The Philippine entry was one of four finalists under the category “Nuclear technologies: Improving the quality of life” for projects in the field of non-energy application of nuclear technologies. Philippine Nuclear Research Institute’s Atomic Research Chief Dr. Lucille V. Abad said the Philippine entry is called Radiation-Modified Carrageenan as Plant Growth Hormone.” Abad explained that either Gamma radiation or an Electron Beam is used to break down carrageenan powder into microscopic particles which allows them to be absorbed by plant leaves. She said studies have proven that plants sprayed with this carrageenan growth hormone are much healthier, more resistant to pests and diseases and have a much higher yield.

Loyola, J. A. (2019, April 18). PH carrageenan technology among 4 finalists at Russia's ATOMEXPO 2019 awards. Manila Bulletin, p. B-3.