Doris Bigornia Inspires Name of New Flower Discovery
DORIS BIGORNIA – A newly discovered flower species in Mindanao has been officially named Begonia dorisiae, in honor of veteran journalist Doris Bigornia.
A new species of flowering plant discovered in the Philippines has been named after renowned ABS-CBN broadcast journalist Doris Bigornia. The plant, now officially classified as Begonia dorisiae, was one of two new species of Begonia found in the lush forests of Eastern Mindanao, specifically in the municipality of Caraga in Davao Oriental.
The naming of Begonia dorisiae pays tribute not just to Bigornia’s impact as a media personality, but also to her unintended role in popularizing the Begonia genus among local communities. According to the study’s authors, the name “Bigornia” has become an informal, yet effective way for Filipinos—especially those in rural areas and across different islands—to remember and relate to the Begonia plant family.
“Many Filipino botanists, particularly in this series of expeditions, find that the easiest way to make citizens remember the genus Begonia is to associate it with ‘Bigornia,” the researchers noted. “Across different islands and demographics, the best way to capture citizens’ interest when communicating the biology of Philippine Begonia is, in fact, Doris Bigornia.”
The discovery highlights the close connection between science and culture, illustrating how public figures can inadvertently contribute to environmental awareness. By naming the species Begonia dorisiae, the botanists aim to deepen the public’s engagement with the country’s rich biodiversity while honoring a familiar and respected name.
This new species adds to the growing list of Philippine-endemic Begonias, which are known for their unique foliage and habitat-specific growth. The forests of Mindanao continue to be a hotspot for botanical discoveries, and researchers are hopeful that the naming of Begonia dorisiae will help foster more interest in conservation efforts and scientific exploration.
For Doris Bigornia, this botanical honor serves as a unique legacy—one that blossoms not in front of cameras, but quietly and beautifully in the heart of the Philippine rainforest.
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