USM, EDC Strengthen Partnership Through Field-Based Learning for Future Plant Biologists Fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Plant Biology students of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a three-day field class at the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) sites in Ilomavis, Kidapawan City, from August 30 to September 1, 2026. The field-based learning activity formed part of the partnership between USM and EDC under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which provided students immersive hands-on learning and practical field experience. During the field class, the students examined plant specimens, observed their morphological characteristics, and studied their respective habitats. They also explored the use of plants as species-specific bioindicators, gaining a closer understanding of how plant characteristics can support studies on conservation. Furthermore, the students took practical examinations that assessed their ability to identify and classify plant specimens based on their morphological and other distinguishing features. Accompanied by professors Dr. Cherie Cano-Mangaoang, and Dr. Florence Roy P. Salvaña, the field laboratory activities focused on plants under the Pteridophyte and Spermatophyte groups. Marisol Pedregosa, EDC Watershed Management Officer, welcomed and assisted the group throughout the activity. Through the field-based activities, USM students applied concepts in plant taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and biodiversity in an actual field setting. The activity also aimed to hone their skills in observing, identifying, and classifying plant species—skills essential to their preparation as future plant biologists.

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Published by Loynei Frias Sumalinog at September 8, 2026

Fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Plant Biology students of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a three-day field class at the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) sites in Ilomavis, Kidapawan City, from August 30 to September 1, 2026.

The field-based learning activity formed part of the partnership between USM and EDC under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which provided students immersive hands-on learning and practical field experience.

During the field class, the students examined plant specimens, observed their morphological characteristics, and studied their respective habitats. They also explored the use of plants as species-specific bioindicators, gaining a closer understanding of how plant characteristics can support studies on conservation.

Furthermore, the students took practical examinations that assessed their ability to identify and classify plant specimens based on their morphological and other distinguishing features.

Accompanied by professors Dr. Cherie Cano-Mangaoang, and Dr. Florence Roy P. Salvaña, the field laboratory activities focused on plants under the Pteridophyte and Spermatophyte groups. Marisol Pedregosa, EDC Watershed Management Officer, welcomed and assisted the group throughout the activity.

Through the field-based activities, USM students applied concepts in plant taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and biodiversity in an actual field setting. The activity also aimed to hone their skills in observing, identifying, and classifying plant species—skills essential to their preparation as future plant biologists.

Loynei Frias Sumalinog

Loy has a habit of buying books more often than actually reading them. Also, he sets reminder to only drink two cups of coffee in a day, and forgets it every time.