Journalist Doris Bigornia and Begonia dorisiae. FILE/COMPOSITE

A newly discovered flowering plant species found in Eastern Mindanao has been named after ABS-CBN journalist Doris Bigornia. 

It is one of the two species discovered in the area, according to a newly published study on the Begonia.

The said flora was named Begonia dorisiae.

"The specific epithet dorisiae is a tribute to broadcaster Doris Bigornia whose name became an informal, yet very useful monicker of the genus Begonia especially for local communities," the study's authors said.

"Many Filipino botanists, particularly in this series of expeditions, find that the easiest way to make citizens remember the genus Begonia is to associate it with ‘Bigornia’. Across different islands and demographics, the best way to capture citizens’ interest when communicating the biology of Philippine Begonia is, in fact, Doris Bigornia," they added.

The researchers discovered the species in the municipality of Caraga in Davao Oriental. 

The study authors recommended that the species should to be listed as vulnerable by having just around a 1,000 mature individual count and the area, which is near the coast, should be restricted as it may be threatened in the future especially by possible typhoons.