Text by Jennifer Manongdo
Photos from the UP Manila College of Arts and Sciences
Dr. Rosario R. Rubite, the only Begonia specialist in the country and Professor Emeritus of the Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences urged future botanists to continue studying Begonias in the country and to discover new species before they face extinction.
Dr. Rubite emphasized her message during the launch of her book, “Begonia of the Philippines,” at the University of the Philippines Manila, College of Arts and Sciences Theater on Oct. 10, 2024. She also urged the students to delve into the potential medicinal properties of Begonia following the lead of locals whom she met during her research.
Aside from this, she also revealed that Begonia is a good food source. She said Begonia leaves are edible and can also be used as flavoring for fish sinigang. “Begonia of the Philippines” was written and published in collaboration with the University of the Philippines, the Academia Sinica of Taipei, Taiwan, and The Dr. Cecilia Koo Botanic Conservation Center (KBCC) in Taiwan. #
