Dr. Adrian P. Ybañez of Cebu Technological University (CTU) has been awarded SEARCA Regional Professorial Chair for Academic Year 2026–2027, joining five distinguished Southeast Asian scholars in advancing research, instruction, and innovation for agricultural and rural development.
Recognized for his pioneering work in veterinary science, zoonotic diseases, and molecular diagnostics, Dr. Ybañez’s research has significantly advanced animal health and public health, with notable breakthroughs in the detection of vector‑borne pathogens in the country.
Dr. Ybañez emphasized the award’s value to CTU’s academic community, noting its potential to inspire future scholars.
“CTU can benefit from this recognition as relevant research endeavors with faculty collaborators are disseminated to the public through the awardee, and students may be encouraged to pursue similar studies and pathways to contribute to animal health and food security,” Dr. Ybañez said.
He also stressed that the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) promotes agriculture and food security, aligning with CTU’s thrust to advance these priorities in Cebu and the region.
When asked how he envisions his work contributing to regional collaboration among Southeast Asian universities in agriculture and rural development, Dr. Ybañez said he looks forward to building partnerships across borders.
“I envision to have more collaborators from the different countries, as we seek to address similar regional concerns in food security,” he said.
As a veterinarian, researcher, and academic leader known for his key contributions to veterinary science, public health, and research development, Dr. Ybañez further noted that the Professorial Chair will expand his academic influence and extend the reach of his scholarly work.
“This recognition will allow me to connect with more experts in the field in the Philippines and internationally, as my research works will also be made accessible to a bigger audience,” he said.
Dr. Ybañez has earned notable distinctions, including Outstanding Young Scientist from DOST‑NAST (2020), recognition among the Top 100 Asian Scientists (2022), and Outstanding Veterinarian in Education from the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association (2023).
He will further share his expertise in a public lecture titled ‘Livestock Vector‑borne Diseases and Their Impact on Animal Health and Economy.’
Dr. Ybañez’s achievement underscores CTU’s growing role in agricultural and rural development while strengthening regional collaboration to address food security and animal health challenges across Southeast Asia.
The SEARCA Regional Professorial Chair Award annually honors outstanding Southeast Asian academics for advancing Sustaining Transformation through Agricultural Innovation (SUSTAIN).
