Rainforest Publication

29/08/2024

[𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄] 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐁𝐒 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐆𝐚𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝐉𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐄𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐚 𝐍𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐚 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥

Gabriel Jumawan, a 2nd-year BS Forestry student and The Rainforest Publication Photojournalist, along with Miss Erika Noblefanca, a faculty member from the College of Forestry and Environmental Science, achieved 3rd place in the Poster Presentation category at the Higalaay Multidisciplinary Research Festival held in Cagayan de Oro City. Their research, titled "Analyzing Biotic and Abiotic Components in Grassland Areas and Comparing Agroecosystems to Natural Terrestrial Ecosystems at Central Mindanao University," offers a critical examination of the balance between agriculture and the environment.

This study explores the intricate relationships between living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) elements within grasslands and natural terrestrial ecosystems, drawing comparisons with agroecosystems. According to Mr. Jumawan, "By analyzing these interactions, the research seeks to identify sustainable practices that not only maintain agricultural productivity but also enhance biodiversity—a crucial endeavor in the face of environmental degradation and climate change."

Jumawan's presentation shows the importance of this research in informing sustainable land management strategies. By fostering a deeper understanding of how agricultural practices impact ecosystems, the study aims to contribute to a future where human activities coexist harmoniously with nature. "This is my first time attending this type of event, and I am grateful for the new information shared by the panelists. Their dedication towards enhancing the Philippines and its people is truly important to me," said Jumawan.

Congratulations to Mr. Jumawan and Ms. Noblefranca on this remarkable success!

Content | Julius Rebuca

29/08/2024

[𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒] 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐏-𝐂𝐖𝐓𝐒 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐬

August 28, 2024, 2:03 PM - Central Mindanao University (CMU), Quality Assurance Office.

A roundtable discussion was held at Central Mindanao University to address the grooming policies under the National Service Training Program-Civic Welfare Training Service (NSTP-CWTS). The meeting, attended by university officials, the Supreme Student Council (SSC), various councils and publications, and LGBT community representatives, focused on the controversial grooming policies and their impact on minority groups within the university.

The SSC initiated the discussion by laying out the current state of grooming policies for NSTP. They emphasized that according to the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), the administration holds the exclusive right to implement these policies. The SSC, along with other student regents, noted that the issue of insufficient spotlight on minority groups has been a recurring concern that needs to be addressed as part of responsive governance.

Dr. Eballe mentioned that there had been standing requests from students regarding the grooming policies but acknowledged that the administration has no control over certain aspects..

It was noted during the discussion that some students could face being dropped from subjects due to non-compliance with the grooming standards. The NSTP Director, Mr. Heherson Guinto emphasized that social media is not an appropriate venue for raising these issues, as the school operates as a specialized society. He defended the grooming policies, stating that NSTP is a specialized training program designed to "train good citizens" who can render national service. He also drew comparisons with overseas programs, such as in Singapore, and one should maintain a value system focused on spiritual and moral development. He also expressed concern over compromising the program's direction, questioning, "Naa pa ba mi moral ascendency if we allow this?"

The SSC referenced Republic Act 9163, arguing that the university has the right to adjust policies if they no longer align with the institution's social dynamics, which are continuously evolving. They pointed out the misconceptions surrounding academic and administrative freedom. SSC President Ken also stressed the necessity for change, stating that failing to accept change would lead to stagnation.

Mr. Labrador, SSC Adviser, reminded that the issue is about accommodating these minorities, noting that it does not affect 50% of the population.

Dr. Eballe remarked that while the policies were "okay lang sa sugod" , irregularities during implementation must observed. He also reiterated CMU's conservative stance, asking for a clear control mechanism to manage the situation.

Labrador challenged the moral argument, stating, "I don't see a correlational relation of having long hair with morality." Supporting this stance, Gender and Development (GAD) Development Director Dr. Hazel Marie Boloron further emphasized that hair length has nothing to do with one's value or moral standing, asserting that personal appearance should not be a measure of an individual's character.

Despite the significant discussions, minority representatives were not given the opportunity to voice their concerns during the meeting and further given a separated time to share their experiences. The possibility of extending the deadline for compliance with the hair-cutting requirement was also briefly mentioned but without a specific time.

