Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
A proud Central Mindanao University alumnus from the Institute of Biological Sciences impressed an international panel of experts and emerged as 1st Place Best Research Presenter at the International Ecology School (IES) 2025, held from August 4–10 at the National University of Mongolia and Hustai National Park.
Dr. Gio Vincent A. Balansag, a recent graduate of CMU’s PhD Biology (Systematics) program, earned the award for his research titled “Morpho-Taxonomy and Ecology of Mosses in Selected Mountains in Mindanao.” His work was recognized for its scientific merit, clarity, and relevance among a strong field of participants from eight countries—China, Taiwan, Mongolia, the Philippines, Vietnam, South Korea, Australia, and Thailand. He was joined in Mongolia by his adviser, University Professor Emeritus Dr. Victor B. Amoroso, and Professor Fulgent P. Coritico of the Plant Biology Division, Institute of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences.
“I never imagined achieving this, especially alongside so many brilliant researchers from eight countries… I am deeply thankful to Central Mindanao University for serving as a training ground for dreamers like me. Above all, I praise God Almighty for His sustenance and strength,” Dr. Balansag said.
He also expressed gratitude to his mentors, colleagues, and family, crediting their guidance and support as instrumental to his achievement.
The IES, organized annually by the Korean Long Term Ecological Research (KLTER) Network, provides immersive, field-based training for early-career ecologists in East Asia and the Pacific region, fostering cross-cultural collaboration to address pressing ecological challenges. This year’s program included Przewalski’s horse observation, vegetation and wildlife surveys in Hustai National Park, and cultural visits to the Chinggis Khaan Museum and Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, with all expenses covered by the organizers.
Meanwhile, the Office of International Relations (OIR) Director, Dr. Raquelyn Dadang, praised Dr. Balansag’s success: “Dr. Balansag’s distinguished presence on the global stage brings great honor and pride to Central Mindanao University. His achievement stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to academic excellence and international engagement. May his success serve not only as a source of inspiration but also as a challenge to our Graduate and Undergraduate students—to pursue scholarly distinction, embrace global perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to their respective fields.”
Dr. Dadang also noted that CMU encourages student participation through its Student Mobility Program, which supports students and alumni in engaging with academic and research opportunities abroad.
This success reflects the university’s enduring impact in producing globally competitive graduates and supports its internationalization agenda—broadening global engagement, strengthening research networks, and promoting academic exchange. (Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Dr. Gio Vincent A. Balansag, CMU Alumnus)
Photos from Dr. Gio Vincent A. Balansag
