By: Johann Francis M Besoro, Zsarlette Alanne A Cabana
MAERS Center Interns
Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan successfully conducted the first BIOQuest from 18 to 20 May 2026, spearheaded by Xavier University’s McKeough Advancement for Environment, Resilience, and Sustainability (MAERS) Center. This program is a three-day immersive initiative that was designed for the incoming Biology students and curious minds, introducing basic concepts and branches of Biology through lectures and hands-on activities. Ten curious minds joined the program, most committed to pursuing Biology for college. The activities were held at the Xavier University Laboratories (SC 202, 206, and 302)
The lectures and laboratory works showed the daily life of a Biology student.
The first day of the program focused on introducing the learners to what the Biology program has to offer, such as the facilities present through a laboratory tour. Introductory lectures and laboratory sessions tackled the scientific method, the basics of biology, and microscopy, Mr Miguel Antonio P Ladra delivered a lecture and laboratory session on the introduction to biological concepts. In the afternoon, an introduction to cells was given by Ms Noeleen Llorico, followed by the viewing of live microorganisms and onion cells being key activities.
On the second day, the learners focused on the scope of microbiology and parasitology, which were heavily focused on practices within the laboratory. Highlights of the second day involved the use of the microbiology laboratory's biosafetey cabinet, where the participants were able to swab and culture bacteria, and the dissection of cockroaches to look for parasites.
The creation (left) of the pioneering ‘BIOQuest’ legacy banner (right).
The final day consisted of lectures on gram staining and basic histology, with a brief laboratory session where the participants looked into the histology slides and learned about the different cellular structures. In the afternoon, a graduation ceremony was held, where the participants collaboratively designed a commemorative banner, symbolizing the unity and culmination of their learning journey. Dr Astrid L Sinco, PhD, congratulated the participants for their completion of the program, looking forward to seeing the participants' faces once they enter the biology program and walk in the halls of the Science Center.
The BIOQuest program represents Xavier University’s continued commitment to environmental education and youth engagement in biological engagement. By providing meaningful, place-based learning experiences, the program hopes to inspire future leaders and scientists in pursuing biological and environmental sciences.
