MS IN FOOD SCIENCE was opened for applicants in July 2018. This is the fourth graduate degree program in UP Mindanao. Some 14 students were enrolled in the program at the start of by August 2018.

UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS University Convocation for First-Year Students was held in U.P. Mindanao on 6 August 2018, the first day of Academic Year 2018-2019. There are 260 first-year students. University Registrar Aurelia Luzviminda Gomez introduced the 260 first-year students by geographical origin, namely: National Capital Region-6; Cordillera Administrative Region-1; Central Luzon-1; Calabarzon-1; Mimaropa (Palawan, Occidental Mindoro)-5; Bicol-1; Eastern Visayas (Leyte)-2; Zamboanga Peninsula-2; Northern Mindanao-15; SoCksarGen-57; Caraga Region-15; ARMM-2; Davao Region-151. Distribution by academic program is, as follows: BS Anthropology-16; BA Communication and Media Arts-39; BA English-14; BS Architecture-51; BS Applied Mathematics-24; BS Biology-46; BS Computer Science-22; BS Food Technology-30; BS Agribusiness Economics-18. Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Nilo Oponda each gave welcome messages. The Inspirational Message to the Freshies was given by alumnus Dr. Kenneth D. Barroga (BSAM 2009) wherein he imparted “ten tips for freshmen” infused with insight and humor. The University Student Council 2018-2019, headed by Frederick Omalza (4BS Biology) as chairperson, was administered their Oath of Office by Chancellor Concepcion. The Orientation for parents and “freshies” was held earlier, on 1 August 2018.
 
AS UPCAT TEST CENTER FOR DAVAO CITY, UP Mindanao's Office of the University Registrar accommodated UPCAT applications from walk-in applicants and through postal and courier services up to the close of office hours on 10 August 2018.        
 
LACTIC ACID project of UP Mindanao was featured in the Leaders in Innovation Fellowship Batch 4 (LIF4) Demo Day held on 2 August 2018 at the Asian Institute of Management. The UP Mindanao Technology Transfer and Business Development team operated the project booth and accommodated prospective investors. In the plenary session, UP Mindanao proponent Dr. Melvin Pasaporte delivered his "sales pitch" for the "Polylactic Acid-based Biodegradable Plastic" to popular acceptance by the audience. On 3 August 2018 was held the Closing Ceremonies of Leaders in Innovation Fellowship Batch 4 in the Asian Institute of Management including Dr. Pasaporte. LIF is sponsored by Newton Agham, Royal Academy of Engineering, Dept. of Science and Technology, and Asian Institute of Management

HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION READINESS FOR INNOVATION AND TECHNOPRENEURSHIP (DOST-HEIRIT) program of the DOST held its Mindanao event in Davao City on 23 August 2018 for the participating universities in the Mindanao cluster, namely Caraga State University, Mindanao State University-Iligan, University of Mindanao, and UP-Mindanao. Asst. Prof. Miguel Carlo Guillermo delivered the Senior Partner Pitch for UP-Mindanao to the prospective investors, students, and other partners, in his capacity as Technology Business Incubator Manager. The HEIRIT is a preparatory program for higher education institutions (HEIs) to implement, build and run a technology business incubator.
 
UNIVERSITY IN-HOUSE R & D RESEARCH REVIEW was organized by Office of Research on 8 August 2018 for the monitoring and evaluation of in-house funded research projects towards their timely completion and publication. The external reviewers were Architect Iluminado Quinto of University of Mindanao, Dr. Mervin Gascon and Dr. Samuel Herbert Mamora of University of Southeastern Philippines, Dr. Doris Montecastro of Ateneo de Davao University, and Dr. Louella Cabahug of Central Mindanao University. The research papers presented were "Reconnaissance of palm trees" by Asst. Prof. John Bengan (Dept. of Humanities), "Christianity among the Matigsalog" by Asst. Prof. Janus Ruel Cabazares (Social Sciences), "Urban and spatial morphology of Mintal" by Asst. Prof. Jean Marie Juanga (Architecture), and "Dance notation of the Ata-Manobo dances" by Instructor Jezreel Abarca (Human Kinetics).  The researches in the natural sciences were "Callus induction for coconut" by Asst. Prof. Cyrose Suzie Millado (Biological Sci.), "Rotavirus A in pig farms" by Mr. Michael Bacus (Biological Sci.), "Consumption of vegetables by children" by Asst. Prof. Aileen Grace Delima (Biological Sci.), "Contamination on banana peels and its suitability for value-added product" by Prof. Dominica Dacera (Food Sci. & Chem.), "Characterization of sago via rDNA Internal Transcribed Sequences" by Asst. Prof. Aileen Delima (Biological Sci.), "Production of coastal fishes for 'amihan' and summer seasons" by Asst. Prof. Leo Manuel Estana (Math., Physics, Comp. Sci.), "Development of anti-microbial films" by Assoc. Prof. Noreen Grace Fundador (Food Sci. & Chemistry), "Effect of processing on the nutrient content of corn" by Asst. Prof. Jennifer Fronteras (Food Sci. & Chemistry), "Assessment of flora and fauna in the campus" by Asst. Prof. Marion John Achondo (Biological Sci.), and "Bio-physical characterization for UP Marilog Land Reservation" by Asst. Prof. Nilo Oponda (Math., Physics, Comp. Sci.). Given recognition for Best Presentations were Prof. John Bengan and Prof. Noreen Fundador for social science/humanities and natural science, respectively.
 
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES 2018 (ICSET 2018) was co-organized and hosted by Mapua University, Manila, Philippines, on 19-21 August 2018. At 2018 ICSET Session 9: "Building Industry and Sustainability", Asst. Prof. Ryan Songcayauon (Dept. of Architecture) was presented with a Certificate of Award for ICSET 2018 Session 9 Best Paper for his research paper titled, "An initial quantification of embodied energy of economic and socialized housing units in Davao City, Phils."
 