As the discussion concluded, it was agreed that the administration would review the proposal further. The SSC was given until Friday to construct the necessary guidelines to address these concerns.

This discussion marked the ongoing tension between upholding traditional values and accommodating the evolving social dynamics within the university, it still leaves the future of the grooming policies in question.

Content | Reviemar Beja, Julius Rebuca
Photos | Louise Franchette Cullantes

28/08/2024

[𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒] 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐕𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐌𝐔-𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐏 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

Earlier today, a meeting was held at Central Mindanao University's Quality Assurance Office in OASP Hall to discuss issues surrounding gender expression in relation to the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) program under the National Service Training Program (NSTP). The meeting included key university officials such as the President, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Supreme Student Council (SSC), College Councils, and various delegates. However, the minority voices, represented by two students preferring to be called "Coz" and "Jai," were not given an opportunity to speak during the meeting. They have now come forward to express their concerns regarding certain policies, particularly those affecting transgender students.

Statement from Coz:
"We're here because of the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS). Sa amo a jod, is, wala me problema sa ROTC or kang sir Guinto, wala jod. Even siya nag ingon siya nako last year nga, ga follow ra siya sa student handbook, so, unsa lugar iya pasabot sa student handbook na wala me kabasa? Iya pajod ko gi ignan face-to-face that wala siya’y issues with how we express ourselves—whether it's the way we dress, use makeup, and more. But during the meeting, iyang gi manipulate inyong mind na about other LGBT na naa nay t*t*y, hmm no, gi manipulate lang niya inyong utok para ma sunod ilang gusto "
Coz further added, " Tas every Saturday iya jod na ipa remind na kanang mga bayot, nay mga ot*n dili baya siya identify na woman daw kailangan jod og gender reassessment para ma tawag na bae ka,naa me friend sa agriculture naa na siyay t*t*y dako na kaayo nag pa putol siyag buhok kay gina manipulate siya ni Sir Guinto nga kanang ipa cut ang buhok. Pero ako na pukos jod kaayo sakong gusto og sa kaugalingon kay I know naa koy kapadulngan jod isip usa ka transgender woman, I know na isip usa ka transgender dili ko kanang pariwara na bayot, I have dreams”

Statement from Jai: “We also ask sa iyaha na ok raba mag wig nalng mig panlalaki para maka follow me sa ilaha ayaw lang jod among real hair putlon, pero mo ana sila na dli jod siya pwede, ana siya naka state nadaw sa policies only male and female, ana pod siya sa orientation na if naa padaw mo bitay, dapat pajod mag paputol, dli purket ga cross-dressed na kay exempeted nadaw."

Jai also shared a personal experience, saying, "I've experienced harassment nay isa ka facilitator na ni singgit na if laki ka laki jod ka, if bae ka bae jod ka, mora kog nahadlok ato motong ni uli ko.”

Coz and Jai highlighted the difficulties transgender students face in CMU, particularly in the CWTS program. Coz mentioned, "Sa naka apan jod bitaw no, samong mga transgender kay maulaw silag voice out sa ilang gaka experience around the UCC (CWTS) tas si sir ga ingon siya sauna na wala siyay problema sa amo a, karon dako man diay kaayo ang problema, tungod samong buhok. Unsa diay ang buhok diay manilhig?”

“Before officer ko sa CWTS, tas ni hawa ko kay mao lage na kay bawal ang bayot, pero iyang (uban) officer kay bayot baya jod pero nag pa opaw kay na pugos para nay position sulod sa UCC (CWTS),” Coz added.

Despite these challenges, Coz expressed gratitude towards CMU, especially the Supreme Student Council (SSC), for understanding and supporting the concerns of the LGBTQ+ community. "Dili baya nako first choice ang CMU jod ay, pero karon na anam-anam na nako siyag love, labi na kamo taga SSC grabe jod dako jod kaayo akong pasalamat sa inyo," Coz said.

Jai also emphasized that the way students are treated during CWTS training has forced many to comply with hair-cutting policies out of embarrassment. Jai said, "Nganong uban school kay free kay sa ila ang LGBTQ? kay kabalo man jod sila na dli jod siya maka affect, kay amo lang man jod gina wish na dli lang unta among buhok, mo tupad man mes tanan mga task na ilang ipag kuan (hatag) sa amo a kabalo jod me na isa na samong duty as a student dire sa CMU na mo tuman sa ila.”

