by Jaypee S. Yongco, OVCRE | Feb 02 2026

The world is currently navigating a high-stakes race against climate change, and Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT) has just taken a massive leap onto the global stage alongside one of the region's academic giants.
Co-organized by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise (OVCRE) of Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT, the International Conference on Biomass, Biofuels and Green Transition (BioGreen 2026) recently concluded at the Waterfront Hotel in Kuching, Sarawak. This landmark event was spearheaded by Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP)—currently ranked as the Number 1 university in Malaysia based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings—and a long-standing, steadfast partner of Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT.
This wasn’t just another academic huddle; it was a powerful testament to a decade-long friendship and a shared vision for an innovative and sustainable future.
A Partnership of Power and Purpose
The collaboration between Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT and UTP is a masterclass in international synergy. While UTP brings its world-class expertise as Malaysia’s leading institution, Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT contributes the grit and innovation that has made it a research powerhouse in the Philippines.
* Long-Standing Synergy: This partnership isn't new. For years, Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT and UTP have traded brilliance through faculty exchanges and joint research, culminating in this high-level summit in Sarawak.
* The Biomass Revolution: The conference centered on turning plant resources like microalgae and agricultural waste into high-value biofuels. For Mindanao, a land rich in green resources, this partnership with UTP provides a direct blueprint for energy independence.
* Research for Enterprise: Under the leadership of the OVCRE led by Prof. Ephrime B. Metillo, the focus remains clear: Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT is no longer just publishing papers; it is building a "Green Economy" that creates jobs and protects the environment simultaneously.

Why "BioGreen" is a Game-Changer
The "Green Transition" is no longer a buzzword—it is an economic necessity. By co-organizing with the best in Malaysia, Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT is ensuring that the Filipino scientific community has a seat at the head of the table.
The insights gained from BioGreen 2026 will directly influence how Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT approaches sustainable innovation, moving the university closer to a world where "green" and "growth" go hand-in-hand. This collaboration transcends traditional academic boundaries, focusing on scalable solutions for carbon neutrality and renewable energy infrastructure.
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