is expected to inspire more students to engage in impactful research that addresses the nation’s most pressing nutritional challenges.
Featured photo taken from the DOST-FNRI Facebook page.