Atty. Gingo emphasized that a “Lingkod Bayani” is someone who chooses to serve with purpose, integrity, and excellence—even when no one is watching. “And that’s the spirit that is already alive here in Central Mindanao University,” Atty. Gingo affirmed.

Moreover, Atty. Gingo discussed the CSC’s Honor Awards Program (HAP), the government’s premier recognition system for outstanding public servants, and outlined its three major award categories: the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, the CSC Pagasa Award, and the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees Award.

The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, the highest distinction, is conferred on individuals or groups whose extraordinary contributions have made a nationwide impact. The CSC Pagasa Award is given to those whose innovative ideas, programs, or projects have significantly improved public service. Meanwhile, the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees Award, also known as the Dangal ng Bayan Award, recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate exemplary ethical behavior, integrity, and dedication to public service.

She further explained that HAP awardees receive national recognition from the Civil Service Commission and, for top honorees, from the Office of the President. Their stories are documented and shared, serving as inspiration and models of excellence for public servants across the country.

Moreover, Atty. Gingo urged the CMU community to engage with the Honor Awards Program by nominating deserving individuals, sharing innovations, and documenting successes. “Let this institution not only be known as the Academic Paradise of the South, but also as a breeding ground of outstanding public servants—true Lingkod Bayani who embody puso, dangal, at galing para sa bayan,” she said.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Athena Jan I. Derayunan, Director of the Office of Human Resource Management, encouraged the CMU community to continue striving for excellence by serving with integrity and contributing meaningfully to both the institution and the broader community. “Let this gathering reaffirm our shared commitment to uphold the values of professionalism, accountability, and excellence in the service of the Filipino people,” Dr. Derayunan added.

The convocation concluded with an awards ceremony honoring employees for their outstanding contributions to the university and recognizing exemplary leadership and coordination during the 2026 Palaro. [Mary Jane D. Bravo]

#SDG4 Quality Education
#SDG8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
#SDG9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#SDG11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
#SDG16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

The session, facilitated by Mr. Tracy Van H. Tangonan, Officer-in-Charge, Director of the CMU Office of Disaster Risk Reduction Management, emphasized the use of whistles as a practical, non-violent means to deter threats, call for help, and enable quick response during emergencies.

According to Mr. Tangonan, the whistle serves as an accessible and reliable device that can be used by anyone in situations of danger.

“The whistle is a simple, non-violent tool that can deter attackers, call attention, and enable quick response in times of emergency,” he explained.

Understanding Whistle Signals for Safety

A key highlight of the orientation was teaching participants the standard whistle signals used during emergencies:

 One long blow – call for attention “I  am here”  or “where are you?” (to alert nearby people or signal presence) 

Three long blows – Distress signal (indicates immediate danger or emergency) 

Participants were also introduced to the universal SOS distress signal based on Morse Code, which can be used when sustained signaling is needed:

3 short, 3 long, 3 short blows – SOS / Extreme distress (used to call urgent attention and rescue) 

This pattern is widely recognized internationally and can help responders quickly identify a serious emergency situation.

The orientation also underscored the relevance of whistle use in supporting Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act, by helping prevent harassment, alert bystanders and authorities, and empowering individuals to act in unsafe situations.

Participants shared positive feedback on the initiative, noting both its practicality and impact.

A staff member from the University Housing and Relocation Committee (UHRC), Mr. Christian T. Batal, expressed appreciation for the orientation, highlighting the whistle’s effectiveness despite its simplicity.

“Na happy ko pagka balo nga grabe diay ang impact sa whistle. Bisan gamay lang siya, pero kung imong patingogon, kusog kaayo. Very gaan, and ma dala-dala ra jud siya ug kini mahulog di pod siya mabuak ditso ang color pod ngano orange para dali ra siya makita,” he shared.

He added that the orientation enhanced their preparedness in emergency situations.

“Nakatabang gyud ang orientation kay nakasabot mi unsay angay buhaton kung naay peligro. After sa session, daghan gyud nangayo ug whistle—especially those who travel or walk alone. Naa na silay magamit kung naay emergency,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ms. Virma Faith T. Dayondon, a faculty member from the College of Arts and Sciences, affirmed the usefulness of the activity.

“Yes, very helpful,” she said, while also suggesting the need for wider implementation. “Unta mas extensive pa ang information dissemination ug training aron mas daghan ang ma-aware unsaon paggamit.”

In her message, CGAD Chief Dr. Teresita H. Borres emphasized the symbolic and life-saving potential of the whistle.

