The WMSU Department of Chemistry (DOC), in partnership with the Research Development and Evaluation Center (RDEC) and with the support of DOST Region IX, successfully held the capability training “Applications of Analytical Chemistry in Biological and Food Systems” on August 17, 2026, at the WMSU-CTE Social Hall.
The training gathered chemistry educators, practicing chemists, chemical technicians, and allied science faculty from various higher education institutions, government agencies, and partner organizations across the region.
Among the participating institutions were Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU), Universidad de Zamboanga (UZ), Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST), Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University (ZPPSU), and Basilan State College. Government agencies were also well represented, including the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Philippine Coconut Authority–Zamboanga Research Center (PCA-ZRC), and Department of Public Works and Highways Region IX (DPWH IX). Faculty members from WMSU’s Departments of Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Food Technology likewise participated, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of the training.
Serving as the resource speaker was DOST Balik Scientist Dr. Elmer-Rico E. Mojica, who shared his expertise in instrumental analytical techniques, method development, quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC), method validation, food safety, nutritional analysis, and contaminant monitoring.
The technical sessions were complemented by two interactive workshops. Workshop 1 focused on an Analytical Problem-Solving Framework, while Workshop 2 challenged participants to develop Institutional Action and Research Concept Proposals designed to translate the knowledge gained into meaningful initiatives and research undertakings.
The broad participation of the academe, government agencies, and science professionals highlights the value of collaboration in strengthening analytical chemistry capabilities and advancing science-based solutions responsive to the needs of Western Mindanao. (Ms. Sarah Sapalo, WMSU-DOC faculty)
