Let us focus on Mr. Baldomero “Toto” Olivera. Here’s a short biography:

Baldomero M. Olivera was born in the Philippines, received his early education there and received a B.S. degree in Chemistry from the University of the Philippines, a PhD in Biophysical Chemistry from Caltech and did Post Doctoral work at Stanford. His early research contributions included the discovery and biochemical characterization of E. coli DNA ligase.

His laboratory initiated the identification and characterization of the biologically active peptides found the venoms of predatory cone snails; this led to a broad involvement with molecular neuroscience, particularly the functional role of ion channel and receptor subtypes in nervous systems.

The Conus peptide project has raised wide ranging biological questions, from mechanisms of protein folding and post-translational modification, to gene organization and mechanisms of speciation; several Conus peptides discovered in Olivera’s laboratory are being developed as therapeutics and one is approved as a commercial drug.

Pretty deep stuff. So what does it mean? It’s obvious that our country can produce effective citizens. If we are to believe the biography, then it’s clear that Mr. Olivera spent his formative years in the Philippines.

The problem is that with the lack of quality opportunities here, Filipinos who are destined for great accomplishments have no choice but to move abroad. So much potential, so little options, as was probably the case with “Toto”.