November 2024

Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) awards Youth Excellence in Science (YES) medal to our Mindanao State University at Naawan – Integrated Developmental School (MSUN-IDS) student, Samantha Nicole T. Ablin, on November 30, 2024 at Limketkai Luxe Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. The YES Awards is an annual DOST institutional award for exemplary youth achievement in the fields of science and mathematics, and comes in the form of a Medal of Distinction bestowed by the DOST Secretary. Symbolizing DOST’s recognition of the achievement of the youth in the fields of STEM and its quest to advance STEM diversity, persistence, and success in the Philippines, the award further signifies the Institute’s desire to produce a critical mass of STEM professionals and develop a strong culture of science in the country. Furthermore, the event was graced by the DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services, Usec. Maridon O. Sahagun, the newest director of DOST-SEI, Dr. Jayeel Cornelio, other DOST Officials and administrators. There were a total of 92 YES awardees across different schools in Region X for this year. #ForgingMindsBetterTomorrow #MSUN

In high spirits of preparation, Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), through its Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) led by Assoc. Prof. Desheree Judena G. Preciado, launched its much-anticipated “KaPEACEtahan sa MSU at Naawan: Tabo sa Umahan” on November 29, 2024. The event, themed “Cultivating Peace in Farming Communities Towards Sustainable Agriculture,” signaled the start of MSUN’s week-long celebration of its 51st Founding Anniversary and the Mindanao Week of Peace. With its primary goal to provide local farmers with a venue to showcase their fresh, organic farm products, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation, the Tabo sa Umahan will continue until December 4, 2024, offering the community opportunities to support local farming initiatives while promoting ecological stewardship. The opening ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including a delegation from Timor Leste comprising Mr. Joao Francisco Maia, International Affairs Director of UN Paz; Ms. Juvita Pereira Faria, local expert and advisor for curriculum development; Ms. Marcelina da Conceicao, Peace Hub Coordinator; UN Paz, Joaninho Xavier Hei – Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, UN Paz and Vicente Borges Maia from Centro Nacional Chega. They were joined by MSU-IIT delegates from the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao and the MSU-IIT Youth Chain of Peace (MYCoP). Local dignitaries, including Naawan Vice Mayor Hon. Allan L. Roa, IP Mandatory Representative Hon. Bai Connie Saturno, Ms. Rowena Leotero, Municipal Economic Enterprise Development Officer, Mr. Manny Maglangit, Municipal Agriculturist, Mr. Michael Dacoco, Barangay Poblacion Captain, PNP Naawan Women’s Desk Office, PSSG. Julie Faye Condeza, PSSg Jeackel M Baculio, C, Supply PNCO PCpl Christian Mae E Llido, Asst. WCPD PNCO/Asst. HRAO PNCO also showed their support for the celebration. Mr. Rhoy F. Castillo, Campus Secretary, delivered the opening remarks on behalf of Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, setting a vibrant and collaborative tone for the day’s events. Dr. Mark Anthony J. Torres, the Vice Chancellor for Planning and Strategic Initiatives and Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao Director (IPDM) shared his insights on peace-building, offering a message of unity and hope. This was followed by a heartfelt address from Hon. Vice Mayor Roa, who spoke on behalf of Hon. Mayor Dennis L. Roa, reinforcing the commitment to progress and community development. After that, the distinguished guests were also given a campus tour, allowing them to appreciate the university’s charm and its commitment to fostering peace and development. Meanwhile, students from MSUN’s five colleges enthusiastically participated in “Larong Lahi,” a celebration of traditional Filipino games infused with modern elements. Organized by the Supreme Student Council, the event created a lively and festive atmosphere, blending culture and community engagement. Despite the drizzly overcast weather, the games fostered camaraderie, teamwork, and a shared sense of joy among the participants, highlighting the lasting charm of these cultural activities and their role in strengthening the sense of community within the university. KaPEACEtahan exemplifies MSUN’s dedication to advancing peacebuilding, sustainability, and community partnerships. It not only celebrates the university’s achievements but also provides a meaningful platform for cultural exchange and community engagement, making it a significant starting point for the university’s anniversary celebrations.

