Mindanao State University – General Santos, through its Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE), successfully staged the highly anticipated ABE EXPO 2025 on April 28–29 at Veranza Mall. With the theme “AB Engineering Research and Innovations for Sustainable Agroecosystems and Food Security,” the two-day event showcased the cutting-edge research, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to sustainability of ABE students, faculty, and partner institutions.
In his welcome remarks, Engr. Rener B. Tandugon, ABE Department Chairperson, highlighted the essential role of academic institutions in delivering research-based, practical solutions for sustainable agriculture and food security.
Messages of support were delivered by university leaders who emphasized the expo’s role in shaping future innovators:
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Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, described the event as “a platform where young minds transform ideas into impactful solutions for society.”
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Dr. Christine Dawn G. Obemio, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension and Director for Innovation and Research, and Dr. Donna Ria Josue-Canacan, Dean of the College of Agriculture, both underscored the value of student-led research in advancing agricultural development.
Day 1 Highlights
The first day featured the ABE134 Food Innovation Exposition, feasibility study presentations, and sponsor acknowledgments. Engr. Ronan D. Caligdong praised industry partnerships for their role in fostering student development and innovation.
Feasibility Study Competition Winners:
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Champion: Miracle Bites – A Miracle Fruit-Supplemented Gummy
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1st Runner-Up: ReBrewBites’ Kapecaroons – Upcycling Coffee Grounds
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2nd Runner-Up: Kamote Peel Siomai by Peeling Good
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Special Citation for Presentation: Arnold Clear Caijo, Ryzzah Angela Castillo, Christine Mae Avenido, Christine Daños, Eliu Aguilar, Al-Faisal Pagabangan, Rhea Fuyonan, Cindy Mae Belinario, Angelie Lebosada
Food Processing Competition Winners:
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Champion: Peeling Good – Kamote Peel Siomai
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1st Runner-Up: ChichaPeel – Cucumber Peel Chips
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2nd Runner-Up: Rebite – Fruit Peels Snack Bar
Day 2 Highlights
Day 2 opened with preliminary activities followed by the Research and Innovation Forum, with keynote talks by Dr. Ryan Banal, Director of the Department of Innovation, and Dr. Keno Jay M. Balogbog, Director of the Department of Extension. Both speakers stressed the need for adaptive, forward-thinking approaches to agricultural research.
In the afternoon, students competed in the Technopreneurship Pitching Competition, delivering innovative entrepreneurial solutions to real-world agricultural challenges.
AgroTechnopreneurship Competition Awards:
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Best Pitching: SustainaGrow
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Best Agrotech: EcoBrix
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Most Outstanding Innovation: EcoSprout
Structure Miniature Competition Winners:
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Champion Livestock Production: Moolabao
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Champion Grain & Non-Grains Production: RTMY Inc
The event concluded with an awarding ceremony, marking yet another milestone in MSU-Gensan’s commitment to academic excellence, research relevance, sustainability, and community impact.
