USM Joins BARMM S&T Week, Formalizes MOA, Showcases Innovations
September 2, 2026
COLUMBIO, Sultan Kudarat—To strategically control the growth of Piper aduncum (Buyobuyo) on farmlands in Columbio, experts from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) spearheaded a specialized training on August 28, 2026, equipping local coalmen with the necessary knowledge and skills for charcoal briquette production.
The training forms part of the extension project, “BIOnihan Para sa Kalikasan: Harmonizing Biodiversity Utilization and Sustainable Agricultural Practices,” which aims to promote sustainable agriculture by using invasive plant species as alternative eco-friendly raw materials for charcoal production.
In his opening remarks, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Lauro V. Domondon, Jr. welcomed the participants.
“Narito na naman tayo ngayong araw para sa napakahalagang bagay. Nakita natin ang paglaganap ng Buyobuyo sa ating mga sakahan at kung minsan kung inuuling natin ito, hindi siya mabenta. Kaya’t narito ang mga USM experts para magbigay sa inyo ng karagdagang kaalaman at pangkabuhayan. Hindi lamang para maiwasan ang paglaganap ng Buyobuyo kundi para tulungan kayong mas mapaunlad ang inyong mga buhay,” he expressed.
The training featured two Master of Science in Biology students from the USM Graduate School: Ms. Vanessa Mae B. Baliguian and Mr. Ralph Francis Yabut. Ms. Baliguian facilitated a discussion on briquette making, explaining in detail the required tools, proper proportions, and step-by-step procedures to formulate high-quality charcoal briquettes.
“Since ang goal natin ngayon ay i-control ang mga Buyobuyo, gagamitin nating material ang uling nito at ihahalo natin sa mga papel. Sa paraang ito, mas magkakaroon ng bagong product na mas kapaki-pakinabang,” Ms. Baliguian stated.
To translate theory into practice, Mr. Yabut guided the participants through a practical demonstration, where everyone experienced the full sequence of briquette making—from raw material preparation and mixing to molding and drying.
The day-long training concluded with a recognition program honoring the participants who demonstrated the most significant increase in knowledge. The session was facilitated by Project Leader Dr. Florence Roy P. Salvaña, alongside Component Leader Dr. Cherie C. Mangaoang and Prof. Cyrelle Besana.
Held in partnership with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Columbio and technology owner Dr. Mary Joy S. Cañolas from the USM College of Agriculture, the activity successfully trained local coalmen from various barangays in Columbio. This extension effort underscores USM’s commitment to empowering rural communities and bridging scientific knowledge with sustainable environmental management.
