By Jesslyn Keith Valite

Mr. Glenn Apostol, a BS Chemistry graduate of MMSU, received the 2024 Bihis-Maala Basics Achievement Award for Chemical Industry from the Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies (PFCS) during the joint 38th Philippine Chemistry Congress and 2024 International Conference on Chemistry, held from July 22 to 24 at the SMX Convention Center, Davao City.

With two decades of experience as a chemist, Mr. Apostol currently serves as the Technical Director at Chemrez Technologies, Inc. He has significantly expanded the company’s global market reach and enhanced its product offerings. The company, operating under D&L Industries, is renowned as the Philippines’ first continuous-process biodiesel plant, integrated oleochemical for chemical specialties, and powder coatings and resin manufacturing.

Mr. Apostol has secured two patents and has several pending inventions, including the acclaimed Laurin MCT Oil, which won the 2024 Gawad Yamang Isip (GYI) Award for Best Invention by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines and Adjuvants for Agrochemical Application Derived from Coconut Oil. Reflecting on his achievements, Mr. Apostol remarked, "This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective effort and innovation at Chemrez Technologies. Our team's dedication to sustainable and cutting-edge solutions drives our success."

Furthermore, Mr. Apostol credited MMSU for preparing him to meet the various challenges in the chemical industry, stating, “I’m a proud product of the university.” He has pioneered advancements in manufacturing processes and upcycling technologies, creating innovative, sustainable ingredients for diverse industries. 

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis commended Mr. Apostol, emphasizing that his achievement highlights the quality of education and the caliber of the university’s graduates. "Mr. Apostol’s success story showcases the potential and excellence of MMSU alumni, and we are incredibly proud of his contributions to the field of chemistry," she said.

Mr. Apostol’s journey to success is marked by his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. He earned his bachelor’s degree from MMSU in 2002 and passed the Chemist Licensure Examination in the same year. He further honed his skills by completing the Leadership Management Development Program at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business in 2011. His exceptional innovations have not only stimulated the growth of his company but also enhanced the global standing of Filipino-made products. His dedication to outstanding quality and innovation in his field is evident in his active contributions to various esteemed professional organizations and his willingness to share his expertise worldwide. 

Moreover, he expressed his vision of advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. He encouraged young students to drive innovation, noting that the Philippines has abundant resources to support their efforts.

The PFCS recognizes the remarkable contributions of Filipino chemists to the field through the Outstanding Achievement Awards, which are divided into four categories: Chemistry Education, Chemical Research, Chemical Industry, and Service to the Chemistry Profession, including the Juanita Manalo Memorial Award. The Chemical Industry category, which recognized Mr. Apostol, honors chemists who made significant contributions to the chemistry-related aspects of an industry in the Philippines through leadership, entrepreneurship, research and development management, and process development.