Following the successful launch of its first volume, former UPD-CAL dean and professor emeritus Dr. Torres-Yu announced that the next title in the Sulong-Agham series will highlight the life and work of Filipino biologist Leonard Co.
The multilingual children's book series, in collaboration with UP Diliman College of Science, non-profit organization Supling Sining, Inc., and the UP Diliman College of Arts and Letters Departamento ng Filipino at Panitikang Pilipino, aims to inspire Filipino children to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by showcasing the lives and work of Filipino scientists.
Ang Doktor ng Dagat, the first book in the series, puts the spotlight on pioneering oceanographer and marine scientist Dr. Deo Florence Onda of the UPD-CS' Marine Science Institute. It is available in Filipino, Cuyonon, and English.
Dr. Onda initially pursued a biology degree as the first step to fulfilling his parents' wish for him to become a medical doctor. However, he discovered that his interests were elsewhere.
"I wrote to my parents and told them that I'll continue with biology. To become a marine biologist is what I want," he said.
Dr. Onda added that the real story of Ang Doktor ng Dagat is much bigger than himself, it's about the liberation and empowerment that comes from following a dream.
"It is the story of the youth who dreamt, are dreaming, and in continuous pursuit of what they love. I hope that the Ang Doktor ng Dagat serves as an inspiration to those who feel like they don't have opportunities in life. It is also my wish that whoever will help them will be inspired, too," Dr. Onda said.