USeP Research and Development Division

[𝐃𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐃𝐈𝐆𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐎𝐕𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍] USeP, DOST XI stakeholders review milestones of RIKMS Phase 2

Advancing digital transformation in research and innovation, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) marked another milestone in its digital innovation efforts through the successful conduct of the Regionwide Integrated Knowledge Management System (RIKMS) Phase 2 Progress Presentation on June 15, 2026, at The Lanang Suites, KM 7, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City. The activity brought together representatives from government agencies, state universities and colleges, and research institutions to review the project's accomplishments, key milestones, and ongoing developments.

Led by Project Leader Dr. Ivy Kim D. Machica, the presentation provided stakeholders with updates on the current status of system development, while System Developer Mr. Jester Mark Jose G. Villanueva demonstrated the platform's latest features and functionalities. The event also opened opportunities for dialogue, allowing participants to share insights, recommendations, and technical inputs to further enhance the system prior to its final implementation.

Developed through the collaboration of USeP and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) XI, RIKMS Phase 2 aims to strengthen knowledge sharing, information systems development, and stakeholder collaboration in support of regional research and development efforts. The initiative continues to demonstrate the University's commitment to harnessing digital innovation in building a more connected, knowledge-driven, and research-responsive Davao Region.

In an era where knowledge drives progress, RIKMS Phase 2 is more than a system in development. It supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by leveraging digital technologies and partnerships to advance regional research and innovation.

[𝐅𝐑𝐎𝐌 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 𝐓𝐎 𝐅𝐎𝐎𝐓𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐓] USeP strengthens research visibility and policy influence through strategic IEC packaging workshop

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the Research and Development Division (R&DD), successfully conducted the Workshop on Packaging Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Materials for R&D Initiatives on June 3, 2026. Anchored on the theme, “From Findings to Footprint: Strategic Packaging of IEC Materials for Research Visibility, Utilization, and Policy Influence,” the activity equipped researchers, faculty members and non-teaching personnel with the knowledge and skills to transform research outputs into compelling, audience-centered, and policy-relevant communication materials.

Bridging the gap between research and public understanding, the workshop tapped experts in research dissemination, branding, and institutional compliance to guide participants through the process of translating technical findings into accessible and influential IEC materials. Mr. Robert C. Satorre, University Records Officer V, led the session on Exploring Different Media for Research Dissemination, highlighting strategies for expanding the reach and influence of research outputs. Mr. Armando Jr. S. Adlawan, University Information Officer II, discussed Applying USeP Visual Branding Elements on IEC Materials, emphasizing the role of consistent and strategic visual communication. Meanwhile, Mr. Kevin C. Viray, R&DD Education Program Specialist II, presented the USeP R&DD Guidelines and Requirements for IEC Material Submission, ensuring participants' outputs align with institutional standards and expectations.

Through guided workshops, critiquing sessions, and expert feedback, participants developed IEC materials derived from their completed and ongoing research projects. By strengthening their communication competencies, the University advances its goal of making research more visible, actionable, and responsive to the needs of communities, industries, and policymakers.

As USeP continues to champion research excellence, the workshop served as a reminder that the impact of research does not end with publication. It begins when knowledge reaches and benefits the people it is intended to serve.

From findings to footprint, USeP transforms research into meaningful action and lasting impact.

[𝘾𝘼𝙇𝙇 𝙁𝙊𝙍 𝙋𝘼𝙍𝙏𝙄𝘾𝙄𝙋𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉]

The Southeastern Philippines Journal of Research and Development (SPJRD), a Scopus-indexed journal responding to the Mindanao and ASEAN regions' development needs by addressing critical issues such as climate change mitigation, energy security, sustainable agriculture, political and economic security in the ASEAN, and socio-cultural and emerging trends and innovations that impact markets, industries, and institutions, will hold a Stakeholders’ Consultation on the SPJRD Policy for APC and Publication Fees via Zoom Teleconference on June 5, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

The objectives of this consultation are to present and discuss the policy for SPJRD Article Processing Charge (APC) and Publication Fee to the internal and external stakeholders, and to gather feedback and recommendations from stakeholders to refine the proposed policy.

By bringing together different perspectives from across the academic community, SPJRD aims to build a fair and balanced system that keeps publishing standards high while making sure research remains accessible to everyone.

Interested participants may secure a free slot by registering through this link: https://tinyurl.com/SPJRDConsultation or by scanning the QR code.

[𝐓𝐎𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 𝐆𝐀𝐃 & 𝐒𝐄𝐓𝐈-𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐄𝐃 𝐑&𝐃] USeP advances gender-responsive and innovation-driven research through GAD and SETI assessment workshop

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the Research and Development Division (R&DD) in partnership with the USeP Gender and Development (GAD) Office, successfully conducted the Workshop on the Application of Gender and Development (GAD) and Science, Engineering, Technology, and Innovation (SETI) Scorecards in Research and Development Proposal Assessment on May 26, 2026, via Zoom Teleconference.