“An emergency whistle is small, yet it gives loud and life-saving vibes. Remembering Rose in Titanic, one long blast saved her life. From this day onwards, I will carry with me my small orange whistle,” she remarked.

Moving forward, the Center for Gender and Development (CGAD), together with the GAD Technical Working Group and coordinators, plans to institutionalize the whistle safety initiative by integrating it into the Gender Sensitivity Orientation (GSO)—a series of orientation sessions for all first-year students of the University. This aims to ensure that students are equipped with practical knowledge and tools for personal safety early in their academic journey.

The team also intends to incorporate the whistle safety orientation into employee orientation programs, particularly for security personnel and newly hired staff, as part of broader efforts to mainstream safety awareness and promote a culture of preparedness across the University.

Through initiatives like this, CMU continues to strengthen its commitment to creating safer and more responsive campus environments, empowering both women and men to take proactive roles in emergency preparedness and personal safety. (Iyren Dalipe Neri)

The culminating activity gathered university officials, faculty, and staff  in a meaningful celebration of women’s leadership, resilience, and contributions to the University and society.

In his opening message, University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe underscored the significance of the celebration as a recognition of women’s enduring impact across all sectors of life.

“Today is not only a celebration, but a recognition of the enduring impact of women in shaping our institution, our communities, and our families,” he said.

He emphasized that women in Central Mindanao University exemplify the institution’s core values through their roles as educators, leaders, researchers, and staff.

Moreover, as part of the culminating activity, participants attended the orientation on “Whistle for Safety: Women and Men in Action during an Emergency,” led by Mr. Tracy Van H. Tangonan, Officer-in-Charg, Director of the CMU Office of Disaster Risk Reduction Management.

The session emphasized the whistle as a simple yet effective, non-violent tool to deter threats, call for help, and enable quick emergency response, reinforcing the University’s commitment to ensuring safer spaces for all.

In her closing message, CGAD Chief Dr. Teresita H. Borres expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the celebration and emphasized its deeper significance.

“This past month has been more than a series of activities—it has been a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women in every space of our society,” she shared.

She encouraged the CMU community to continue advancing gender equality beyond the celebration.

“Let us carry this message beyond today, remembering that empowerment is not confined to this month only, but a mission we uphold every single day of our lives,” she added.

The program concluded with a strong call to action for continued advocacy and collective responsibility: “An empowered woman creates an empowered world—when a woman rises, everyone rises,” Dr. Borres concluded.

The month-long celebration featured activities promoting wellness, creativity, and advocacy. Among the highlights were the free self-care services held from March 9–16 at the CGAD Hall, the “I Juana Run Again” under the MUSPO Series, and various competitions such as the Poster Making, Best Selfie and Groufie, and the Ulirang Ina Awards. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]

The team tallied 348.765 points and collected a total of 441 medals to seal their second consecutive victory.

During an interview, College of Agriculture Student Council Chairperson Jetrice Lesuzest L. Tanguihan admitted that the emotional weight of the victory brought her to tears. Between the relief of the win and the exhaustion of the journey, she noted that the realization of their success made every sacrifice feel justified.

“I already got teary-eyed because I felt that all the efforts paid off and all the risk was worth it,” Tanguihan shared. “I felt pressured because, as a chairperson, I did not want during my term that the team would not get the championship.”

The path to the title was filled with tension, especially as the council closely monitored the live updates. When the Palaro site first opened, the team was noticeably absent from the top three, causing the leadership to “freak out” in confusion. Tanguihan explained that while their internal checks showed players consistently winning gold or placing in the top three, the official leaderboard initially showed a different team was in the lead. 

This anxiety was further compounded by significant financial constraints that the council had to navigate. During these periods of uncertainty, she found a vital source of support in her adviser and college sports coordinator, Dr. Arth David Sol Ortega, who provided comfort and reminded her that the players were giving their absolute best.

The tide eventually turned as more results poured in. Although they finally seized the lead, the gap remained dangerously narrow until the scores for swimming, arnis, and mega crew were officially tallied. For Tanguihan, seeing that hard-fought lead hold firm proved that every risk and sleepless night was worth the reward.

Meanwhile, the Mighty Orcas, composed of the Colleges of Education, Forestry and Environmental Science, and Veterinary Medicine, placed first runner-up with 261.49 points and 336 medals.

The Striking Sphinx of the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Human Ecology, and Nursing secured second runner-up honors with 196.36 points and 333 medals. 

In addition, the Wildcats of the Colleges of Engineering and Information Sciences and Computing placed third runner-up with 161.66 points and 275 medals, while the College of Business Management (CBM) Eagles completed the standings with 128.58 points and 210 medals.