BEST PAPER PRESENTATION award was given to Asst. Prof. Karen Joyce G. Cayamanda (D/Humanities) in the Asia Future Conference (AFC) 2018 held at Seoul, South Korea on 24-28 August 2018. The paper titled "Towards a human-ecological dimension of disaster resiliency: Exploring a social vulnerability model for sustainability" highlights the role of culture and symbolism for a context-specific approach to disaster risk reduction and mitigation strategies, using lessons from the Matina Pangi (Davao City) flood incident of 2011.
 
"NIPA HUT" and "Talikud", paintings by Prof. Teody Boylie Perez (Humanities) were on display in the "Celebration of Phillippine Visual Arts" group art exhibit in SM Lanang Mall, Davao City on 1-7 August 2018. The exhibit "showcases Davao's vibrant cultural scene and how the late National Artist Victorio Edades made it his home and influenced a new generation of artists."  

ASST. PROF. DANN MARIE DEL MUNDO (Dept. of Food Sci. and Chem.) reported for work on 29 August 2018 after having earned her PhD in Food Science from Suranaree University of Technology, Thailand. Prof. del Mundo and Asst. Prof. Giovanna Oguis (Dept. of Math., Physics, and Comp. Sci.) are two faculty members who recently completed their PhD degrees from Suranaree.  
 
QUALITY ASSURANCE LEADING TO ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE workshop was held for faculty members on 31 July-1 August 2018 with Dr. Philip Ian Padilla as Resource Person. The topics were Quality Assurance in UP and in the ASEAN Universities Network and the criteria. Faculty members articulated their expectations and apprehensions and drew up activities for the next six months strategically aligned towards Quality Assurance.

BLENDED LEARNING training-workshop was conducted for faculty members on 31 August 2018 with professors Vicente Calag, Ritchie Mae Gamot, and Nelfa Glova as Resource Persons. The workshop introduced the popular learning management systems, creating and managing on-line classrooms and related issues, and culminated in the presentation of outputs by the participants.
 
THE 12TH PHIL- BIST (PHILIPPINE-BOOK, INFORMATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY) CONFERENCE AND FAIR was mounted by the Davao Colleges and Universities Network (DACUN), which UP-Mindanao is a member, at University of the Immaculate Conception, Davao City on 7-9 August 2018. The Fair was organized by the DACUN Library Committee on the theme, “Sustaining the Standards for Quality Assurance of Institutions of Higher Learning: Repositioning the Role of Libraries and Information Professionals” and featured 6 plenary lectures and exhibits by academic publishers.
 
RESIDENTS OF BGY. BANKAS HEIGHTS, Davao City are the Mindanao beneficiaries of "Nurturing Grassroots Change through Partnerships" Skills Camp in the Project Launch held on 18 August 2018 in UP Mindanao. The beneficiaries selected Baking and Pastry-making as the skill they desire to acquire, to be imparted in consecutive weekends from August through October 2018. The Skills Trainers are Ms. Grace Aponte for Book-keeping, Prof. Lemuel Calatrava for Business Management, and Prof. Virginia Obsioma for Food-making and Baking. Ms. Amparo Tulo of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority said that beneficiaries will qualify for TESDA certification upon their completion. The project is funded by National Grid Corporation of the Phils. for communities traversed by their electrical grids with UP as the project implementer.
 
THE 17th NATIONAL VEGETABLE CONGRESS with accompanying Trade Fair and Exhibit was held on 22-24 August 2018 in Davao City with UP Mindanao, Vegetable Industry Council of Southern Mindanao (VICSMIN) Inc., and Department of Agriculture-XI as co-organizers. Some 500-plus farmers and delegates from industry and the regions attended the plenaries and farm tours. UP Mindanao's School of Management (SOM) has been involved with the vegetable industry since 2000 through its agribusiness research and extension, and as a project partner for more than 15 years through projects such as the Gulayan sa Barangay (GSB) projects, Farmer's Training, Vegetable Awareness Campaign, Organizational Development, and vegetable congresses.

EFFECTIVE FARM CULTURAL PRACTICES for cacao production was the subject of training provided for farmers of Special Barangay Talle residing within the UP Laak Land Reservation in Compostela Valley Province on 30-31 August 2018. A total of 36 farmer-beneficiaries (17 male, 19 female) benefited from the Training, one of a series, provided by the Land Reservation Management Office in partnership with Kennemer Foods Int'l and the Talle Barangay council.      
    
THE DEBATE SOCIETY competed in the 11th Visayas-Mindanao Debate Championship held in Fr. Saturnino Urios University, Butuan City, on 24-26 August 2018. UPMin Team B was a Grand Finalist and UPMin Team A was a Semi-Finalist, with students also winning individual awards. Andres Karl Segovia (4BA Communication Arts) was awarded 2nd Best Speaker of the Tournament, Frederick Omalza (4BS Biology) was 3rd Best Speaker, Nissa Caderao (4BS Abribusiness Economics) was 7th Best Speaker, and Bryle Matthew Bacatan (4BS Food Technology) was 10th Best Speaker.   
 
TINUKIB 2018 was held at Abreeza Ayala Mall, Davao City, on 28-29 August 2018 by the Architecture program to promote architecture to high school students. The 2018 theme “Balai Bata: Paaralang Walang Kapansanan, Disenyong Pangkalahatan” promotes architectural design for persons of all sexes, size, age, or disability. Lectures were given by professionals on the topics of accessibility for persons with disability, anthropometrics, design, color theory, and green architecture. Architectural drawings, scale models, and design projects of UP Mindanao students were exhibited. In the workshops, High School students competed in the Balai Bata Model-Making and Mixed-Media Arts.  Tinukib 2018 was co-organized by the UP Mindanao Architecture Student Council, the Dept. of Architecture, United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary, and Davies Paint, Solid Steel Machinery and Tools Inc., and Orient Glass Corp. as major sponsors.

