The 2026 Summit gathered 350 young scientists from 57 countries, providing a platform for dialogue on emerging scientific trends, future game changers, and research-driven solutions to pressing global challenges. A distinctive highlight of the Summit was the participation of 21 internationally acclaimed Laureates, including recipients of the Nobel Prize, Turing Award, Fields Medal, Millennium Technology Prize, and Stockholm Water Prize. Participants engaged in lectures, plenary sessions, panel discussions, and small-group mentoring sessions, enabling close interaction with these global leaders in science and research.

Dr. Mercado was among 15 young scientists from the Philippines nominated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to attend the prestigious event. As the sole delegate from USeP and the Mindanao region, his participation underscored the growing presence of Mindanao-based scholars in high-level global scientific discourse.

The University emphasized that Dr. Mercado’s participation reflects USeP’s commitment to quality education, impactful research, and community-responsive innovation. Through active engagement in international knowledge exchange, Dr. Mercado exemplified the University’s core values of excellence, integrity, and service, while reinforcing its mission to develop globally competent professionals and knowledge creators dedicated to sustainable development and nation-building.

USeP continues to support faculty involvement in international academic and research platforms, strengthening its role in advancing science, innovation, and global collaboration.