State funeral readied for nat’l scientist Alcala

Arrangements are now being readied for a state funeral for National Scientist, Dr. Angel Alcala, who passed away on Wednesday, February 1, at a hospital in Dumaguete City.

Silliman University President Dr. Betty McCann has written to the National Academy of Science and Technology, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to facilitate the state funeral for Alcala.

A state funeral is given to Filipinos who were conferred with National Artist or National Scientist recognition, and the expenses shall be shouldered by the government as mandated by Executive Order No. 131.

The late former President Benigno Simeon Aquino III recognized Alcala as a National Scientist of the Philippines in the field of Biological Sciences for his research work on amphibians and reptiles, marine biodiversity, and marine protected areas in 2014.

Alcala, aged 94 at the time of his death, was appointed by then President Fidel Ramos as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources from 1992-1995, and later as Commission on Higher Education chair from 1995 to 1998.

He was the ninth president of Silliman University from 19911992 and served as a member of the Board of Trustees until his death.

He was renowned internationally for various research and publications and received a multitude of awards for his contribution to science and the field of environment.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Leonardo Peña, commander of the 302nd Army Infantry Brigade based in Negros Oriental’s Tanjay City told the Philippine News Agency yesterday they are awaiting final orders from the AFP hierarchy for the state funeral.

Protocols include a 21gun salute, the playing of taps, and pallbearers, among others.

Vigil guards from the Philippine Army have also already been assigned in the wake of the late scientist, Peña said.