The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Molo), Inc. and Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on August 22, 2025. at the JBLFMU-Molo Audio Visual Room, strengthening their partnership in research and academic development.
The event highlighted projects on ship heeling systems, refrigeration units for fishing vessels, and upgrades to marine sewage treatment plants. The program concluded with the official signing of the agreements, marking the beginning of the institutions’ collaborative academic and research initiatives.
The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Molo), Inc. and Jeju National University formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding on October 20, 2025. The partnership aims to strengthen collaboration in innovation and research, particularly in artificial intelligence, engineering, and environmental technology. The signing ceremony was led by Administrator Engr. Roberto Neal Sobrejuanite, along with representatives from Jeju National University—Prof. BYUN Yung-Cheol, Director of the RISE Office for High-Intelligent Service; Prof. Kang Chung-ul, Vice President for Research Affairs; and Prof. Kim Yong-woon, researcher.
Championing Research Excellence and Innovation in the Maritime Community
The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University–Arevalo (JBLFMU–Arevalo) proudly marks another milestone of academic and research excellence after its remarkable performance at the 2025 Regional Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) Convention and Data Festival, organized by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Regional Statistical Services Office VI. The prestigious event was held on September 23–24, 2025, at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City.
StatShots Competition Winners
JBLFMU–Arevalo cadets showcased their analytical prowess and creativity in presenting statistical insights through visual storytelling.
First Place: Mdpn. Lee Harvey P. Gumban (Polaris 2A)
Third Place:Mdpn. James Russel Amatorio (Polaris 2A)
Their winning entries, mentored and guided by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, who served as coach and statistics data consultant, impressed the judges with clarity, precision, and impactful data presentation.
Student Research Paper Session Winners
In the Student Research Paper Session, JBLFMU–Arevalo cadets once again demonstrated academic excellence and innovation through research that contributes to sustainable development and maritime community welfare.
First Place:“The Impact of Port Development on Coastal Communities’ Livelihood, Environment, and Health” Presenter:Mdpn. Mark Jason Ablanzar Team Members:Mdpwn. Ella Mae Mabulac, Mdpwn. Bea Katrina Fernandez, Mdpn. Kenth Alan Jamili, Mdpn. Wyndale Klein Sumagaysay, Mdpn. Louiejun Carman, Mdpn. Romar Angelo Minerva, and Mdpn. John Andrew Magan Adviser:Dr. Roderick R. Germo
Second Place:“Talisay Tree (Terminalia catappa L.) Bark Powder as Algae (Chlorella vulgaris B.) Inhibitor in Water Enclosures” Presenter:Mdpn. Kyle Martin D. Biluan Team Members:Mdpn. Jemar Louise P. Agabe, Mdpn. Jair C. Broce, Mdpn. John Kenneth Gonzales, Mdpn. Brent Anjo S. Punsaran, Mdpn. Olsen F. Gumia, Mdpn. Vince Peter L. Magbanua, and Mdpn. Josh Karl E. Ticar Adviser:Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas
These victories underscore the university’s unwavering commitment to fostering a strong research culture and empowering cadets to address real-world maritime and environmental challenges through evidence-based inquiry.
Leadership, Mentorship, and Excellence
Behind these outstanding accomplishments stands the steadfast leadership of Sir Robert O. Parcia, Administrator of JBLFMU–Arevalo, whose continuous encouragement and support have inspired faculty and students to pursue innovation and scholarly excellence.
Likewise, the guidance and mentorship of research advisers Dr. Roderick R. Germo and Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas reflect the Research Department’s vision of nurturing critical thinkers, innovators, and future maritime leaders who can make a meaningful impact on society.
These achievements not only bring honor to JBLFMU–Arevalo but also reaffirm its position as a leader in maritime education and research excellence, committed to advancing the frontiers of knowledge for sustainable development and community empowerment.
Anchored on excellence. Driven by innovation. Sailing toward a sustainable future.
loilo City, Philippines — The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU), in collaboration with the Global Health Focus (GHF) University Excellence, successfully conducted a two-day hybrid Excellence Workshop titled “Raising the Bar toward Global Maritime Leadership in Research.” The event was held via Zoom on October 24, 2025, and continued onsite at the JBLFMU Interview Rooms A and B on October 27, 2025.