From March 23–27, CMU Palaro 2026 honored its theme, “Collective Identity in Motion: Unity through Culture and Action,” by pairing intense sports with a diverse cultural program. Highlights included musical nights dedicated to Indigenous Peoples and athlete stories, the inaugural Megacrew Hip-hop competition, and Laro ng Lahi, demonstrating that excellence at the games is defined by a balance of talent, tradition, and collective identity. [Johnica Chantal G. Montero]

The three-day international workshop brought together mathematicians and researchers from countries including Japan, South Korea, China, Iran, Germany, the United States, and Canada. The event served as a venue for presenting cutting-edge research and fostering collaboration in areas such as algorithms, graph theory, matrix algebra, and number theory.

Representing CMU, Dr. Longrio C. Platil presented his research titled “Partitioning k-fuzzy Gamma-semimodules over Gamma-semirings,” a study that explores advanced mathematical structures that extend the concept of vector spaces.

“My research is about establishing fundamental results for a mathematical structure that generalizes the concept of vector spaces,” Dr. Platil explained. In simple terms, it looks at how different mathematical systems can behave similarly when they are structurally equivalent or ‘isomorphic.

He further elaborated that his work incorporates fuzzy set theory, a concept that allows elements to have varying degrees of membership within a set.

“Fuzzy sets include a function/mapping that maps all elements to numbers between 0 and 1, which is called the membership function or how much an element belongs to the set,” he shared.

Dr. Platil’s presentation sparked meaningful discussions among fellow researchers, opening new directions for future studies and collaborations.

He shared that during the conference, participants raised questions on possible extensions of the study. There were also suggestions to connect algebra with graph theory and algorithms, as well as explore links with matrices and computational complexity. These insights are valuable for expanding the scope of the research.

Moreover, Dr. Platil emphasized the broader significance of participating in international academic platforms.

“Participating in an international conference was both humbling and fulfilling for me,” he shared. “It was a reminder that the quiet work we do every day can reach beyond our classrooms and contribute to the global academic community. Representing Central Mindanao University on that stage was a moment of pride and purpose.”

He also conveyed a message to the University community, encouraging fellow faculty members and students to pursue research and share their work globally: “To the CMU community, I hope this experience shows that our ideas matter. With dedication and courage, we can share our work with the world and continue to bring honor to our University.”

CMU’s participation in DMA 2026 reflects its commitment to advancing research and supporting faculty engagement in global academic platforms. Such initiatives align with the University’s Strategic Internationalization Plan by promoting faculty mobility, enhancing global research visibility, fostering international collaborations, and creating opportunities for publication and academic exchange. [Iyren Neri with information from Dr. Longrio C. Platil, CAS Faculty]

This year, CMU achieved its sixth consecutive Platinum Award and second consecutive Palladium Award—the highest distinction conferred by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to members of the Innovation and Technology Support Offices (ITSO) network. The university was also as named one of only four repeat Palladium awardees nationwide, underscoring its sustained leadership in technology transfer and IP development.

The award was received by University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe and Office of Innovation and Intellectual Property Technology Business Management (OIPTBM) Director Dr. Vellorimo J. Suminguit, whose leadership has been instrumental in advancing the university’s IP initiatives. Dr. Suminguit also presented CMU’s best practices in IP management during the summit. They were joined by Dr. Gamaliela A. Dumancas, Mr. Ariel R. Balinas, and Mr. Sam David D. Tejada.

In a separate interview, Dr. Eballe emphasized that the recognition reflects more than just achievement, pointing to the long-term dedication behind CMU’s growing portfolio of intellectual property and innovation initiatives. He noted that the award embodies the university’s efforts to translate research and creative outputs into protected and impactful innovations.

“What makes this afternoon’s Palladium Award for our 2025 accomplishments meaningful is not just the recognition—it is the journey behind it,” Dr. Eballe said. “It reflects long hours of translating research and artistic or design outputs into intellectual property, of mentoring faculty and students to think beyond publication, and of believing that innovation from Mindanao can stand confidently on the national stage.”

He further underscored that the recognition represents a shared institutional achievement and a shift in mindset within the academic community.

“This is not just a win for the university,” he added. “It is a reminder that when we take our ideas seriously—when we protect them, nurture them, and share them responsibly—we begin to change the narrative of who we are and what we can contribute. Cheers to our IPTBM  group and to all our partners.”

This latest recognition builds on CMU’s strong track record in innovation. In 2025, the university made history as one of the first few State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the country to receive the Palladium Award, granted for achieving five consecutive years of Platinum-level performance (2020–2024). 

