UM Biomolecular Engineering Laboratory

𝗨𝗠 𝘅 𝗕𝗦𝗣 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡| 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆: 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
A remarkable opportunity is on the horizon for the UM academic community!
The University of Mindanao through its Research and Innovation Center in collaboration with the College of Health Sciences Education proudly announces the upcoming Capacity-Building Program led by Dr. Lowela S. Onggo, a distinguished Medium-Term Balik Scientist under the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development.
This initiative aims to empower both students and faculty members through knowledge exchange, research enhancement, and capacity development in the field of health sciences.
✨ Get ready to engage, learn, and be inspired by global expertise brought home to advance local impact!
📌 Stay tuned for more details.
Be updated for the next information release!

𝗨𝗠 𝘅 𝗕𝗦𝗣 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡| 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆: 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

A remarkable opportunity is on the horizon for the UM academic community!

The University of Mindanao through its Research and Innovation Center in collaboration with the College of Health Sciences Education proudly announces the upcoming Capacity-Building Program led by Dr. Lowela S. Onggo, a distinguished Medium-Term Balik Scientist under the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development.

This initiative aims to empower both students and faculty members through knowledge exchange, research enhancement, and capacity development in the field of health sciences.

✨ Get ready to engage, learn, and be inspired by global expertise brought home to advance local impact!

📌 Stay tuned for more details.

Be updated for the next information release!

𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹-𝗕𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗿𝗮 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀!
Following the successful LEAD 4.0 Phase 1 last February 26-27, 50% of the submitted concept proposals have been officially endorsed for full-blown- development by the DOST Philippines sectoral councils.
Now, the journey begins!
The Research and Innovation Center (RIC) is gearing up for the next step through LEAD 4.0 Phase 2 - a capability- building program designed to transform endorsed concepts into competitive, full-blown proposals for the 2026 DOST Calls. This will be happening on May 14-16, 2026.
This is more than a training - this is a defining moment for research leaders ready to elevate their ideas into funded innovations.
Let's LEAD. Let's write. Let's get funded.

𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹-𝗕𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗿𝗮 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀!

Following the successful LEAD 4.0 Phase 1 last February 26-27, 50% of the submitted concept proposals have been officially endorsed for full-blown- development by the DOST Philippines sectoral councils.

Now, the journey begins!

The Research and Innovation Center (RIC) is gearing up for the next step through LEAD 4.0 Phase 2 - a capability- building program designed to transform endorsed concepts into competitive, full-blown proposals for the 2026 DOST Calls. This will be happening on May 14-16, 2026.

This is more than a training - this is a defining moment for research leaders ready to elevate their ideas into funded innovations.

Let's LEAD. Let's write. Let's get funded.

𝗜𝗖𝗘𝗧𝗜 𝟰 𝗮𝗻𝗱 JCI Davao 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝟮 || 𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗬 𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗧𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧
We are proud to feature another one of our distinguished plenary speakers:
𝗗𝗥. 𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗟𝗔 𝗦. 𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗚𝗢
𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙋𝘾𝙃𝙍𝘿 𝘽𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙠 𝙎𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙩
𝙐𝙣𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙤
A molecular biologist, Dr. Onggo specializes in host–microbe interactions, virology, and biotechnology. With advanced training from top institutions in Japan and Ireland, her work focuses on understanding how viruses interact with the human body—contributing to better strategies in combating infectious diseases.
Through her role as a Balik Scientist, she actively strengthens research capacity in Mindanao by mentoring researchers, fostering collaborations, and supporting scientific innovation in health and biotechnology. Her work continues to bridge global expertise with local impact in advancing healthcare solutions.
🎤 Plenary Talk:
“𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀: 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗠𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲, 𝗔𝗶𝗿, 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱”
Discover how molecular science can be translated into real-world health innovations that benefit communities and ecosystems alike.
📅 April 29, 2026
📍 UM Auditorium
Be part of this meaningful exchange of ideas and innovation for a healthier, more sustainable future.
🔗 REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/w9Rgckd6PaeQ1eJq7

