Laoag City, Ilocos Norte - Among 18 entries for the research poster exhibit Saint Mary's University of Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya bagged 1st place during the 1st Biennial Health Research Symposium held at Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on June 26-27, 2014.

The study entitled "Antioxidant Screening of Selected Macrofungi from Mt. Palali, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines" led by Marlon Saludarez & his teammates grabbed the attention of the judges due to its unique presentation & understandability of the research poster.

Second place went to Cagayan State University, through Prof. Andy Catulin of Carig campus. The board of judges expressed appreciation on the study entitled "Antibacterial Assay of Selected Microalgae Ethanolic Extracts Against Fish Pathogens" of CSU.

Third place went to Jocris Cabagun & teammates with Prof. Ramelo Ramirez with the study "Hepatoprotective Effect of Watermelon (Citrillus Vulgaris) on CC14-Induced Hepatic Injury in Albino Rats."

Certificates & cash prizes were awarded to the winners. For the first prize - P4,000.00, 2nd prize - P3,000.00, 3rd prize - P2,000.00 respectively.

On the whole, the success of the activity is attributed to the support of the Department of Science & Technology Regional Office 02 & the Cagayan Valley Health Research & Development Consortium.