Chancellor Murao’s State of the University Report was delivered in the Public Forum of the Search for UP Mindanao Chancellor on November 19, 2024
UP Mindanao: Transformative University
1- Two years ago, we formulated a plan – a plan that will continue UP Mindanao’s journey of growth. This plan is anchored on the vision of our founders and the previous administrations.
2 – Guided by our vision of a transformative university, we take joy in producing graduates and services that will respond to the needs of the modern and changing society, especially here in Mindanao.
3 – We have 5 strategic outcomes and 21 high-impact programs (HIPs) aligned with the 10 flagship programs of the UP System.
These are the seeds that we have planted. While some have already started growing, others are yet to emerge from the ground at the proper time. Today, I am pleased to share the outcome of our strategic plan… outcomes that were made possible through the efforts of our faculty, staff, and alumni, working with our students.
4- Academic Excellence is at the core of what we do.
5 – We are innovating and expanding our programs to contribute to the sustainable development of Mindanao.
UP Mindanao will be a comprehensive university, specializing in 6 niche areas: agro-food systems, bio-cultural diversity, sustainable environment, health, sports, and innovation.
Recently, we have added 2 programs to our portfolio, BS Data Science and MS Human Movement Science, for a total of 19 academic programs spanning from Associate in Arts to PhD. The MS Biology program is next in the pipeline. Since the pandemic, we have increased the student population from 1,300 to 1,500.
The R2-5K is our ambitious goal of opening 4 new colleges in medicine, architecture, engineering, and sports science to complete our niche programs.
The UP Mindanao School of Medicine plans to open its doors to the first batch of students this coming AY 2025-2026. UPMin recently signed an MOU with SPMC to serve as an affiliating hospital for the clinical training.
To kickstart the activities towards the establishment of the College of Engineering, extension classes in MS Civil Engineering and MS Industrial Engineering will be offered starting AY 2025-2026, with the UPD College of Engineering.
6 – To support the growing maintenance and space requirements for academic facilities, the following projects have been completed or are ongoing:
- Repainting of the CSM Building façade was completed in 2022.
- Completion of the SOM Building Phase 2 commenced in 2024.
- Waterproofing of the UP Mindanao Administration, CHSS, and Atrium roof deck commenced in 2024.
7 – Meanwhile, the CPDO has developed a roadmap to support the infrastructure requirements for R2-5K. These include future construction of the following academic buildings:
- SOM Building Phase 3
- CHSS Academic Building
- CHSS Cultural Center Phase 2- Performing Arts Theater
- CSM Academic Building (construction)
- CSM – Research, Development, And Extension Building (construction)
- CHK Academic Building
- Modular classrooms
8 – While the university is expanding, quality cannot be compromised. To ensure that our graduates are still competitive and ready for the real world, we have integrated quality assurance in our academic programs.
UP Mindanao’s BS Computer Science and BS Biology programs recently passed the ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Program Assessment, becoming the first in the university to achieve this milestone. Conducted from June 11-13, 2024, the assessment highlights UP Mindanao’s commitment to academic excellence and alignment with ASEAN standards in areas such as curriculum, teaching quality, and student support. This success sets a benchmark for other programs scheduled for AUN-QA evaluation in the next three years, with the newly established QA Office providing support for these initiatives.
Over the past nine years, UP Mindanao’s architecture program has maintained a 100% passing rate in the Licensure Exam for Architects. In 2024, the DURP/MAURP program also achieved a 100% passing rate in the Environmental Planners Licensure Exam, producing a 9th-placer, while the food technology program ranked as the 3rd top-performing school in the Food Technologists Licensure Exam, producing a 6th-placer and a 10th-placer among 28 passers.
Academic excellence is reflected in the caliber of our faculty. At present, UPMin is home to seven (7) UP Scientists and two (2) UP Artists.
We are also expanding our international exchange programs to widen the exposure of
UP Mindanao is advancing international collaborations. It is finalizing a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Hasanuddin University, Indonesia, for research partnerships and faculty and student exchanges, and negotiating a similar MOA with Kaohsiung Medical University involving multiple departments. A recent dialogue with Dr. Rigoberto Advincula of the University of Tennessee-Knoxville has opened opportunities for faculty and researchers to apply for grants for graduate programs and short research visits in his laboratory.
UPMin is now an associate member of the European Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.
9 – Our research centers will continue to support our academic programs while generating knowledge that can be used by the public.
The Philippine Genome Center-Mindanao has been at the forefront of genomics and molecular biology research, addressing public health challenges in the region through programs like genomic surveillance for infectious diseases. It has contributed to biodiversity conservation by identifying genetic markers of native species and has trained local scientists in genomics techniques over the past three years.