THE INTERNATIONAL DEFENSE OF THE ANCIENTS 2 CHAMPIONSHIPS on 15 August 2018 featured Shoutcasting (sports-casting over the internet) services by Instructor Albert Francis Ramos (Dept. of Human Kinetics), and student Paula Yap (BS Computer Sci.).
 
DAVAO CITY ATHLETES AND COACHES' RECOGNITION 2018 was held on 23 August 2018 wherein City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio led the rites of recognition to athletes of Team DAVAO--among whom were UP Mindanao Swim Varsity Team Captain Juan Antonio A. Mendoza (4BS Agribusiness Economics) and Team Coach Vasit Venturillo--for their podium finish in the 2018 PHILIPPINE NATIONAL GAMES held on 19-25 May 2018 in Cebu.
 
BADMINTON VARSITY held tryouts on 15 and 23 August 2018 at the Davao City-UP Sports Complex Multi-Purpose Gym.
MEN'S BASKETBALL VARSITY held an orientation for 25 candidates on 23 August 2018 with coach Isidoro Malaque III with trainings and try-outs in the following weeks.
 
WOMEN'S FOOTBALL VARSITY placed 3rd runner-up in the 33rd Kadayawan Futsal Festival (Women's Open) held at the DC-UP Multi-Purpose Gym. The top scorers of the Varsity team were Moira Isabella Calizo with 9 goals, Paula Marielle Elises with 2, and Bess Aparece Tulio, 2.

33RD KADAYAWAN FUTSAL FESTIVAL 16-Under age group was co-organized by Davao-South Regional Football Association with UP Mindanao Women's Football Varsity and Siki ni Obli student group. Boys Division was won by BP-Eagles, BP-Durians, and Black Rose Football Club, as champions and runners-up, respectively, while the Girls Division was won by Sakya FC, Phil. College of Technology, and Calinan FC.

DAVAO CITY-UP SPORTS COMPLEX construction work continued throughout August with civil works on access roads and the Aquatics Center implemented with composite teams composed of surveyors and engineers from Dept. of Public Works, Davao City Engineers Office, UP Mindanao, and contractors, social workers of UP Mindanao, and security personnel from UP Mindanao and the Phil. National Police.

NEW EMPLOYEES WERE ADMINISTERED THEIR OATH OF OFFICE by Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion on 13 August 2018 following their Orientation Seminar by the Human Resource Development Office. Administered their Oaths were Julius Neil Piala (Humanities); Merle Dawn Comidoy (Humanities); Lakan Umali (Humanities); Minerva C. Rosel (Architecture); Micah Amor P. Yares (Architecture); Lennie Leen Uyog (Accounting); Lemuel O. Calatrava (School of Management); Lief Erikson Gamalo (Biological Sci.); Eliezer O. Diamante (Mathematics); Melissa P. Loquias (SOM); Magno Batomalaque (Human Kinetics).

NATIONAL HEROES DAY CELEBRATION was held in Osmena Park, Davao City on 27 August 2018 with City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, war veterans, and the diplomatic community. Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion served as Guest Speaker wherein she related her family's experience to her insight that putting other families before one's own family is a true mark of heroism.

MS IN FOOD SCIENCE, the fourth graduate degree program, was opened for applicants in July 2018. Interested applicants were required to confirm their application by 27 July 2018. classes are scheduled to begin in August 2018.  

100% OF BS ARCHITECTURE graduates passed the June Architect Licensure Exam for the tenth consecutive year, as announced on 5 July 2018 by the Professional Regulation Commission; Arielle Jan Baldonado (BS Architecture 2016 was 5th-placer with a rating of 82.80%. Ar. Baldonado is the eighth board top-notcher of the UP Mindanao Architecture program. Fifteen BS Architecture graduates earned their license, namely Clarisse Norikka Angeles (BSA 2016), Janine Eve Ardepuela (BSA '16), Arielle Jan Baldonado, Christine Joyce Biala (BSA '16), Dahlie Amor De Castro (BSA '16), Alyssa Louise Dumol (BSA '16), Patricia Ynez Durano (BSA '16), Sheba Marie Fantin (BSA '16), Sheena Marie Franco (BSA '16), Tresamar Jamen (BSA '16), Kenneth Layno (BSA '16), Jacobsen Matanguihan (BSA '16), Jotham Norman Molinos (BSA '17), Glenn Pilayre (BSA '16), and Jovianne Angela Valdez (BSA '16).

APPLICATION FOR THE U.P. COLLEGE ADMISSION TEST for School Year 2019-2020 (UPCAT 2019) is on-going for Senior High School students who are graduating in 2019. The deadline for submission of applications is on 10 August 2018. UPCAT 2019 will be held on 15 and 16 September 2018 nationwide.

DEBATE SOCIETY competed in the 3rd Davao Intervarsity which was held in Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) on July 6-8, 2018. Two teams (with 2 debaters in each team) from UP Mindanao competed and were recognized after the four preliminary rounds. UP Mindanao Team #1 composed of Allin Joy Camile (BA Anthropology 2016) and Frederick Omalza (4BS Biology) made it to the pre-semifinals round and were tied as 7th best speaker of the tournament while UP Mindanao Team #2 which was composed of Michael Bacus (BSB 2018) and Andres Karl Segovia (4BA Communication Arts) were recognized as reserve breaks. UP Min adjudicator Aleimar Villabrille (4BS Computer Science) was also part of the reserve breaks for the adjudicator category. Also present during the tournament were alumni Renzo Polinar (BACA 2018) and Karl Tristan Butalid (BAA 2018) as swing team and Candy Latoza (3BSCS) as competing adjudicator.