Coz added, "I’ve felt discriminated against ever since I entered college, and it’s affected my mental health."

The SSC president further remarked, “I think na ma pugos nalang silag cut sa ilahang hair kay naa ta dire for academics, and then dli man jod ta ka graduate kong dli mo take sa NSTP so wala jod moy choice if dli sila mo sugot.” The SCC president also added, "We conducted this meeting so that future generations of students at CMU can freely express themselves without facing these issues. This is for us and for the students who will enroll CMU in the future."

The minority voices stressed the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their gender expression. They argued that personal appearance, such as having long or short hair, does not define a person's character. The minority representatives hope that their concerns will lead to positive changes in CMU's policies, ensuring a more inclusive environment for all students

Content | Reviemar Beja
Photo | Louise Franchette Cullantes

26/08/2024

𝐀𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐮𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐲𝐨 𝐧𝐚 𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐡𝐨𝐬 𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐠𝐚 𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐤𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧. 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐧, 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐨𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐤𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐢𝐰𝐚 𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐝𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐚𝐝 𝐧𝐚 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐬.

𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐰 𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐠𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐢!
𝐌𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐬!

24/08/2024

[𝐒𝐜𝐢-𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡] 𝘽𝙄𝙏𝙀 𝙊𝙁 𝘿𝙀𝘼𝙏𝙃, 𝙎𝙈𝘼𝙇𝙇 𝘽𝙐𝙏 𝙏𝙀𝙍𝙍𝙄𝘽𝙇𝙀

Poses a significant public health challenge globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, this vector bite can lead to disease to severe illness and even death to a human. During the rainy season, these arthropod populations tend to increase significantly due to the favorable breeding conditions created by stagnant water. Rainfall provides abundant habitats particularly in areas where water collects in containers, puddles, and low-lying ground. But how can we protect ourselves from this tiny yet deadly bite?

A viral infection called ‘Dengue’ is transmitted primarily by the 𝘈𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘦𝘨𝘺𝘱𝘵𝘪 and 𝘈𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘣𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘴, with an estimated 100-400 million infections occurring annually. Dengue is recognized as the leading cause of arthropod-borne viral diseases worldwide, with severe cases leading to complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, which can be fatal if not treated properly. (Dengue Fever - Symptoms and Causes - Mayo Clinic)

According to data from the Department of Health (DOH, 2024) Bukidnon's dengue cases in 2024 are part of the overall increase in the Philippines, where 150,354 cases were recorded nationwide from January 1 to August 10, 2024, which is 39% higher compared to the same period in 2023. This data indicates that the mosquitoes responsible for transmitting dengue pose a significant health risk and can be fatal if left unchecked. It is crucial to prioritize preventive measures to mitigate this threat effectively.

Strategies to prevent dengue include:
1. Regularly emptying and cleaning containers that collect water, such as flower pots, buckets, and discarded tires.
2. Ensuring that drains and gutters are debris-free to prevent stagnant water.
3. Covering water storage containers tightly to prevent mosquito breeding.
4. Installing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of living spaces.
5.Wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito activity times, such as dawn and dusk.
6. Using mosquito nets at night.

Start implementing these preventive measures in your boarding house and dormitories now. With the rainy season upon us, we must act swiftly to prevent the spread of dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Do we really need to wait until illness strikes before taking action? As the saying goes, 'Prevention is better than cure.' Let's take action now!

Words | Rembrant Salido
Illustration | Reaven Ortega

16/08/2024

[𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬] 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒: 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐒𝐒𝐒 𝐊𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬

On August 14, 2024 the Environmental Science Student Society (EnvroSSS) kicked off the beginning of its school year with a bang as it commemorates its 1st General Assembly with the name Panagtapok 2024 at the College of Forestry and Environmental Science.

Students of all year levels from the Environmental Science course gathered in order to find out what's in store for them for the upcoming 1st Semester for school year 2024-2025.

The air was beaming with excitement, as the new officers detailed and introduced the new calendar of activities together with the budget allocation that were approved by the Office of Student Administration.

