UPLB Museum of Natural History celebrates May 18 as Rabor Day
- Written by Regina Mae C. Ongkiko
- Published in News
© OVCRE/Regina Mae C. Ongkiko
Descendants of Dr. Rabor posing with AVC Susan May F. Calumpang
In honor of Dr. Dioscoro S. Rabor (1911-1996), the UPLB Museum of Natural History designated his birthdate, May 18, as Rabor Day. Dr. Rabor is known as the Father of Philippine Wildlife Conservation and today would have been his 104th birthday.
The Museum staff prepared a mini-exhibit dedicated to Dr. Rabor and his discoveries. A short program was also held to formally open the exhibit. MNH Director Dr. Juan Carlos T. Gonzalez gave the opening remarks. Dr. Susan May F. Calumpang, Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, also shared some of her fond memories of Dr. Rabor, having grown up next to the Rabor family. Also present was one of Dr. Rabor’s daughters, Ardea Ardeola Rabor.
Prof. Francis Mark Dioscoro R. Fellizar, grandson of Dr. Rabor, was also present with his family. He shared memories of his grandfather, and emphasized how he was such an amazing man. Prof. Fellizar mentioned that none of Dr. Rabor’s grandchildren followed his footsteps, maybe because they were such big shoes to fill. He also showed the audience a book that his grandfather had given him, with a handwritten dedication inside.
Dr. Rabor, truly was a remarkable man, and his contributions will never be forgotten. Despite his passion in conducting expeditions, he remained a family man. His wife and children came along on most of his expeditions and this series of expeditions led to probably the most thorough documentation of birds and mammals in the Philippines. He remains an inspiration to us to pursue our passions but to always remain humble and take care of family.
For the rest of the day, UPLB faculty, staff, students, and even alumni can visit the museum for free if they present a valid UPLB or UPLB Alumni Association ID at the entrance.
