CEU Microbiology Society

Good luck to our CEU BS Biology with Specialization in Microbiology alumni taking the 2026 PAM Certification Examination for Registered Microbiologist (RMicro) today!

As CEU Microbiology Society Members, we proudly extend our support as you take this important professional milestone this January 17–18, 2026, at the SMX AURA Convention Center, SM Aura Premier, Taguig City. This examination reflects the dedication, discipline, and scientific rigor you have developed throughout your academic and laboratory training.

May your knowledge be well-cultured, your reasoning precise, and your confidence remain stable from the first question to the last. Trust your preparation, maintain your focus, and approach each section with clarity and composure.

The CEU Microbiology Society is cheering you on every step of the way. Wishing you a smooth examination experience and the successful results you have worked hard to achieve.

Happy birthday to our strong and dependable 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐫, 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐬𝐨!

Today is extra special because we’re not only celebrating the joy of Christmas, but also celebrating you. As one of the CEU Microbiology Society’s trusted treasure keepers, your willfulness and perseverance continue to keep the organization steady and moving forward. You handle responsibilities with determination, focus, and a level of commitment that truly inspires everyone around you.

Through challenges and pressure, you remain resilient and consistent, always pushing through to make sure everything is in order. Your dedication plays a huge role in the stability and success of the organization, and we are truly grateful for your hard work.

If we were to compare you to a microorganism, you’d be 𝘋𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘤𝘰𝘤𝘤𝘶𝘴 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴, a known bacterium for its incredible resilience and ability to thrive even in the toughest conditions. Just like this bacterium, you stand strong no matter what comes your way.

So today, as we celebrate Christmas cheer and your special day, we wish you a year filled with strength, growth, and blessings. Happy birthday, Janica! The CEU MicroSoc family appreciates you more than you know.

Happy birthday to our creative and ever-reliable Assistant Secretary of CEU Microbiology Society, 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐚 𝐍𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐧𝐠!

Today we celebrate the one who brings both color and order into everything she does. Your creativity shines through every layout, document, and task you handle, and your neatness makes sure everything looks polished and professional. You have a way of turning simple work into something visually appealing and well thought out which is a talent that truly elevates the CEU Microbiology Society.

You’re not just creative; you’re intentional. Every detail is placed with purpose, every output reflects effort and care, and that balance is something we all admire. Behind the scenes, your dedication keeps the organization running smoothly and looking its best.

If we were to compare you to a bacterium, you’d be 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴, and it is famously known for its bright red pigment, prodigiosin. Just like this bacterium stands out because of its vibrant color, you stand out for your creativity, originality, and eye-catching ideas. You bring life and color to the organization while still maintaining structure and order.

Happy birthday, 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐚! May your year be as bright as your ideas and as clean as your work. The CEU MicroSoc family is grateful for your creativity and commitment.

And we are back again for our Microbe Monday, mga mhie-krobiyos!

Today we will explore one of the causes of periodontitis, the 𝘍𝘶𝘴𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘯𝘶𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘮.

𝘍𝘶𝘴𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘯𝘶𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘮 is a gram negative, spindle shaped bacterium that naturally lives in the human mouth, especially in dental plaque and the spaces between the teeth and gums. It belongs to the phylum Fusobacteriota and the family Fusobacteriaceae. This organism is anaerobic, meaning it grows in environments without oxygen, and it is considered an opportunistic pathogen. Although it is usually harmless as part of the normal microbiota, it can cause disease when it multiplies excessively or enters areas of the body where it does not belong. Under the microscope, it appears as long, thin rods measuring around five to ten micrometers in length.

𝘍. 𝘯𝘶𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘮 is widespread globally because it is a common member of the oral and gastrointestinal microbiota in both healthy and sick individuals. It plays a major role in forming dental plaque by connecting early and late colonizing microbes, helping thick biofilms develop on tooth surfaces. When these biofilms grow too much, they release substances that irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis and periodontitis. These gum infections may cause swelling, bleeding, bad breath and eventual tooth loss when not properly treated.

This bacterium is also known to cause more serious infections when it spreads through the bloodstream. It has been linked to abdominal infections, lung abscesses, heart infections such as endocarditis and complications in pregnancy including preterm birth. Studies in recent years have also found this bacterium in colorectal cancer tissues, suggesting it may promote cancer growth by supporting inflammation and interfering with immune responses.

