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Researchers from the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) and Charles Darwin University (CDU) visited UP Mindanao on May 29, 2025, to explore potential long-term and sustainable research and educational collaborations. The meeting was held at the UP Mindanao Center for the Advancement of Research in Mindanao (CARIM).
The visiting delegation included PEF Research Director and concurrent UP Mindanao biology lecturer Dr. Jayson Ibañez, who accompanied the CDU team from Australia: Prof. Stephen Garnett, a renowned tropical environmental scientist; Dr. Veronica Toral-Granda, a marine and fisheries biologist with expertise in sea cucumbers; and Mr. Rohan Fisher, a researcher specializing in geographic information systems (GIS) and satellite data with a focus on indigenous communities. They were joined by Mr. Rollie dela Cruz of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines.
UP Mindanao Chancellor Lyre Anni Murao, a professor of virology, welcomed the guests along with Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof. Maria Stella Salazar; Prof. Larry Digal, agribusiness expert and former chancellor; Asst. Prof. Mac Achondo, an ornithologist; and Office of Research personnel.
Prof. Garnett introduced CDU’s interdisciplinary research, which spans health, environment, and indigenous studies. UP Mindanao Extension Specialist Michael Bonghanoy then presented an overview of the university’s research programs, particularly for the benefit of the CDU team, who were visiting for the first time.
Dr. Ibañez shared PEF’s commitment to culture-based conservation, particularly efforts that empower indigenous peoples as trained forest guards through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). He proposed that UP Mindanao develop academic pathways to transform forest guards into ecological knowledge workers or enumerators for local government projects—enhancing both their skills and livelihood opportunities.
Mr. dela Cruz, a native of General Santos City and long-time staff of the Australian Embassy, highlighted the recent strategic partnership between the Philippines and Australia. He emphasized Australia’s interest in expanding engagements in Mindanao, particularly through transnational education initiatives. These could include joint academic programs, student exchanges, and the development of both short- and long-term curricula. He noted that the Australian government is committed to supporting sustainable development efforts “beyond the funding, beyond fellowships,” as part of the upcoming 80th anniversary of Philippine-Australian diplomatic relations.
In response, Prof. Digal proposed academic collaboration through participation as advisory panel members for graduate theses and dissertations. He suggested this could also revitalize existing linkages between UP Mindanao and Australian universities, with future possibilities for joint conferences. He extended an invitation to the CDU team to participate in the upcoming International Conference on Agricultural Economics and Development (ICAED 2025) in September.
Chancellor Murao expressed appreciation for the proposals and emphasized their alignment with UP Mindanao’s expansion goals. She noted that joint programs with CDU, including micro-credentialing courses for forest guards, could be developed with UP Mindanao serving as an accredited training institution. She also suggested exploring inter-university initiatives such as dual degrees or sandwich programs, citing UP Mindanao’s PhD by Research as a viable model.
A highlight of the meeting was Mr. Fisher’s demonstration of a 3D topographic map of Central Mindanao, including parts of the UP Mindanao land reservation. Using accessible technology and 3D printing, the map displayed boundaries, elevation, vegetation, and waterways. Fisher explained that the tool was developed to aid and empower indigenous communities in the region.
The meeting concluded with all parties agreeing to maintain communication, take actionable steps based on the discussions, and convene again to further develop the partnerships.
