Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Four students from Central Mindanao University Laboratory High School (CMULHS) earned two major distinctions at Science Castle Asia 2026, with their research recognized among the standout entries in an international field of young researchers.
Kyla Alana Bless T. Dargantes, Febryl Jhem A. Caballero, Shairra Jean P. Betache, and Zahra Joie P. Perang represented Central Mindanao University and the Philippines at the conference held at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) on August 22–23, 2026.
Their study, “Weeds as Antibacterials against Foodborne Pathogens,” earned both the Gold Award and the Ajinomoto Malaysia Berhad Special Partner Award for Best Poster.
Science Castle Asia 2026 received 319 research applications, with 138 teams from 10 countries and territories advancing to the Research Poster Presentation. Only 21 teams received Gold Awards, and 21 projects earned Special Partner Poster Awards. Of the 30 Philippine teams in the poster presentation, only five received Gold Awards and three received Special Partner Poster Awards. CMULHS was among only 10 projects in the international poster field to receive both distinctions.
The research was developed from the students’ full study, “In Vitro Antibacterial Efficacy of Weeds against Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Shigella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus from Poultry-Associated Samples in Mindanao,” under the guidance of research adviser Ms. Roselynn Grace G. Montecillo.
The study examined the potential of locally available weeds as antibacterial agents against foodborne pathogens, highlighting possible sustainable approaches to food safety. Its focus aligned with the conference theme, “Advance Science for a Sustainable Future.”
Seeing the work of fellow young researchers from different countries made the recognition even more meaningful for the team.
“We honestly felt surprised, humbled, and very blessed knowing that our research was recognized among many outstanding studies from around the world,” Caballero said.
She added that the experience reminded them of the effort behind their study, from revisions and challenges to the moments when they simply had to keep going.
The experience also shaped how the students viewed setbacks in research. Dargantes said the challenges they encountered strengthened their resilience and reminded them of the importance of moving forward together.
“A single mistake, challenge, or even a moment of fear does NOT define our journey. Instead, these moments are signs that we are moving humbly forward—learning, growing, and shaping ourselves along the path of success,” she said. [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Dr. Daryl Jane A. Caballero]
