Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
In a strong reaffirmation of its commitment to environmental sustainability and the promotion of a humane society, Central Mindanao University (CMU), known as the Academic Paradise of the South, highlighted sustainable environmental initiatives during its monthly convocation held on October 7, 2025, at the University Convention Center.
The convocation placed particular focus on CMU’s ongoing efforts to institutionalize environmental compliance. Through the Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) Committee, the University is in the process of securing an institutional Environmental Compliance Certificate. This is an important milestone that underscores CMU’s dedication to environmental responsibility and adherence to regulatory standards.
This initiative reflects the University’s holistic approach to sustainability, integrating eco-conscious practices into its academic programs, research endeavors, extension activities, and income-generating projects.
Gracing the event as the keynote speaker was Forester Reynaldo S. Digamo, Regional Director of the Environmental Management Bureau. In his address titled “The Road to Sustainable and Eco-Conscious Higher Education Institutions,” For. Digamo emphasized the crucial role that universities play in advancing environmental advocacy and embedding sustainability into all facets of academic life.
“Obtaining an ECC is vital for academic institutions like CMU because they are the cradle of future leaders, innovators, and decision-makers,” he said.
“Understanding and advocating for environmental compliance means equipping your community with the tools to balance growth and sustainability. It means fostering research that supports evidence-based policy, inspiring civic engagement, and modeling stewardship ethics that extend beyond the classroom,” For. Digamo stated.
Engr. Dennis I. Oppus, Head of the Workplace Safety Unit, echoed these sentiments, stressing that sustainability must become an integral part of the university’s everyday operations.
Furthermore, Engr. Oppus noted that the talk served as a powerful reminder that sustainability is everyone’s responsibility.
“As a university, let us live by example and make CMU a true model of environmental stewardship,” Eng. Oppus added.
The convocation concluded with an awards ceremony honoring CMU faculty and staff for their outstanding contributions to the University. Special recognition was also given to the contributors, writers, and champions behind CMU’s success in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). The event culminated with the ceremonial turnover of the official WURI plaques. [Mary Jane D. Bravo]
