VERMONT, USA — Perhaps the passing of Angel C. Alcala marks the end of an era where relatively simple science and an inquiring mind can help transform the world.
Angel was quite modest, but persistent, about his science. Yet, it drove him on to being a leader of the promotion of marine and forest diversity.
All the accolades and awards, as deserved as they were, can hardly do justice to the importance
of his work for the future of the planet and its inhabitants.
While I cannot claim to be an especially close friend, we did have, since 1962, many meaningful
experiences together, outside church, in his office, in his home, in his laboratories, and in the
ocean. I will cherish memories of these experiences.
Over the years, his friendship influenced my wife, Priscilla Magdamo, who as a musician, is also a strong promoter of cultural diversity.
My own life as a philosopher is to study intellectual diversity, and get my Silliman students to feel the same. Diversity and creativity are the same word.
Prof. Frederick D. Abraham
