USM Wins Second Best Research Paper at NSAARRD

Dr. Tamie C. Solpot, a Professor from the College of Agriculture (CA) of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), won second best paper under the research category during the National Symposium on Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (NSAARRD) on November 8, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center, Pasay City.

NSAARRD is an annual event of the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD). It is a venue for disseminating the most outstanding outputs of the country and other R&D results. 

With his paper titled: “Endophytes as Biocontrol Agent Against Major and Emerging Leaf Diseases of Rubber”, Dr. Solpot competed with thirteen (13) other papers across the country. He received a plaque and a Php 150,000.00 cash prize, while USM and SOXAARRDEC received Php 50,000.00 and Php 40,000.00, respectively.

Before his victory, Dr. Solpot was designated the new R&D Cluster Coordinator of the SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC). 

Meanwhile, SOXAARRDEC received the Distinguished Top 6 Finalist for the 2022 and 2024 Ugnay Awards. Ugnay Award is a distinction to a regional consortium for its credibility and excellence in promoting research and development in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) by DOST-PCAARRD. Dr. Josephine R. Migalbin also received a Plaque of Recognition for her leadership and commitment as the consortium director from August 2021 to August 2024.