UNIVERSITY STUDENT COUNCIL 2018-2019 representatives met with Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion on 23 July 2018. The delegation was composed of USC Chairperson Frederick Omalza (BS Biology), Councilor and USC Secretariat Chairperson Aleimar Villabrile (BS Computer Science), Councilor for Student Organizations Princess Villan (BS Food Technology), Councilor for Finance Francis Levi Durano (BS Agribusiness Economics), and Councilor for Student Rights and Welfare Justine Dave Digamo (BSFT).

DATA PRIVACY notices have been posted in the campus and in the website starting 2 July 2018. This is in compliance to Republic Act 10173 that upholds the respect for privacy of personal information and penalties for its disregard. In the statement, UP clarifies the necessity for collecting personal information and the limits that it sets for the use of these information. The designated Data Privacy Office of UP Mindanao is Asst. Prof. Vicente B. Calag, Director of the Information Technology Office.   

Geo-SAFER Mindanao (Geo-informatics for the Systematic Assessment of Flood Effects and Risks for a Resilient Mindanao) held their Program Meeting on 9-10 July 2018 in UP Mindanao. Represented at the Meeting were the DOSt- Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) and the partner Higher Education Institutions (HEI) Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Caraga State University, Central Mindanao University, MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology, and UP Mindanao. The Mindanao-wide program accomplishment was assessed at 94.52%. It was agreed that a catch-up plan will be devised that will be monitored weekly. Assistance to graduate students and the need to determine the availabilty of sensors for year 2 are among the priorities.

KRIZA FAYE A. CALUMBA (Dept. of Food Sci. and Chem.), Fulbright scholar to Louisiana State University, participated in the Institute of Food Technologists IFT18 Conference in Chicago City on 15-18 July 2018 where her scientific poster was a finalist and was awarded 3rd Place in the Biotechnology Division Poster Competition.
   
PROJECT PULL, an acronym for PCAARRD-UP Mindanao-Landcare-LIFE (Livelihood Intervention thru Facilitated Extension), is being implemented by UP Mindanao as proponent in the three conflict-affected communities: Ipil Municipality in Zamboanga Sibugay Province; Datu Abdula Sangki in Maguindanao; and Surallah in South Cotabato. The 16-steps developed in the Landcare LIFE model will be adopted in these sites. Dr. Emma Ruth Bayogan, Dean Larry Digal, and Ms. Anne Shangrila Fuentes are the site project leaders, as reported on 10 July 2018 by University Extension Associate Mr. Michael Gatela.

"DEFENSE OF THE ANCIENTS" (DOTA) computer game was played in the TNC Cup National Grand Finals e-sports competition held on 7-8 July 2018 in Quezon City. The NetCentralGameCentral (NCGC) team from Davao City, the only team from Mindanao, made it to the Final 8 qualifiers under Mr. Albert Francis Ramos (Human Kinetics) as coach.

DAVAO DEL NORTE Provincial Government officials Giovanni I. Gulanes and Kris Mishael P. Junasa visited on 11 July 2018 to discuss the prospect of availing academic offerings from the Dept. of Human Kinetics. The team also met with the Campus Planning and Development Office to share experiences in managing a sports complex.

DAVAO AGUILAS Football Club Chief Operating Officer Mickey Sanchez, Asst. Head Coach Leigh Manson, and Local General Coordinator and alumna Damsel Merced visited on 13 July to view the Football Field of the Davao City-UP Sports Complex. They were received by Dept. of Human Kinetics Chair, Prof. Erwin Protacio, and Campus Planning and Development Chief Dr. Cherrylyn Cabrera. The Davao Aguilas are seeking a venue to play "home" games in the future.

FITNESS, HEALTH, AND WELLNESS Committee with Prof. Pedro "Pete" Alviola IV, Chairperson, set Wellness Activities for the month of July 2018 for all constituents: Monday, Wednesday, Friday has badminton at Admin Bldg. Atrium; Tuesday, Thursday, Friday has Walking/Jogging from Admin. Bldg. to CSM & vice versa; all events are at 4:30pm.

THE AQUATICS CENTER construction at the Davao City-UP sports Complex began on 4 July through an inter-agency meeting held in UP Mindanao with the winning bidder, Verzontal Builders Inc., represented by its Chief Operating Officer Rolando Amparado. Davao City Assistant City Administrator for Operations Atty. Lawrence Bantiding, UP Mindanao Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion, Phil. International Trading Corp. President Dave Almarinos, Phil. Sports Commission Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy and others noted with pleasure the statement by COO Amparado to complete the Aquatics Center by December 2018. The Davao City local government unit has committed that it will host the Davao Region Athletic Association Meet in January 2019.                        

BARANGAY MINTAL OFFICIALS took their oath of office before Mintal residents and newly-elected Barangay Chairman Rey Amador "Tata" Bargamento on 5 July 2018. Alumna Kendall Abrio (BA Communication Arts 2017) was sworn into office as Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairperson. Mintal Councilors who took their oath of office were Edsan Santander, Arman Rios, Dondon Allan Martinez, Zenaida Baluran, Rizalino Sobrepena, Fe Teresa Bargamento de Guzman, and Annabelle Bauzon.  

TRAINING ON BASIC CACAO PRODUCTION was given for some 48 farmers of Special Barangay Talle, Laak, Compostela Valley on 18-19 July 2018. The training is part of the Cacao Double-Up Program (CDUP) of the Department of Agriculture Regional Office 11 that aims to increase cacao production in Mindanao and help improve the income of local farmers. The training was organized by the UP Mindanao Land Reservation Management Office (LRMO) as part of its efforts to reach neighboring barangays within the UP Mindanao Land Reservation and was undertaken in collaboration with Kennemer Foods International with Mr. Jandy Onita serving as resource person.

