USM Starts Construction of New Engineering, IT Laboratory Classroom
June 20, 2025
Professor Mel Chrisel A. Sales, PhD, USM faculty member and project leader of a BIMP—EAGA-Republic of Korea Cooperation Fund (BKCF) and Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Project presented her study during the USM-GGGI-BKCF-MINDA meeting on June 18, 2025 at the USM Commercial Building, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Aligned with the University’s vision of promoting sustainability and development to communities, Dr. Sales’ project seeks to improve Cacao farming and the industry through conducting research on sustainable soil management practices, empower small-holder cacao farmers in addressing the impact of climate change, and capacitate them by providing appropriate technologies to alleviate faced market challenges.
Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, the Vice President for Research Development and Extension (VPRDE) was present in the meeting. She highlighted the integral role of soil in Agriculture.
“This initiative is especially meaningful because it brings attention to an often overlooked but vital aspect of agriculture—the soil. As we all know, healthy soil is the very foundation of sustainable farming.” She spoke.
The project was successfully presented in front of the funding institutions, MINDA, and USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel. Pleased by the results of the study, the funding institutions are keen to proceed the project’s funding for phase two.
Moreover, President Pimentel expressed his thanks and interest to more continued collaborations that involves innovation to help accelerate the growth of Cacao industry in Mindanao and in the country.
“To the funding agencies of this project, please accept our gratitude for your support in advancing sustainable land management options for Cacao-based systems here in Mindanao… We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative on both local ecosystems and the livelihoods of Cacao-producing communities.” He stated.
A field and laboratory tour with the visitors took place thereafter.
