The UPLB Genetics Society is a duly recognized organization in the University of the Philippines at Los Baños. It is an academic organization of students interested in genetics that aims to promote awareness and appreciation of the science locally and nationally.

History

Twenty-one years ago, 22 young students had envisioned a dream. It was 1983, and the sicence of Genetics was undergoing a revolution. The promises of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology were so captivating that these young students saw their boon for the Philippines. Unfortunately, there was no organization on the campus or even at the national level to satisfy their hunger for the exchange of ideas regarding the exciting field of Genetics. These young students decided to establish a forum where they could exchange ideas on the science of Genetics and disseminate these to general public. Getting it started was not easy. Nevertheless, the desire, the spirit of free enterprise, and the dictates of time have permitted their young minds to proceed with their journey in search of the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. On the cold, dry dawn of December 20, 1983, the UPLB Genetics Society was born--the first step to a long sojourn.

The early years of the society was sweet, as it developed a reputation as a force in campus quiz contests. It indeed proved itself as truly worthy academic organization when it launched the FIRST GENETICS WEEK with astounding success in 1986. It was another milestone towards the fulfillment of that dream as it became an annual activity. In 1990, after seven years, the society took a bolder step as it launched the first-ever NATIONAL GENETICS SYMPOSIUM in partnership with the Philippine Society for the Advancement of Genetics. This tradition continued for years, each event being more momentous than the one it preceded.

With perseverance, the UPLB GENETICS SOCIETY has and will continue to live up to that dream and even exceed its limits.

The Organization Now

The UPLB Genetics Society holds various activities every year. Among these activities are quiz contests, tutorials, and the Genetics Week Celebration.

The Genetics Inter-laboratory Quiz Contest is held every first semester of the school year, participated by students taking up the Genetics introductory course. It gives these students an opportunity to apply what they have learned in an environment of friendly competition. Aside, IQlympics is also held annually. It is a quiz contest open to all university students.

The organization also extends an arm to Genetics students who find difficulty in their studies as it holds the Genetics tutorials every examination period. This project gives the members an opportunity to help fellow students understand further the concepts and theories imparted in genetics lecture classes.

Medical missions are also held as part of the outreach program of the organization. Doctors and other medical authorities are brought to depressed areas. Free medicines and other necessities are also distributed.

The Genetics week is also held annually in celebration of the foundation of the organization. It is a week-long event comprised of various activities, including an exhibit, a symposium, and an alumni homecoming party, among others.