Chancellor’s Report to the PAC: Prof. Sylvia B. Concepcion, 01 – 30 June 2018

Goal: Contribute to National Development

THE U.P. MINDANAO 21st COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES were held on 26 June 2018 at the Administration Building Atrium, UP Mindanao campus in Mintal, Davao City. A total of 250 candidates were declared graduates by 21st University President Danilo Concepcion. At the ceremony, a Conferment of the Degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, was held for Dr. Fortunato de la Peña, Secretary of the Dept. of Science and Technology. Following the Conferment, Secretary de la Peña was introduced as the Guest Speaker. Secretary de la Peña, in his talk, disclosed that it was his first time to be a speaker in a graduation ceremony of a UP constituent university. He recalled his involvement in the beginnings of UP Mindanao during his term as UP Vice-President for Planning and Development. He imparted advice for professional life based on his experience. He enumerated the strategies and programs of the DOST towards nation-building, including an increased number of scholarships. The 21st Commencement was graced with the presence of Regent Francis Laurel, Regent Frederick Farolan, Regent Angelo Jimenez, Student Regent Ma. Shari Oliquino, Staff Regent Analiza Fulvadora, VP Elvira Zamora, VP Nestor Yunque, Secretary of the University Roberto Lara, Ms. Mariquit de la Peña, and Atty. Gabriela Concepcion.     

MONDE NISSIN food company executives Romeo Marañon and Michael Singson visited UP Mindanao on 4 June 2018. They visited the proposed lactic acid project laboratory site and other laboratories in the College of Science and Mathematics. At the Gaisano Room, they listened to product pitches from the faculty of the Dept. of Food Science and Chemistry. Prof. Noreen Fundador discussed bioplastics from renewable resources such as corn or sugar cane that have uses in packaging, textiles, electronics, medical, and agricultural supplies; and of anti-microbial food packaging materials produced with starch extracted from seeds of durian and mango. Prof. Virginia Obsioma presented food products of research that use underutilized agricultural produce such as "ubod ng niyog", squash, banana stem, "puso ng saging", eggplant, "alukbati", "malunggay", and "gabi" to create burger patties, "longgoniza", meatloaf, noodles, cookies, and ice cream that are infused with vitamin A, iron, and other nutrients. Food samples created by students were served for their tasting. She also mentioned her lactic acid bacteria research for producing starter cultures for yoghurt. Prof. Juma Novie Alviola discussed her research on nutritious local flours made from sago, mung beans, banana, rice, and sweet potato.  In closing, it was agreed that a draft collaborative research agreement would be drawn up by the UP TTBDO for consideration by Monde Nissin Corp.  

PROFESSORS Jhoanna Lynn Cruz (Humanities) and Lyre Anni Espada-Murao (Biological Science) were among the speakers in the independently-organized "TEDx ROXAS St" event held at the Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City on 5 June 2018. In her talk “Are Filipinos Low Commitment People?”, Cruz examined some Philippine languages and sayings that show Filipinos to be inclined to have low commitment and if this can possibly be reversed. Murao, a virologist who leads research on threats to animal and public health, revealed information on backyard farm diseases and wildlife in her talk titled, "If Poop Could Talk". The talks of professors Cruz and Murao were delivered in the popular style of TED talks, in line with the strategy towards popularization of research.

GUIDANCE COUNSELOR Remigio Domingo contributed to a news feature titled "Internet, academe, and suicide" written by Cristina E. Alivio and published in Sun Star Davao newspaper. In part 3 of the feature published on 6 June 2018 was printed his contribution "The University of the Philippines Mindanao, for example, had a series of fora conducted for its students, faculty and staff". It proceeds to describe "seminars and workshops on mental health/emotional resiliency such as promoting the best practices for a mentally healthy school environment" and on "UP as a healthy, nurturing, and transformative academic organization". 

PROBIOTICS was the subject of a seminar given by Associate Professor Virginia P. Obsioma for distributors of Yakult Philippines Inc. on 21 June 2018 on the week of their National Sales Conference in Davao City. "Healthy Gut: Stress-less Life" was the title of her lecture wherein she presented research showing that certain probiotic substances can reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. The seminar was organized by Yakult officials Robert E. Torres, Ulpiano "Jun" Solomon, with guest Akihiro Kaneda from Japan. The distributors who attended the lecture were from Central Luzon, Tarlac, Baguio City, Tuguegarao City, Isabela, Albay, Palawan, Batangas City, Naga City, Mindoro, Bataan, La Union, Bacolod City, Cebu City, Tacloban, Samar, Iloilo City, GenSan, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Butuan City, Agusan del Sur, and Cotabato City.

DEBATE SOCIETY competed in the Philippine Inter-Collegiate Debating Championships held at University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City on 8-13 June 2018. UPMin Team A placed 22nd and UPMin B placed 25th in the field of 40 teams. The teams debated on issues in education, economics, health, gender, the state, international relations, and religion. UPMin A is composed of Frederick Omalza (3BS Biology), Renzo Polinar (4BA Communication Arts), Andres Segovia (4BA Communication Arts). UPMin B was Bryle Matthew Bacatan (4BS Food Technology), Nissa Mariel Caderao (3BS Agribusiness Economics), and Karl Tristan Butalid (4BA Anthropology). Debate Adjudicators were Sarika Rey (3BA English) and Wolfe Schievener Ote (4BA Communication Arts). 