The recognition also highlights the collective efforts of the CMU-OIPTBM and its partner programs, particularly the CMU-Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (CMU-RAISE) initiative. These include the RAISE X Summit, which gathered stakeholders to advance agri-aqua innovations, and the Agribusiness Mentoring Series (ABMS), which trained over 30 participants in entrepreneurship, IP valuation, business planning, and enterprise development. [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from CMU-OIPTBM]

With the theme “Inclusive Leadership and Foresight for Sustainable Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources,” the conference gathered delegates from at least eight countries and was supported by key institutions, including Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), and the Philippine Commission on Women.

The  Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, Dr. Alan P. Dargantes, who also served as an evaluator in the scientific poster competition, led the CMU delegation. He was joined by Dr. Joy M. Jamago, Mr. Nasario P. Mahinay, Dr. Kassey Alssylle T. Dargantes, and Ms. Kristine N. Balucos.

Dr. Jamago received the Best Paper Award under the subtheme Climate-Smart and Resilient Practices for the study titled “Senior Women as Leads in the Identification, Conservation, and Utilization of Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species (NUPS) in Bukidnon, Philippines.” The paper highlights the vital role of senior women in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and biodiversity conservation.

Meanwhile, Dr. KA Dargantes won the Best Poster Award for the study “Gender-Responsive Food Safety in Poultry Markets: Addressing Salmonella Contamination, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Stakeholder Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Mindanao.” The research was also presented as an oral paper under the subtheme Capacity Building and Policy Reform, with Dr. Alan P. Dargantes as co-author.

Mr. Mahinay also presented his study titled “Field Evaluation of Biofertilizer Application on Growth Performance, Nutrient Uptake Efficiency, and Yield of Irrigated Lowland Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Musuan, Bukidnon,” under the same climate-smart subtheme.

Completing the delegation, Ms. Kristine N. Balucos documented and benchmarked initiatives at CvSU’s Techno-Demo Farm and Agri-Eco Tourism Park, contributing to CMU’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its research, development, and extension (RDE) initiatives.

The delegation recognized the conference as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and benchmarking among state universities, colleges, and partner institutions. The team also encouraged broader participation in future WELA conferences, particularly the 2027 event to be hosted by Mindanao State University Naawan.

CMU also expressed its gratitude to University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, along with the officials and staff of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, Office of Resource Generation and Management, University Office of Extension, and the University Center for Gender and Development, for their continued support. The team likewise acknowledged Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Executive Director of DOST-PCAARRD, for supporting the participation of the paper presenters.

[Information from  Dr. Joy M. Jamago, faculty  College of Agriculture & Director CMU-CARE]

_{Photos from 4th WELA Conference}

The program aims to enhance the internationalization capacity of Philippine universities by equipping administrators with leadership skills, cultural competence, and strategic tools for meaningful global engagement, particularly with Canadian institutions. Representing CMU in the online training held from February 9–27, 2026, were Dr. Jose S. Valmorida, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Raquelyn J. Dadang, Director, Office of International Relations; and Ms. Janniefe B. Balacase, OIR staff.

Dr. Dadang further represented CMU during the in-person training at Bayleaf Hotel, Intramuros, Manila, on March 2–6, 2026. Guided by CBIE mentors Dr. Sonja Knutson, Chelsey Laird, Melissa Toupin Laforge, and Yazrina Yahya, participants explored topics on global engagement, emerging perspectives in internationalization, leadership competencies, and institutional capacity building.

Adding momentum to the initiative, the Alberta Bureau of International Education (ABIE) hosted a forum titled “Building Bridges in Higher Education: Canada-Philippine Partnership,” held on March 02, 2026. CMU engaged in initial discussions with several Canadian institutions, including the University of Windsor, North Alberta Institute of Technology, New Brunswick Community College, Niagara College, Olds College of Agriculture and Technology, Lethbridge Polytechnic, Assiniboine College, York University, and the University of British Columbia.

With these promising connections, CMU looks forward to establishing academic linkages and research collaborations with Canadian universities, further strengthening its role as a globally engaged institution.

Representing CMU were CGAD Chief Dr. Teresita H. Borres, CGAD staff, and Gender and Development (GAD) focal persons from the Offices of Human Resource Management, Public Relations and Information, Student Affairs and Services, and Legal Services. Their participation supports CMU’s continuing efforts to strengthen gender mainstreaming across academic and administrative units. 

Among the summit’s panel discussions, two resonated most with the Center for Gender and Development (CGAD): Gender-Based Violence Prevention pathways and the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.

