USM Trade Fair 2026 Opens to the Public
September 17, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) and the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association Inc. (PBGEA) have partnered to advance research on Banana Fusarium wilt disease through a three-year partnership, with the signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on September 16, 2026, at the Office of the President, Administration Building, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Under the agreement, USM will provide research expertise, including the use of the DNA Probe Kit to detect and diagnose Banana Fusarium wilt disease at the molecular level. The university will also work with PBGEA in examining and confirming the effectiveness of its control and management practices, while sharing research findings with the association amd other banana industry stakeholders.
Representing PBGEA during the signing were President Victor S. Mercado Jr. and Stephen A. Antig. For USM, President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel and Project Leader Dr. Edward A. Barlaan, Professor Emeritus, signed the MOU as the university’s authorized representatives.
