Krystel Peñaflor, a licensed forester and dedicated biodiversity conservationist, has spent much of her life deeply engaged with nature, science, and conservation.
Raised in the serene province of Pangasinan, Krystel’s early years were defined by a sense of wonder for the environment and a thirst for knowledge that would ultimately shape her path. Now, as she works in forestry, climate research, and youth empowerment, she’s determined to inspire young Filipinos to pursue careers in science. Her story reflects a journey filled with curiosity, challenges, and a calling to protect the Philippines’ unique biodiversity.
Growing up as a “sickly child,” Krystel wasn’t able to play outdoors as much as her twin brother. Instead, she spent her childhood in the peaceful farming community where her grandfather lived. It was here that her fascination with nature and learning truly began. Krystel recalls, crediting books and documentaries on channels like Discovery Channel and National Geographic for fueling her early passion for conservation.
At just 16, she embarked on her college journey at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, choosing to study forestry. The university introduced her to a community of passionate professors and mentors who taught her not only the intricacies of forestry but also the value of resilience in the face of challenges.
Krystel reflects on a pivotal experience during a field research trip to Polillo Island, where a typhoon left her and her classmates stranded, creating an unexpected opportunity to study the island’s wildlife. This experience not only deepened her commitment to conservation but also instilled a profound sense of responsibility toward vulnerable species. “We accidentally killed an animal… my professor was nearly in tears and said, ‘Remember, these animals are giving their lives for us to learn.’” It was a moment that showed her conservation is more than just a career—it’s a calling that demands dedication, compassion, and respect.
After college, Krystel’s career became a journey to make a meaningful impact. She joined the Climate Change Commission and worked as a Science Research Specialist at the University of the Philippines, contributing to climate adaptation and disaster management. Despite limited opportunities in the Philippines leading many scientists to work abroad, Krystel chose to return and apply her overseas experiences locally. “I think I’m one of the few who really came back…to bring it here, to replicate the knowledge and the practices, to really improve the life of the Filipino people,” she explains.
Krystel also sheds light on the unique struggles faced by women in science, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men. “Mas pinipili nilang bigyan ng job o ng opportunity yung mga lalaki kaysa sa mga babae,” she notes, referring to the gender biases that still exist in scientific fields like forestry. These obstacles have only strengthened her resolve to support the next generation of women scientists and conservationists, using her own experiences to empower others.
Krystel co-founded the Youth Climate Navigator (YCN) in 2019 to engage youth in environmental efforts through tree-planting, webinars, and ecotourism training, reaching over 200 local farmers and promoting sustainable practices. In 2023, she launched EmpoWoment Storytellers: Women for Climate & Biodiversity, empowering 80 women across Southeast Asia to advocate for conservation through storytelling. “At college, we learn about Ecotourism and Agroforestry… so we can provide livelihood to local people, but we have to teach them how to have sustainable tourism,” Krystel shares, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to conservation.
Her advocacy extends globally, representing the Philippines at international forums like the YSEALI Women Leadership Academy. There, she shares Filipino resilience practices, emphasizing climate action. To aspiring scientists, she stresses the importance of funding in science: “When you’re conducting research, it involves a lot of funding… without it, we cannot integrate science-based research into policies.”
A notable highlight of Peñaflor’s academic journey was the completion of her MSc in Island Biodiversity and Conservation during the 2021-2022 academic year, where she became the first scholar from Southeast Asia to join this prestigious program. Offered by the Jersey International Centre of Advanced Studies (JICAS) and accredited by the University of Exeter in the UK, the course provided her with unique learning experiences, from hands-on exposure to cutting-edge technologies to having the entire island of Jersey as a scientific laboratory. The program was taught by world-renowned experts, allowing Peñaflor to engage deeply with innovative STEM education methods and real-world applications.
As an international student, Peñaflor not only expanded her scientific skills but also enjoyed immersing herself in British culture, exploring historic landmarks, and building lasting friendships with locals and fellow students. This experience further ignited her passion for STEM, reinforcing her commitment to advancing her field and inspiring others.
For more information about the course, visit https://www.jicas.ac.je/. Krystel Mae Peñaflor is also available to offer free mentorship and answer any inquiries students may have regarding the course—students are encouraged to reach out.