The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) proudly showcased its pioneering agricultural technologies during the Agri-Smart Forum, one of the major highlights of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) 2025, held on September 26, 2025, at Abreeza Mall, Davao City. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology Region XI (DOST XI) in collaboration with the Southern Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (SMAARRDEC), the forum provided a dynamic platform where USeP’s innovations stood out as leading examples of how research can revolutionize agriculture through practical, science-driven solutions.

Leading USeP’s participation was Mr. Keno M. Mendoza, who presented ZapPify. This innovative solution is designed to combat one of rice farming’s most persistent threats, the rice black bug. By directly targeting this destructive pest, ZapPify not only protects crops but also safeguards farmers’ livelihoods and ensures more stable yields. Its development highlights how science-based technologies can address urgent challenges in the field. With its focus on accessibility and effectiveness, ZapPify reflects USeP’s pursuit to make research more responsive to the needs of communities and to ensure that scientific advancements directly improve agricultural practices.

Building on this momentum, Dr. James Jade S. Lasquites introduced Near Realtime Monitoring for Banana Using Multispectral Imaging. This innovation pushes the frontiers of precision agriculture by enabling early detection of plant health issues, monitoring crop growth patterns, and forecasting yields with greater accuracy. For Mindanao, where banana remains a cornerstone of the agricultural economy, this technology provides timely and transformative support. By equipping farmers and industry stakeholders with actionable, data-driven insights, it helps sustain and expand the competitiveness of one of the region’s most vital crops in both local and global markets.

Together, these innovations demonstrate more than the ingenuity of USeP’s researchers. Their inclusion in the Agri-Smart Forum reflects the University’s firm commitment to shaping the future of agriculture through solutions that are bold, inclusive, and sustainable. By turning research into practical technologies, USeP continues to fulfill its purpose of transforming lives and communities through science, technology, and innovation.

The forum concluded with a resounding truth: the future of farming lies in shared responsibility and collective action. With DOST XI and SMAARRDEC leading collaborative efforts and USeP driving transformative innovations, the region is not only addressing today’s challenges but also shaping a future-ready, resilient, and sustainable agricultural landscape.