Faculty members from Mindanao State University at Naawan showcased their research at the CE-SAIN SEARCA Joint International Conference 2024, held from November 19 to 22, 2024. The event, jointly organized by the Center of Excellence on Sustainable Agricultural Intensification and Nutrition (CE-SAIN) and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), brought together global experts in sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and biodiversity. The conference, which combined the Fourth International Conference on Sustainable Agricultural Intensification and Nutrition (SAIN4) and the Third School-Plus-Home Gardens cum Biodiversity Enhancement and Enterprise (SHGBEE3), aimed to foster collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges of sustainability in agriculture. Participants engaged in keynote speeches, plenary and parallel sessions, poster and oral presentations, and mobile workshops at agricultural technology parks, farms, and conservation areas in Angkor Wat. Among the esteemed presenters were MSU at Naawan’s Ms. Jolibe B. Llido, an Instructor, and Associate Prof. Mechie Ann S. Clar-Florida, a faculty member and Project Leader of the Mytella project under DOST PCAARRD. Ms. Llido presented her research titled “Nitrogen Nutrition Changes Rhizosphere pH and Affects Above and Belowground Attributes of Rice Genotypes.” Her study highlighted how nitrogen dynamics in the rhizosphere influence crop performance, providing insights into optimizing rice production sustainably. While Associate Prof. Clar-Florida presented a study on “Production Performance and Cost-Benefit Analysis of Broiler Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus L.) Fed with Different Levels of Mussel (Mytella strigata Hanley) Meal as Replacement to Fishmeal.” Her findings offered a sustainable alternative to traditional fishmeal in poultry production, aligning with the conference’s focus on sustainable practices and resource efficiency. The conference attracted participants from countries including the Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, China, Thailand, and the United States. Attendees included researchers, educators, farmers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, who shared research findings, explored innovative technologies, and discussed sustainable agricultural practices. Our faculty’s active involvement reflects their commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and contributing to global discussions on food security, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Both presentations highlight the university’s leadership in conducting research that addresses the complexities of sustainability in agriculture and aquaculture. The CE-SAIN SEARCA Joint International Conference 2024 served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative opportunities, empowering professionals to tackle pressing issues in agriculture and biodiversity while inspiring innovative solutions for sustainable development.

In collaboration with University of Hawai’i in Hilo, the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) co-hosted the inaugural Global Agriculture Multidisciplinary International Conference (GAMIC) 2024 on November 22-23, 2024.  The conference was designed to spotlight the critical importance of global agriculture in today’s challenging environment, while also exploring innovative research and solutions in vital fields such as crop production, plant protection, sustainability, economic viability, education, and postharvest handling and technology. This event served as a platform for experts, researchers, and practitioners to share knowledge and collaborate on addressing the agricultural challenges of the future. Furthermore, MSUN virtually hosted two breakout sessions featuring presentations on topics ranging from microplastics and sustainable agriculture to agribusiness and forestry. Presentations from MSU at Naawan included: -The Role of Starter Diets on The Development of Exercise-Induced Haemal Lordosis in Zebrafish (Presented by: Ariel Antinero)  -Effectiveness of the KAANIB Enterprise Development Project – Community/ Household Level Coconut Processing Project Component in Bukidnon: The Case of Damulog (Presented by: Christian Fel Batoctoy) -The Prevalence of Microplastics in Farmed Seaweed 𝘒𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘺𝘤𝘶𝘴 𝘈𝘭𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘻𝘪𝘪 in Kolambugan, Philippines (Presented by: Darlene Reble) -Leaf Outline Descriptor of The Two Threatened Lapnisan (Aquilaria Lam.) Species Using Elliptic Fourier Analysis in Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Davao Oriental, Philippines (Presented by: Dr. Edgar Castañares) -Microplastics in Northern Mindanao: Characterization and Polymer Analysis Across Diverse Aquatic Environments (Presented by: Marybeth Hope Banda) -Germination Potential of Two Threatened Philippine Tree Species (Presented by Kean Roe Felipe Mazo)  -Quantifying Microplastic Presence in the Estuarine Waters of Gingoog River (Presented by Sherley Ann Inocente) -Vermicast Analysis with the Philippine Native Earthworm Species 𝘗𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴 (Crassiclitellata: Megascolecidae): Bacterial Profiles for Potential Applications in Agriculture (Presented by: Dr. Nonillon Aspe) In addition, a representative from MSU-Maguindanao presented her study, “Exploring the Experiences of the Camp Abubakar Community Through Climate-Smart Vegetable and Fish Production Technology: A Case Study of Sustainable Development in Conflict-Affected Areas,” during one of the parallel sessions. This event exemplifies the growing partnership between the University of Hawai’i in Hilo and MSUN, a collaboration formalized through a signed Memorandum of Understanding. The conference marked a significant milestone in advancing research, fostering dialogue, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices on a global scale.

