Marine bacteria in Philippines' Tubbataha Reefs reveal anti-cancer properties

One of the features of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park shown in this 2013 photo holds promise as a source of microorganisms that can be used to develop antibiotics and anticancer drugs. - PDI file

MANILA: For the last five years, scientists from the University of San Agustin (USA) in Iloilo province have been combing the country’s oceans for microorganisms that can cure intractable diseases.

This year, they finally discovered a new species of marine bacteria in the sediments of Tubbataha Reefs in the Sulu Sea that could be developed into antibiotic, anti-cancer drug compounds.