USM Graduates, Now Army Second Lieutenants, Pay Courtesy Visit to USM
December 15, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) welcomed representatives from Tropic Biosciences Ltd. of the United Kingdom—Dr. Maricar Salacinas-Niez and Dr. Daniel Ponndorf—on December 15, 2025, for an initial discussion on a proposed joint research project focused on banana trials for Fusarium Wilt (TR4) resistance.
Dr. Niez is the Crop Trials Study Manager, and Dr. Ponndorf is the Disease and Pest Resistance Team Lead of the Tropic Biosciences Ltd., a company based in England and Wales, United Kingdom.
During the meeting, both parties discussed the overall project plan, how the activities will be carried out, and the long-term direction of the collaboration. The discussion was held with Dr. Jonald Pimentel, USM President; Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension; Dr. Tamie C. Solpot, PICRI Director; and Prof. Bryan Lloyd Bretaña, Director for International Affairs of USM.
Tropic Biosciences expressed its intention to formally partner with USM for the implementation of the project. The company recognized USM’s strong technical skills and experience in crop research, which are seen as vital to the successful conduct and monitoring of the project in the country. Dr. Solpot will lead the USM project team, and the research activities are planned to begin in 2026.
Research and Extension are among USM’s key mandates, supported by a dedicated team of technical experts with solid background and experience in crop science research. This partnership further strengthens USM’s role in advancing agricultural research through local and international collaboration.
