Dr. Ulysses Montojo, Career Scientist I and chief of the Fisheries Postharvest Research and Development Division of the DA-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), was conferred the 2025 Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award (individual category) during the “Pagpupugay 2025: Parangal sa mga Lingkod Bayani” ceremony at Malacañang Palace on January 28, 2026.

The award recognized Dr. Montojo’s contributions to advancing the country’s fisheries industry and strengthening related policy reforms. On behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led the conferment of honors to outstanding government workers.

Dr. Montojo was cited for his role in expanding international market access for Philippine sardines. He is the first Filipino scientist to chair the Electronic Working Group of the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products, where he led efforts to include the local sardine species Sardinella lemuru, commonly known as tamban, in the Codex Standard for Canned Sardines and Sardine-Type Products.

The inclusion paved the way for the lifting of European Union trade restrictions on Philippine sardines, restoring access to key global markets and benefiting stakeholders across the fisheries value chain, from fishers to processors and exporters.

In addition to his work in fisheries standards, he also played a significant role in the development of Republic Act No. 11985, or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act. His research informed several provisions of the law aimed at increasing domestic salt production and revitalizing the salt industry, which has long been identified as critical to food security and national development.

The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is among the highest recognitions granted to government employees whose work demonstrates exceptional impact, integrity, and dedication to public service. ### (Anne Dominique del Valle)