Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) hosted the International Symposium, Training, and Workshop on Hemiptera: Taxonomy, Distribution, and Diversity in the Philippines on May 23, 2025, at the College of Arts and Sciences Extension Auditorium and University Museum.
The event gathered experts, researchers, students, and enthusiasts from various parts of Mindanao to explore the taxonomy, distribution, and significance of Hemiptera, a group of insects commonly referred to as true bugs.
Dr. Marcos Roca-Cusachs of New South Wales University, Australia, Dr. Katrina Menard of the University of Connecticut, USA, and Mr. John Vincent Gonzales of CMU shared their discoveries and experiences during their research on the said insects as guest speakers. Drs. Roca-Cusachs and Menard also guided the participants in gathering and mounting insect specimens.
In his message, University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe said that events like this foster a greater appreciation for scientific exploration, collaboration, and the dedication shared by those passionate about understanding the world, especially this particular group of organisms.
Dr. Eballe also hoped that the event would further spark curiosity among the participants.
“I hope today’s experience will help guide you toward deeper learning and purpose in your future careers,” Dr. Eballe added.
Dr. Cordulo P. Ascaño, one of the participants from the University of Science and Technology in Southern Philippines, expressed gratitude for being invited to the symposium and expressed hope to collaborate with the university and the speakers.
“We really are so grateful that we met you face to face, and hopefully this will not be the last time that we will be seeing each other because we really are so excited to collaborate not only with CMU but also with our speakers,” Dr. Ascaño said.
Dr. Cerenia B. Galagar of Camiguin Polytechnic State College expressed the same sentiment, citing that the island of Camiguin can be a good site for research.
Meanwhile, Dr. Judith D. Intong, Dean of the College of Agriculture, hoped that the symposium would foster new collaboration and inspire further research in the field of Hemiptera.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Office of International Relations, Institute of Biological Sciences, Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao, Supreme Student Council, University Museum, College of Agriculture, Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, Office of Research, Biological Society, Science Education Society, and the Office of Public Relations and Information. [Johnica Chantal Montero]