Diagnosis of 𝘍. 𝘯𝘶𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘮 can be done using microscopic examination, anaerobic culture techniques and molecular methods. Because it does not grow when exposed to oxygen, specialized laboratory setups are needed to culture it. Molecular tests such as PCR are commonly used for fast and accurate detection, especially from blood, tissue or abscess samples. In dental cases, plaque samples may be examined to assess the bacterial load.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. This bacterium is typically sensitive to antibiotics such as metronidazole, clindamycin and several beta lactam antibiotics. For dental infections, improving oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing and routine dental visits is the most effective prevention strategy. More serious infections require early medical attention and proper antibiotic therapy to avoid complications.

In the Philippines, 𝘍. 𝘯𝘶𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘮 is commonly found because it is naturally present in the oral cavity of most people. Its impact is more noticeable in communities where dental hygiene practices are inconsistent or where access to dental care is limited. Many Filipinos develop gum disease at a young age, which increases the chances of this bacterium overgrowing or spreading to other parts of the body. Public health programs continue to encourage better oral care habits to reduce gum disease and prevent infections associated with this organism.

References:

Brook, I. (2022). Fusobacterium infections in children and adults: Clinical manifestations and management. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 75(1), 120–128. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/ciab963
Han, Y. W. (2015). Fusobacterium nucleatum: A commensal-turned-pathogen. Current Opinion in Microbiology, 23, 141–147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mib.2014.11.013
Kostic, A. D., Gevers, D., & Garrett, W. S. (2013). Fusobacterium nucleatum and colorectal cancer: Cause or consequence? Trends in Microbiology, 21(10), 506–508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tim.2013.08.004
World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Oral health: Key facts. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health

On behalf of the CEU Microbiology Society, we greet our dedicated Secretary, 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐂. 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐬, a very 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒃𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒅𝒂𝒚! Your commitment to keeping our organization in order, updated, and moving forward has been nothing short of exceptional. We truly appreciate the consistency and grace you bring to your role.

Your reliability and unwavering presence have strengthened the society in many ways. Whether it’s coordinating tasks, organizing documents, or ensuring that everyone is informed, you’ve shown how vital your role is to our growth and unity. Thank you for being a steady source of support for the entire team.

If we were to compare you to a bacterium, you would be our very own 𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙗𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙨—efficient, adaptable, and always prepared. Just as 𝘉. 𝘴𝘶𝘣𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘴 forms endospores to stay resilient and maintain essential functions even under stress, you manage responsibilities with readiness and composure, no matter how hectic things become. May your year ahead be filled with success, strength, and new opportunities. 𝙃𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮 𝙗𝙞𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙤! 🎉🧫💙

What a Paw-some Day to Pawtect!

The CEU Microbiology Society successfully held ShotSpot & Pawtectors: Vaccine for Us and Our Furry Friend last October 11, 2025, at the ISC Mezzanine. The event brought together students and advocates for health and animal welfare in a meaningful discussion on the importance of vaccination in protecting both humans and animals.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed guest speakers, Dr. Zadkiel Seriosa, MD, and Dr. Noel Manalo, DVM, for sharing their expertise and inspiring everyone with their dedication to public health and compassionate service. Special thanks as well to all participants who made this event a huge success proving once again that together, we can Pawtect one another.

Happy Birthday to our one and only young stunna, our amazing President — 𝐉𝐲𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬!

It is our big honor to have you as our president in this current school year. You inspired us to believe what the members of this organization can do. You excellently accompanied us on the journey as MicroSoc members. And, as the leader of this organization, you encouraged us to do great activities which benefit not only ourselves but also the whole community of the CEU Microbiology Society. In other terms, you’re the 𝘌. 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘪 everyone actually wants in their life. Reliable, hardworking, and always essential.

On this special day, we celebrate you, our President, our motivator, and our friend. May this new year in your life bring more success, strength, and opportunities to keep shining your light both in the CEU Microbiology Society and beyond.

Keep slaying, keep inspiring, and keep being the realest, Truth!

Hello mga mhie-krobiyo! It's Microbe Monday again! Let us explore the one of the Entamoeba species that has a target or a bullseye karyosome, the 𝘌𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘦𝘣𝘢 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘭𝘺𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘢.

𝘌𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘦𝘣𝘢 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘭𝘺𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘢 is a microscopic, single-celled parasite that causes amoebiasis, an intestinal infection that can also spread to other organs such as the liver. It belongs to the group Amoebozoa and the family Entamoebidae. The parasite exists in two main forms: the trophozoite, which is the active and moving stage, and the cyst, which is the dormant and infective stage. The trophozoite is about 15 to 30 micrometers in size and lives inside the large intestine, while the cyst, which is smaller at around 10 to 20 micrometers, can survive outside the body for long periods. The determinant for this species from other 𝘌𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘦𝘣𝘢 species or the the pathognomonic sign is the presence of ingested red blood cells (erythrophagocytosis) within the cytoplasm of its trophozoites.

