MSUN OVCRIGE

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) hosted a face-to-face Research and Development (R&D) Consultation under the Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation for Health (DRR-CCAH) Program on March 12, 2026, in collaboration with the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) through its Research and Development Management Division. Initially designed as a structured consultation, the activity transitioned into a more focused one-on-one coaching session upon the arrival of the PCHRD team. This approach allowed participating researchers to receive direct and tailored feedback to strengthen their proposals for the upcoming call for proposals. Three MSUN proposals previously submitted during the 2025 call and now being prepared for resubmission were prioritized during the consultation. These include “Strengthening Community Resilience to Climate-Driven Health Risks: In Silico Modeling of Microplastic-Induced Renal Toxicity for Public Health Safety (MicroInSilico)” led by Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan; “Ciguatera Under Rising Vulnerabilities and Environmental Change: Unveiling Climate-driven Ciguatera Risks to Reef Fisheries and Public Health in Zamboanga City (CURVE Ciguatera)” led by Ms. Gaireen D. Gaid; and “Vulnerability and Resilience: Assessing Disaster Response Strategies for Women and Girls in Flood-Prone Communities of Northern Mindanao” led by Ms. Claire Joy G. Mariquit. In addition, four new proposals intended for the 2026 call for proposals were included in the coaching sessions. These include “Development of a Multi-Micronutrient Functional Saba Banana Flour Enriched with Malunggay and Enhanced Bioavailable Calcium from Fish Bone Waste Valorization” by Asst. Prof. Charry Neleene P. Canoy; “Metabolomics-Based Profiling of Selective Medicinal Plants Used by the Higaonon from Claveria, Misamis Oriental, Philippines” by Ms. Ma. Vanessa O. Balangiao; “Development and Validation of the SALIG Culturally Responsive MHPSS Pre-Disaster Preparedness Assessment Tool for Integrating Mental Health into DRRR Systems in Region X” by Asst. Prof. Voltaire M. Bernal; and “SPECTRUM-R10 (Systematic Psychosocial Evaluation and Comprehensive Tiered Response for Unique Minds – Region 10): Contextualizing BPS Mental Health Assessment and PBIS-RTI Mental Health Intervention Model among LGBT and EBD Students in Region X” by Asst. Prof. Sylvia C. Labial. The consultation provided guidance on refining proposals, strengthening research design, aligning with DRR-CCAH priority areas, and ensuring responsiveness to climate-related health challenges. The one-on-one coaching format enabled in-depth discussions of each proposal’s technical, methodological, and impact components. Through this initiative, MSUN continues to enhance its research capacity in climate change adaptation and public health, reinforcing its commitment to developing evidence-based solutions that support resilient and vulnerable communities.

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), together with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), held a meeting on March 20, 2026, to discuss potential collaboration and funding opportunities for agriculture-based climate adaptation projects. Opening the discussion, MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa highlighted the university’s strengths in agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries, positioning MSUN as a valuable partner in advancing sustainable and climate-resilient initiatives. Dr. Evelyn Taboada, Climate Change Adaptation Expert of UNIDO, presented the organization’s priorities, emphasizing the impacts of climate change on food systems and the importance of integrating inclusivity and gender equality into development interventions. Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan presented an overview of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement (OVCRIGE), along with the university’s in-house project on the rapid assessment of fruit and vegetable production and post-harvest systems in Region 10. Mr. Christian Fel Batoctoy, project leader, complemented the presentation by sharing field-based insights and experiences from data gathering activities. The discussion was further enriched by insights from Mr. Teddy Monroy, UNIDO Country Representative; Mr. Rui Lopes De Aguiar Junior, Climate Change Adaptation Expert; and Mr. Sylvester Sales of MinDA, who underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing climate adaptation strategies. The meeting, which aimed to strengthen climate adaptation efforts in agriculture, formed part of UNIDO’s stakeholder consultation for the AID4HEARTS Project under the Adaptation Fund. With the valuable insights and recommendations shared by UNIDO and MinDA, as well as the invitation for MSUN to participate in a co-design workshop, the university is well-positioned to further strengthen its role in developing innovative, inclusive, and climate-responsive solutions for the agriculture sector. This engagement also reinforces MSUN’s commitment to sustainable development and regional resilience.

