A STUDY of the University of Mindanao received its first patent from the Department of Science and Technology XI through the Young Innovators Program.

Led by Dr. Chosel Lawagon, the UM team invented a test kit that detects the heavy metals mercury and lead in mining wastewater.

It was called “Hg and Pb Detection Utilizing d-Limonene from Sweet Oranges (Citrus Sinensis) Peelings.”

Lawagon, director for the Center of Green Nanotechnology Innovations for Environmental Solutions, conducted the study with Engr. Crijamaica Ocena-Godoy, Engr. Jazth Manota, and student Steph Kier Ponteras.

Meanwhile, Engr. Francis Louise Yap of the Institute of UM Emerging Technologies assessed and assisted in the patent application.

“The patent certification was also possible through the endorsement of DOST RXI Technology Application and Promotion Institute to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines for processing under the Science and Technology Superhighway Program,” the university said.