Born in Bayambang, Pangasinan, Dr. Velasquez was conferred the National Scientist Award in 1983. She earned her degree from the University of the Philippines and University of Michigan, majoring and mastering in Zoology in 1934 and 1937, respectively. In 1957, the she received her doctorate in Parasitology, also from UP.
As a professor emeritus of Zoology, scientist and scholar, she holds the distinction of being the first Ph.D graduate of Parasitology. Her pioneering research efforts have resulted in the publication of 47 basic and 45 scientist papers of value particularly in public health and conservation.
Her book “Digenetic Trematodes of Philippine Fishes,” the first in Southeast Asia, provides a reginal reference to fish parasitology and aquaculture management. – Rea Hebron
