In a remarkable blend of science and culture, a newly discovered plant species in the Philippines has been named in honor of veteran broadcast journalist Doris Bigornia.
Documented in a 2025 study by Bucay et al., researchers reported the discovery of two new Begonia species found in the lush landscapes of Davao Oriental, part of the Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor (EMBC). Among them is Begonia dorisiae, named after Bigornia as a playful yet meaningful tribute linking her surname to the genus name, which Filipino botanists often associate with her in outreach and education efforts.
The authors explained that the decision to name the plant after Bigornia stemmed from a running joke among local botanists during expeditions — that the best way to help Filipinos remember the genus Begonia is to associate it with “Bigornia.” The species was discovered in the municipality of Caraga, an area rich in flora but still relatively understudied.
Begonia dorisiae resembles Begonia amparoae but can be distinguished by its tomentose hairs with bulbous bases on the petioles and the underside of its leaves. The second newly described species, Begonia medinae, shares traits with Begonia elmeri — one of the only peltate species in Mindanao — but stands out for its dense pilose hairs on its leaves, petioles, and flower stalks.
Genetic analyses using Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequences further confirmed the distinction of these species from other known members of the Begonia section Baryandra, a group endemic to the Philippines and neighboring Asian regions. These findings not only highlight the rich, often overlooked biodiversity in Eastern Mindanao but also underscore the importance of continued botanical exploration in the country.
The naming of Begonia dorisiae is both a scientific milestone and a cultural nod, demonstrating how taxonomy can honor public figures while making plant science more accessible to the public.