The Research and Development Division proudly participated in the 1st Davao Sustainable Futures Conference with the theme “Futuring Together: Breaking Grounds, Shaping Directions” held on October 29–30, 2025 at the Grand Regal Hotel, Lanang, Davao City. Organized by the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges XI (PASUC XI) in collaboration with its six member State Universities and Colleges—Davao del Norte State College (DNSC), Davao del Sur State College (DdSSC), Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU), Davao de Oro State College (DdOSC), University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), and Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST)—the event brought together researchers, educators, and stakeholders committed to shaping a sustainable future for the Davao Region and beyond.

The conference opened on October 29, 2025, with morning pre-conference skills-building sessions, which equipped participants with relevant strategies for research advancement. Session 1 focused on choosing the right publication outlets and navigating negative reviews, while Session 2 tackled securing short- and long-term fellowships or scholarships abroad and building sustainable connections for impact. In the afternoon, attendees were inspired by plenary talks from distinguished speakers Prof. Masako Ishil of Rikkyo University, Japan, and Prof. Hiromi Yokoyama of the University of Tokyo, Japan, who shared insights on global sustainability, research innovation, and future directions.

The second day, October 30, 2025, began with a plenary presentation by Michael L. Abundo, PhD of BluC53 Pte Ltd., Singapore, setting the tone for thought-provoking discussions on innovation and future-proofing. This was followed by paper presentations where Andrey Sherbeth E. Tiempo, Gloryjean C. Altamera, PhD, and Donita Rose J. Baldoz presented their research outputs, highlighting initiatives aligned with sustainability and development.

e conference successfully fostered collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing among SUCs in the Davao Region, reinforcing their collective commitment to champion research-based solutions and shape a future-ready and sustainability-driven society. (Jocelle Dayday)