By Prof. Sarex Dalida Dipol, Jr.

Officer-In-Charge of the Department of Life Sciences, Prof. Cheerylyn M. Macairan, graciously accepted the collection of rare arachnids.

On June 3, 2024 (Monday), Ms. Alyssa L. Zerrudo, a passionate arachnid enthusiast and collector, reached out to the Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center (CESLC) to offer a remarkable donation of her rare scorpions and tarantulas’ collection to Central Philippine University (CPU). This generous act was aimed at ensuring the protection, conservation, and preservation of these unique species. The collection has been entrusted to the Department of Life Sciences (Biology), reflecting CPU’s strong commitment to biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

Ms. Zerrudo expressed her confidence in CPU’s capabilities for biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship. She emphasized that the inclusion of these living specimens in the university’s resources would enhance students’ and the community’s awareness of the crucial role arachnids play in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.

The Department of Life Sciences, under the leadership of the Officer-In-Charge, Prof. Cheerylyn M. Macairan, graciously accepted the said collection. The department, well-regarded for its expertise in environmental rehabilitation, stewardship, and biodiversity conservation, is excited to incorporate these rare species into their academic and research programs. These arachnids will serve as invaluable educational tools, providing students and researchers with hands-on experience and deeper insights into the ecological importance of these creatures.

Prof. Macairan expressed her commitment to not only maintaining but also propagating these rare specimens. She highlighted the educational potential of the collection, which will serve as a dynamic teaching resource, allowing students to engage directly with these fascinating organisms and understand their role in our environment.

This donation marks a significant step towards enhancing CPU’s educational resources and promoting conservation awareness. The Department of Life Sciences is profoundly grateful to Ms. Zerrudo for her generous contribution and looks forward to the positive impact this collection will have on its academic community and beyond.

The turnover of these rare arachnids is more than a transfer of exotic species; it represents a shared vision for education, conservation, and the preservation of our planet’s biodiversity. Central Philippine University is proud to be a steward of this collection and is committed to using it to foster greater environmental awareness and understanding among students and the community.