Established in 2023, the Disease Watch Analytics Center (DiWA) supports public health monitoring and crisis response in Mindanao through its real-time data analytics platform, the DiWA app. With additional funding from UP and DOST-PCHRD in 2024, DiWA expanded its health information systems, deepened collaborations with LGUs, and recently hosted the Mindanao Health R&D Expo to strengthen regional health systems.
The Center for the Advancement of Research in Mindanao (CARIM) drives interdisciplinary research and hosts PCAARRD-funded programs, including initiatives on agri-aqua value chains and livelihood improvement. It will expand in 2025 to include the CORSAIR AI and Robotics FabLab funded by DTI. Meanwhile, the proposed Mindanao Studies Center aims to advance cultural and social research, with potential collaborations on ethnographic studies and peace and development initiatives in BARMM through the UP Bangsamoro Development Initiative.
10 – We have built a strong innovation ecosystem with our IDEAS consortium, innovation facilities, and intellectual properties.
IDEAS Davao
The Innovation and Development Accelerators (IDEAS) Consortium of UP Mindanao has established a thriving innovation ecosystem in the region through partnerships with government agencies, businesses, and academic institutions. It supports facilities like the UP Mindanao Technology Business Incubator and the Davao City Innovation Hub, fostering technopreneurship in agriculture, biotechnology, and health technology. This ecosystem has produced patented products and launched training programs and business incubation initiatives to nurture local startups and drive regional economic growth.
In September 2024, UP Mindanao spearheaded the 3rd Mindanao Technology Business Incubator (TBI) Summit during Davao Startup Week 2024, themed “InnovNation: Accelerating Davao’s Global Disruptive Potential.” Organized with IDEAS Davao and other regional partners, the summit highlighted collaborative efforts to advance innovation. Recognized nationally, IDEAS Davao earned a 2024 Presidential Award for Improving Access to Technology and Innovation.
AI and Robotics FabLab
In August 2024, UP Mindanao signed a MOA with DTI-Region XI to establish the Center of Research Supporting AI and Robotics (CORSAIR): AI and Robotics FabLab. Through this initiative, a Shared Service Facility (SSF), specifically a Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab), will be set up in the campus to support AI and Robotics R&D, innovation, and commercialization. This will be the first of its kind in the country. The FabLab is targeted to support MSMEs, startups, students, researchers, faculty, innovators, and other organizations.
Pilot Bakery Facility
The UPMin Pilot Bakery, launched on April 17, 2024, in collaboration with government agencies, industry partners, and neighboring SUCs It unveiled its bakery products under the brand “BiteUP” during a food tasting on September 30, 2024. It will serve as a facility for the Department of Food Science and Chemistry (DFSC), supporting the PRC accreditation of the Food Tech Program, offering students a space to develop and scale up their product development projects.
Intellectual Property
To give proper recognition for the ideas and technologies developed by our experts, the TTBDO has assisted in the applications for intellectual property protection. To date, 65% of our IP applications have already been registered. These 35 registered intellectual properties cover patent, utility model, trademark, and copyright, one of which includes the first patent of UPMin, for the lactic acid technology pioneered by the late Dr. Dulce Flores.
11 – We will take this innovation ecosystem to the next level by establishing a KIST Park, which will be the nexus between academe and industry in the southern Philippines.
UP Mindanao’s KIST Park proposal, submitted for ADB funding through the PRISTINE program, outlines a 12-hectare KIST Park aimed at fostering regional innovation and industry-academic collaboration. With a proposed budget of Php 650 million, the initial phase includes creating a Master Development Plan, conducting an Environmental Impact Study, securing an ECC, registering the area as a PEZA ecozone, and constructing research labs, pilot plants, and corporate spaces. The KIST Park seeks to drive sustainable development, regional industry growth, and quality education in Mindanao.
12 – Excellence should translate to service. Excellence is what we do now, public service is our end goal.
13 – This starts with reaching out to the marginalized and underserved and giving them an opportunity for a UP education.
Since 2022, UP Mindanao’s Pahinungod team has expanded UPCAT access to remote areas in BARMM and CARAGA, reaching 5,500 students through affirmative action programs. The university’s Lingap Iskolar program further supports students from geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) with scholarships and basic needs assistance. With a focus on inclusivity, UP Mindanao fosters regional representation and diversity in education, with students coming from 5 Luzon regions, 3 Visayas regions, and all 6 Mindanao regions, 60% of whom are from public schools.
14 – Everyone who enters UP has various opportunities to develop the Oblation mindset, from the classroom to the communities.
Since 2022, UP Mindanao’s Pahinungod has engaged over 500 student volunteers, impacting underserved communities through education and disaster response. Volunteers have taught in remote schools under the Gurong Pahinungod program and helped improve UPCAT access for marginalized students in BARMM and CARAGA. The National Service Training Program (NSTP) has also supported service learning, with an NSTP Committee overseeing Module 2 activities. A proposal for an NSTP Office will further strengthen its role in the university’s degree programs.
