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February 1, 2023
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) held the first of a series of research colloquia on January 27, 2023, providing a platform for researchers to highlight their research findings and share their expertise. The activity aimed to strengthen a culture of research and collaboration in the university.
The speakers were Dr. Mary Joy S. Cañolas and Dr. Elorde S. Crispolon, Jr. of the College of Agriculture, and they talked about the highlights of their dissertation. In the first lecture, Dr. Cañolas talked about a potential strategy for addressing challenges in the duck industry wherein the yield performance of eggs is not satisfactory even with good management practices. By crossing male and female Philippine mallard ducks (itik Pinas) of certain characteristics, Dr. Cañolas produced potential breeder stock with desired charactersistics. In the second lecture, Dr. Crispolon discussed the biodiversity and historical evolution of Cercopidae, which currently acts as a bio-indicator of environmental health but may later be an agricultural pest as humans encroach on forest lands. By investigating the phylogeny of Cercopidae with a wider taxonomic sampling of old world taxa, Dr. Crispolon’s research may provide relevant information for crop protection.
Both researchers see their dissertation as a part and and not the end of their research journey. Dr. Cañolas acknowledges the need for continual breeding and assessment of Philippine mallard duck to build and maintain good quality breeder stock. Dr. Crispolon foresees continued collaboration with international scientists, the publication of a book on Philippine Cercopidae, and the establishment of an entomological museum.
The event was organized by Dr. Ardniel A. Baladjay, Executive Assistant to the President for Knowledge Transfer, with the support of the Dr. Ma. Teodora N. Cabasan, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension, and Dr. Francisco Gil N. Garcia, University President.
The first colloquium was attended by students and faculty members on-site and online. The next colloquium is scheduled to be held in February 2023.