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) continues to strengthen its presence in the national research community by participating in the 2026 Annual Scientific Conference and the 93rd General Membership Assembly of the Department of Science and Technology–National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP), held on March 13, 2026, at the Reception Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. Carrying the theme “Transdisciplinary Capacity Building and Ethical Research Towards a Progressive, Unified, and SDG-Driven Nation,” the conference gathered leading researchers, scientists, and academic institutions from across the country to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthen research integrity, and advance knowledge that contributes to sustainable national development. A key highlight of the event was the formal induction of new members into the National Research Council of the Philippines. Representing MSU at Naawan, the newly inducted members included Dr. Lilibeth P. Coronel, Dr. Jerico M. Consolacion, Dr. Albert A. Alonzo, Assistant Professor Gleven Jay V. Laraño, Assistant Professor Mark Anthony T. Maña, and Ms. Sherley Ann T. Inocente. Their induction into the prestigious council marks an important milestone in expanding MSUN’s engagement with the national scientific community and fostering new opportunities for interdisciplinary and collaborative research. In addition to the membership induction, Ms. Sherley Ann T. Inocente and Mr. Ariel T. Antinero presented their research posters during the conference, sharing their scholarly work with fellow researchers, scientists, and participants from various institutions across the Philippines. Their presentations served as valuable platforms for knowledge exchange and highlighted the university’s growing contributions to research and innovation. The participation of MSUN faculty members in the NRCP conference underscores the university’s sustained commitment to advancing a vibrant research culture, strengthening collaborative networks, and contributing to science-driven solutions that support national progress and sustainable development. Through continued engagement in national and international research platforms, MSU at Naawan reaffirms its dedication to producing impactful research and fostering partnerships that help shape a more progressive, unified, and sustainable future.

Representatives from the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), under the Research and Extension Ethics Section, conducted a benchmarking activity at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Laguna, on March 12, 2026. The activity aimed to strengthen MSUN’s institutional framework for animal research ethics by learning from the established systems and best practices implemented by UPLB. Participating in the benchmarking activity were Assoc. Prof. Richelle A. Niepes, IACUC Co-Chair; Assist. Prof. Mark Anthony T. Maña, Ms. Sherley Ann T. Inocente, and Dr. Jerico M. Consolacion, who serve as IACUC panel members; and Assist. Prof. Gleven Jay V. Laraño, faculty representative. An orientation and technical discussion were facilitated by Dr. Ma. Amelita C. Estacio of the UPLB IACUC. During the session, Dr. Estacio presented the committee’s operational procedures, regulatory requirements, protocol review processes, and best practices in ensuring the ethical and humane use of animals in research and instruction. Insights gained from the benchmarking activity highlighted strategies for strengthening institutional compliance with animal welfare standards, improving protocol evaluation processes, and enhancing the implementation of IACUC policies at MSUN. Through this initiative, MSUN continues to strengthen its research governance mechanisms and uphold responsible and ethical research practices in accordance with national and institutional standards.

Faculty and staff from Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSU at Naawan) participated in the 2026 DOST Call Conference for the Mindanao Cluster held on February 24, 2026, at Almont Inland Resort in Butuan City. The event was organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to present priority research directions and funding opportunities for institutions across Mindanao. The conference served as a strategic platform for researchers, innovators, and institutional representatives to align regional research and development (R&D) initiatives with national science and technology priorities. It also provided guidance on proposal preparation, funding mechanisms, and collaborative opportunities aimed at addressing pressing technological and societal challenges. During the event, Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strategically supporting priority R&D programs that generate science-driven solutions for regional and national development. He emphasized that innovation, research collaboration, and the active participation of Filipino scientists and engineers are essential to building a stronger and more resilient nation. The conference also highlighted the Mindanao Cluster’s key R&D priorities, including initiatives in health, agriculture, energy, and emerging technologies. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, underscored the importance of strengthening regional research ecosystems and advancing innovations that directly respond to local development needs. Through their participation, MSU at Naawan faculty and staff gained valuable insights into DOST’s research agenda, funding programs, and proposal guidelines. The engagement further strengthened the university’s commitment to advancing research excellence and contributing science-based solutions that support sustainable development in Mindanao and across the Philippines. Participants may also access the conference materials and proposal resources from the different DOST councils through the following link: https://tinyurl.com/MindanaoCallConMaterials Participation in events such as the DOST Mindanao Cluster Call Conference continues to expand MSU at Naawan’s role in national research collaboration, fostering partnerships that promote innovation, knowledge exchange, and impactful research for communities.

