The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) and Davao del Sur State College (DSSC), in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), held an exit conference with Dr. Irma Tandingan de Ley on March 12, 2024 at the University Hostel Training Hall, USeP Obrero, Davao City.
Dr. Tandingan de Ley is an Associate Project Scientist at the University of California Riverside (UCR). The Balik-Scientist Awardee specializes in nematology, nematode taxonomy, systematics and phylogeny, and biological control of gastropods
Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., USeP President, delivered his welcome message during the program. He emphasized that BSP inputs to internationalization, training, and mentoring of faculty and students.
In her inspirational message, Dr. Augie E. Fuentes, President of DSSC, acknowledged the sharing of knowledge and expertise of Dr. Tandingan de Ley. She stressed that the visit of the awardee is not just an opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate but also a testament to sharing and finding solutions that affect agriculture
Ms. Sheryll Mae Roy, DSSC Faculty, shared collaboration experiences with the awardee. Collaboration is not just followed in the fundamental principles but also in the tangible solution for controlling nematodes.
Mr. Yves Paul Montero, Natural Sciences Department Faculty of College of Arts and Sciences, and Benjamin Froilan Caballero, BS Biology fourth-year student, presented a study relating to gastropods. They stressed that gastropods are commonly associated with nematodes, which cause biodiversity losses and damage agricultural products.
Dr. Tandingan de Ley highlighted the status of the gastropod research, including their importance. She revealed that the BSP engagement in Region XI is due to the impact of slugs on agriculture, which had yet to be assessed.
The Exit Conference progressed with impressions from the stakeholders. The two SUCs and DOST-PCAARR thanked Dr. Tandingan de Ley for supporting them as BSP Awardees.