The workshop brought together university researchers, faculty members, and non-teaching personnel to strengthen their competencies in applying GAD and SETI scorecards to evaluate and enhance research proposals. The activity emphasized the integration of gender responsiveness, innovation value, and inclusivity indicators into research and development initiatives.

Key sessions included discussions on GAD concepts and the use of GAD checklists in proposal evaluation, facilitated by Mr. Genesely R. Tahoy, GAD Director, and the SETI framework and scorecard application discussed by Dr. Merlina H. Juruena, R&D Director. Participants also engaged in hands-on workshops and proposal assessment activities, during which expert speakers provided comments, feedback, and recommendations to further strengthen evidence-based, socially responsive, and innovation-oriented research practices.

Through this initiative, USeP continues to reinforce its commitment to inclusive, innovative, and policy-responsive research aligned with national and institutional development priorities.

[𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐋𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐃] USeP highlights innovation and research initiatives at RRDIC XI 2nd Quarter Meeting 2026

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) actively participated in the Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee (RRDIC XI) 2nd Quarter Regular Meeting held on May 26, 2026, at the Apo View Hotel, Davao City. The meeting gathered key stakeholders across the Davao Region to discuss priority research and innovation initiatives.

Representing USeP were faculty members, researchers, and innovation leaders whose research and innovation initiatives formed part of the official agenda. Knowledge and Technology Transfer Division (KTTD) Director Engr. Francis Louise C. Yap presented the USeP Innovation Grant proposals, which focused on cacao processing technology, startup ecosystem modernization through the USeP-AGILab TBI, and AI-assisted startup evaluation frameworks.

Also presented were the studies of Dr. Leah O. Pelias, Study Leader of “Integrating Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) using GAD Scorecard: A Gender-Inclusive Knowledge Management System”; Dr. Aristeo C. Salapa, Project Leader of “Development of a Fiscal Governance Model among Local Government Units (LGUs) in Davao Region”; Dr. Mary Ann C. Cacananta, Project Leader of “Disaster Resiliency Framework Among Women in Davao City”; and Mr. Eric P. Ricablanca, Study Leader of “An Assessment of Knowledge Management Systems of Ancestral Domain Management Office Data in Obu-Manuvu Governance Center.”

USeP’s participation highlights the University’s continued commitment to advancing responsive, community-centered, and impact-driven research initiatives that contribute to regional development and innovation.

[𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃] USeP brings research accountability to the field through onsite monitoring of ongoing R&D initiatives

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the Research and Development Division (R&DD), successfully concluded the Onsite Monitoring and Evaluation of Ongoing Field-Based R&D Initiatives conducted across selected project sites in Davao de Oro and Davao City on May 13–14, 2026.

Participated in by personnel from the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (OVPRDE) and its offices, concerned research center managers and staff, project leaders, members, and support staff, the activity brought the University directly into the field, not merely to inspect projects, but to validate how research translates into tangible community impact.

Far beyond a compliance-driven exercise, the onsite monitoring embodied USeP’s commitment to research accountability, grounded implementation, and evidence-based governance. Through site inspections, technical validation, coordination meetings, and synthesis sessions, evaluators directly assessed project progress, operational realities, resource utilization, and implementation challenges across diverse research environments.

The monitoring covered a broad portfolio of field-based initiatives spanning renewable energy systems, smart agriculture technologies, cacao production and post-harvest systems, banana Fusarium wilt management, and sustainable enterprise and natural resource development. Among the initiatives visited were the Development of Smart Post-Harvest Processing Facility for Cacao Beans at Biao Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (BARBCO) in Purok Mangga, Talandang, Tugbok District, Davao City; Establishment of an Economically Viable and Sustainable ItikPINAS Breeder Farm in Mabini, Davao de Oro; Validating the Performance of Putative Somaclonal Variants of Cavendish Grand Naine with Resistance to Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum fsp cubense Tropical Race 4) under Greenhouse Conditions; Adaptability and Morpho-Physiological Characterization of Adlay Germplasm (Coix lacryma-jobi Linn.) Found in Davao de Oro Grown Under USeP Mabini Agro-Climatic Conditions; Revitalizing the Rice-Fish Culture for Sustainable Production: Biological Control of Rice Pests Using Tilapia in an Ecologically Engineered Field; and multiple agriculture and biosecurity initiatives in Barangay Mampising, Mabini, Davao de Oro.

The activity also served as a platform for documenting best practices, identifying operational gaps, strengthening inter-unit collaboration, and ensuring that ongoing initiatives remain aligned with institutional priorities and regional development needs. More importantly, it reaffirmed that meaningful research extends beyond laboratories and reports. It must be visible, responsive, and accountable within the communities it intends to serve.

As USeP continues to expand its field-based research engagements, the University reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that innovation is matched with stewardship and that every research initiative remains rooted in impact, integrity, and public value.

&E2026

[𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗟𝗬 𝗡𝗢𝗪] The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) is in need of forty-nine (49) non-teaching personnel for USeP Obrero, Mintal, Tagum-Mabini, and Malabog Extension Campuses.

Submission of applications is until May 29, 2026.

