SU Aggies win Best Poster Award at ICoNSIE 2026
Silliman University marked a major achievement in agricultural research after students from its College of Agriculture earned the Best Poster Award at the International Conference on Nature Studies and Innovations for the Environment (ICoNSIE) 2026, where their study emerged as the top poster presentation among competing entries from local and international institutions.
Held from May 12 to 15 at the University of the Philippines Cebu in Cebu City, ICoNSIE 2026 gathered researchers, educators, scientists, policymakers, students, and environmental advocates from the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, and several other countries to exchange research findings, present innovative programs and policies, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration toward a carbon-neutral future.
The award-winning study, titled “Unlocking the Potential of Pachyrhizus erosus (L.) Urb., Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam., and Cucurbita maxima Duchesne in Culinary Applications,” emerged as the top poster presentation among all competing poster papers.
The study explored the untapped culinary potential of underutilized crops—jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), and squash (Cucurbita maxima)—in developing innovative and cost-effective food products in the Philippines. Recognizing persistent challenges in postharvest losses and the limited commercial use of these crops, the student researchers sought to transform them into value-added culinary applications that could contribute to sustainable food systems and support local agriculture.
Among the food products developed through the study were jicama siomai, sweet potato halaya enhanced with ube flavoring, and squash-based desserts, including ice cream and turon. Findings from the research highlighted the value of these crops in promoting sustainable food practices, enhancing market opportunities for local farmers, and demonstrating how culinary innovation can help maximize agricultural resources.
Beyond the award, the Silliman University College of Agriculture also distinguished itself as the largest delegation at ICoNSIE 2026. While the conference was conducted in a hybrid format, all representatives from Silliman University participated physically, underscoring the College’s active engagement in scholarly exchange and research collaboration.
Representing the College of Agriculture were faculty members Rehel A. Diaz, Arsenio D. Bulfa Jr., and Marjorie D. Hoylar, together with student delegates TJ Angelo P. Amistoso, Kylle Benedict Q. Arado, Emilio Jacinto, Jack C. Silva, Kriza V. Banua, Sherlene Rodriguez, George William P. Wolfe, JC John B. Inao, Bianca Therese R. Valerio, Levi Jay V. Inoferio, Jehemiah Vic R. Quinamot, Sheniche T. Olam, Dustin D. Barot, Dale Dominic S. Casianan, Genevieve C. Hampac, Alexa Esther R. Quinoñes, and Aldemar Joven V. Villeno.
Carrying the theme, “Navigating the Path Towards Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2050,” the conference served as a platform for participants to share insights, showcase innovative projects, and build networks that contribute to environmental sustainability and transformative change over the coming decades.
