Dr. Rico Ancog
Deputy Director for Administration
Dr. Rico Ancog is a Professor at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), a UP Scientist, and a multi-awarded academic leader and researcher. His past leadership roles include Dean of the UPLB School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM) from 2021 to 2025 and Special Assistant to the SEARCA Center Director in 2025.
His scholarship and leadership encompass sustainability science, environmental policy, economic valuation, and systems thinking. With a deep commitment to bridging science and policy, Dr. Ancog advances inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development in Southeast Asia by integrating rigorous research with actionable strategies for governance, institutional strengthening, and regional collaboration.
His contributions have earned national distinction, including the Outstanding Young Scientist (OYS) Award from the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) in 2019 and recognition as one of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) in 2022.
On the international stage, Dr. Ancog represents the Philippines in the General Assembly of Future Earth (FE) and serves on the Scientific Steering Committee of MAIRS-FE (Monsoon Asia Integrated Research for Sustainability – Future Earth), hosted by Peking University, where he helps shape global research agendas on resilience and sustainability in the Asian monsoon region. He is also a Commissioner of the Value Commission, a Europe-based body convening global experts to establish transparency criteria for the creation and use of value factors.
