Filipina scientist granted knighthood by the Netherlands Published April 26, 2021 11:05pm Photos: Embassy of the Netherlands in the Philippines/Facebook A Filipina scientist was knighted by the Netherlands in recognition of her work in agriculture and dedication to promoting Dutch-Filipino relations. Dr. Mary Ann Pelagio Sayoc received knighthood in the Order of Orange-Nassau and was awarded by Ambassador Saskia de Lang for her efforts in transforming Philippine agriculture and boosting farmers' productivity. With her help, the Philippines and the Netherlands have "developed strong ties in the agri-food sector in the areas of trade, investments, agricultural technology, and knowledge transfer." "It has pleased His Majesty King Willem Alexander to award a Knighthood on a leading personality of the Dutch Filipino community," a press release read.