People get infected by this protozoa when they accidentally swallow cysts from contaminated food or water. Once inside the body, the cysts open in the small intestine, releasing trophozoites that move to the large intestine. Some trophozoites live peacefully in the gut, while others invade the intestinal wall and cause tissue damage. This can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and stool mixed with blood or mucus. In severe cases, the parasite spreads to the liver, causing amoebic liver abscess, which is marked by fever, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, and swelling.

Diagnosis of this disease is usually done by stool examination, where cysts or trophozoites are detected under the microscope. However, some hospitals and diagnostic centers now use antigen tests and PCR for more accurate results, especially in severe cases or when other infections are suspected. For suspected liver involvement, doctors may use blood tests, ultrasound, or CT scans to confirm the presence of liver abscesses.

In the Philippines, amoebiasis remains a significant public health concern, especially in areas where sanitation systems are inadequate and clean water is limited. The country’s tropical climate and frequent rainfall make it easier for contaminated water to mix with food sources, increasing the risk of infection. Many cases occur in densely populated urban communities and rural areas where proper waste disposal is not strictly practiced. Local health reports have shown that amoebiasis is among the most common intestinal infections in the country, affecting both children and adults, particularly during the rainy season when water contamination is more likely.

Preventing amoebiasis in the Philippines need to rely on improving the sanitation and promotion of hygiene practices. People are advised to boil or filter drinking water, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and always wash their hands before eating or preparing food. It is also important to dispose of human waste properly and keep surroundings clean to prevent flies and other insects from spreading the cysts. Public health campaigns in schools and communities must emphasize the importance of safe water consumption and environmental sanitation as key measures to reduce infections.

References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Parasites – Amebiasis (Entamoeba histolytica). U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/amebiasis/

Department of Health (DOH). (2023). Amoebiasis: Causes, symptoms, and prevention. Republic of the Philippines. https://doh.gov.ph

Petri, W. A., & Singh, U. (2022). Diagnosis and management of amebiasis. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 35(2), e00118-21. https://doi.org/10.1128/CMR.00118-21

World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Amebiasis: Key facts. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/amebiasis

It is Microbe Monday again mga Mhie-krobiyos!

Ever seen small, orange jelly blobs on rotting logs after rain? You might have glimpsed 𝘋𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘺𝘮𝘺𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘴, commonly called the common jelly-spot.

You might have glimpsed 𝘋𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘺𝘮𝘺𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘴, commonly called the common jelly-spot, is a gelatinous fungus in the family Dacrymycetaceae that colonizes decaying wood. Its fruiting bodies typically present as small, cushion-shaped or disc-shaped blobs of orange to yellow gelatinous tissue. When fresh and moist, these blobs appear shiny and somewhat translucent; as they age or dry, they may become darker, wrinkled or slightly brain-like in surface texture.

Ecologically, 𝘋. 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘴 is saprobic, meaning it obtains nutrients by decomposing dead wood of both coniferous and hardwood trees. It often grows on barkless or decorticated sticks, fallen branches, or logs. Because it thrives in moist environments, you are most likely to see its fruiting bodies during wet weather or after periods of rain. Its global distribution is broad: it is found across Europe, Asia, North America, and Oceania .

Microscopically, the species is distinguished by its fork-shaped (Y-shaped) basidia, and spores that are elongated (sausage-shaped) and become 3-septate (i.e. with three cross-walls) when mature. In many specimens, arthrospores (asexual spores formed by breaking of hyphal chains) are also present. The hyphae lack clamp connections. In substrate colonized by D. stillatus, two forms may sometimes co-occur: a lighter form producing sexual spores (basidiospores) and a darker form producing arthrospores.

Because it is a saprophyte rather than a pathogen, 𝘋. 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘴 does not cause disease in humans or animals. Its value lies in its role in forest ecosystems, helping break down wood and recycling nutrients. For mycology and naturalists, it is interesting for its gelatinous texture and its behavior of reviving when rehydrated — dried fruiting bodies may rehydrate and regain jelly form after moisture returns.