𝗜𝗖𝗘𝗧𝗜 𝟰 𝗮𝗻𝗱 JCI Davao 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝟮 || 𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗬 𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗧𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧

We are proud to feature another one of our distinguished plenary speakers:

𝗗𝗥. 𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗟𝗔 𝗦. 𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗚𝗢
𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙋𝘾𝙃𝙍𝘿 𝘽𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙠 𝙎𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙩
𝙐𝙣𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙤

A molecular biologist, Dr. Onggo specializes in host–microbe interactions, virology, and biotechnology. With advanced training from top institutions in Japan and Ireland, her work focuses on understanding how viruses interact with the human body—contributing to better strategies in combating infectious diseases.

Through her role as a Balik Scientist, she actively strengthens research capacity in Mindanao by mentoring researchers, fostering collaborations, and supporting scientific innovation in health and biotechnology. Her work continues to bridge global expertise with local impact in advancing healthcare solutions.

🎤 Plenary Talk:
“𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀: 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗠𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲, 𝗔𝗶𝗿, 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱”

Discover how molecular science can be translated into real-world health innovations that benefit communities and ecosystems alike.

📅 April 29, 2026
📍 UM Auditorium

Be part of this meaningful exchange of ideas and innovation for a healthier, more sustainable future.

🔗 REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/w9Rgckd6PaeQ1eJq7

Dr. Terence Al Abaquita, a Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Balik Scientist, is strengthening local R&D capacity in insect science by equipping Philippine universities to develop advanced biological approaches using an engineering biology framework for managing agricultural pests.

DOST Balik Scientist boosts R&D in biocontrol solutions vs. crop pests A Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Balik Scientist is strengthening local R&D capacity in insect science by equipping Philippine universities to develop biological approaches for managing agricultural pests.

𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐒𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓!

We are proud to introduce the members of the EcoSCENT Project, one of the newest projects of the UM Biomolecular Engineering Laboratory (UMBEL), funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD)

EcoSCENT is a research initiative that aims to develop innovative and sustainable biological solutions for managing fruit fly oviposition in mango and avocado. By harnessing synthetic biology and metabolic engineering to produce semiochemicals, the project seeks to help protect crops, reduce agricultural losses, and promote more eco-friendly pest control strategies.

Beyond its agricultural impact, EcoSCENT will also pave the way for the advancement of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering research in the country, opening new opportunities for innovation, capacity-building, and future biotechnological breakthroughs.

Welcome to UMBEL, EcoSCENT Team!

| 𝗨𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗟 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
The UM Biomolecular Engineering Laboratory (UMBEL) has successfully undergone a biosafety inspection conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Biosafety Committee, marking a significant step forward for the GlycEcol Project.
The site inspection was carried out as part of the biosafety clearance evaluation process, with the primary objective of assessing the laboratory’s readiness and compliance with established standards for handling biological materials. Particular focus was given to safety protocols and containment measures in the use of Escherichia coli (E. coli), a key component of the GlycEcol Project.
During the evaluation, the committee examined laboratory facilities, operational procedures, and biosafety practices to ensure alignment with national guidelines. The inspection aimed to verify that UMBEL can safely support the research requirements of the project while maintaining strict adherence to biosafety regulations.
Results of the inspection revealed that UMBEL met the required standards, earning positive feedback from the committee. The evaluation highlighted the laboratory’s capability to properly manage and handle E. coli, reflecting its commitment to responsible and high-quality scientific research.
This favorable assessment reinforces the credibility of the GlycEcol Project and underscores the University of Mindanao’s dedication to advancing research within a safe and regulated environment. As biosafety remains a cornerstone of scientific innovation, such evaluations play a vital role in ensuring that research initiatives uphold both safety and excellence.
With this achievement, UMBEL is well-positioned to move forward in supporting the GlycEcol Project, contributing to ongoing efforts in sustainable and responsible biotechnology research.

| 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

This International Women’s Month, we celebrate VP Malen Arquiza, the visionary Vice President for Research and Innovation, whose leadership continues to define excellence, direction, and impact within the institution. With a clear sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to advancement, she transforms bold ideas into meaningful outcomes that strengthen research culture and innovation across all levels.

