Balik Scientist empowers university in R&D of bioinspired innovations

A Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Balik Scientist supported his host institution, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), to use biomimicry and bioinspired innovations to advance Philippine health, sustainability, and innovation.

Dr. Hernando S. Salapare III is a distinguished Filipino physicist and chemist, recognized for his contributions to plasma physics and chemistry, biomaterials, biointerfaces, and bioinspired materials.

He earned his BS Graduate Degree and MS in Physics from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, where he also earned his doctorate, with an exchange doctoral mobility program in Chemistry at the Côte d’Azur University in Nice, France.

Salapare provided technical expertise to PLM in sustainable biomaterials and bioinspired materials through collaborative research and development (R&D) on nanocellulose hydrogels, nitrogen-doped (N-doped) carbon sensors, and bioinspired food coatings, while establishing advanced research practices and quality assurance practices.

He was also instrumental in developing a grant proposal to establish a Bioinspiration Laboratory in PLM. Through this laboratory, Philippine local university can advance interdisciplinary research and innovation based on biomimetic and bioinspired approaches.

“The engagement of Doctor Salapare expands the Philippines’ capacity to develop solutions that address pressing needs across health, environment, industry, and education,” said Science Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr.

“As the global shift toward sustainable energy accelerates, we can leverage the expertise of our Balik Scientists to advance technologies in green buildings, transport, and healthcare—driving greater energy efficiency and fostering healthier, more sustainable communities,” Solidum explained.

Among the ongoing R&D projects supported by Salapare, includes the “Bioinspired cellulose-alginate hydrogel from water hyacinth.”

The study is developing a bioinspired cellulose-based hydrogel from invasive water hyacinth, mimicking natural plant polymer networks and extracellular matrix environments to create a sustainable wound-healing biomaterial.

Another project is the “Ultrasound-assisted solvothermal synthesis of N-doped carbon dots derived from water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) for gas sensing.”

The study develops bioinspired nitrogen-doped carbon dots from invasive water hyacinth, mimicking natural carbon frameworks and biological electron-transfer mechanisms to create sustainable nanomaterial-based carbon monoxide sensors.

On food and nutrition R&D, DSalapare is also supporting the “Bioinspired sustainable pectin coatings from Philippine fruit peels for banana preservation.”

The study develops a bioinspired edible coating derived from plant cell wall pectin to mimic natural fruit protective barriers and delay the ripening of lakatan banana using sustainable local fruit peel sources.

Science Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia said: “With his interdisciplinary expertise in physics, materials science, and chemistry, Doctor Salapare bridges the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications, enabling institutions like PLM to harness his knowledge and drive meaningful, high-impact innovations.”

“The contribution of our Balik Scientists go beyond research outputs—they strengthen institutions, mentor the next generation of innovators, and forge global linkages that boost national competitiveness,” Buendia pointed out.

“Doctor Salapare exemplifies the impact of this program not only through his significant contributions to plasma science, biomaterials, and bioinspired technologies but also through his strong commitment to mentorship, collaboration, and nation-building,” said DOST-PCIEERD Deputy Executive Director Niñaliza H. Escorial.

“As a Balik Scientist, his body of work clearly shows how science is guided by service and innovation; it can become a powerful driver of sustainable progress and a better future for generations of Filipinos,”

To date, the Balik Scientist Program has supported 709 Balik Scientists, with 956 engagements.