From exciting news of a Departmental Film Festival, to a wonderful year end Christmas feast. Students both new and old are buzzing to see what the EnviroSSS has in store for the new school year.

Stepping into a new beginning, the EnviroSSS organization is moving forward for a more greener and unified Environmental Science community here in Central Mindanao University.

Words | Kenjie Dred Millana
Photos | Louise Franchette Cullantes

07/08/2024

𝘉𝘢𝘣𝘺, 𝘐'𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘬𝘦, 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘰𝘵. 𝘐'𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰𝘱, 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰𝘱🎤🍒🎶

𝐂𝐎𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐂𝐎’𝐬 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲.

The College of Forestry and Environmental Science Student Council (COFESSCO) held its General Assembly for the first semester this afternoon at 1 PM, embracing the theme "Pagpasiugda," which means "to promote" or "to initiate." The assembly was an essential event where plans for upcoming year were discussed.

Council chairperson Keona Therese Cutin delivered the welcome address, warmly welcoming the students for the new academic year. The assembly further featured presentations of the Calendar of Activities and Budget Allocation where discussion followed ensuring clarity and accountability. The event culminated in a productive open forum where students voiced their support and shared ideas, setting a collaborative tone for the semester ahead.




Photos | James Memoracion

06/08/2024

𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

We are excited to welcome our CFES students to the new academic year! Join us in our college orientation tomorrow, 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒, from 𝟏𝟎:𝟎𝟎 𝐀𝐌 to 𝟏𝟏:𝟒𝟓 𝐀𝐌 at the 𝐂𝐅𝐄𝐒 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐬.

This event is a valuable opportunity to gain insights into our college history, familiarize yourself with important policies, and connect with fellow students, faculty, and staff.

Get ready to kickstart your college journey by fully engaging in our CFES College Orientation! 💚✨

06/08/2024

𝐏𝐀𝐆𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐔𝐆𝐃𝐀 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒: 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐋𝐘

We are encouraging everyone to attend the upcoming general assembly on 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒, at the 𝗖𝗙𝗘𝗦 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 from 𝟏:𝟎𝟎 𝗣𝗠 to 𝟒:𝟎𝟎 𝗣𝗠. This event is an excellent opportunity for CFES students to stay connected with the college calendar of activities, share ideas, and win superb prizes! We greatly value your participation in enhancing the vibrancy of our college!

Mark your calendars and join us for an engaging and informative event. We look forward to seeing you there and making the most of this opportunity together!

Make sure to register here: https://forms.gle/hqLRH1WAt4ii2z1G9 using your institutional email or scan the QR code below to win our raffle draw with exciting prizes! 🤩✨

05/08/2024

𝓟𝓐𝓖𝓟𝓐𝓢𝓘𝓤𝓖𝓓𝓐 2024: 𝓓𝓪𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓦𝓮𝓵𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮

The College of Forestry and Environmental Science Student Council (COFESSCO) welcomed the CFES students for the first semester of the Academic Year 2024 – 2025 with the theme: PAGPASIUGDA 2024: Day of Welcome.

Freshmen students left an indelible smile when COFESSCO officers gave them pens, notebooks, stickers, and chocolates at the main entrance of CFES. Additionally, a freedom wall was also featured during the welcome day where students wrote their thoughts and feelings.

The warm welcome extended by COFESSCO to the freshmen students not only provided them with essential supplies but also fostered a sense of community and belonging within the College of Forestry and Environmental Science.




Photos: Louise Franchette Cullantes

03/08/2024

𝐎𝐡 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬! 𝐊𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐝? 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟓 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠! ⏰

Get ready for 𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗣𝗔𝗦𝗜𝗨𝗚𝗗𝗔 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒: 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲! 🎉 We can’t wait to see all of you there as we kick off the new academic year with excitement and enthusiasm!

Join us for a day filled with fun activities and opportunities to connect with fellow students. This is your chance to make new friends, explore what our college has to offer, and set the tone for a fantastic year ahead!

Don’t miss out on this incredible event—let’s make memories together and welcome the new students with open arms! See you there, Ka-CFES! 💚🌿

𝐎𝐡 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬! 𝐊𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐝? 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟓 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠! ⏰

Get ready for 𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗣𝗔𝗦𝗜𝗨𝗚𝗗𝗔 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒: 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲! 🎉 We can’t wait to see all of you there as we kick off the new academic year with excitement and enthusiasm!

