Dr. Jesus Rodrigo F. Torres
Abstract
This volume contains description and observations on 20 deep-sky objects.
This collection of deep-sky objects contains 4 galaxies, 10 open clusters, 1 open cluster with bright
emission nebula, 2 globular clusters, 1 planetary nebula, and 2 asterisms.
Much has changed in Philippine astronomy. Dr. Bernardo M. Soriano, former Chief of the
Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Space Sciences Branch of PAGASA has retired. He was the Chairman
of the National Organizing Commmittee of the DOST for the International Year of Astronomy. Now the
task has been handed over to another great worker, Dr. Prisco Nilo, himself the Director of PAGASA. I
now have the opportunity to be a part of the planning, preparation and the supervision of the IYA 2009
as a member of the National Organizing Committee by virtue of DOST Special Order 378, series of
2008. By being a part of the NOC, I feel that all the sleep-deprived nights, all the struggles, all the
criticism and cynicisms on my pursuit of Astronomy are now sweet memories. Thwere is no substitute
for pure grit. Finally, the RTU has conferred upon me an award of recognition for all my efforts in
ASTRONOMY. Dr. Jose Q. Macaballug, the indefatigable President of the RU, signed the Plaque of
Recognition. Without his unqualified support, Astronomy in the RTU would have died a long time ago.
Without the support of my boss, I would have lost heart a long time ago. However, it is really not for
me that the award has significance. Rather it is for Astronomy in the Philippines as a whole. RTU's
support for Astronomy is support for Astronomy in the Philippines. Dr. Macaballug deserves the
highest award we confer in Astronomy, the Padre Faura Award
The following year will be exciting for Philippine astronomy.