My research trip to Davao City, the Philippines

​By 垣鍔こころ Kokoro Kakitsuba 


From November 2 to 8, 2025, Dr. Kozo Watanabe, Irfan (Researcher), and I visited the Philippines.

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​November 3 – Visit to the University of the Philippines Mindanao

We met up with Von (Research Student), who was conducting research locally, and visited the University of the Philippines Mindanao. 

We toured the Philippine Genome Center Mindanao, and had several discussions about research with the Dean and the Assistant to the Executive Director, and faculty members. 

The laboratories were highly advanced, and I remember feeling excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a variety of molecular biology experiments.

Interior of University of the Philippines Mindanao's laboratory

​We've visited the laboratories, the dean’s office, had lunch with the university staff, and gone sightseeing afterwards. The people at the university were very kind and cheerful. 

​Over traditional Filipino dishes, we discussed Filipino culture and research, enjoying a wonderful time together. In the afternoon, Von guided us on a tour around Davao, where I even tried durian and pomelo for the first time.

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​November 4 – Setting Mosquito Traps and Visiting Zoo Parks
On November 4, we visited the Philippine Eagle Center, Malagos Garden Resort, and Davao Crocodile Park & Zoo to set up mosquito traps.

​While exploring the parks, we saw many adorable animals, which made the process of choosing trap locations both productive and enjoyable.

​It was my first time seeing the assembly and placement of mosquito traps, and I found the process fascinating and learned about how different types of traps and their placement can affect the samples collected.

Active mosquito catching method via insect aspirator

Placing UV light trap

We ended the day with dinner overlooking Davao’s night view, enjoying a variety of dishes and a memorable evening together.

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​November 5 – Sample Collection (Day 1)
On this day, Dr. Watanabe went to Manila, and the work continued with Irfan, Von, and me. We collected the traps we had set the previous day and observed the mosquito sampling process for the first time. Finding mosquitoes among many other insects proved challenging and required careful attention.

Sorting mosquitos from other insects

​Afterward, we recharged at the popular local chain Jollibee before continuing our research at the University of the Philippines Mindanao.

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​November 6 – Sample Collection (Day 2) and Laboratory Work
We continued with sample collection and lab work at the university. While the work was demanding, it was very enjoyable to conduct experiments while discussing with everyone.

I also participated in the experiments under Von’s guidance. Although some tasks were challenging due to my limited experience, Von and Irfan’s support made the process very rewarding. This experience made me look forward to conducting experiments in Japan as well.

DNA extraction of mosquito abdomen

​After the experiments, we visited a nearby café with university members. Over coffee and cake, we exchanged stories about life in the Philippines and Japan, creating a meaningful cultural exchange.

​Later, we met  Prof. Thaddeus Carvajal at SM Mall for casual dinner. Watching Irfan passionately discuss mosquito research inspired me to study harder so that I can one day discuss research with the same enthusiasm.

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​November 7 – Farewell to Davao and Trip to Manila
On November 7, we said goodbye to Von with a handshake, promising to meet again in Japan.
After arriving in Manila, we reunited with Dr. Watanabe. He suggested we visit the famous San Agustin Church, and Irfan and I had a great time sightseeing and taking photos in front of its beautiful Spanish Baroque architecture.

Reflection
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During this visit, I experienced Filipino culture, daily life, and, most importantly, the warmth of the people. I am deeply grateful to the locals who kindly spoke to me despite my limited English and taught me the joy of conversation. I would also like to thank Von for guiding me through experiments and showing me the fun side of Davao City. Irfan for always supporting and cheering me up with a smile, and Dr. Watanabe for giving me this rare opportunity and gently guiding my growth.
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I will use the lessons learned from this trip to improve both my English and research skills, striving to become a capable researcher in the future.