DOrSU Co-Organizes, Takes Active Role in 2nd Davao Sustainable Futures Conference
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) joined forces with other state universities and colleges (SUCs) across the region to co-organize the 2nd Davao Sustainable Futures Conference (DSFC). Spearheaded by the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) XI, the two-day event was held from October 1 to 2, 2026, at the Grand Regal Hotel in Davao City.
Bearing the theme “Futuring Together for SDG17: Local Actions, Global Connections,” the conference convened a diverse mix of researchers, educators, policymakers, and development practitioners. Discussions were heavily anchored on futures thinking and strategic foresight—challenging participants to look beyond current conditions and anticipate how emerging trends will shape tomorrow.
This forward-looking approach drove the event’s research presentations and panel discussions. Rather than focusing solely on present challenges, the tracks explored the future landscapes of education, work, technology, and the environment. Sessions also tackled the evolving realities of agriculture and fisheries, business, peace and development, built environments, and Philippines-Japan relations.
Beyond co-organizing the main event, DOrSU also figured in the pre-conference program, with two of its faculty-researchers leading specialized skills-building sessions.
Dr. Jonathan S. Cabrera, Director for Research, led a session on “GIS and MaxEnt Model for Mapping Agri-Food Systems.” He detailed how geographic information systems and advanced modeling can be practically leveraged to map and analyze agricultural networks.
Meanwhile, Dr. Edison Roi D. Macusi, Head of the Publications Unit and Editor-in-Chief of the Davao Research Journal, drew from his extensive editorial background to present “Writing and Publishing Systematic Review: A Practical Guide,” equipping participants with crucial skills for scientific writing and scholarly publishing.
DOrSU researchers also presented papers during the conference proper, joining presenters from other institutions across the different tracks.
The two-day conference closed with participants taking home new approaches, research methods, and points for possible collaboration. For DOrSU, the discussions offered fresh inputs that may inform succeeding research initiatives, particularly those tied to sustainability, futures thinking, and regional development.
