Regenerative Futures in Focus as DOrSU Officials Meet with CHED Commissioner Apag
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) President Dr. Roy G. Ponce and Board Secretary Mr. Philip Yncierto paid a courtesy visit to Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Desiderio R. Apag III, Chairperson of the DOrSU Board of Regents, on November 26, 2025, to discuss the university’s strategic direction and priority concerns.
A major point of the discussion was DOrSU’s positioning as a regenerative futures university, with initiatives on climate resilience, green innovation, circular economy, digital transformation, and cultural integration. Dr. Ponce sought Commissioner Apag’s guidance on aligning this trajectory with CHED’s priorities for state universities over the next three to six years and on identifying possible pilot roles for DOrSU.
Dr. Ponce reported key research gains, including the work of the University Research Complex (URESCOM), the establishment of a 3D-printed artificial coral reef production facility in collaboration with Switzerland-based environmental group rrreefs, and ongoing biodiversity studies, among others. He stressed that these initiatives are not stand-alone projects but form part of DOrSU’s broader Regenerative Futures Vision, designed to directly benefit communities in Davao Oriental and the wider Mindanao region.
Looking ahead, Dr. Ponce outlined possible areas of collaboration with CHED under Commissioner Apag’s leadership, including the development of a Regenerative Futures University model, participation in a Mindanao biodiversity corridor initiative, further internationalization with partners in India, China, and Switzerland, and the acceleration of digital transformation and AI-enabled education in DOrSU.
He also apprised Commissioner Apag of the university’s continued enrollment growth and its strong service to rural and first-generation learners across its campuses. On governance and compliance, Dr. Ponce reiterated DOrSU’s resolve to meet CHED standards and sought continued support for Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs), accreditation initiatives, and faculty development programs.
As the meeting concluded, Dr. Ponce invited Commissioner Apag to visit the DOrSU campuses in Davao Oriental and proposed regular coordination meetings between the Commission and the university. The courtesy call ended with both parties expressing readiness to work closely on programs that will benefit students and communities served by DOrSU.
