Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Dr. Ronley C. Canatoy, associate professor from the Department of Soil Science at Central Mindanao University (CMU), delivered a special research lecture at Gyeongsang National University (GNU) in Jinju, South Korea, on January 27, 2026.
The visit, held from January 26 to 30, was at the invitation of Professor Pil Joo Kim, Senior Professor and Director of the Institute of Applied Life Science at GNU. It aimed to explore potential research collaboration and funding opportunities between the two institutions.
As part of the engagement, Canatoy presented a lecture titled “Climate Mitigation Benefits of Low-Temperature Biochar Production in Short-Term Lowland and Upland Conditions.” The session was attended by undergraduate and graduate students from the Soil Science Laboratory, including international students from Pakistan and Poland.
The study examined the climate impacts of biochar production and soil application. Findings showed that higher production temperatures generate more greenhouse gas emissions, while biochar produced at lower temperatures, particularly at 400°C, results in lower emissions during production. However, once applied to soil, low-temperature biochar may lead to higher short-term emissions compared with high-temperature biochar. Overall, the research revealed that most greenhouse gas emissions occur during the production stage, accounting for 70–94 percent of the total impact.
After the lecture, Canatoy and Kim discussed possible joint studies focusing on organic carbon in soils in South Korea and the Philippines. The meeting marked a step toward strengthening research cooperation between CMU and GNU.
Beyond his academic activities, Canatoy joined a campus tour and visited a fellow researcher in Geoje City, South Gyeongsang Province, before returning to the Philippines.
Canatoy is an alumnus of both CMU and GNU. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Soil Science (cum laude) from CMU in 2013. He completed his Doctoral Degree in Applied Life Science at GNU in 2022 and later served as a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher at the university for six months.
The academic engagement highlights the growing research ties between CMU and GNU and strengthens the university’s presence in the international academic community. [Information from Dr. Canatoy, College of Agriculture]
