October 2025

Faculty-researcher from the College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Ms. Raisa Marie H. Bacasnot, presented her team’s research at the 13th International Fisheries Symposium (IFS 2025) held on October 6–9, 2025, at Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia. Hosted by Universitas Diponegoro and organized by ASEAN-FEN, IFS 2025 brought together scientists, academicians, practitioners, and policymakers from across ASEAN and beyond. The symposium served as an important venue for sharing innovative research, promoting sustainable fisheries management, and strengthening regional collaboration in marine science and innovation. Ms. Bacasnot presented the study titled “Status and Baseline Assessment of Coastal Fisheries in RT Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay, Southern Philippines.” The research provided a comprehensive assessment of the current condition and productivity of local coastal fisheries, while also highlighting the socio-economic challenges faced by fishing communities. The team’s findings offered valuable insights into the declining fishery resources in RT Lim and underscored the need for science-based management measures and policy support. By identifying key factors influencing sustainability and local livelihoods, the study contributes to the development of adaptive management strategies, encourages community-based resource stewardship, and supports evidence-based decision-making for coastal governance. Its implications go beyond the local context, offering useful approaches for sustainable fisheries management in other coastal areas of the Philippines and the ASEAN region. Through its participation in global research platforms like IFS 2025, Mindanao State University at Naawan reaffirms its commitment to nurturing sustainable aquatic ecosystems, improving food security, and building stronger international collaborations. Ms. Bacasnot’s presentation embodies the dedication of MSUN researchers to advancing local science with global relevance, empowering coastal communities, promoting sustainable practices, and contributing to the shared vision of healthy and thriving oceans.

Mindanao State University at Naawan continues to expand its international footprint as it took part in the UTM Global Connect 2025 and the 14th UTM University Presidents Forum (UPF) 2025, held on October 7–8, 2025, at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Hosted by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), this year’s event welcomed more than 50 universities from 18 countries, creating a vibrant community of higher education leaders, industry partners, researchers, and policymakers. Guided by the theme “Navigating the Intelligent Age for Global University Excellence,” the forum served as a dynamic arena where innovation met collaboration, and where global partnerships were strengthened through shared ideas and meaningful dialogue. At the heart of the gathering, the 14th University Presidents Forum (UPF) provided university leaders with an opportunity to reflect on the evolving role of higher education in an increasingly complex world, especially in developing nations. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and the UPF Presidents’ Round Table, participants explored how universities can lead in driving innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable development across borders. Representing MSU at Naawan were Dr. Benjoe Rey Visayas, Director for Global Engagement and Partnership, and Assistant Professor Rhoy F. Castillo, Campus Secretary. Both actively joined sessions and discussions that focused on building stronger institutional collaborations, promoting innovation in education, and advancing global engagement. Their presence highlighted MSU at Naawan’s growing visibility in the international arena and its continuing commitment to globally relevant, research-driven education. Running alongside the forum, UTM Global Connect 2025 also featured three major events including the INATEX 2025, NALI 2025, and the 4th D-8 NPRI Summit, each highlighting how technology, artificial intelligence, and research can create real-world impact across sectors. Through its active participation, MSU at Naawan reaffirmed its commitment to internationalization, collaboration, and innovation, in line with the MSU System’s thrusts of global competitiveness and inclusive growth. The university’s involvement in these events strengthens its role as a hub of knowledge and partnership, bridging communities and ideas toward a smarter, more connected, and sustainable future.

From September 24 to 26, 2025, a delegation from Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) actively participated in the 2025 WURI Global Conference hosted by Tongmyong University, Busan, South Korea. The MSUN delegation was led by University Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, together with Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director of the Research and Innovation Institute Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, and Ms. Darlene M. Reble of the Global Engagement and Partnerships Office. The WURI Global Conference gathered university leaders, researchers, and experts worldwide to exchange best practices and highlight innovations in higher education. The program featured presentations, roundtable discussions, and research forums across categories such as Student Mobility and Openness, Entrepreneurial Spirit, SDG-based Responses to Global Challenges, Visionary Leadership, and University Reputation. This year, MSU at Naawan achieved a remarkable milestone by ranking 226th in the 2025 WURI Ranking, with three of its innovations recognized among the top in their respective categories. The achievement emphasizes the University’s growing reputation as a leader in sustainability-driven education, innovation, and global collaboration. A significant highlight for MSUN was the election of Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa was one of the Board of Directors of the World University Network of Innovation (WUNI) for Presidents, a recognition of her leadership and commitment to advancing innovative and inclusive higher education at the international level. Participation in the WURI Global Conference enabled MSU at Naawan to strengthen its international presence, build networks for future partnerships, and contribute to global dialogues on how universities can address pressing socioeconomic and environmental challenges through innovative practices. MSU at Naawan’s recognition in the WURI Rankings reflects the hard work and dedication of its people, faculty, researchers, staff, and students, who continue to push boundaries in education, research, and community service. This achievement shows how the University’s initiatives, rooted in innovation and collaboration, contribute not only to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also to building a brighter, more sustainable future for communities it serves and the world at large.