DOrSU Clinches Top Awards at 37th RSRDEH
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) has once again demonstrated its commitment to research excellence by clinching top awards at the 37th Regional Symposium on Research, Development, and Extension Highlights (RSRDEH), held on August 13. Organized by the Southern Mindanao Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (SMAARRDEC), this prestigious event showcased innovative and impactful research contributions from various institutions across the region.
In the Research Category, Milton Norman Medina secured third place with his study titled “Uncovering what lies within: The first scientific account of cave-dwelling ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in the Philippines with the description of a new genus, new subgenus, and four new species from Mindanao.” This pioneering research provides the first scientific documentation of these unique beetles, contributing valuable knowledge to the field of entomology.
The team led by Emily S. Antonio, along with co-authors Lea A. Jimenez, Roselyn V. Regino, Janeth C. Tayone, Imelda A. Leal, Vanessa E. Asaias, Jhonnel P. Villegas, Ricksterlie C. Verzosa, Errole A. Maxey, Geralp Sam P. Villarubia, Ruben L. Quindoyos, Decibel V. Faustino-Eslava, and Melanie Garcia, achieved second place in the Research Category for their study on “Heavy Metal Contamination in River Sediments: Spatial Distribution and Ecological Risks in Mining-affected Areas in Banay-banay, Davao Oriental.” Presented by Ricksterlie C. Verzosa, this research highlights the environmental challenges posed by mining activities and underscores the need for sustainable practices.
In the Policy Pitching Category, Milton Norman D. Medina, Jhonnel P. Villegas, and Analyn A. Cabras, presented their policy proposal on “Cave-Dwelling Beetles (Kweba Medina & Anichtchenko, 2024) Found in Davao Oriental: The First in the Philippines.” Their work emphasizes the importance of preserving these newly discovered species and their habitats, advocating for informed policy decisions to protect biodiversity.
The Poster Category featured a study by Erna S. Macusi, Anthony Sales, Edison Macusi, Henzel P. Bongas, and Melrose G. Pusta on “Indigenous Knowledge System and Practices on Food Utilization and Crop Production of the Matigsalog and Ata Tribes of Davao Region.” This research highlights the rich cultural heritage and sustainable agricultural practices of indigenous communities, promoting the integration of traditional knowledge into modern agricultural systems.
DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to showcase the university’s research outputs at the regional level. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the activities of SMAARRDEC and contributing to the advancement of research and development in the region.
The University’s achievements at the 37th RSRDEH underscore its role as a key player in the academic and research community of Southern Mindanao.