A MEMORANDUM OF COOPERATION was signed by UP Mindanao and Mindanao Land Foundation (MinLand) on 22 June 2018 to help communities in the Davao City watershed that are vulnerable to natural disasters. UP Mindanao, thru its GeoSafer Mindanao project, will train MinLand personnel in gathering geographical data and its placement into LiDAR maps. MinLand will use these resources for participatory Barangay Development Planning. Signing the Memorandum were UP Mindanao GeoSAFER project leader Prof. Joseph Acosta, Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion, MinLand President Mr. Alex Rendon and Mr. Damaso Vertido. The project Geo-informatics for the Systematic Assessment of Flood Effects and Risks for a Resilient Mindanao (GeoSAFER Mindanao) is supported by the UP Disaster Risk Exposure Assessment and Management (DREAM) project, and the DOST-PCIEERD.   

Goal: Promote Access and Diversity          

THE DUAL PhD BY RESEARCH degree program between UP Los Baños, Curtin University in Perth, Australia; and the University of the Philippines Mindanao was approved by the Board of Regents in its 1335th Meeting on 31 May 2018.  

LAUNCH OF THE MASTER IN MANAGEMENT (MM) Degree Program was held on 8 June 2018 at the Apo View Hotel, Davao City. Dean Larry Digal gave the Welcome Remarks to the prospective students who attended. Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion, in her message, described the role of the academe and research as being about "giving back to society a better way of doing things." Prof. Glory Dee Romo presented the Revised MM Program. Five alumni, namely, Prof. Lemuel Calatrava, Davao City Councilor Maria Belen Acosta, Lecturer Rene Paraba, Prof. Thaddeus Acuña, and Davao Christian High School principal Jocy So-Yeung, each gave a pitch for the MM program to the prospective students. In closing, Prof. Exegesis Bangcaya also gave a pitch to the professionals present to consider partnerships between their companies and the School of Management, such as "on-the-job" programs.

STATISTICS AND EXPERIMENT DESIGN was the subject of the "Crash Course and Development of Laboratory Materials for Statistical Methods and Experimental Designs/Applied Math 152". This was organized by the Dept. of Math., Physics, and Computer Science and held on 18-22 June 2018 for faculty members, research assistants, and senior students. Dr. Li-Ann Lee C. Nalangan served as Resource Person.

CONFIRMATIONS FROM UPCAT QUALIFIERS for Academic Year 2018-2019 were accepted by the Office of the University Registrar beginning on 19 June 2018. Qualifiers who reside outside Davao City sent in their confirmations through e-mail.    

A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING between UP Mindanao and Bridge Institute of Technology (BIT) of Japan was initiated on 26 June 2018. The MOU provides for a 2-year training-to-employment program in Japan for students and alumni of BS Computer Science degree programs to start in April 2019. Asst. Professor Vicente Calag served as UP Mindanao representative in the signing ceremony  with Mr. Jun Hida, Director of Bridge Institute of Technology, held in Tokyo, Japan.

Goal: Optimize Use of Resources

AT "AGHAM BAYAN" held at the Phil. International Convention Center, Pasay City, on 20 June 2018 was held the signing of a Letter of Intent between UP Mindanao and Monde Nissin Corporation. The LOI expressed the interest of Monde Nissin as a "potential commercial licensee for the UP technology titled Direct Lactic Acid Technology". The LOI was signed by Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion for UP Mindanao and Mr. Michael Singson, on behalf of Mr. Romeo Marañon, Director for New Business Development of Monde Nissin Corporation.   
 
DATA PRIVACY ACT Awareness Seminar for faculty and staff was held on 18 June 2018 by Prof. Vicente Calag, the Data Privacy Officer of UP Mindanao. The seminar objectives were to raise awareness about Republic Act 10173 and to familiarize with the provisions, the review current practices in relation to this Act, the rights of data subjects, the threats to data privacy, and to identify the issues and concerns arising from this Act. In her Welcome Remarks, Chancellor Concepcion emphasized the need for everyone to be vigilant about data privacy issues.

CAMPUS PLANNING and Development Office conducted census tagging and land surveying in the campus throughout 5 June and 21 June 2018. These involved participation of personnel from the Dept. of Public Works and Highways, the Davao City Social Services Office, and security personnel working together to open and construct new access roads to the Davao City-UP sports Complex.

Goal: Contribute to national development

A GRAMMAR-WRITING WORKSHOP for MTB-MLE teachers was held on 1-7 May 2018. The activity was for Dept. of Education teachers/leaders of Kindergarten to Grade 3 and aims to localize and indigenize the language curriculum by developing culturally-appropriate lesson exemplars for the MTB-MLE subject for K-3. The workshop included a special training on the Bloom software for creating Big Books. The workshop was made in collaboration between the DepEd, the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL/LEAD) and the UP Mindanao Department of Social Sciences thru a/Prof. Janus Cabazares. The resource persons were Dr. Tom Payne (University of Oregon), Dr. Ricky Nolasco (UP Diliman), and Dr. Bruce and Xinia Skoropinski (SIL LEAD).

MONDE NISSIN Food Corporation expressed its interest in the UP Mindanao technology for producing lactic acid for use in creating bio-degradable plastic for food packaging. This was reported by Chancellor Concepcion following the 18 May 2018 meeting among Monde Nissin Manager Romeo Marañon, Chancellor Concepcion, Dr. Luis Sison and the UP Mindanao and UP System TTBDO teams in Makati City. Monde Nissin expressed willingness to fund a laboratory to further develop the technology for bioplastic production using UP Mindanao’s proprietary process. tbhe Chancellor contextualized this development as a result of the research originated by the late Prof. Dulce Flores who formulated the direct process of creating lactic acid from starch, which now has a patent pending number assigned to UP Mindanao. 

MR. KELSEY NGO, a food industry consultant, visited on 28 May 2018 to explore food product offerings available at the Dept. of Food Science and Chemistry. He was presented with products such as noodles, meat substitutes, and desserts that use underutilized natural bio-resources. The visit was facilitated by Dept. of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments Governor Nap Concepcion.

