Professor Lourdes Cruz is a Filipina marine scientist who was globally known for her contribution in the field of science and technology. She was the sole awardee from Asia-Pacific and one of the 5 women scientists who were given recognition in the prestigious 12th Annual L'Oreal-Unesco awards for women in science at the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) headquarters in Paris, France.

Cruz took a masters and doctorate in biochemistry from the University of Iowa and became a biochemist at the University of the Philippine Marine Institute before her retirement. She was known for developing and changing toxins originating from marine snails and sea shells into rugs that relieve pains of those afflicted with cancer, epilepsy and brain disorder.

Professor Cruz contributes her huge knowledge in science with the rural communities in mobilizing livelihood projects and education which act in agreement with the cultural standard of native tribes, specially the Aetas in the province of Bataan.