Given the recurrent threats posed by natural calamities and the adverse impacts of climate change in the Philippines, particularly in the Davao Region, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) is advancing efforts to bridge the gap between existing disaster risk reduction policies and their implementation on the ground. To support this initiative, USeP Administration, led by University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., paid a courtesy visit to the Chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, on June 10, 2025 at the MinDA Office, Pryce Tower, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City.

Read here: https://www.usep.edu.ph/…/usep-minda-to-forge…/

The discussion focused on the proposed establishment of the Mindanao Resilience and Foresight Center at USeP, a strategic initiative aimed at empowering stakeholders across all sectors to anticipate, plan for, and mitigate the effects of disasters through futures thinking, capacity building, and the integration of science-based decision-making into public policy. The Center will contribute to localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supporting national priorities aligned with the Senate Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Innovation, and Futures Thinking.

This initiative also complements a key priority of MinDA under the Mindanao Agenda 2023–2028—the creation of the Mindanao Disaster Resiliency and Resources Center (MDRRC), also known as the MinDA Operations Center (MinDA OpCen). This facility aims to improve regional coordination and ensure faster, more effective responses to emergencies across Mindanao.

“Our commitment is anchored on the idea that resilience must be proactive, not reactive,” Pres. Gabales said. “USeP stands ready to contribute knowledge, research, and leadership toward enabling communities and institutions to prepare for what lies ahead. This center will serve as a platform for collaboration, insight, and concrete action,” he added.

Pres. Gabales likewise presented the University’s strategic direction and emphasized USeP’s adherence to the national development priorities and its thrust toward sustainability. He underscored the University’s proactive efforts in championing inclusive growth through quality education, research, and extension. Furthermore, he reiterated USeP’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible, industry-ready, and equipped to address complex, real-world challenges in their respective fields and communities.”

In support of long-term development goals, Pres. Gabales reaffirmed USeP’s commitment to contributing to the growth and development of Mindanao. He expressed gratitude to MinDA for its willingness to support scholarship opportunities for deserving students under the Doctor ng Bayan, Abogado ng Bayan, and Agriculturist ng Bayan initiatives—programs that play a crucial role in empowering local communities and advancing inclusive progress.

He further said, “USeP is ready to work with MinDA within its capacity, because at the end of the day, it is the community that matters. That is at the heart of our mission—to transform communities through responsive, relevant, and impactful service.”

Also present during the visit were USeP officials Dr. Jeneifer C. Nueva (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Dr. Maria Luisa B. Faunillan (Vice President for Administration), Dr. Tamara Cher R. Mercado (Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance), and Dr. Roger C. Montepio (Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension).

Sec. Magno was also joined by Asec. Romeo M. Montenegro (Deputy Executive Director) and Dr. Adrian M. Tamayo (Public Relations Division Chief). The meeting explored ways to align USeP’s proposed initiative with MinDA’s plan to establish the MinDA OpCen.

Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating on enhancing regional disaster resilience through joint programs, knowledge sharing, and aligned strategies.