"CITY, UPMIN TO PARTNER ON RABIES RESEARCH" was a news story published in Sun Star Davao newspaper issue of 26 May 2018. It reported that the city council approved on first reading a memorandum of understanding to be entered into by the Davao City LGU and UP Mindanao for cooperation in research in the area of animal rabies. Prof. Lyre Murao (Biological Science) and Prof. May Anne Mata (Math.) are the proponents of the research project in cooperation with the City Health Office. The undertaking, once approved, will include data sharing, trainings and workshops, and statistical, mathematical, geospatial, biological, and epidemiological analysis.                  

THE "16TH VENICE ARCHITECTURE BIENNALE 2018" is the destination of the UP Mindanao Dept. of Architecture as one of four Philippine architecture schools to exhibit at the Philippine Pavilion with the theme "The City Who Had Two Navels" curated by Dr. Edson Cabalfin. The UP Mindanao exhibit is titled "Empowerment and Transformation between and across Filipino Ethno-linguistic Cultures through Architecture". The exhibit is described as, "A fully self-sufficient socio-cultural ecological village [that] will offer a rich source of indigenous systems: ethno-medicine; organic farming; construction material systems; natural food processing; natural wind mill systems; and water-harvesting systems". The exhibit is on display from 26 May to 25 November 2018.

"THE BEST FILIPINO BOOKS OF 2017" was published on the website “cnnphilippines.com” in January and accessed in May 2018. Some 26 books were cited by seven literary experts. The list of writer Glenn Diaz included “3 Baybayin Studies”. This book on the baybayin writing system, published by UP Press, has Prof. Myfel Joseph Paluga (D/Social Sciences) as co-author together with Ramon Guillermo, Maricor Soriano, and Vernon Totanes. The study of baybayin writing using computer software was the subject of an anniversary lecture by Prof. Paluga in 2016.

SEVEN ALUMNI PASSED the Licensure Exam for Teachers in May 2018, delivering the honor of a 100%-passing performance for UP Mindanao, according to the Professional Regulations Commission website. Although UP Mindanao does not offer a program in education, it is included in the list of "Best Performing Schools in Licensure Exam for Professional Teachers" published in the website "www.pinoymoneytalk", accessed on 24 May 2018. UPMin is in Rank #1 with 23 passers, together 12 other schools who have a 100%-passing rate as of September 2017.

CAREER PLACEMENT ORIENTATION and Pre-Employment Seminar was organized for graduating students on 16 May. Mr. Ricardo de Jesus of Jobstreet.com Phils. Inc. spoke on job and recruitment trends and on posting on the Jobstreet website. Angelica Amorado of Public Employment Office gave a pre-employment seminar for local applications and Jovita Fontilla of Dept. of Labor and Employment spoke on workers’ rights and responsibilities. The Job Registration and Referral Fair was held on 17 May with companies posting their job openings for graduating students. The two-day activity was organized by OSA.

“BAYLANAN" DANCE-CONCERT was performed by the UP Mindanao Dance Ensemble in celebration of their 19th anniversary as a resident company on May 10, 2018. The storyline told through dance portrayed the death and re-birth of an individual and the baylans. According to Coach Ira Sisa Apara (BA Communication Arts 2016), "Baylanan is a collection of movement inspired by the life and the culture of the baylan or babaylan. They were women and men who were the community's healers, priests and priestesses; but, they were also considered as leaders and warriors who defend and protect their people, their land, and culture."  The Ensemble dancers were Zoe Sabanal (4BA Communication Arts), Aleimar Villabrille (3BS Computer Science), Patricia Capangpangan (4BA Anthropology), Jeremiah Onor (4BACA), Lornille Taypin (4BS Biology), Eliza Sayon (4BA English), and Gil Zealor (3BSCS).

ALUMNA Kendall Abrio (BA Communication Arts) disclosed her candidacy for Barangay Mintal (Davao City) Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman, in conjunction with the Barangay Elections, with campaign posters unveiled on 4 May 2018. She was unopposed and was elected to office.  Ms. Abrio belongs to Class of 2017. 

PHI SIGMA Honor Society welcomed a number of UP Mindanao students among its new members at its Annual Initiation of New Members held on 12 May 2018 in UP Diliman.

SOM AND SOCIETY OF AGRIBUSINESS ECONOMISTS organized career-related forums on 2 May 2018. Prof. Sylvia Concepcion gave the Welcome Remarks wherein she advised that financial literacy discussions be opened to students of all programs. “Broke Free”, on the theme "Building a financially literate world, building you", featured the talks "Understanding financial statements" by Prof. Acuña of SOM, "Investment Strategies" by Mr. Nino Segovia of Sun Life Canada (Phils.), and "Crypto-currency" by Mr. William Braza.  The "Industry Orientation Seminar 2018” (IndOrS 2018), on the theme "Life vest for a bigger ocean" featured talks by Mr. Kenneth Mangaya-ay of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, Sherelyn Evangelio of Dept. of Math., Ar. Alexis Ibanez of Dept. of Architecture, and Ms. Edelyn Kudemus of Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas on career options in their respective sectors.     

BS ARCHITECTURE students participated in the PhilBex Davao-Philippine Building and Construction Exposition held on 10-13 May 2018 in Davao City.They joined Projeto: Furniture Design Competition 2018 and was tasked to design a multifunctional sofa bed. The design team of “Habi” composed of Joanne Espejo, Michelle Mascariñas, Aprille Golimlim, and Lawrence Valencia emerged as the Grand Winners. “Pungko” designed by Cresart Mata, Sophia Muñez, and Nikka Solidarios won as the 2nd runner-up. In the Architecture Quiz Bee, Neil Hela won 3rd place and Kristoffer Abella was the Grand Champion. The students also attended the Mini Convention of industry associations.