15 – We are developing public facilities that will position the campus as a center for engagement in sports and health.
The Davao City – UP Sports Complex is transforming UP Mindanao into a hub for athletics in Mindanao and the BIMP-EAGA region. With facilities like a FIFA-certified football stadium, track oval, and an Olympic-size pool, it has hosted major events such as the 2019 Palarong Pambansa and the 2024 DAVRAA Meet, attracting over 7,800 athletes. The complex supports university activities, local sports programs, and events backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, making it a key resource for community engagement and athletic development.
The planned Davao City Public Hospital here in our campus will enhance healthcare access and offer hands-on training for students, complementing our School of Medicine.
Together, these projects will solidify UP Mindanao’s role as a leading institution for sports, wellness, and healthcare education, while strengthening its commitment to regional development and applied learning across various sectors.
16 – Moving farther to our land reservations in Marilog and Laak, we have active partnerships with communities through our livelihood projects.
From 2022 to 2024, the Land Reservation Development and Management Program (Land RAMP) supported sustainable agriculture and livelihood in our UP Laak and Marilog land reservations. Key achievements include vegetable, cacao, and coconut production projects benefiting over 200 farmers, and livelihood training for 60 Obu Manuvu Tribe members in value-added products, free-range chicken, and bead-making. The program also organized school supply and tsinelas donation drives for children in reservation areas. These initiatives were carried out in collaboration with local councils, indigenous communities, and various governmental and academic partners.
17 – And now, we are advancing to the heart of Mindanao, to the Bangsamoro people, working with them to co-create the peace and development that they aspire to.
The UP-Bangsamoro Development Initiative (UP-BDI) was established to support peace and development in BARMM by leveraging UP’s academic expertise to address the region’s specific needs. The initiative focuses on policy research, capacity building, and inclusive development, collaborating with BARMM government agencies and community groups on projects related to food security, healthcare, education, and governance. Key achievements include coordination meetings with BARMM ministries, the formation of sub-committees, and strategic partnerships with agencies like OPAPRU, MAFAR, and MOH.
UP-BDI’s collaborative efforts include projects on Islamic Financing, Smart Agriculture, Disaster Preparedness, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship, supported by partnerships with UP-CIDS, UPLB, and UP Mindanao. Technical coordination with BARMM counterparts and initiatives like a Strategic Planning Workshop and Cultural Sensitivity and Human Rights Training have strengthened cooperation. These efforts have helped UP-BDI create a roadmap for fostering inclusive development and sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro region.
18 – While working on our goals, we continue to value the welfare of our constituents.
19 – Top of the list is our students and making sure that their needs are met. We have now integrated a comprehensive system of assistance to address their financial, academic, and daily needs.
We have strengthened partnerships with alumni and established new ones to expand scholarship opportunities, including new partnerships with UPAA New Zealand, UPAA San Diego, and Move to Change Foundation. As a result, programs like BS Food Technology, BS Data Science, BS ABE, and MS Food Science are now eligible for DOST-SEI and PROJECT STRAND-N scholarships.
We express gratitude to UPAA New York for donating the Bahay Kubo at EBL Dorm, which, along with a gardening project, provides a food source for dormers to grow and cook their own meals. The ILC/LRC has supported academic success through bridging programs and peer tutorials, in partnership with Pahinungod, to help students overcome academic challenges.
20 – We have initiated new projects and activities to support the well-being of our constituents, mostly in partnership with private and government agencies.
UP Mindanao has enhanced wellness support for its community through initiatives like the outdoor gym, Ugnat Kusog fitness program, table tennis competition, yoga sessions, and the return of the Dula sports fest. These activities, along with the Inter-Agency Sportsfest and Senior Citizens Day, promote physical and mental well-being. Also, the UPMinCares Program, in partnership with Health and Wellness Solutions Technology, Inc., provides an affordable telemedicine platform, while the eHOPE program, in collaboration with Davao Adventist Hospital, ensures employees have access to inpatient care without a deposit, improving healthcare access for our personnel.
21 – Important as well is creating an environment of belongingness through safe and inclusive spaces, physically, virtually, and mentally.
UP Mindanao has made improvements to its learning, activity, and living spaces. Recent renovations include the student canteen, Himati and USC House (2023), and the Masjid, with plans for waiting sheds funded by alumni. This year, funding was secured for outdoor learning spaces, the atrium ceiling installation, and the adaptive reuse of Plaza Pag-asa into a Student Learning Hub and Activity Center.
In terms of housing, agreements with DPWH will allow for the turnover of Faculty and Staff Housing, and secure funding for the installation of a rainwater tank and submersible pump for the new dorm. The GAD and ASH Offices have been active in promoting gender awareness through workshops and events. In addition, discussions with UP College of Law are underway to strengthen conflict management and grievance machinery at UP Mindanao.
