Lipa City, Batangas – November 7, 2025. The Research and Publications Office (RPO) of the University of Batangas Lipa City once again demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence and innovation as it successfully conducted the Institutional Faculty and Employees Research Colloquium 2025 on November 7, 2025, at the UBLC Tiered Hall. The event provided a platform for faculty and non-teaching staff researchers to showcase their studies, exchange insights, and reinforce the university’s culture of research and development.
The program formally began with an invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by welcome remarks from Dr. Aurora P. Tolentino, Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Tolentino highlighted the indispensable role of research in advancing institutional growth, academic excellence, and community relevance. She also encouraged all participants to remain committed to scholarly work that fosters innovation and real-world impact.
Ms. Michelle M. Malsi of the Research and Publications Office then introduced the distinguished panel of judges, composed of respected academicians, researchers, and professionals in various fields. Serving as evaluators were Dr. Anna Liza A. Ramos, Research Director and Associate Director of the School of Business Management and Information Technology at St. Michael’s College of Laguna; Dr. Shielilo R. Amihan, Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs and Graduate School of PHINMA Education Laguna Network; and Dr. Marmelo V. Abante, President of Lyceum of Tingloy de San Roque Inc. and Holy Face of Jesus Lyceum of San Jose Inc., and Dean of the Graduate School and Computer and Information Technology Education at World Citi Colleges.
The research presentations featured a diverse range of topics, including studies on psychological assessment, inclusive education, student mental health, physical education, sustainable environmental practices, agricultural development, and disaster recovery frameworks. Each research project reflected the faculty’s continuous pursuit of knowledge and their desire to address relevant institutional and community challenges.
Throughout the presentations, the panel of judges provided valuable feedback and constructive suggestions to strengthen the quality of each study. They also commended the presenters for producing research that contributes to sustainability, innovation, and the advancement of their respective fields.
At the end of the colloquium, the RPO recognized three outstanding research papers for this year’s cycle. The first place was awarded to “Understanding the Status of Coffee Farming in Lipa City: A Basis for Developing Needs Assessment Framework” by Ms. Maria Luisa Velasco, Ms. Maria Lerma Latina, and Mr. Lorenz Barro. The second place went to “The Development and Validation of the Jonah Complex Inventory: An Action Research on Measuring Fear of Success and Self-Limiting Behavior” by Ms. May Marcell M. Corneja and Mr. Raymond Joseph Calingasan, while the third place was given to “Sexual Orientation, Resilience, and Mental Health Among University Students: Protective Factors and Challenges” by Dr. Rina Restua-Olan, Dr. Olive Maaño-Calingan, and Ms. Vielle Anne Marie Bleza-Flores.
In addition, Ms. May Marcell M. Corneja, Psychology faculty member, was recognized as Best Presenter for her exceptional delivery and engagement during her presentation. She shared that the recognition was unexpected but deeply fulfilling, as it strengthened her drive to continue contributing to the university’s research initiatives. “I feel deeply humbled to have been chosen, knowing there were many well-written papers and skillfully presented research works. It’s an honor to be recognized among such wise and passionate researchers. This experience has inspired me to be more research-driven and to continue pursuing studies that can positively impact communities and advance knowledge in the field of psychology,” she said.
Concluding the program, Ms. Marilou Cadorna shared her closing message emphasizing the importance of continuous research engagement within the university. She reflected on UB’s holistic and dedicated approach to research as a vital force in promoting institutional growth, problem-solving, and evidence-based innovation.
The success of the Institutional Faculty and Employees Research Colloquium 2025 once again affirmed the Research and Publications Office’s unwavering dedication to cultivating scholarly excellence at the University of Batangas Lipa City. Beyond advancing academic discourse, the colloquium underscored the institution’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focusing on Quality Education (SDG 4), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11).
Through research endeavors that explore inclusive education, mental health, environmental sustainability, and community resilience, UBLC continues to bridge academic research with societal transformation. The RPO’s initiatives empower faculty and employees to pursue evidence-based inquiry and ensure that their outputs contribute meaningfully to national and global development. By fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and responsible scholarship, the Research and Publications Office reaffirms the university’s commitment to producing research that transforms knowledge into action, advancing both institutional progress and the broader goals of sustainable development.