Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Three faculty members from the Department of Agribusiness Management, College of Agriculture, Central Mindanao University (CMU), proudly showcased the university’s research and extension excellence at the 4th International Conference on Governance and Development (ICGD) held from July 29 to August 1, 2025, at Kasetsart University, Bangkhen Campus, Bangkok, Thailand.
The ICGD, organized by the College of Public Affairs and Development of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (CPAf–UPLB), serves as a premier venue for academics, professionals, policymakers, and development practitioners to exchange ideas, share innovative practices, and forge partnerships for advancing good governance and societal progress.
This year’s theme, “Governance for Impact: Championing Global Citizenship and Empowering Communities,” highlighted the critical role of governance in fostering inclusive growth and building resilient communities. The event drew 230 participants from government agencies, non-government organizations, local government units, and universities across various countries.
The conference opened with a Pre-Conference Workshop on “Introduction to Development Entrepreneurship: An Approach to Successful Policy Reform.” CMU faculty joined participants in exploring the Development Entrepreneurship framework—an innovative approach for designing and implementing policy reforms that deliver sustainable, real-world impact.
For two days, CMU faculty presented research and extension initiatives addressing critical challenges in agriculture and rural development:
Dr. Teddy E. Colipano presented “Improving the Knowledge of Farmers on Selected Agricultural Technologies and Farm Business Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Bukidnon, Philippines,” outlining strategies that strengthened farmers’ resilience and productivity amid pandemic disruptions.
Prof. Sheila C. Poonon discussed “Central Mindanao University Technology Business Incubator: Mechanism for Advancing Agri-Aqua Start-ups and Community,” emphasizing CMU–TBI’s role in nurturing innovations and supporting agri-aqua enterprises for rural development.
Moreover, Dr. Hazel E. Soliven shared a poster presentation on “Evaluating the Adlai Value Chain in Bukidnon: Production, Marketing, and Opportunities for Growth,” highlighting Adlai’s potential as a sustainable crop with promising livelihood and market opportunities.
The participation of the Agribusiness faculty in the ICGD reinforced the university’s commitment to global knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and science-based solutions for community development. [Information from the Department of Agribusiness Management]
