USM CA Entomology Society

𝘼 𝙈𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙋𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙏𝙖𝙭𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙮: 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙩𝙮𝙚𝙡𝙪𝙨 𝙞𝙠𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙞

The Philippines’ rich biodiversity yields another gem: Filipino taxonomist Dr. Elorde S. Crispolon, Jr., with researchers Vinton Thompson and Sheryl A. Yap, identified a new spittlebug species, Ariptyelus ikalahani, in 2026.

Discovered in Santa Rosa, Santa Fe, Nueva Vizcaya—an area rich in natural ecosystems—the findings appeared in The Pan-Pacific Entomologist, adding the insect to the 𝘈𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘵𝘺𝘦𝘭𝘶𝘴 genus. A. ikalahani features a larger body (at least 7.4 mm) and distinct diagonal white bands on its forewings, setting it apart from Taiwan-recorded relatives. Previously confined to Taiwan in records, this Philippine find reveals insights into the genus's historical distribution, evolution, and how it—and its host plant, Pinus kesiya (Benguet pine)—arrived in the archipelago millennia ago. The name honors the Ikalahan indigenous people of Nueva Vizcaya, linking biodiversity to cultural heritage.

This achievement underscores the critical role of taxonomic research in documenting and understanding biodiversity, particularly in the Philippines, a country recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. Despite its ecological richness, many invertebrate species in the country remain undocumented. Discoveries like 𝘈𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘵𝘺𝘦𝘭𝘶𝘴 𝘪𝘬𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘪 serve as a reminder of how much there is still to explore and understand.

The work of Dr. Crispolon exemplifies scholarly excellence and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. His contribution not only enriches the field of entomology but also reinforces the importance of sustained research efforts in uncovering and conserving the nation’s biological heritage.

https://doi.org/10.3956/2026-102.1.37

𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡: 𝐃𝐫. 𝐉𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐩𝐡 𝐒. 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐝𝐨 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝟒𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐔𝐒𝐌 𝐈𝐧-𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰

Dr. Joeseph S. Quisado, faculty member of the Entomology Department at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), has earned third place in the 45th USM Research, Development, and Extension Annual InHouse Review held on March 30–31, 2026. His research entitled “𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭” stood out among a strong field of entries, highlighting the relevance and practical value of his work.

The research systematically documented the occurrence and distribution of subterranean termites in key buildings and facilities across the USM campus. By combining field survey data with risk assessment, the research provides a solid scientific basis for pestmanagement planning and structural protection, while also generating teaching materials that enrich students’ understanding of insect ecology and practical pest control.

This thirdplace recognition highlights Dr. Quisado’s expertise in urban entomology and his commitment to applying research for both academic and practical benefit. His work helps safeguard university infrastructure and demonstrates how entomological research can support education, facility management, and sustainable campus development.

In this achievement, the department and the wider academic community extend their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Joeseph S. Quisado. Faculty and students alike are inspired by his commitment to excellence and look forward to future projects that will further strengthen USM’s reputation in research, development, and extension.

✍️: Irine Grace Manrique | Entom Student
📸: Joeseph S. Quisado | Entom Faculty

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒, 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐒!

We proudly celebrate the outstanding success of our board exam takers in the November 2025 Agriculturists Licensure Examination! This year marks a special achievement as our first-time takers achieved an impressive 100% passing rate—a milestone that speaks volumes about their dedication, preparation, and commitment to excellence.

Our Entomology Hive shines especially bright in this victory. Your passion for understanding the smallest yet most influential creatures in our ecosystems has fueled your drive, strengthened your discipline, and brought pride to our institution. You have proven that perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering determination truly lead to success.

This accomplishment is not only a personal triumph for each of you, but also a celebration for every mentor, instructor, family member, and friend who walked with you through the challenges of review, research, and countless study sessions. Your achievement is shared, cherished, and deeply meaningful.

As newly licensed Agriculturists, may you continue to carry the values of service, innovation, and scientific curiosity that define true leaders in agriculture. The future of the agricultural sector becomes even more hopeful with brilliant minds like yours ready to contribute, explore, and inspire.

𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐁. 𝐀𝐋𝐂𝐀𝐙𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐍, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐒 𝐒𝐄𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐌. 𝐁𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐔𝐋𝐀, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐂. 𝐃𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐎, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐄 𝐉𝐑. 𝐃. 𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐀, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒 𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐀𝐄𝐋 𝐏. 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐎𝐍, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐉𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐒 𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐄𝐋 𝐁. 𝐆𝐎𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐎, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐆𝐖𝐘𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐀𝐇 𝐑. 𝐆𝐀𝐁𝐔𝐀𝐓, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐑𝐎𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐍 𝐊𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐍, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐂𝐈𝐋𝐄 𝐉𝐎𝐇𝐍 𝐋𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐀, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐖𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐂. 𝐉𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐎, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫
𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐘 𝐅. 𝐎𝐆𝐎𝐍𝐆, 𝐑𝐀𝐠𝐫

To our new Agriculturists—we are incredibly proud of you! Your hard work has paid off, and your success fuels the passion of those who will follow in your footsteps. The Entomologists have spoken through their achievements, and the entire field celebrates with you. 🐞🍃💚
PADAYON! Rise higher, and continue to make agriculture flourish! 🌱

✍️:Angelo J. Osano | USM Entomological Society President
💻: John Francis Adrian C. Delos Reyes | USM Entomological Society Public Information Officer

🎉 Congratulations, Ms. Erlyn May C. Gener! 🎉

We are proud to announce that Ms. Erlyn May C. Gener from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) has successfully secured 3rd Place in the Regional Kabataang OA Quiz Bee Competition organized by the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center XII (ATI RTC XII). 🌿📚

Her dedication, knowledge, and passion for organic agriculture truly shone through in this regional competition. This achievement reflects her hard work, commitment to learning, and her strong representation of USM’s excellence in agricultural education. 🌾💚

The entire USM ENTOMOLOGY community celebrates with you, Ms. Gener! Your success serves as an inspiration to your fellow students and future agriculturists to continue striving for excellence and contributing to sustainable agriculture. 🌱✨

👏 Once again, congratulations, Ms. Erlyn May C. Gener, for bringing pride and honor to the University of Southern Mindanao!

𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓: 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬

The Termite Talks 2025: Structural Pest Management Workshop for Future Entomologists officially began with Day I – Fundamentals, Management, and Applied Skills, gathering participants from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) Entomology Societies.

Opening the session, organizers highlighted the importance of strengthening students’ technical knowledge and field readiness in termite and structural pest management.

The day featured two insightful lectures led by experts from Rentokil Initial. Ms. Jelly Rivera delivered “Termite Biology and Ecology,” discussing termite taxonomy, behavior, and their ecological roles as the foundation for effective control strategies. Her talk emphasized how scientific understanding of termite biology leads to more sustainable pest management practices.

Following this, Mr. Christopher Catalan presented “Integrated Termite Management (ITM) and Innovation in Termite Control.” He introduced modern and eco-friendly approaches in termite management, including baiting systems, digital monitoring, and preventive treatment innovations. His lecture encouraged future entomologists to adopt proactive and sustainable methods in pest control.

The session concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to Ms. Rivera and Mr. Catalan in recognition of their contributions. Participants expressed gratitude for the knowledge shared, noting how the workshop effectively bridged scientific theory with real-world application.

Day I of Termite Talks 2025 successfully set the tone for the succeeding sessions, empowering young entomologists with the fundamentals, management strategies, and applied skills essential for advancing sustainable structural pest management.

𝐉𝐑𝐌𝐒𝐔 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐁𝐂 𝐋𝐚𝐛’𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐦

The Arthropod Biodiversity & Conservation Lab under the umbrella of the HEXA Lab of USM CA Entomology Division houses approximately 20,000 different specimens inside the Insect Collection Room at CA 29. These specimens were collected from various locations within Region 12 and adjacent provinces.

As part of their 5-Day Educational Field Tour at USM, Agriculture students majoring in Crop Science and Animal Science from the Jose Rizal Memorial State University in Zamboanga del Norte visited the Insect Collection Room to see and learn more about these awesome collections.

The visiting students were toured and assisted by the advisees of Dr. Elorde Jr. S. Crispolon who are also maintaining the collections as part of their development as future entomologists.

Congratulations to Jerich Espiso – Young Farmers Challenge 2025 Provincial Winner!

The USM Entomological Society proudly congratulates Jerich Espiso, a 4th-year BS in Agriculture major in Entomology student, for being recognized as the Young Farmers Challenge 2025 Provincial Winner (South Cotabato Province).

Jerich’s winning project, “Integrated Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Farming and Feed Production,” showcases his innovative approach to sustainable agriculture through entomological applications. His work highlights the vital role of insects in waste management and alternative feed production—an inspiring example of science in action for community and environmental benefit.

Your USM Entomological Society family celebrates this outstanding achievement and looks forward to your continued success in promoting sustainable and insect-based farming innovations!

🌿 Congratulations, Dr. Elorde Crispolon! 🌿

The USM Entomological Society proudly congratulates Dr. Elorde Crispolon for being featured on Ushuaïa TV, where he shared his valuable insights on the importance of Cercopidae as bio-indicators of a healthy ecosystem. 🪲

Dr. Crispolon’s dedication and passion for entomological research continue to inspire us all—especially our Entomology major students—to pursue excellence in science and biodiversity conservation.

Your USM Entomological Society family is truly proud of you, Sir Flash! 💚✨

🦗 Petits, agiles et essentiels. Les cercopidae sont les messagers du vivant, révélant comment le climat redessine les équilibres naturels. ⏰ Tapulao, une montagne à protéger, demain à 20h50 sur #UshuaïaTV

1 DAY TO GO!

Tomorrow is the big day! We revolutionize agriculture starting at KCC Convention Center. See you there!

Register now as we will accomodate only 500 participants for this conference!

Click here to register: https://forms.gle/o3KnVpmd8pMZTU6MA
Click here to register: https://forms.gle/o3KnVpmd8pMZTU6MA
Click here to register: https://forms.gle/o3KnVpmd8pMZTU6MA

LOOK GOOD, FEEL EMPOWERED!

As we gather to spark change under the theme “Revolutionizing Agricultural Practices: Ensuring Innovation and Growth,” let’s dress the part with pride and professionalism!

👕 Here's the official Dress Code for tomorrow!

📅 Day 1: Barong or Filipiniana – Let’s wear our culture with pride as we open the conference with tradition and elegance.

📸 Don’t forget to smile—your outfit might just make it to our official photo gallery! 😉

𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐋𝐘 𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐎𝐌𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐘 𝐒𝐎𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐓𝐘 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐒!

The University of Southern Mindanao Entomological Society proudly introduces its newly elected officers for the Academic Year 2025-2026. These dedicated student-leaders will uphold the society’s mission of advancing entomological scientific studies and strengthening camaraderie among its members. With dedication, leadership, and a shared passion for entomology, they are ready to guide the society toward another year of excellence in research, learning, and service.

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” - Ronald Reagan


-2026


✍️: Irine S. Manrique | Entom Society Secretary
💻: John Francis Adrian C. Delos Reyes | Entom Society Public Information Officer