22 – In this kind of environment, our talents and campus will continue to flourish.
23 – We continuously provide opportunities for our staff to grow as a person and with the institution.
Our HRDO has provided training programs to enhance the skills of our personnel, including leadership training and coaching, customer service training, data privacy and cybersecurity workshops, and administrative conferences. Funding has been alloted for continuing education for technical and finance staff, as well as records management training. Key personnel have received specialized training to improve the university’s incident command system, covering basic life support, incident command orientation, “Walk the Fault” activities, and the CDRRMO Disaster Manual.
24 – Although you might find UP Mindanao too far and isolated from the city, that is what makes our campus beautiful and unique. UP Mindanao is a green community, preserving our biodiversity and promoting ecologically sound and sustainable development.
In 2022, the UP System approved UP Mindanao’s Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan, focusing on transforming our campus into a green university town. This plan designates 30.9% of our 204-hectare campus for green open spaces, surrounding the academic core to preserve a calm, enriching environment. This year, our campus received PhP 140 million for site development to enhance aesthetics and accessibility, adding landscaped areas, parking, pathwalks, and an amphitheater between the Library and Administration Building.
25 – We are developing mechanisms to promote sustainable campus development.
In 2022, UPMin received a 3-Star energy audit rating from the Department of Energy’s Government Energy Management Program. We have incrementally installed solar lights in critical areas of the campus: the University Avenue, and recently, the library. We created a committee that will develop a comprehensive waste management plan. To meet the growing demand for utilities, we have recently received funding for the construction of a new elevated water tank and retrofitting of the existing electrical system here in the Administration Building.
26 – At the same time, we are upgrading to smart systems, creating value out of digital technologies to support our campus life.
Our Smart Campus Program has driven the university’s digital transformation by the introduction of smart systems to both academic and administrative functions, in line with our “R2-5K” vision. Some key advancements include the upgrade of campus connectivity, with bandwidth expansion from 186 Mbps to 600 Mbps, and the introduction of UPMINDANAO-WIFI, providing comprehensive campus-wide internet access. Integration with EduroamTM allows global internet access for stakeholders, fostering collaboration with partner institutions. The modernization of the Computerized Student Record System (CSRS) and the development of the Intelligent Systems for Internal Processes (ISIP) have improved operational efficiency.
To further enhance its digital ecosystem, UP Mindanao is transitioning to fully digital HR and financial systems. These are Personnel Unified Systems Outlook (PUSO) and Budget Utilization, Liquidation, and System Analytics (BULSA) by mid-2025. New research hubs such as the UPMin Data Center, Center for AI and Robotics, and UP Data Commons Satellite are being established. The new Smart Library supports flexible learning with digitally enhanced resources and interactive spaces, while also strengthening secure data storage and interdisciplinary collaboration. These initiatives position UP Mindanao as a leader in digital innovation and research in the region.
27 – To support our initiatives, we are strengthening our internal systems for efficiency and effectiveness.
28 – We have initiated the establishment of a quality management system (QMS) to improve our customer services.
On 11 November 2024, UP Mindanao successfully passed its Stage 1 Audit for ISO 9001:2015 QMS Certification, reaffirming its commitment to continuous improvement, excellence, and accountability. The certification, achieved through a year-long preparation, ensures a process-based approach to quality and customer satisfaction, aligning with the university’s goal to meet stakeholder expectations. This milestone marks a step toward institutionalizing a robust QMS, fostering a culture of good governance, efficiency, and continuous improvement, with the goal of making quality a way of life at UP Mindanao.
29 – We are engineering and re-engineering our management systems as we adapt to the changing needs of the university and our stakeholders. It can be challenging and messy at the start, but our eyes are fixed on the goal for improvement.
We have consistently updated our Citizen’s Charter and internal administrative policies, including flexible work arrangements (FWA) for non-teaching personnel, security, animal welfare, COA Audit Observation Memos (AOM), to meet our evolving needs. We are 80% complete in our preparations for Level 2 PRIME-HRM, focusing on improving recruitment, learning and development, performance management, and rewards and recognition, alongside digitalizing HR documentation. We have conducted an inventory of our property, plant, and equipment (PPEs), helping dispose of unserviceable items. We have completed the Public Service Continuity Plan (PSCP) and established an Incident Command System to enhance our preparedness for disasters.
30 – The bedrock of our growth is transformative leadership.
31- We have established a series of leadership programs to build a culture that fosters collective growth and to ensure that the university will continue to produce leaders of integrity and accountability.
32 – Through our programs, we envision UP Mindanao to be a leader in higher education, its influence spreading from Mindanao to our neighbors in the BIMP-EAGA and the rest of the world.
(See PDF file here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1flikz0g4bWoDWq6ScalaEJd7QTGsbIyR/view?usp=drive_link)