ILOILO — Two scientists from the University of the Philippines Visayas Division of Biological Sciences have been recognized among the World's Top 2% Scientists in the 2026 list released by Stanford University and Elsevier. Dr. Christopher Marlowe Arandela Caipang and Dr. Mark Seasat Calabon earned the distinction for their research impact in fisheries and mycology.
A Global Benchmark for Research Excellence
The annual list ranks researchers worldwide using a composite citation indicator drawn from Scopus data. Scientists are grouped into 22 fields and 174 subfields, and only those in the top 2% of their subfield are included. Both UPV scientists were recognized in the single-year category, which measures research impact within the most recent citation year.
Their inclusion places UPV alongside leading research institutions globally, demonstrating that world-class science can emerge from regional universities in the Philippines. It also highlights the growing international visibility of Filipino researchers in fields critical to food security and biodiversity.
Dr. Caipang: Four Straight Years of Recognition
Dr. Caipang ranks 569th globally in Fisheries under Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. He has been on the list for four consecutive years since 2023, reflecting sustained research excellence. His work centers on aquatic animal health and aquaculture biotechnology.
His studies cover immune responses of fish and shellfish, the use of probiotics and immunostimulants to improve disease resistance, and molecular tools for detecting pathogens. These address a central challenge for aquaculture: preventing disease outbreaks that threaten farm productivity and the livelihoods of fish farmers.
Through collaborations at UPV, Dr. Caipang has helped translate laboratory research into practical diagnostic and health management tools for Philippine aquaculture. His contributions strengthen the competitiveness of a sector vital to national food security and coastal employment.
Dr. Calabon: Debut Recognition for Fungal Research
Dr. Calabon ranks 655th globally in Mycology and Parasitology under Biology. This year marks his debut on the list. A native of Barangay Pitogo in San Joaquin, Iloilo, he serves as an assistant professor at UPV.
His research focuses on the taxonomy, diversity, and systematics of fungi from freshwater, marine, and terrestrial habitats. Using morphological and molecular phylogenetic approaches, he has described new fungal species and contributed major reviews of fungal diversity in aquatic ecosystems.
These contributions expand scientific knowledge of an understudied group of organisms. They also strengthen documentation of fungal biodiversity in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, a region rich in species that remain undescribed. His work underscores the importance of protecting biodiversity for future generations.
Pride for Iloilo and Inspiration for Students
Dr. Calabon's achievement brings pride to San Joaquin and highlights the contributions of Ilonggo researchers to global science. His journey from a small town to international recognition demonstrates that talent and dedication can transcend geography.
The recognition of both scientists reflects UPV's strength in aquatic and biological sciences. It also inspires colleagues and students to pursue research with impact beyond the region. Their success proves that Filipino scientists can compete on the world stage.