"ROADKILL: Sino ang tunay na nasasagasaan?", a photo exhibit, was on display on the week of 16 May 2018 at the Administration Building Atrium. The exhibit featured female workers engaged in small business and employment and their observations on how the new TRAIN tax law affects their lives. This was a class project for ANTH 187 (Sex and Culture) class. 

MATAG GABII publication was given a book-launching ceremony on 16 May 2018 by Daiya Productions student group. The book collected stories of people who work by night in Davao City. The book is a project of a BA Communication Arts class.

"LAYAS TIPDAS: resBAKUNA pangluwas!" a health campaign was held at Barangay Mini Forest, Davao City on 16 May 2018 by BA Communication Arts students. More than 60 residents attended the event. Dr. Julinda Acosta of Davao City Health Office gave a lecture on measles and vaccination, and barangay health representatives spoke on the importance of immunization. Iinteractive games and activities were also facilitated by the students.

“DEHYDRATION BANTAYAN, Peligro sa Dengue Malikayan”, another health campaign, was held at Barangay Talomo Proper, Davao City on 18 May 2018. Dr. Richard Mata, author of "A New Hope Against Dengue Fever", was the keynote speaker. The campaign was organized by BA Communication Arts students in collaboration with the City Health Office and medical professionals.

SINEWS FOR SYLLABLES, the performance showcase of the Creative Writing program, presented "Revel in the Ruins" on 17 May 2018--featuring 14 creative theses of BA English majors interpreted through dance, drama, cinema, and music. The new works are: "The Clan", a novel by Peter Magalit; the short story collections "Leaving the Shore" by Clarisse Paronda, "Familiar Corners" by Andrey Caridad, "The People of Purok Sto. Nino" by Cara Fajardo, "The Spree" by Charmaine Dimalanta; the essay collections "Names I Go By" by Diana Agcambot, "A Home that Never Was" by Eliza Sayon, "The Other Twin" by Rhinna Poster, "A Canvas of Faith" by Joanna Cagape, "Subversions" by Rizia Perez, and "In Spite This City" by Janne Ruiz; "Toto the Peculiar Boy" children's poetry by Erlyn Piolo; "Ground Zero" by John Doquila and "At Seventeen" by Mivida Garcia      

THE UP MINDANAO LAAK LAND RESERVATION was the site of a seminar on common pests and diseases of agricultural produce organized by the Land Reservation Management Office on 3 May 2018 with Dr. Araceli Yebes as resource person. Farmers of the Dibabawon indigenous persons of Special Bgy. Talle were the beneficiaries of the seminar co-organized by the
Land Reservation Management Office with the Bureau of Plant Industry-Davao.

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION seminar was given for Obu Manuvu indigenous people farmers of UP Marilog Land Reservation by the Land Reservation Management Office on 17 May 2018 with Mr. Lemuel Legado as resource person. The UP Mindanao Vegetable Production Demo Farm nearby was the site for the practical application of the seminar lessons by the participants.

Goal: Promote access and diversity

ALLIANZ NATIONAL YOUTH FUTSAL Competition was co-organized and hosted by UP Mindanao Dept. of Human Kinetics on 26-27 May 2018 in the Human Kinetics Building at the Davao City-UP Sports Complex. The games served as selection for the national team age category with selected players to be sent to Germany to train. The ceremonial kick-off was graced by football prime movers Prof. Erwin Protacio (UPMin Human Kinetics), former congressman Isidro Ungab, alumnus Rafael "Pops" Vilela, and Eunice Carillo of Allianz Corporation

Goal: Improve welfare of constituents

"SEMINAR ON TRAIN LAW and the latest BIR Implementing Regulations" was organized by All UP Workers Union on 4 May 2018, in cooperation with administration offices and Bureau of Internal Revenue officers Abolhasan Balindong and Roy Richie Panes as resource persons. Contractual personnel and regular employees were among the members of the audience who closely studied their options for tax payments. AUPWU officials Joel Sagadal and Lynda Buenaobra facilitated the proceedings.

SPORTS AND WELLNESS NUTRITION" lecture and forum was held for faculty, staff, and students on 17 May 2018. Prof. Luchie S. Callanta, a Lecturer of the UP College of Home Economics Dept. of Food Science and Nutrition and a member of the Phil. Society of Nutritionists and Dieticians, served as resource person. The forum was organized by the Dept. of Human Kinetics.

Goal: Optimize use of resources

DAVAO CITY-UP TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP for the Davao City-UP Sports Complex met on 3 May to work on the Davao City commitment to host the Davao Region Athletic Association Meet in January 2019 and the Palarong Pambansa in April 2019. The facilities targeted for operational use are the Aquatics Center for swim events, the football field and track oval with stadium, the multi-purpose gym, and the access roads and utilities. The TWG is composed of UP Mindanao and the Davao City LGU and is chaired by City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio who is represented by Asst. City Administrator Atty. Lawrence Bantiding. The members are the City Planning and Development Office, City Sports Coordinator, City Social Services, and the City Engineer; and the UP Mindanao offices of the VC for Administration, Campus Planning, Legal, Physical Plant, Land Reservation, Community Services, and Dept. of Human Kinetics. The meeting was hosted by Chancellor Sylvia Concepcion. The Philippine Sports Commission , Dept. of Public Works and Highways, Davao Light and Power Co., Phil. Long Distance Telephone Co., and MINSAS security agency were represented.

DEPARTING BGY. BAGO OSHIRO PUNONG BARANGAY Christopher Lapayag, and Kagawads Maria Luisa Lapayag, Marife Bonghanoy, Gerardo Canque, and Ralph Pantollano were awarded Certificates of Appreciation by UP Mindanao Chancellor Concepcion for their support in various activities and implementation of government infrastructure projects in the campus during their incumbency as barangay officials. The Certificates were transmitted on 25 May 2018 by Campus Planning & Development Office chief Cherrylyn Cabrera and staff Etheldreda Lanaban and Rose Lugo.