Bonifacio Comandante (what a symbolic name) may not grab as many headlines as the Abu Sayyaf or prized boxer of 18 years certainly deserves the gratitude of Filipinos. Comandante's victory remind us of another admirable Filipino scientist from Panay, Dr. Jurgenne Honculada Primavera, who recently won the prestigious Pew Marine Fellowship for her long, extensive work in preserving mangroves. As December's Asian tsunami tragedy has taught the world, mangroves provide one of the most important ecological defenses for mankind, among other benefits.

The things that count. (2005, March 21). Manila Standard, p. B4.