Her leadership is a testament to what it means to lead with both intellect and inspiration—guiding teams, empowering researchers, and cultivating a thriving environment for discovery. VP Malen stands as a beacon of progress, reminding us that when vision is matched with action, innovation becomes a powerful force for change.

| 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗜𝗖
This International Women’s Month, we celebrate the unwavering dedication of our allies in Research and Innovation—Dr. Weng, Ma’am Shaina, and Ma’am Haniah—whose shared passion continues to drive progress and excellence. As partners in purpose, they embody collaboration, resilience, and a deep commitment to advancing knowledge, proving that impactful innovation is built through unity and collective vision.
Together, they serve as pillars of strength within the RIC especially in UM Biomolecular Engineering Laboratory, empowering teams, nurturing ideas, and transforming challenges into meaningful breakthroughs. Their synergy reminds us that true success in research is not achieved alone, but through strong alliances that uplift and inspire.
Today, we honor their invaluable contributions and celebrate the powerful impact of women working together in innovation.

| 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗿𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗜𝗖
This International Women’s Month, we celebrate Ma’am Charlyn: The CHArge and CHArm of RIC—a research leader who brings both strength and grace into every endeavor. With her dynamic energy and inspiring presence, she drives innovation forward while creating a collaborative and empowering environment for her team. Her leadership is a perfect balance of passion and purpose, proving that excellence is not only achieved through expertise, but also through the heart.
As a guiding force in research and innovation, Ma’am Charlyn exemplifies what it means to lead with both power and poise. Her “charge” fuels progress, while her “charm” builds connections that make every success meaningful and shared. Today, we honor her unwavering commitment and celebrate the impact she continues to make—reminding us all that true leadership shines brightest when driven by both brilliance and compassion.

| 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗿𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗜𝗖

This International Women’s Month, we celebrate Ma’am Charlyn: The CHArge and CHArm of RIC—a research leader who brings both strength and grace into every endeavor. With her dynamic energy and inspiring presence, she drives innovation forward while creating a collaborative and empowering environment for her team. Her leadership is a perfect balance of passion and purpose, proving that excellence is not only achieved through expertise, but also through the heart.

As a guiding force in research and innovation, Ma’am Charlyn exemplifies what it means to lead with both power and poise. Her “charge” fuels progress, while her “charm” builds connections that make every success meaningful and shared. Today, we honor her unwavering commitment and celebrate the impact she continues to make—reminding us all that true leadership shines brightest when driven by both brilliance and compassion.

| 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗘𝗹: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹
This International Women’s Month, we celebrate Ma’am Chosel: The Woman Who Chose to Excel—a true embodiment of passion, purpose, and perseverance. Her journey reflects a commitment to excellence not just in what she does, but in how she uplifts and inspires those around her. Through her dedication and leadership, she continues to make a meaningful impact in every space she serves.
Her story reminds us that excellence is a choice we make every day—through hard work, resilience, and heart. Today, we honor Ma’am Chosel for choosing to rise, to lead, and to empower others along the way. Truly, she is a testament that when a woman chooses to excel, she creates a ripple of inspiration for many.

| 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗘𝗹: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹

This International Women’s Month, we celebrate Ma’am Chosel: The Woman Who Chose to Excel—a true embodiment of passion, purpose, and perseverance. Her journey reflects a commitment to excellence not just in what she does, but in how she uplifts and inspires those around her. Through her dedication and leadership, she continues to make a meaningful impact in every space she serves.

Her story reminds us that excellence is a choice we make every day—through hard work, resilience, and heart. Today, we honor Ma’am Chosel for choosing to rise, to lead, and to empower others along the way. Truly, she is a testament that when a woman chooses to excel, she creates a ripple of inspiration for many.