For those interested in applying, submit your application here:
https://www.usep.edu.ph/blog/2026/05/18/usep-job-hiring-usep-is-in-need-of-forty-nine-49-non-teaching-personnel-for-usep-obrero-mintal-tagum-mabini-and-malabog-extension-campuses/

Visit here to see all the job openings:
https://www.usep.edu.ph/careers/

[𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞] USeP, DOLE XI ink MOA for P2-M convergence techno-demo project benefiting farmers

The University of Southeastern Philippines formally entered into a partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment Region (DOLE) XI and partner organizations through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing for the USeP-DOLE Convergence Techno-Demo Project held on May 11, 2026, at the IT Building, USeP Obrero Campus.

Read here: https://www.usep.edu.ph/blog/2026/05/11/usep-dole-xi-ink-moa-for-p2-m-convergence-techno-demo-project-benefiting-farmers/

The agreement was signed among USeP, DOLE XI, Basak Pangutusan Carp Irrigators Association (BPCIA) Inc., Awao Communal Irrigators Association (ACIA) Inc., and Mundo Engineering Works (MEW) to support the implementation of a technology-driven agricultural initiative centered on Zappify, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based pest management system developed by USeP.

Under the agreement, USeP serves as the licensor and holder of the proprietary rights to Zappify, a technology designed to improve agricultural productivity while reducing dependence on chemical pesticides. The University, through the Center for Research and Innovation in Industrial Technology (CRIIT), the official research center of the College of Technology, will assist in the implementation of the techno-demo project.

MEW, as the licensed fabricator and technology partner of the University, is authorized to manufacture, sell, and supply Zappify units to identified beneficiaries pursuant to a separate Technology Licensing Agreement.

Meanwhile, DOLE XI, through its DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), committed support for the initiative as a technology-driven convergence project aimed at uplifting rural farming communities. The agency allocated Php2 million for the project and designated the BPCIA as its accredited co-partner and financial conduit for the disbursement and management of project funds. BPCIA and the ACIA were identified as project cooperators and direct beneficiaries.

In his message, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales Jr. emphasized that the partnership reflects what can be achieved when institutions, communities, and development partners work together through research, innovation, and public service.

He shared that the project embodies the University’s vision of becoming a premier research university transforming communities in the ASEAN, noting that Zappify demonstrates how research can move from laboratories to farming communities and create opportunities that uplift farmers while protecting the environment.

Dr. Gabales also expressed gratitude to DOLE XI for its Php2-million funding support and acknowledged the participation of the partner irrigators’ associations for embracing innovative and sustainable farming practices. He likewise recognized Mundo Engineering Works for helping bring the technology closer to farming communities.

DOLE XI Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy said the Zappify model should not only serve Region XI but could also become a model for national application. Meanwhile, Lemuel O. Alvior expressed gratitude to the institutions involved and assured partners of their commitment to the success of the project.

Also present during the activity were Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance Dr. Tamara Cher R. Mercado; Zappify Project Team led by Asst. Prof. Keno A. Mendoza; delivery unit heads and staff under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension; faculty and staff of the College of Technology led by Acting Dean Dr. Filmann T. Simpao; and representatives from partner agencies and institutions.

The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger through sustainable agricultural productivity, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through technology-driven solutions and innovation, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, private partners, and farming communities.

𝙍𝙀𝘾𝙀𝙉𝙏𝙇𝙔 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝘾𝙇𝙐𝘿𝙀𝘿 | SPJRD Talks 2026 opens with showcase of Indigenous creative traditions
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April 28, 2026 — The Southeastern Philippines Journal of Research and Development (SPJRD) premiered its 2026 forum series, SPJRD Talks, today with the theme “Beats and Identity of Mindanao,” via Zoom teleconference.
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This online event serves as a specialized platform for authors published in the latest issue of SPJRD to present their findings and the significance of their research to an audience of faculty, students, and academic professionals.
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The forum has seen significant turnout from University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) students and external participants, who gathered to discuss the preservation of indigenous knowledge.
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Featured speaker Ismael G. Pantao opened the session with his research, “Sisiye te Orodinge: Sustaining Mangalay as a Sangil Creative Process in Balut Island, Philippines.”
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His presentation detailed how the traditional Mangalay dance serves as a vital creative process and a cornerstone of cultural identity for the Sangil people.
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Furthermore, the Talks also highlighted a collaborative study by Zhea Katrina R. Estrada and Nursida Diamson Jaluddin regarding the transmission of Sama traditions.
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Their work, “Igal Ka’mbo’an: A Sama Master’s Perspective on Passing Tradition to the Next Generations,” provides a rare look at the pedagogy of Igal dance from the direct viewpoint of Jaluddin, a recognized Igal Master.
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Each presentation is followed by an interactive open forum and Q&A segment designed to translate academic inquiry into accessible community dialogue.
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These discussions allow faculty, staff, and students to engage directly with the authors on the methodologies used to document oral and physical heritage.
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The event reinforces the commitment of SPJRD and USeP to advancing research that honors the lived experiences and cultural resilience of Mindanao’s diverse communities.