The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) strengthened its research and innovation capacity through its participation in the week-long capacity-building program of the Mindanao-Sulu-Palawan Innovative Research and Development Consortium (MinSuPala-IRDC) held in Tawi-Tawi from August 14 to 19, 2026. USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel led the delegation, along with USM Faculty members and staff namely: MinSuPala-IRDC Focal/Project Leader Dr. Lydia Pascual, project staff Dr. Jennet Mag-aso, Dr. Kris June Callano, Prof. Carlito Basay Jr., and Dr. Maribelle Piamonte, and research assistants Benjie Mari, Hazel Joy Besas, and Cheene Vita. The USM delegation joined researchers, innovators, and representatives from other MinSuPala-IRDC member institutions in a series of training sessions and collaborative activities focused on strengthening regional research and innovation. The program opened with a Seminar on Innovation in Indigenous Crops and Fish Processing Products, followed by a Workshop on Value Addition facilitated by Asst. Prof. Iannie P. Maribao. The sessions explored ways to turn indigenous crops and fishery resources into high-value products that can support local communities, farmers, fisherfolk, and micro, small, and medium enterprises. Atty. Alnasul K. Sali led the Intellectual Property Training, which focused on protecting research outputs and supporting innovation. Engr. Irene A. Bakili followed with a Technology Transfer Training on moving research-generated technologies toward practical applications for industries, communities, and other stakeholders. The program also strengthened the participants’ skills in communicating research. Prof. Richard N. Muallil led the Scientific Presentation Training, while Prof. Anabel A. Wellms facilitated the Public Speaking Training. Both sessions focused on presenting research findings clearly and effectively to different audiences. Beyond the training sessions, the activity provided opportunities for the participating institutions to exchange knowledge and build professional connections, strengthening collaboration among research institutions across Mindanao, Sulu, and Palawan. The USM delegation also visited Panampangan Island, Sangay Siapo Island, and the historic Masjid Sheikh Karim-ul Makhdum in Simunul. The visits allowed participants to learn more about Tawi-Tawi’s cultural heritage, history, and communities. Through the week-long engagement, the USM delegation gained new knowledge and strengthened its networks in research, innovation, intellectual property, scientific communication, and technology transfer. The experience will support USM’s continuing efforts to develop responsive research, advance innovation, and translate research outputs into technologies and solutions for communities. From Tawi-Tawi, the learning returns to USM—strengthening the University’s work in bringing research, innovation, and technology closer to the people.

RD & E Highlights

August 22, 2026

Published by Loynei Frias Sumalinog at August 22, 2026

From Tawi-Tawi, USM Powers Up Research and Innovation

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) strengthened its research and innovation capacity through its participation in the week-long capacity-building program of the Mindanao-Sulu-Palawan Innovative Research and […]

August 20, 2026

Published by Jimwell Pande at August 20, 2026

USM, US Peace Corps Wrap Up Data Analytics Training Series

After conducting a 22-week intensive series of online trainings on Data Analytics for Development, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) and the Peace Corps jointly conducted […]

August 20, 2026

Published by Joseph Jambaro at August 20, 2026

SOXAARRDEC, LGU-Midsayap Hold Project FEEDS for Livestock and Poultry Farmers

The SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Midsayap, successfully conducted the Project […]

August 20, 2026

Published by Jimwell Pande at August 20, 2026

USM Extension Head Dr. Salvaña Shares Forage, Phyto-Veterinary Expertise at 2026 Regional Livestock Biotech Symposium

Maramag, BUKIDNON— University of Southern Mindanao’s (USM) Extension Unit Head, Dr. Florence Roy P. Salvaña, served as a resource speaker during the “Gawang Pinoy, Tatak Biotek: […]

August 20, 2026

Published by Jimwell Pande at August 20, 2026

USM-ESO Assesses Cotabato Organic Farmers’ Needs

Balindog, KIDAPAWAN CITY—In its ongoing effort to conduct interventions rooted in community needs, the University of Southern Mindanao – Extension Services Office (USM-ESO) spearheaded a community […]

August 19, 2026

Published by Jimwell Pande at August 19, 2026

USM, UNDP, NCIP XII Plan Project I-LEAD’s Implementation

To set the implementation timeline of Project I-LEAD (Indigenous Women and Girls—Leadership and Empowerment in Ancestral Domains), the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), United Nations Development […]