Kuo, M. (2015). Dacrymyces stillatus (MushroomExpert.com). Mushroomexpert.com. https://www.mushroomexpert.com/dacrymyces_stillatus.html

Wood, M. (2015). California Fungi: Dacrymyces stillatus. Mykoweb.com. https://www.mykoweb.com/CAF/species/Dacrymyces_stillatus.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Gibson, I. (2020). E-Flora BC Atlas Page. Geog.ubc.ca. https://linnet.geog.ubc.ca/Atlas/Atlas.aspx?sciname=Dacrymyces+stillatus

MushroomExpert.Com. (n.d.). Dacrymyces stillatus (MushroomExpert.Com). https://www.mushroomexpert.com/dacrymyces_stillatus.html -picture

Re-live the moment mga Mhie-krobiyos!

The CEU Microbiology Society proudly presents the highlights of “Superbug and Silent Spores: A Seminar Talk on the Rising Threat of Resistance and Fungal Infection,” held at the ISC Mezzanine last October 10, 2025! The event brought together brilliant minds and passionate microbiologists to dive deep into the urgent issues of antimicrobial resistance and emerging fungal infections.

From enlightening discussions to meaningful student engagement, the day was filled with learning, curiosity, and a shared commitment to advancing microbiological awareness.

We give our huge gratitude to everyone who participated and to our resource speaker. Let’s continue to explore, educate, and empower the next generation of microbiologists.

"𝘜𝘣𝘰 𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘪𝘱𝘰𝘯 𝘯𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘬𝘢𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘢𝘵? 𝘉𝘢𝘬𝘢 𝘧𝘭𝘶 𝘯𝘢 '𝘺𝘢𝘯?"

It is the flu season again mga Mhie-krobiyos! Dahil dito na-late rin kami magpost ng pubmat.😭

For this day's edition of Microbe Monday, meet the cause of viral flu - the 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘻𝘢 virus. 🦠

As the flu season begins, the 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘻𝘢 virus once again takes the spotlight as a major cause of respiratory illness worldwide. This virus, belonging to the Orthomyxoviridae family, is an enveloped pathogen with a segmented, single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome that targets the epithelial cells of the respiratory tract. Infection often presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, headache, and fatigue, and in severe cases, it can lead to complications like pneumonia or secondary bacterial infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems.

The Influenza virus carries two key surface glycoproteins—hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA)—which play critical roles in viral attachment, entry, and release. These proteins are also the basis for classifying Influenza A subtypes, such as H1N1 and H3N2, that commonly circulate among humans. Due to its segmented genome, the virus is highly prone to mutation, resulting in genetic changes through antigenic drift and antigenic shift. Antigenic drift leads to minor mutations responsible for seasonal epidemics, while antigenic shift results in major genetic reassortments that can cause global pandemics.

Among its four types, 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘻𝘢 A and B are the primary causes of human seasonal epidemics, while type C results in mild infections and type D primarily affects cattle. 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘻𝘢 A viruses are further classified into subtypes based on HA and NA combinations, and Influenza B viruses are divided into two major lineages known as Victoria and Yamagata. Wild aquatic birds serve as the natural reservoir of 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘻𝘢 A viruses, facilitating interspecies transmission and contributing to their genetic diversity. Because of its capacity for constant change and widespread transmission, the Influenza virus remains a persistent global health concern.

Annual vaccination remains the most effective preventive strategy, with vaccine formulations updated each year to match circulating strains. Alongside immunization, maintaining proper hygiene through regular handwashing, practicing respiratory etiquette, and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals are crucial in reducing transmission. As this flu season unfolds, it is vital to stay protected, informed, and proactive in preventing infection. Through awareness, vaccination, and responsible health practices, we can collectively reduce the burden of 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘻𝘢 and safeguard our communities.

Stay safe in this season of flu mga Mhie-krobiyos!

References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Key facts about influenza (flu). https://www.cdc.gov/flu/

Krammer, F., Smith, G. J. D., Fouchier, R. A. M., Peiris, M., Kedzierska, K., Doherty, P. C., ... & Palese, P. (2018). Influenza. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 4(1), 3.

Taubenberger, J. K., & Morens, D. M. (2008). The pathology of influenza virus infections. Annual Review of Pathology, 3, 499–522.

Tong, S., Zhu, X., Li, Y., Shi, M., Zhang, J., Bourgeois, M., ... & Donis, R. O. (2013). New world bats harbor diverse influenza A viruses. PLoS Pathogens, 9(10), e1003657.

Webster, R. G., Bean, W. J., Gorman, O. T., Chambers, T. M., & Kawaoka, Y. (1992). Evolution and ecology of influenza A viruses. Microbiological Reviews, 56(1), 152–179.

World Health Organization (WHO). (2024). Influenza (Seasonal). https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)