Multiple awards for BukSU at IPOVCON 2025 highlight poverty tech innovation leadership

Multiple awards and recognitions for research and innovation were conferred upon Bukidnon State University (BukSU) at the 6th International and 9th National Conference on Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development (IPOVCON 2025), held at Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) on October 8–9, 2025.

The conference was organized by Samar State University in partnership with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Region 8 and BiPSU, and carried the theme “Technology-Driven Solutions for Poverty Alleviation and Inclusive Sustainability.”

Among the awardees, the paper titled “T2DM Assessment Model Using Socio-Demographic and Lifestyle-Related Factors: A Machine Learning Approach” by Dr. Fatima C. Tanzo, Dr. Zeny L. Maureal, and Dr. Ma. Algerica T. Cuenco received the Best Paper Award under Track 1B – Emerging Technologies for Health and Education Equity.

Track 1B – Emerging Technologies for Health and Education Equity

The study’s focus on utilizing artificial intelligence to assess the risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) offered an approach to health management, especially in underserved communities where access to healthcare remained a challenge. Representing the research team, Cuenco was also recognized as the Best Presenter.

BukSU was also recognized during the conference for its active engagement and support in promoting research initiatives that addressed social issues through science, technology, and innovation, with the presentation of ten (10) research papers, all focused on the shared goal of poverty alleviation and inclusive sustainability.

The study “Dynamic Predictive Environmental Modeling-Driven Smart Irrigation with Wireless Monitoring and Control for Sustainable Water Allocation,” authored by Donna Anjielou B. Lamutay, Kurt Val T. Dugay, James Marlon L. Lerida, and Dr. Manuel Chad G. Agurob, won the Best Paper Award under Track 2A – Innovations in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Security. Representing the group, Dr. Agurob also received the Best Presenter Award for communicating the project’s potential to revolutionize agricultural water management.

Track 2A – Innovations in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Security

Agurob explained that the research was a university-funded project developed in close collaboration with students and was born out of a series of research enhancement workshops organized by the college and the university.

According to Agurob, BukSU has the capacity to produce high-impact and competitive research, demonstrating tangible results of the university’s continuous support for innovation, introducing a predictive and wireless irrigation system that promotes sustainable water management and enhances agricultural resilience in areas where resources are limited.

“The success of BukSU researchers at IPOVCON 2025 tells a larger story, one of a university steadily building a culture of innovation grounded in service. Through institutional support, mentorship, and collaboration, BukSU continues to nurture research that creates practical solutions for real-world problems. By championing studies that integrate technology with community needs, the university reaffirms its mission to advance education, sustainability, and social equity,” said Ms. Joan Recente, BukSU’s Director for the Research and Development Unit,

“These recognitions not only bring honor to BukSU but also inspire a greater purpose: to transform research into action that uplifts lives and drives inclusive progress. With every innovation shared and every community empowered, BukSU strengthens its role as a catalyst for meaningful, technology-driven development in Northern Mindanao and beyond,” Recente added. (Jessabell Q. Cabada, R&D Unit Management Staff)