ConnectUM Volume 5 No. 4

Unveiling the Freshest Volume: ConnectUM’s Newest Edition is Here!

RESEARCH BITS

Development of a Molecularly Imprinted Polymer (MIP)-Based Paper Test Strip For The Colorimetric Detection of Bromide in Groundwater

The presence of bromide in groundwater presents significant implications for the coconut industry in terms of product quality and consumer health. Coconut businesses involved in developing coconut-based products are required to obtain organic certification in response to the growing demand for organic products and responsible production practices [1]. As part of maintaining the organic certification of their coconut-based food products, the bromide concentration in groundwater must not exceed the limit of quantification (LOQ) of 1 ppm [2].

RESEARCH BITS

A Critical Inquiry on Mental Health Vocabulary Use on Tiktok

Mental illness throughout the years has developed to be an important topic of study, yet still remains as the most neglected h ealth problem particularly in the developing world (Banis, 2022). Due to the high demands of modern life, this generation is more prone to anxiety and stress than any other before it. In response, members of Gen Z are working to destigmatize mental health issues and break down barriers to seeking help (United Way NCA, 2023).

INTERNATIONALIZATION

Advancing Global Sustainable Development Goals as University of Mindanao Joins AUAP-WURI Impact Summit

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Showcasing its research excellence and commitment to sustainable development on an international platform, the University of Mindanao actively participated in the 1st Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific–World University Rankings for Innovation (AUAP–WURI) Impact Summit 2026, held on July 9–10, 2026, at ICONSIAM, Bangkok, Thailand.

The True Home of Topnotchers

CAMPUS BUZZ

UM Dedicates Bambang Karsono Collaboration Room to Honor UBJ Indonesia Partnership

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The University of Mindanao formally held the Bambang Karsono Collaboration Room Dedication Ceremony on July 21, 2026, at the LIC Building, UM Matina Campus, reaffirming its enduring partnership with Universitas Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya (UBJ), Indonesia.

EXTERNAL

Philippine Executive Council of Academic Affairs Elects UM Senior Vice President as National Head

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Representing the University of Mindanao,  Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ronnie V. Amorado was just elected as the National President of the newly created Philippine Executive Council of Academic Affairs (PECAA). The organization is the first-ever council of VPAAs in the country that is organized and already registered with the SEC. The other officers came from PHEIs, SUCs, and LUCs from NCR, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

CAMPUZ BUZZ | INTERNATIONALIZATION

Pioneering Next-Gen Pedagogy Through the University of Mindanao and Fulbright Academic Forum

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Accelerating its vision of delivering world-class, globally connected education, the University of Mindanao partnered with the prestigious Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms (TGC) Program to host a Public Lecture on Collaborative Teaching on July 21, 2026, at Cagliari Hall, UM Matina Campus.

Celebrating 80 Years of Excellence, Service, and Shared Success