The Institute successfully celebrated a century's legacy of the Philippine Father of Atomic Energy, Gen. Florencio A. Medina, last November 7.
The day-long activities started off with wreath-laying ceremonies at the monument of Gen. Medina, dedication of a park in his name, and the launching of the Gen. Medina Memorial Lecture. A mutant ornamental developed at PNRI, the Cordyline 'Medina', was also formally presented to the Medina family and an exhibit featuring Gen. Medina's memorabilia similarly opened for viewing. The UP Concert Chorus rendered a musical tribute in the afternoon, following a video presentation on the life and times of Gen. Medina.
Special guests were led by DOST Undersecretary Rogelio A. Panlasigui, members of the Medina clan, officers of the Nuclear Research Foundation, friends from media, and former colleagues of Gen. Medina at the Philippine Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), which is the forerunner of today's PNRI.
The man acclaimed as the Father of Atomic Energy in the Philippines is remembered for his pioneering work as Commissioner of PAEC, and for his contributions in the peaceful use of nuclear technology during his subsequent stint at the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna, and at the National Science Development Board (NSDB) which he was tasked to head and organize.
Children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of Gen. Medina arrived to help organize the affair and to be part of the celebration.