Join us for a day filled with fun activities and opportunities to connect with fellow students. This is your chance to make new friends, explore what our college has to offer, and set the tone for a fantastic year ahead!

Don’t miss out on this incredible event—let’s make memories together and welcome the new students with open arms! See you on Monday at 𝟏 in the 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗼𝗼𝗻 at the 𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 of the College of Forestry and Environmental Science! 💚🌿

08/07/2024

𝐖𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐟𝐟 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒–𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓!

Central Mindanao University, College of Forestry and Environmental Science, Rainforest Publication is looking for passionate individuals to join our growing student publication. We are recruiting for the following positions:

News Writers
Opinion Writers
Sport Writers
Sci-tech Writers
Cartoonists
Layout Artists
Photojournalists/Photographers

Prospective members must adhere to the guidelines for the preregistration process as outlined in the Google Form. If interested, kindly fill out the form through this link: https://forms.gle/ygedVMrrNbCiMw6v9
or scan the QR Code in the attached images.

For inquiries, contact us at 09129487293 or email us at [email protected].

21/06/2024

[𝐈𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬] 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 - 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞'𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚 𝐨𝐧 June 20, 2024.

Congratulations 🎊🎓✨

21/06/2024

[𝐈𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬] 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 - 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞'𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚 𝐨𝐧 June 20, 2024.

Congratulations 🎉🎓✨

18/06/2024

🌍🔬 𝑬𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒐𝒏 𝒂 𝒋𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒔𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚!

Are you passionate about protecting our planet and shaping a sustainable future? Explore our Environmental Science course, where you can turn your love for nature into a rewarding career!

Learn about the latest in environmental research and solutions and join a community dedicated to making a positive impact on our world.

𝑬𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒕—𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝑬𝒏𝒗𝒊𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑺𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒔! 🍀

16/06/2024

🌿 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭?

Join the 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, where innovative theories come to life through practical and engaging immersion in the natural world.

Our 𝑩𝑺 𝑬𝒏𝒗𝒊𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑺𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 and 𝑩𝑺 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒚 programs are designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle today’s environmental challenges. As a 𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐃 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 and a 𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐃 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, we offer a premier education along with invaluable hands-on experience.

𝚂𝚘, 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚊𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚏𝚘𝚛? 𝚂𝚔𝚒𝚙 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚏𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚏𝚞𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚞𝚜!

𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫.

𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞!

𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞.

𝐄𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐨𝐰! 🌱✨

05/06/2024

𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 | 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐲

The ongoing conflict in Middle Region has far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate human toll.While headlines focus on casualties, displacement, and geopolitical tensions, there’s a hidden cost that demands our attention: the environmental impact.
As World Environment Day shines a spotlight on the urgent need for land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, it compels us to reflect on the broader implications of environmental sustainability, particularly in regions beleaguered by conflict. For Palestinians, the intersection of environmental degradation and persistent conflict presents formidable barriers to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐙𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐇𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 (𝐒𝐃𝐆 𝟐)
The deliberate targeting of Gaza's agricultural land and infrastructure is a critical dimension of Israel’s military campaign. This systematic destruction amounts to what can only be described as an act of ecocide. Farms and greenhouses, essential for local food production, have been devastated. Since the latest onslaught began, Israeli forces have transformed 22% of Gaza’s agricultural land into barren dust. The destruction has not been limited to crops alone; the collapse of wastewater systems, resulting from the deprivation of electricity, has further contaminated the land and water resources, rendering them unusable.
This environmental devastation is staggering. More than 45,000 polluting missiles and bombs have been unleashed, decimating the farmland and agricultural infrastructure. According to satellite imagery studies, this damage is extensive and deliberate, aimed at crippling Gaza's ability to sustain its population. The ongoing massacres and systematic destruction in the region exacerbate food shortages, making the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger, an increasingly distant dream.

𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥-𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 (𝐒𝐃𝐆 𝟑)
The environmental damage from the conflict has profound implications for public health, directly impacting SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages. The destruction of healthcare facilities, combined with water contamination and pollution from military debris, has precipitated a public health crisis. Gaza's already strained healthcare system is overwhelmed, and the environmental hazards pose long-term health risks that will likely affect the population for generations.
Waterborne diseases, respiratory issues from polluted air, and injuries from military debris are just a few of the immediate health concerns. The lack of access to clean water has significantly increased the incidence of bacterial infections, such as diarrhea, especially among children. Reports from EMRO WHO indicate that since mid-October 2023, over 33,551 cases of diarrhea have been reported, with more than half of these cases among children under the age of five​.
The long-term effects, including the potential for increased cancer rates and other chronic illnesses due to sustained environmental exposure, are also deeply troubling.
The compounding effects of these hazards complicate recovery efforts and hinder the region's ability to rebuild and thrive.

𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬 (𝐒𝐃𝐆 𝟏𝟑)
The conflict also significantly increased Gaza’s carbon footprint, undermining efforts to combat climate change as outlined in SDG 13. The carbon emissions resulting from the conflict are staggering. In the 60 days following the October 7 Hamas attack, Gaza’s carbon emissions surged by over 281,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent. To put this into perspective, this amount exceeds the annual carbon footprint of over 20 of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations combined.
The environmental cost of Israel’s military response during this period is equivalent to burning at least 150,000 metric tons of coal. US cargo planes supplying military aid to Israel contributed to almost half of these emissions. In stark contrast, the emissions from Hamas rockets fired into Israel during the same period were approximately 713 metric tons of CO2. This stark asymmetry disproportionate environmental impact of the conflict, exacerbating the already severe environmental stress in the strip.

The situation in Gaza exemplifies the inextricable link between environmental and humanitarian crises. As environmental devastation continues, the local population faces severe challenges in accessing basic needs, which not only affects their immediate health and well-being but also hinders long-term sustainable development. The destruction of agricultural infrastructure leads to food insecurity, health hazards, and increased vulnerability to climate change, creating a vicious cycle of deprivation and suffering.
The international community cannot afford to ignore the ecological consequences of military conflicts. The environmental damage in Gaza is a clarion call for urgent and decisive action. It is imperative to address the humanitarian crisis holistically, recognizing that environmental sustainability is crucial for the region’s recovery, stability and future resilience.

References
Forensic Architecture. (2023-2024). ‘No Traces Of Life’: Israel’s Ecocide In Gaza. https://forensic-architecture.org/investigation/ecocide-in-gaza

Open Global Rights. Israel’s ecocide is contributing to the forcible displacement of Gazans. https://www.openglobalrights.org/israel-ecocide-contributing-to-forcible-displacement-gazans/

Common Dreams. Ecocide a 'Critical Dimension of Israel's Genocidal Campaign' in Gaza. https://www.commondreams.org/news/ecocide-israel-gaza

New Arab. Ecocide in Gaza: The environmental impact of Israel's war. https://www.newarab.com/analysis/ecocide-gaza-environmental-impact-israels-war

Mother Jones. (2024). The Staggering Carbon Footprint of Israel’s War in Gaza. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/01/gaza-israel-war-hamas-carbon-emissions-climate-damage/

World Health Organization. (2023). Risk of disease spread soars in Gaza as health facilities, water and sanitation systems disrupted. WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean. https://www.emro.who.int/media/news/risk-of-disease-spread-soars-in-gaza-as-health-facilities-water-and-sanitation-systems-disrupted.html

The Diplomatic Affairs. https://thediplomaticaffairs.com

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 | 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐒. 𝐑𝐞𝐛𝐮𝐜𝐚

31/05/2024

[IN PHOTOS] Presentation and Turnover of Research Outputs: “Technologically Enhanced Assessment and Mapping (TEAM) Kawayan: A Chain Analysis of Bamboo Industry in Northern Mindanao” to the different Local Government Units of Bukidnon, May 31, 2024, Bamboo Pavilion Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

This project is a collaboration of the Bamboo Research and Development Center (BARDEC), Center for Geomatics Research & Development in Mindanao (GEOMIN), and CMU College of Forestry and Environmental Science (CFES).

The project, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Niche Center in the Region (NICER) program, aimed to analyze the entire bamboo industry chain in Northern Mindanao using technologically advanced methods. The research findings and recommendations are expected to contribute to the sustainable development and growth of the region's bamboo industry.