LIMB Alumni Shine at 12th PhilProFF Biennial Convention

 

Left to Right: Dr. Robie Vasquez, Dr. Valerie Diane Valeriano, Dr. Bernadette Bagon, and Ms. Mia Amoranto

Ilocos Norte, Philippines — The Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology (LIMB) proudly celebrates the achievements of its alumni, as Dr. Robie Vasquez and Dr. Valerie Diane Valeriano took center stage during the 12th Biennial Convention of the Philippine Society for Probiotics and Functional Foods, Inc. (PhilProFF), held on October 16, 2025, at the Teatro Ilocandia, Mariano Marcos State University.

Dr. Vasquez receiving his certificate for his paper presentation.

During the afternoon technical sessions, Dr. Vasquez presented a research paper titled “Non-GMO Surface Display of β-Xylosidase on Probiotic-Derived Bacteria-Like Particles for Efficient Degradation of Xylan Hemicellulosic Material.” The study highlights a novel, non-genetically modified approach to enzyme display using bacteria-like particles derived from probiotic sources. This innovative platform demonstrates significant potential for sustainable biomass conversion, particularly in enhancing the breakdown of xylan-rich hemicellulosic materials—an important step toward efficient lignocellulosic bioprocessing.

Dr. Vasquez’s work reflects LIMB’s strong foundation in applied microbiology and biotechnology, particularly in advancing enzyme technologies and functional microbial systems for industrial and environmental applications.

Dr. Valeriano presenting her plenary lecture during the convention.

Earlier in the day, fellow LIMB alumna Dr. Valeriano delivered a plenary lecture titled “From Probiotics to Live Biotherapeutics — Definitions and Regulatory Frameworks.” Representing the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, she provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of probiotics and the regulatory considerations surrounding next-generation biotherapeutics, emphasizing the need for standardized definitions and global frameworks.

In addition to the featured presenters, other LIMB alumni were also present at the convention, demonstrating continued engagement with the scientific community. Among them were Dr. Bernadette Bagon and Mia Amoranto, who attended the event and participated in the exchange of knowledge and collaboration among researchers and industry professionals.

The Day 2 program of the convention featured a series of plenary talks and technical presentations addressing cutting-edge developments in probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and functional food innovation. Researchers from various institutions showcased molecular approaches, precision fermentation strategies, and applications of beneficial microbes in health and nutrition.

The strong presence and contributions of LIMB alumni at this international gathering underscore the institution’s continued impact in shaping leaders and innovators in microbiology, probiotics, and functional food research.

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