DMPCS department chair Asst. Prof. Cinmayii Manliguez and Prof. Vladimer Kobayashi unveil the BS Data Science program marker, witnessed by Dean Cleto Nañola and VCAA Annabelle Novero.

Chancellor Murao, and the DMPCS constituents and partners at the BS Data Science launching.

Some of the pioneer BS Data Science students

UP Mindanao has launched its Bachelor of Science in Data Science (BSDS) program, marking a significant milestone as the first of its kind within the entire UP system. 

Spearheaded by the Department of Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science (DMPCS), the launch held at Lorenzo Hall on September 4, 2023, marks a monumental step towards revolutionizing Mindanao into a data-driven powerhouse.

Dr. May Anne Mata of the College of Science and Mathematics underscored the pivotal role of data science in contributing to the region’s development. 

“Data science holds the key to unlocking the vast potential of Mindanao in improving agriculture, predicting analytics, and enhancing local businesses, to foster sustainable progress, tailored to resonate with Mindanao’s unique fabric,” Mata said during her opening remarks. 

The program’s inception is a response to the region’s economic growth. With Mindanao’s flourishing economy projected to grow by 7-8%, the demand for data science experts is high, currently projected to be at 340,000, according to Associate Professor Vladimer Kobayashi, its program coordinator.

Kobayashi emphasized that BSDS aims to produce competent data science practitioners with entrepreneurial mindsets, and skills in research and development to positively contribute to the region’s socio-economic landscape. 

UP Diliman’s Former Chancellor Professor Fidel Nemenzo, DSc, further addressed the need for an undergraduate data science program. “It’s about time that UP offers Data Science at an undergraduate level to transform Mindanao into a data-driven powerhouse. Its emphasis on advancing communities will shape a future for Mindanao and beyond."

The event was witnessed by its pioneering students, faculty members, and administrative staff.

Seated (left-right): VCAA Annabelle Novero, Chancellor Lyre Murao, MCHS Principal Raul Cabilogan, MCHS Head Teacher Anabel Dulay Standing: Asst. Prof. Dennis Sumaylo, SOM Dean Aurelia Gomez, Research Director May Anne Mata, Asst. Prof. Ma. Teresa Escano, Prof. Karen Cayamanda, Dean Cleto Nanola

Chancellor Lyre Anni Murao signed a Memorandum of Understanding with School Principal Raul Cabilogan of Mintal Comprehensive High School (MCHS)-Junior High School on August 22, 2023, for cooperation in Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) education. The MOU was sought by Principal Cabilogan in line with the MCHS's move for the DepEd's recognition of its STE program. The MOU will provide MCHS's students with opportunities for learning experiences in science and technology. The UPMin Executive Committee witnessed the signing ceremony and gave inputs for possible activities.

Standing (left-right) are UPMFI Trustees and graduates Anacleto & Elsa Guevarra, Erika Ocon (BS Agribusiness Economics [BSABE]), Alessa Keith Carbonnel (magna cum laude, BSABE), Vannah Mae Rivera (BSB), Mark James Saguimpa (mcl, BSABE), Aliah Baito (mcl, BA Communication & Media Arts), Nixie Serna (mcl, BA English), Corazon Reyes & Dr. Reyes, and John Gaisano Jr. at the UPMin 25th Commencement Exercises.

Standing (left-right) are UPMFI Trustees UPMin Chancellor Lyre Murao, Dinah Fuentes, Celia Castillo, Charmaine Valentin, Anacleto Guevarra, Corazon Reyes, John Gaisano, Marie Glenn Sorila, Sebastian Anglionto (back to the camera)

The UP Mindanao Foundation Inc. held a celebration and thanksgiving dinner for their scholars who recently graduated. Six UPMFI scholars graduated in the 25th Commencement Exercises on 18 July 2023, namely Erika Ocon (BS Agribusiness Economics [BSABE]), Alessa Keith Carbonnel (magna cum laude, BSABE), Mark James Saguimpa (magna cum laude, BSABE), Vannah Mae Rivera (BS Biology), Aliah Baito (magna cum laude, BA Communication & Media Arts), and Nixie Serna (mcl, BA English). Five of the graduates were present at the dinner on August 5, 2023, at the Reyes' residence. UPMFI Trustees at the dinner were Sebastian "Anggi" Angliongto, John Gaisano Jr., Anacleto "Quitoy" Guevarra, Corazon "Zony" Reyes, Dinah Tolentino-Fuentes, Charmaine Valentin, Marie Glenn Sorila, Celia Castillo, and UPMin's Chancellor Lyre Anni Murao. At the dinner, the graduates shared their plans, and the trustees prayed for the graduates' well-being.  The UPMFI supported 15 scholars in Academic Year 2022-2023 and are looking to expand this number. The UPMFI is exploring new ways by which donors can support more scholarship packages.