USM Research Experts Join WFP-Led Workshops on SSR and IGA in Cotabato City
December 22, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) welcomed representatives from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) for an onsite monitoring session of the Center for Flood and Landslide Preparedness and Mitigation Project on December 9, 2025, at the USM Board Room.
The Institutional Development Project (IDP), headed by Engr. Christopher Benito alongside Dr. Ma. Dely Esberto, Engr. Norman Anta, and Engr. Jay Navaluna, aims to equip engineering researchers with quality resources, foster innovation, and strengthen the university’s role in geohazard risk management.
Represented by Project Technical Assistant IV Judy Mae Asis and Supervising Science Research Specialist Glenda Dorcas Sabitbit, PCIEERD evaluated the project by thoroughly examining its progress in terms of resource acquisition, procurement processes, training sessions conducted, and future strategic plans. The session concluded with a test drive of the newly purchased drones to monitor geohazard areas within the Municipality of Kabacan.
Moving forward, the project foresees the establishment of its own laboratory, providing future researchers the needed resources to accelerate research and development efforts in geohazard risk management.
The successful monitoring session signified a major step forward for the Center for Flood/Landslide Preparedness and Mitigation Project, underscoring the strong collaboration between USM and DOST-PCIEERD in strengthening regional disaster resilience. With the operationalization of drone technology and the planned establishment of a geohazard laboratory, USM is positioned to accelerate its research output, translate scientific findings into actionable mitigation strategies, and ultimately enhance the preparedness and safety of communities vulnerable to floods and landslides across the region.
