On May 19–20, 2026, research teams from Mindanao State University at Naawan showcased their scientific innovations at the 2026 Mindanao Regional Scientific Meeting (RSM), held at Hotel Oazis, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, where they secured the 1st and 2nd Place Awards in the Best Scientific Poster Category. Anchored on the theme “UN SDGs: Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development,” the regional scientific meeting gathered researchers, scientists, and institutions committed to advancing sustainable development through science, technology, and innovation.

Securing the 1st Place award was the research team led by Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan. Their study, titled “Catching the Unseen: Electrostatic Silica Modified Hydrogel Beads for Next-Generation Microplastic Capture,” presents an innovative, science-driven approach to addressing microplastic pollution, contributing to environmental sustainability and technological advancement.

Clinching the 2nd Place award was the research group presented by Mr. Ariel T. Antinero, along with his research collaborators. Their study, titled “Advancing SDG 14 Through Environmental DNA Metabarcoding: Fish Diversity and Habitat Connectivity in Coral Reef–Seagrass–Mangrove Ecosystems of FMA 9, Philippines,” highlights the critical role of advanced genetic tools in marine conservation, resource management, and ecological resilience.

Organized by the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL), in partnership with the DOST Mindanao Cluster led by DOST-Region XIII (Caraga), the two-day regional scientific meeting serves as a major preparatory activity for the 48th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) of NAST PHL, scheduled on July 8–9, 2026, in Metro Manila. The active participation and double victory of MSU at Naawan underscore the university’s steadfast commitment to spearheading high-impact research, innovation, and evidence-based solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

MSU at Naawan extends its warmest congratulations to its brilliant faculty-researchers, innovators, and their teams. Their remarkable achievements continue to bring immense pride to the university and elevate Mindanao’s scientific community.