ACADEMICIAN REMIGIO M. OLVEDA, 71

PARAÑAQUE CITY – Academician Remigio M. Olveda, a renowned Filipino expert in the field of infectious and tropical medicine joined his creator on Friday, April 24 at the age of 71 years.

The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST, Phl), the country’s highest recognition and advisory body on issues concerning science and technology, joins the scientific community in mourning the demise of Dr. Olveda, who was chiefly recognized for his significant contributions as a researcher, clinician, mentor, and scientist particularly in his extensive research in pursuing cost-effective strategies for the control of the Schistosoma japonicum infection in the country affecting around 200 million people in 74 countries worldwide.

He played a central role in the diversification of sources of research funds leading to multidisciplinary, international research programs of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM), where he served for more than 25 years. He then established the Good Manufacturing Practices Certified Vaccine Production Plant at RITM capable of producing affordable and high-quality vaccines.

Dr. Olveda obtained his Bachelor of Science PreMed at the University of Santo Tomas (1969) and Doctor of Medicine at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (1973). He served as the director of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM). He was a member of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Manila Medical Society, and Philippine Medical Association.

He was a recipient of many awards, including the Outstanding Young Scientist given by NAST PHL in 1983, Outstanding Health Research Award by Department of Science and Technology and Department of Health in 2006, Achievement Awardee by the National Research Council of the Philippines in 2011, and NAST-LELEDFI Awardee for Outstanding Research in Tropical Medicine in 2012.

Dr. Remigio M. Olveda was elected to the NAST PHL as Academician in 2014.

His remains now lie in state at the Holy Trinity Chapel in Sucat, Parañaque. Interment service will be held on April 28, 2020 at the Manila Memorial Park, Sucat, Paranaque. (Dhan Michael L. dela Peña/NAST PHL)