18th Annual Math Convention Holds at BukSU

The Mathematical Society of the Philippines (MSP) held its 18th Annual Convention on October 28-30, 2024, at Bukidnon State University’s main campus. Mathematicians, educators, researchers, and students from Regions 10, 12, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) participated in plenary talks, mini-workshops, and a general meeting.

Dr. Maribel G. Valdez, BukSU’s Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, welcomed the guests.

“With great enthusiasm, I welcome you all to Bukidnon State University, in beautiful Malaybalay, Bukidnon. Over the next three days, we are in for treats of the lineup of events brought to you by the MSP. It’s about bringing together a community of scholars, math educators, researchers, and students. Think of this convention as a huge math buffet where we can feast on ideas, innovation, and insights, share our latest research, collaborate, and network. This event is a magical mix of inspiration and collaboration. Let the numbers speak, and let the convention begin!” she said.

Dr. Randy L. Caga-anan, President of MSP-Regions 10, 12, and BARMM, presented the rationale for the event, highlighting its importance in collaboration and network.

“Mathematicians like to ask why. Why are we doing this annual convention? The purpose of this convention is to promote collaboration, innovation, and exchange of ideas. It provides a platform for students and professionals to present their work, learn from one another, and inspire new research directions, highlighting the value of mathematics in solving practical problems that impact society, especially in the Regions 10, 12, and BARMM. By gathering here, we build a strong mathematical community to contribute meaningfully to the regions and the nation. Let’s continue asking why, and let those answers drive as forward,” Caga-anan said.

SMART BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, the convention’s keynote speaker, shared insights into the role of mathematics in leading Bukidnon State University and its satellite campuses in the provinces of Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental, following her Hexa-helix Leadership framework.  

“True leadership is not about commanding from the front but creating a compelling vision that pulls us all forward into the future. At Bukidnon State University, we lead by empowering, innovating, and preparing for what lies ahead so that we not only navigate change but also shape it,” President Mirasol shared.

The plenary talks were delivered by the University of the Philippines, the University of Madeira (Portugal), and Universitas Gadjah Mada (Indonesia), Ateneo de Manila University, Federal University of Bahia (Brazil), and Instituto Politecnico Nacional (Mexico).

Mini-workshops were conducted to further enhance participants’ knowledge and skills.

“I am confident that the ideas exchanged and collaborations formed during this convention will spark innovations that will strengthen mathematics education and research, both in our regions and across the nation,” Dr. Jose Maria L. Escaner IV, President Mathematical Society of the Philippines said.

Towards the last day, a special session discussing the status of the Philippine Mathematical Olympiad was conducted to cultivate the mathematical talents of youth and inspire future generations of problem-solvers. (BukSU-Information Unit)