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March 4, 2026
The College of Medicine of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), now in its fifth year of service, earned national recognition from the Philippine Medical Association during the DenGAWAD 2026 awarding ceremony held at Quezon 1 Ballroom, SEDA Vertis North in Quezon City. The event was organized in partnership with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company.
DenGAWAD 2026 also marked the first anniversary of the Empowering Networks to Defeat DENGUE (E.N.D. Dengue) Coalition, a nationwide effort led by medical experts who aim to eliminate dengue-related deaths by 2030.
Representing USM at the ceremony were Marwil Billones, Johaydin Saad, Alexie Paquit, and Christine Abigail Tan. They carried out the study under the guidance of Dr. Jenelle G. Sambo, of the College of Medicine, and Dr. Krizler Tanalgo of the College of Science and Mathematics.
The USM College of Medicine worked closely with the Ecology and Conservation Laboratory to complete the recognized research. The team used species distribution modeling to study how changing climate patterns may affect the spread of dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Through their research, they identified areas that may become high-risk zones as environmental conditions shift. Their findings provide scientific data that can help health authorities plan stronger and more targeted prevention efforts.
With this recognition, USM stands alongside respected medical institutions honored during the ceremony, including the Philippine Pediatric Society, which received an award for Innovation and Impact.
In a Facebook post, the research team shared that they dedicate the award to their mentors, the university, and the communities they serve. They also assured the public that they will continue their dengue research through science-driven initiatives and meaningful public service.
