BUTUAN CITY — Science is often viewed as something confined to laboratories and academic publications. However, on May 19 and 20, the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL), in partnership with DOST-Caraga, brought the 2026 Mindanao Regional Scientific Meeting (RSM) to Hotel Oazis in Butuan City, placing the region at the forefront of national discussions on science and technology. The two-day gathering brought together approximately 150 academicians, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Mindanao to discuss critical scientific and technological concerns aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By hosting the event, Butuan further strengthened its position as an important center for regional research and evidence-based policymaking.
150 Researchers Target SDGs, Soil Health, and Universal Healthcare
The Mindanao RSM focused on four major areas: soil health and production, processing and post-production, health sector developments, and the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) and comprehensive social protection. According to NAST PHL member Roel Suralta, the objective of the meeting was to evaluate the current state of science and technology in Mindanao while identifying existing gaps and challenges. Insights and recommendations generated during the event will be consolidated into a report for presentation during the 48th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) of NAST PHL scheduled for July 8–9, 2026, in Metro Manila. Participants also crafted a resolution outlining Mindanao’s needs, challenges, and development gaps, supported by science-based policy recommendations aimed at advancing the SDGs.
Innovative Posters Win Top Honors at Scientific Competition
In addition to the plenary discussions, the conference hosted a Best Scientific Poster competition showcasing innovative research from institutions across Mindanao. The top award was given to the team led by Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSU Naawan) for their study, “Catching the Unseen: Electrostatic Silica Modified Hydrogel Beads for Next-Generation Microplastic Capture,” which introduces a promising solution to the growing issue of microplastic pollution. Second place was awarded to Dr. Ariel Antinero, also from MSU Naawan, for the research “Advancing SDG 14 Through Environmental DNA Metabarcoding: Fish Diversity and Habitat Connectivity in Coral Reef–Seagrass–Mangrove Ecosystems of FMA 9, Philippines,” highlighting the application of non-invasive genetic technologies in marine conservation and fisheries management.
Hybrid Sessions Expand Reach, DOST Pledges Continued Support
The 2026 Mindanao RSM was conducted through a hybrid format, combining face-to-face sessions at Hotel Oazis with live broadcasts via Zoom and Facebook to allow broader participation from stakeholders throughout Mindanao and beyond. DOST-Caraga Regional Director Noel Ajoc, who hosted the event, commended the strong collaboration among researchers, institutions, and stakeholders across the region. Serving as a key preparatory activity for the upcoming 48th ASM, the meeting reinforced the commitment of DOST and NAST PHL to promoting science, technology, and innovation as drivers of sustainable development nationwide.
