Despite heavy rains, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the College of Agriculture and Related Sciences (CARS) further strengthened its international relations with the successful Mindanao-Japan Science and Technology Platform (MJ-STeP) Ocular Visit, on February 26, 2025 at the Agricultural Research Technology and Innovation Center (ARTIC) Hall, USeP Tagum-Mabini Campus (TMC), Mabini Unit.
The visit was graced by MJ-STEP President Mr. Miwa Yoshiaki, former Consul General of Japan in Davao and former Ambassador to the Solomon Islands. Also in attendance were select members of USeP Top Management, CARS Faculty and Staff, and student leaders from the Mabini Unit.
USeP TMC Chancellor Dr. Shirley S. Villanueva welcomed the attendees, marking the partnership as another milestone in international collaboration for scientific advancements in agriculture and forestry studies. Dr. Villanueva emphasized the role of science and technology in building sustainable communities and encouraged students to pursue impactful research and academic excellence.
University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., represented by Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Jeneifer C. Nueva, highlighted USeP’s dedication to academic excellence and its reach history of international collaboration. The University President also expressed his heartfelt thanks to MJ-STeP for their commitment to strengthening education through scholarship grants.
According to Dr. Gabales, collaboration paved the way for academic excellence, especially for the faculty members of USeP. With assurance, Dr. Gabales stated that the University is committed to strengthening its ties with MJ-STeP and their Japanese counterparts.
Following an audio-visual presentations regarding USeP-Mabini’s history and CARS, College Dean Dr. Cecirly G. Puig introduced the top-caliber faculty members including the current and prospective MJ-STeP Scholars. Additionally, the Department of Agricultural Sciences Program Head Dr. Dernie T. Olguera provided updates on the scholars’ accomplishments and engagements.
One of the faculty scholars, Ms. Bridgette Lucille Aline S. Catalan, currently pursuing graduate studies at Tohoku University, expressed her thanks towards USeP and MJ-STeP for the opportunity, extending her appreciation to friends and classmates who have supported her journey.
The event continued with a musical interlude by BS Agriculture student Julius Cesar Timosan, followed by the presentation of the 2025-2029 ARTIC Research and Development and Extension (RDE) Roadmap by Dr. Angie R. Poliquit.
The Roadmap outlined CARS’ ongoing and future research initiatives and funding priorities, underscoring the goal of maintaining USeP’s status as a Center of Excellence in Agriculture and Center of Development in Forestry.
In his keynote address, MJ-STeP President Mr. Yoshiaki expressed his surprise and appreciation for the warm welcome, likening the vital relationship between Japan and the Philippines to a garden that must be maintained to take care of its beauty.
According to the MJ-STeP President, they are present in Mindanao not just to develop a good relationship but also to develop the industry of this region. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing agriculture and industry in Mindanao, highlighting the role of universities in fostering innovation. He also envisioned direct Japanese investments in universities and strengthened laboratory facilities in Mindanao, reinforcing the value of long-term international partnerships.
Moreover, Mr. Yoshiaki emphasized that innovation is achievable through collaboration with academia and industries, stating that “if industries know what universities are researching, then they can provide assistance and help develop the studies of each other.”
International Affairs Division (IAD) Director Dr. Adora Zerrudo echoed the importance of international collaboration and expressed her thanks to the brothers for helping USeP achieve its vision. Dr. encouraged students to actively engage in international relations through study opportunities, online forums, and networking. She also advised students to secure their passports in anticipation of future global endeavors.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Puig thanked MJ-STeP for its continued support in advancing science and technology at USeP. Dr. Puig commended faculty and staff for their dedication and recognized the MJ-STeP scholars for their performance. She reiterated CARS’ commitment to sending top faculty members to Japan through the MJ-STeP program.
Before concluding, Mr. Yoshiaki shared a brief history of MJ-STeP, which was founded by his brother, Mr. Miwa “Tony” Toyoaki, a successful businessman who just wants to give back to their community.
Following the formal program, Mr. Yoshiaki, accompanied by Dr. Puig, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (VPRDE) Dr. Roger C. Montepio, and faculty members, toured ARTIC and other campus laboratories and facilities, further solidifying the collaborative efforts between USeP and MJ-STeP.