During a panel discussion on Gender-Based Violence Prevention, Dr. Borres shared CMU’s best practices for fostering safe and gender-responsive spaces within the University community. Among the initiatives included were the University’s institutionalized gender-based violence prevention pathway through the conduct of mandatory gender sensitivity orientations for all first-year students, along with orientation sessions for newly hired and promoted employees, and its academic council.

She also shared preventive and support mechanisms implemented on campus, including the distribution of gender awareness leaflets, emergency whistles and flashlights, installation of information materials on the Safe Spaces Act in strategic areas, and the designation of a women’s desk officer to assist in addressing gender-related concerns.

Meanwhile, GAD representatives also shared their takeaways during the summit. 

Ms. Sharon E. Abarquez, Guidance Coordinator of the Office of Student Affairs and Services, emphasized the importance of trauma-informed counseling in addressing gender-based violence. She noted that guidance counselors play a vital role in providing support to survivors and strengthening response mechanisms within the University. 

Ms. Abarquez also underscored the need to intensify awareness campaigns on consent and respectful relationships, as well as explore self-defense programs to help empower students.

Moreover, Atty. James M. Violon, member of the GAD Focal Point System from the CMU Legal Office, emphasized the importance of grounding gender advocacy in human rights and lived realities.

“My most meaningful takeaway from the summit is that protecting women must begin with recognizing where women truly are today,” Atty. Violon said, noting that while women continue to contribute significantly to society, many still face violence, discrimination, and barriers to opportunity.

Beyond the summit sessions, the CMU delegation also connected with fellow representatives from other agencies and state universities and colleges (SUCs), exchanging best practices and strengthening partnerships in gender mainstreaming initiatives. These engagements support CMU’s plan to further capacitate its local GAD Resource Pool and contribute to and become part of the National GAD Resource Pool in the future.[Iyren Dalipe Neri]

Through sustained international engagement, Central Mindanao University (CMU), through its College of Education, continues to strengthen its role in developing globally competent teachers as it completed its latest deployment of pre-service teachers to Thailand following a monitoring visit and partnership engagements from February 18 to 28, 2026.

The internship program forms part of CMU’s continuing partnership with Takpittayakhom School, which began in 2018 and was renewed in 2024 under a memorandum of agreement (MOA). For the current deployment, which ran from November 30, 2025, to February 28, 2026, two pre-service teachers from the College of Education were assigned to Takpittayakhom School.

The CMU delegation, composed of College of Education Dean Julie Ann A. Orobia, Student Teaching Supervisor Prof. Gladys S. Escarlos, and International Relations Office (IRO) Coordinator Prof. Joanne E. Bermillo, conducted classroom observations, consultations with cooperating teachers, and meetings with school officials to monitor the interns’ progress and ensure the quality of the international internship program.

The monitoring visit concluded with a culmination activity where the interns presented narrative reports of their teaching experiences before school administrators, academic heads, and cooperating teachers.

Furthermore, the delegation held exploratory meetings and site inspections with Vayupak Nara School and Satriwithaya School as part of efforts to expand CMU’s academic partnerships in Thailand.

According to Prof. Bermillo, the in-person engagement with prospective partners plays a crucial role in strengthening institutional linkages.

“Our recent visits to the schools marked a significant step in advancing the college’s and the university’s international strategic plan to strengthen partnerships and expand networks. Presenting the MOA in person established credibility and demonstrated our commitment to building meaningful, long-term collaborations,” Prof. Bermillo said.

She added that face-to-face engagement also allows institutions to foster clearer communication and deeper cultural understanding, which are essential in building sustainable international partnerships.

Meanwhile, Dr. Orobia emphasized that Thailand continues to be an important partner in the university’s efforts to internationalize teacher education.

“Thailand remains a prospective partner for future internship batches as it promotes quality education through international collaboration and professional development. It allows pre-service teachers to experience diverse teaching practices and develop skills for multicultural learning,” she said.

Dr. Orobia added that the College of Education is also exploring opportunities to expand its international linkages within Southeast Asia.

“The College of Education aims to expand partnerships in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia to increase internship opportunities and prepare globally competent educators,” she said.

Since the partnership began, CMU has deployed several batches of pre-service teachers to Takpittayakhom School. The first batch, deployed from July to October 2019, consisted of four interns specializing in Health and Physical Education, Science, and Mathematics. The second batch, sent from January to April 2020, also included four interns before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted international mobility. During the pandemic, the third batch conducted virtual teaching engagements from December 2021 to March 2022. The most recent deployment marks the continuation of CMU’s international internship program through renewed mobility and strengthened collaboration.

This initiative contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all by equipping future educators with global teaching exposure and cross-cultural competencies. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]