The UPLB Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB) proudly presented its new hibiscus variety, the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Filomena Fortich-Campos,’ named in honor of the late Academician Filomena Fortich-Campos, on April 4, 2025, at the IPB Seminar Room.

Academician Filomena Fortich-Campos was widely recognized for her significant contributions to science and agriculture, particularly her work transforming the cotton industry through the development of high-yielding and pest-resistant varieties. 

She also studied various cultural management practices of sunflower cultivation and radiation genetics on rice. 

In his opening message, UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. highlighted the late academician’s legacy, her contributions to the agriculture sector and Filipino communities, and the fitting tribute of a hibiscus variety named in her honor. 

This new variety forms part of the “Hibiscus Women in Science Series,” which pays tribute to the invaluable legacy of Filipina scientists. The hibiscus was developed by IPB and maintained and propagated through the funding support of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).

The Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Filomena Fortich-Campos’ petal color changes throughout the day. In the morning, its petals have red-purple hues, forming a delicate star-like shape with a pink eye at its core. As the day progresses, the purple overlay fades, revealing a soft yellow corolla edged with warm brown tones.

Present during the event were National Scientists Emil Q. Javier and Dolores A. Ramirez; Dr. Nathaniel C. Bantayan, vice chancellor for research and extension; Dr.  Christine B. Adiova, associate dean for instruction of the College of Agriculture and Food Science; Dr. Elmer E. Enicola, director of IPB; hibiscus breeder Agripina O. Rasco; students from the UPLB Talent Pool; and the family of Academician Campos. (Ricky Bryan U. Biagtan)