Dr. Demayo shares life reflections during 6th Grand Lecture Series

by Kassandra A. Buenafe, OfCom | Sep 07 2024

A morning of inspiration and wisdom enveloped the Premier Research Institute of Science and Mathematics (PRISM) Lecture Hall on September 6, 2024, as Dr. Cesar G. Demayo from the Department of Biological Sciences (DBS) and Director of the Center for Integrative Health shared his life reflections on his academic and personal journey on the 6th Grand Lecture Series: Lessons for Life from a Lifetime of Learning, hosted by PRISM for retiring professors.

Dr. Demayo, whose expertise is on genetics and entomology, gave a heartwarming and entertaining talk, beginning with the question, “Why are you what you are?” In a humorous presentation on the concept of fertilization, he answered that what he is today was set in place from the start (even as a sperm), emphasizing the importance of believing in oneself.

He further discussed his childhood and the different phases of his life, fondly looking back on the memories that helped shape him. One of the central themes of his talk was resilience and survival, particularly in overcoming poverty, as he shared his experience of being a scholar during college.

Dr. Demayo’s desire to learn was further magnified during his time at the University of the Philippines for his graduate studies. His hopes and aspirations for the University to become more progressive were realized through his efforts in ensuring that the DBS maintained its Center of Excellence status, the Marine Science program became a Center of Development, and the MS Environmental Science program offered scholarships.

He also expressed his gratitude to the DBS for their support during his chairpersonship, as well as to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise, his friends, mentees, and colleagues. He concluded the presentation with a simple yet profound reminder that everyone is special. Messages from friends and former colleagues followed, sharing their connections and heartfelt sentiments toward Dr. Demayo.

A well-awarded researcher, great mentor, and friend, Dr. Demayo continues to inspire those around him. His legacy of wisdom and dedication will undoubtedly guide and uplift the 探花论坛-IIT community for years to come.

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