Rommel Dominguez, a graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Food Technology (BSFT) program at the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), secured 2nd Place in the Food Technology Category at the 51st FNRI Seminar Series – Undergraduate Student Research Competition held on July 8–9, 2025, at Dusit Thani Manila, Makati City.

His research, titled “Functional Germinated Brown Rice Enhanced by Solid State Fermentation and Sensory Evaluation Using Just-About-Right Analysis of Coffee Alternative Made Thereof,” explores the potential of germinated brown rice as a functional and sustainable alternative to traditional coffee.

The study promotes sustainable food practices while addressing consumer health needs, aligning with national efforts to ensure food security.

Dominguez was mentored by Dyanne Jane Duldulao, RCh, faculty member of the Natural and Applied Sciences Department (NASD) under the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), with guidance and support from Darwin Reyes, NASD Chairperson, and Ryan Cabanatan, BSFT Program Coordinator.

The research competition was part of the Department of Science and Technology–Food and Nutrition Research Institute’s (DOST-FNRI) 51st Seminar Series on Food and Nutrition Research and S&T Activities, anchored on the theme: “Food Security for a Well-Nourished Country” where researchers, professionals, educators, and students nationwide gathered in support of DOST’s initiatives to combat malnutrition and promote food security through innovation and science-based solutions.

In his statement, Dr. Mario Abesamis, Jr., Dean of NEUST CAS, expressed pride in Dominguez’s achievement:

“This achievement brings honor to our institution and reaffirms our commitment to producing research that is not only relevant but impactful. It is with great pride that we recognize [the team] that exemplifies the spirit of scientific innovation and academic excellence that the college upholds.”

The DOST-FNRI seminar series also featured technical and plenary sessions on food innovation, consumption patterns, nutrition, and wellness– underscoring the importance of science in crafting data-driven policies and developing community-responsive nutrition technologies.

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