University of Mindanao Main Campus - Community Extension Center

27/03/2026

From Ancestral Roots to Coffee Shoots: Growing Coffees, Preserving Heritage

Earlier today, the Community Extension Center conducted its second series of the Coffee Planting Activity at the Bagobo Tagabawa Ancestral Domain in Catigan, Toril, Davao City. A total of twenty-seven (27) non-teaching personnel from various offices actively participated in the initiative.

Before the activity kicked off, Sitti L. Apadan, the AVP for Community Extension and Outreach, introduced the program's rationale and shared the partnership accomplishments. This was followed by a warm welcome and message of appreciation from Datu Lawrence S. Bayocboc, who expressed gratitude to the University of Mindanao for its continued support as a key stakeholder in strengthening their local coffee industry.

An orientation on proper coffee planting techniques was then conducted to ensure the survival and sustainability of the seedlings. Subsequently, a total of two hundred thirteen (213) coffee seedlings were successfully planted in the designated area.

This initiative not only contributes to environmental conservation but also supports the livelihood of the local community. More importantly, it highlights the shared commitment to preserving indigenous heritage while fostering sustainable agricultural practices for future generations.

27/03/2026

26/03/2026

The Community Extension Center successfully conducted the 3rd Extension Congress today at AVR 4, UM Matina Campus, bringing together stakeholders from various University of Mindanao branches in a meaningful celebration of service, collaboration, and shared impact.

Held as part of the six-month-long celebration of the 80th Founding Anniversary of the University of Mindanao, the congress served as a platform to highlight the institution’s enduring commitment to community engagement and transformative extension initiatives.

The program formally opened with a warm and inspiring Welcome Address from Dr. Eugenio S. Guhao Jr., Chief Academic Officer, who underscored the vital role of extension programs in shaping socially responsive graduates and strengthening institutional partnerships.

The event featured insightful plenary discussions from distinguished speakers: Dr. Liza C. Suan, CHED XI Education Supervisor, who emphasized the importance of extension in Higher Education Institutions; Ms. Carla Joy E. Salvacion, Mindanao Regional Unit Director of iVolunteer Philippines, who inspired participants through her talk on volunteerism and meaningful opportunities for service; and Mr. Robert Basco, Partnership and Capacity Building Manager of World Vision, who delivered a compelling message on having a heart to serve.

The congress was also actively participated in by students and SOCI Coordinators from both main and branch campuses, reflecting a strong culture of volunteerism, leadership, and community involvement across the University.

Highlighting the event were engaging competitions, including Paper Presentation, Poster Presentation, and Booth Exhibits, which showcased innovative programs and best practices from community partners.

Congratulations to the winners:
🏆 Best Paper Presentation – UM Panabo
🏆 Best Poster Presentation – UM Main Biology Program
🏆 Best Booth Exhibit – UM Bansalan

More than a gathering, the 3rd Extension Congress stands as a testament to the University of Mindanao’s legacy of excellence, unity, and service—continuously strengthening partnerships and empowering communities toward a more sustainable future.

21/03/2026

Earlier today, the Civil Engineering Program successfully conducted the first session of its four-Saturday training series titled “Flow for Life: Hands-on Plumbing Skills for Community Hygiene and Infrastructure” at the Bagobo Tagabawa Tribal Hall in Catigan, Toril, Davao City. The training was attended by 20 tribal members from the Bantay Gubat and Women’s sectors and was spearheaded by 10 faculty members, together with 5 ACES from the program and one Civil Engineering alumnus. The session covered topics on water pipelines, the history of plumbing, and its importance to community hygiene and daily living. This initiative aims to equip participants with practical plumbing skills that can contribute to improved sanitation, sustainable infrastructure, and overall community well-being.

18/03/2026

𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | UM Psychology Society brings Psychosocial Support Program in Balay Bana-ag

In a continuing effort to strengthen community engagement and child-centered support, the Psychology Society of the University of Mindanao (UM) rolled out a three-day extension initiative titled “Sibol ng Pagkalinga: Nurturing Dreams, Guiding Young Hearts” at Balay Bana-ag in Tugbok District.

This outreach program's primary beneficiaries were the children and residents of the center, and it was conducted on January 24, February 7, and February 14, 2026, gathered UM Psychology Society officers, council members, and 15 volunteer psychology students from each year level, excluding fourth year.

Framed as a structured psychosocial intervention, the project integrated Structured Learning Experience (SLE) activities, creative workshops such as bracelet-making and tote bag-making, and guided processing sessions. These activities were designed not only to foster creativity but also to create safe spaces for emotional expression, self-discovery, and social development among the children.

According to the organization, beyond service delivery, the initiative also served as a practical training platform for psychology students, allowing them to apply classroom-based psychological principles in a real-world, community setting; and they also emphasized that the program highlights the role of future mental health practitioners in grassroots development and child welfare advocacy.

Preparation for the project began in November 2025 in coordination with the center’s management, with volunteers completing a total of 46 service hours prior to implementation.

The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), reinforcing UM Psychology Society’s commitment to collaborative and sustainable community engagement.

| via Julia Diacamos
Photos credit to UM Psychology Society
Layout by Shayra Crespo

14/03/2026

14/03/2026

14/03/2026

11/03/2026

10/03/2026