The workshop brought together faculty members, staff, and students, all united in their pursuit of strengthening the university’s research culture and global academic competitiveness.
The highlight of the event was the session led by Dr. Don Eliseo L. Prisno III, MD, Ph.D., Founder and Executive Director of GHF University Excellence. Dr. Prisno, a globally recognized maritime and public health scholar, delivered an insightful lecture on the current research and journal publication landscape. His discussion provided participants with an in-depth understanding of international publishing standards, scholarly impact, and strategies to elevate the visibility and quality of institutional research outputs.
On October 27, the focus shifted to practical skill-building sessions facilitated by Mr. Jericho B. Ogaya, Program Manager, and Mr. Christian Joseph N. Ong, Program Associate of GHF University Excellence. Their session introduced participants to Bibliometric Analysis — a powerful research method for mapping, quantifying, and analyzing trends in scholarly literature. This innovative approach, as emphasized by the speakers, can serve as a gateway for producing high-quality and Scopus-indexed publications.
Throughout the two-day seminar-workshop, participants actively engaged in discussions, collaborative exercises, and hands-on research simulations. They were guided in developing their own full-paper bibliometric analyses, integrating modern research tools and techniques.
The workshop was described by attendees as inspiring, enriching, and transformative, emphasizing the university’s continuing commitment to research excellence and innovation in maritime education. It further reflects JBLFMU’s dedication to becoming a world-leading maritime research university, cultivating scholars who will advance global maritime knowledge and leadership.
New AVR, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (Bacolod), Inc. | October 14, 2025
In a milestone event that underscores the power of collaboration in maritime education and research, JBLCF-Bacolod initiated the effort of forming this alliance and spearheaded the Ceremonial Signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with four esteemed maritime institutions — VMA Global College and Training Centers, Inc., Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific, University of Antique, and St. Therese-MTC Colleges.
The activity aimed to strengthen joint research initiatives in the next five years and conduct studies that respond to the dynamic needs of the maritime industry.
Key highlights of the program included the rationale delivered by Dr. Emeliza Torrento Estimo, JBLCF-Bacolod Research Coordinator, who emphasized the value of collaboration in advancing maritime research, and the welcoming message of Engr. Sylvino Tupas, PhD, Administrator of JBLCF-Bacolod, who expressed optimism about building a shared culture of research excellence. The presidents and representatives of partner institutions also shared messages of commitment and support toward the collective vision of innovation in maritime education. Dr. Brian Gil Secondes Sarinas, OIC Director for Research and Development & Community Extension Services, delivered the message of goodwill on behalf of JBLFMU.
This meaningful collaboration was initiated by the JBLCF-Bacolod Research and Development Center, in partnership with the College of Maritime Education under the leadership of Dr. Estimo and Dr. John Erll Destacamento, Dean.
Dr. Emeliza Estimo, Unit Research Coordinator of JBLCF-Bacolod, spearheaded the initiative with the full support of the JBLCF-B Administrator, Engr. Sylvino V. Tupas, Ph.D. According to Dr. Estimo, this collaborative effort signifies a progressive shift in how maritime institutions approach research and innovation.
“We have to truly extend and reach out to other institutions and not see them as competitors in the industry, but as partners and collaborators,” Dr. Estimo emphasized. “By sharing expertise, resources, and best practices, we can collectively elevate the quality of maritime education and research in the country. Collaboration fosters not only stronger research outcomes but also a culture of trust and shared purpose that ultimately benefits our students and the maritime sector as a whole.”
The ceremony concluded with the signing of the MOA, exchange of tokens, and a fellowship lunch — symbolizing not only a formal alliance but also a strong commitment to advancing research-driven maritime education.
As JBLCF-Bacolod and its partners sail forward, they carry a shared vision of a stronger, more connected maritime research community. The next five years promise not only studies that respond to the evolving needs of the industry but also meaningful collaborations that shape minds, inspire innovation, and uphold the legacy of maritime excellence. With passion as their wind and partnership as their compass, these institutions are set to explore new frontiers where research becomes both a voyage of discovery and a beacon of progress.