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement (OVCRIGE) of Mindanao State University at Naawan successfully convened its Annual Updates and Presentation of 2025 Accomplishments and 2026 Targets on January 20, 2026. Held at the Audio-Visual Room of the DARES Center, the day-long event served as a pivotal platform for assessing institutional performance, sharing updates from specialized centers, and presenting the outputs of internally funded research and extension projects. The program commenced with preliminaries, featuring an invocation led by Dr. Aida D. Perpetua. Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement, delivered the opening remarks, setting the stage for University Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, who gave a welcome message emphasizing the university’s trajectory toward global competitiveness and community impact. Following the opening formalities, Dr. Capangpangan presented the consolidated OVCRIGE 2025 accomplishments and the strategic targets for 2026. A significant portion of the morning focused on updates from the university’s specialized research and extension centers. Dr. Capangpangan provided the status of the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories (REYLabs), followed by updates from center heads: Ms. Sherley Ann T. Inocente for the Center for Microplastic Research and Innovation (CMRI); Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy for the Sea Cucumber R&D Center (SCRDC); Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero for both the Coral Reef Management Hub (CoReM) and the TBTI Northern Mindanao Hub; Dr. Venus E. Leopardas for the Environmental DNA Research and Development Center (eDNA); and Dr. Fernand F. Fagutao for the Crustacean Research and Innovation Center (CRIC). Additionally, Mr. Adzel Adrian G. Baldevieso presented updates for the Center for Innovative Aquaculture and Sustainable Marine Resources Research (iAQUA) and the T.I.L.A.P.I.A. Center, while Mr. Christian Fel S. Batoctoy reported on the Cacao Hub: A Research and Innovation for Sustainability Center (CHRIS Center). The session then transitioned to the presentation of 2025 internally funded research projects, showcasing a diverse range of studies. Mr. Christian Fel S. Batoctoy presented his rapid assessment on the production and post-harvest of fruits and vegetables, followed by Mr. Edwin E. Dumalagan, Jr., who discussed the quality of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) in Naawan. Mr. Emmanuel S. Delloro, Jr. shared his work on the digitization of commercially important marine fishes, while Ms. Maria Leah E. Suazo presented a SWOT analysis and needs assessment for microenterprises. The session also highlighted social and environmental studies, including Mr. Pat Ray M. Dagapioso’s research on road-related accidents; Ms. Sylvia C. Labial’s study on global skills and career concepts; Ms. Dinah Kendra A. Lumactad’s cultural mapping for heritage preservation; and Mr. Gleven Jay V. Laraño’s comprehensive assessment of butterflies and weevils in the Initao–Libertad protected landscape. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the presentation of 2025 internally funded extension projects, demonstrating the translation of research into community action. Environmental initiatives were led by Ms. Anna Winnielyn J. Galeos through her Clean Ocean Action project. Educational advancements were addressed by Ms. Arlene A. Castillo, Ms. Rizza Paz S. Organiza, and Mr. Jan Cleo D. Canoy, who presented their respective interventions on English writing skills, science learning competencies, and mathematics performance. The program also featured livelihood and agricultural extension projects, including Mr. Edgar D. Castañares’s Moriculture Establishment for Sericulture Production; Mr. Russel D. Bañoc’s container gardening and fruit tree growing; Ms. Richelle A. Niepes’s HERBALARYO project aimed at livestock health; Mr. Michael James O. Baclayon’s disaster risk reduction program for Gitagum; and Ms. Liberty E. Taneo’s women empowerment project through alamang processing. The gathering, facilitated by emcee Ms. Sherley Ann T. Inocente, concluded with the ceremonial contract signing for the 2026 internally funded research and extension projects. Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, Director of the Research and Innovation Institute, delivered the closing remarks. This annual review reaffirms MSU at Naawan’s steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of research excellence and community service, ensuring that its scientific outputs remain relevant, sustainable, and beneficial to the wider community in Northern Mindanao.

Researchers from Mindanao State University at Naawan showcased innovative poultry nutrition studies during the International Conference on Agricultural Research and Innovation (ICARI) 2025, held at the Gov. D.O. Plaza, Government Center, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, from December 1 to 3, 2025. The conference was organized by the Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology under the theme “Agricultural Innovation for a Resilient and Sustainable Future.” The event gathered agricultural researchers, academicians, extension workers, and industry stakeholders from various institutions to exchange research findings that support sustainable and resilient food production systems. Despite the challenges brought about by recent earthquakes in the region, ICARI 2025 successfully provided a venue for knowledge sharing and collaboration in the pursuit of agricultural innovation. Assoc. Professor Mechie Ann C. Florida presented her study titled Pest to Feed: Utilization of the Invasive Mussel (Mytella strigata Hanley) as Protein Feed in Broiler Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus L.), which explored the potential of converting invasive mussels into an alternative and sustainable protein source for poultry feeds. Meanwhile, Ms. Rochelle A. Paculba, MSc., presented her research entitled Dietary Supplementation of Fermented Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes L.) Leaf Meal on the Growth Performance of Broiler Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus L.) and its Cost Benefits, which highlighted the effects of fermented aquatic plants on broiler performance and production economics. Their presentations contributed to discussions on waste resource utilization, feed innovation, and cost-efficient poultry production. Both researchers also actively participated in networking sessions and collaborative exchanges with fellow delegates, opening opportunities for future research partnerships. The participation of MSU at Naawan in ICARI 2025 reflects the university’s strong commitment to advancing high-impact agricultural research, promoting sustainable technologies, and strengthening its linkages with partner institutions in support of a resilient and sustainable agriculture sector.