A team of esteemed delegates from Mindanao State University at Naawan, led by Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa proudly represented the university at the 12th International Fisheries Symposium 2024 (IFS2024) held on November 19–22, 2024, at the Hakodate Citizen Hall and Hakodate Arena, Japan. Joining Chancellor Roa were key university officials and faculty, including Dr. Ruby C. Gonzales, Director for Research; Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director of the Office of International and Linkages; Dr. Dan M. Arriesgado, Dean of the School of Marine Fisheries and Technology (SMFT); Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, Secretary of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension; and Mr. Jomar F. Besoña, faculty member of SMFT. Themed “Fish as a Global Food Resource,” IFS2024 highlighted the essential role of fisheries in addressing the world’s growing demand for food. With the global population projected to reach 10 billion in the coming decades, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices are increasingly critical for ensuring food security and supporting livelihoods, particularly in rural and coastal communities. The symposium featured a wide array of discussions and presentations focused on cutting-edge research and advancements in fisheries science. Participants delved into strategies for maintaining healthy fish stocks, conserving aquatic biodiversity, and promoting responsible aquaculture to provide safe, sustainable food resources for urban and rural populations alike. The delegation actively contributed to the symposium through oral presentations of their research studies, showcasing MSUN’s dedication to advancing knowledge and innovation in fisheries and aquaculture. Their participation not only strengthens MSUN academic and research capacities but also reinforces the role in addressing critical global issues, such as food security and sustainable development. MSUN’s engagement in IFS2024 aligns with the university’s vision of promoting innovative solutions and interdisciplinary cooperation in fisheries and aquatic sciences. The event served as a platform to establish new partnerships, exchange insights with international peers, and reinforce MSUN’s commitment to sustainable fisheries practices that benefit both local and global communities. As MSUN continues to advocate for sustainability and responsible resource management, its presence in international platforms such as IFS2024 emphasizes its vital role in shaping the future of fisheries and aquaculture.

On November 15, 2024, Dr. Elnor C. Roa, Chancellor of Mindanao State University at Naawan, served as a distinguished discussant at the 1st Elevate Agriculture Convention in Cagayan de Oro City. Drawing from her extensive experience in fostering partnerships between academia, government agencies, and industry stakeholders, Dr. Roa highlighted emerging business opportunities in the fisheries sector, particularly how small-scale fisheries can collaborate with the university. She also introduced the university’s cutting-edge Technology Business Incubator (TBI), which supports the growth of innovative startups and provides a platform for sustainable industry development. In her talk, Dr. Roa addressed the critical challenges within the fisheries supply chain, covering issues from production and processing to distribution. She emphasized strategies to boost productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and promote fair trade practices, offering insights into how these solutions can drive long-term growth and sustainability in the sector.

The Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) has started its journey toward International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 certification with the launch of its Quality Management System (QMS) development initiative. In partnership with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) – Mindanao, this ambitious project aims to enhance service quality, streamline systems and workflows, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in pursuit of sustainable development. The project was officially inaugurated during the Signing of Memorandum of Agreement and an Inception Meeting held on November 13, 2024, at the MIndanao State University at Naawan. Furthermore, the meeting brought together representatives from each MSUN office who will form the QMS Development Team, alongside esteemed guests and expert speakers from DAP. The event was graced by Dr. Mark Lemuel Garcia, Managing Director of DAP sa Mindanao, and Ms. Dianne B. Delfin, both of whom will serve as lead trainers throughout the six-month capacity-building and implementation process. Their expertise will guide MSUN’s QMS Development Team through a series of workshops and activities designed to establish certifiable processes aligned with ISO standards. DAP, a premier knowledge institution with over five decades of service, is renowned for its innovative and responsive solutions to national development challenges. Their collaboration with MSUN highlights a shared commitment to creating systems that ensure excellence and sustainability. Dr. Roa emphasized that the initiative goes beyond merely securing certification. According to her, it is focused on embedding a culture of quality and excellence across all aspects of the university’s operations, with the ultimate goal of benefiting stakeholders and promoting sustainable development within MSUN and in the region. Moreover, the inception meeting marked the beginning of a transformative journey for MSUN. With the active participation of all offices and the support of DAP, the university is poised to achieve its goal of ISO certification while setting a benchmark for quality education and service in Mindanao. Stay tuned for updates as MSUN progresses in this endeavor toward quality, innovation, and sustainable development.

Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages at Mindanao State University at Naawan, and Project Leader of a BIMP-EAGA-Republic of Korea Cooperation Fund (BKCF)-funded project, actively participated in the BKCF Capacity Building Workshop for Project Monitoring and Evaluation. This workshop, fully funded by BKCF, aimed to equip project implementers with essential skills in research implementation, reporting, and monitoring and evaluation processes. Organized by BKCF, a Korean agency dedicated to fostering inclusive and balanced growth in Southeast Asia while contributing to ASEAN connectivity, the event brought together project leaders and delegates from across the region. MSU at Naawan’s project, one of only nine successful proposals out of 213 submissions during the 4th BKCF Call, focuses on developing mitigation strategies and policy formulation to address the emerging threats of microplastic pollution in the Philippine EAGA region. Dr. Capangpangan joined other Philippine delegates in the workshop and had the opportunity to present the project during the culmination program, showcasing the university’s commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. This milestone reflects MSU at Naawan’s strategic initiative, in close collaboration with the Philippine National Secretariat (MinDA), to access international grants and advance research and development. The university’s efforts highlight its dedication to creating a meaningful impact on society through innovative research addressing pressing environmental and sustainability issues.