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.
Theme: Cultivating a Culture of Research — Advancing Excellence through Mentorship, Creativity, and Innovation
📅 October 17, 2025 | 🕢 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM | 📍 JBL Hall
In its continuous mission to promote academic excellence and a vibrant culture of inquiry, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), Inc. successfully conducted the In-House Research Capability Training and Workshop on October 17, 2025, at the JBL Hall. The event carried the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Research: Advancing Excellence through Mentorship, Creativity, and Innovation” and was spearheaded by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, OIC-Research Coordinator, together with his dedicated research team.
The day-long program gathered faculty members, student researchers, and institutional leaders to enhance research competence and encourage innovation in maritime education and allied disciplines.
The program began with solemnity through the Invocation, Philippine National Anthem, Iloilo Hymn, and JBLFMU Hymn, followed by the Safety Protocol presented by 2M Karl Danielle H. Sira, MMM, CCSSM, Safety Officer. Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, Administrator of JBLFMU (Arevalo), delivered the Opening Remarks, emphasizing the university’s continuing thrust toward academic distinction through relevant and impactful research.
In his Overview Message, Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC-Director for Research and Community Extension Services, underscored the vital importance of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning in nurturing both faculty and student researchers toward excellence.
🔹 Plenary Session: Strengthening Research Competence
The plenary sessions featured a remarkable lineup of distinguished speakers:
Dr. Felipe P. Vista IV, University Director for R&D Services, Northern Iloilo State University, discussed the intricacies of Qualitative Research.
Engr. Sammy V. Militante, PCpE, Director of the Statistical and Knowledge Management Center, University of Antique, tackled Quantitative Research and Creative Works.
Dr. John Erwin P. Pedroso, Associate Dean, College of Education–Graduate School, West Visayas State University, inspired participants through his session on Innovation in Research, highlighting creativity, relevance, and the transformation of ideas into impactful solutions.
An Open Forum followed, where participants actively engaged with the speakers, leading to meaningful discussions on research challenges and innovations. The morning session concluded with the presentation of certificates to the guest speakers in recognition of their expertise and valuable contributions.
🔹 Breakout Sessions: Research in Action
Breakout Session 1 (JBL Hall):Presentation of Due-to-Write Research Proposals by faculty members, covering diverse topics from maritime education and environmental sustainability to institutional development and technology-driven innovation.
The research presentations reflected the university’s dynamic research environment, featuring studies such as “Tracking of Graduate Attributes,” “Evaluating the Effectiveness of Onboard Navigational Training (M/V Capt. John B. Lacson),” “Sustainability Challenges in Seagrass Conservation (Puerto del Mar),” and “Exploring Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Institution.”
Breakout Session 2 (JBL Hall Lobby):Student Research Forum with the Speakers, an engaging exchange where aspiring student researchers received insights and mentorship from the guest experts.
🔹 Closing and Reflections
The training culminated with Closing Remarks by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, who emphasized that cultivating research excellence requires continuous mentorship, collaboration, and passion for discovery. His leadership and commitment, along with the support of the research team, were instrumental in ensuring the success of the event.
Guided seamlessly by Mr. Carlos Manuel V. Mañas and Ms. Rein Gabrielle N. Naive as masters of ceremonies, the event stood as a testament to JBLFMU’s unrelenting pursuit of research excellence and innovation.
The In-House Research Capability Training and Workshop reaffirmed JBLFMU’s vision of steering maritime education toward the frontiers of innovation — fostering a research culture anchored on creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University–Arevalo (JBLFMU–Arevalo) proudly hosted the “Research Synergy 2025: Mentoring Workshop on Collaborative Research, SPSS Analytics, and AI Integration for High-Impact Publications,” a one-day intensive faculty development program held at the JBL Hall.
Aligned with the Annual Operational Plan (AOP) of the JBLFMU system, this workshop was part of a system-wide initiative involving three units: JBLFMU–Arevalo under Dr. Roderick R. Germo (Research Coordinator), JBLCF–Bacolod under Dr. Emeliza Estimo, and JBLFMU–Molo under Dr. Rolando Alimen, with the strong leadership of Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC–Director of Research and Development and Community Extension Services.
The event gathered faculty members across disciplines, underscoring JBLFMU’s commitment to enhancing research capabilities and equipping educators with the skills needed to produce globally competitive, high-impact research publications.
Opening Program: Setting the Tone for Excellence
The workshop formally opened with the Invocation, national and regional hymns, and the JBLFMU hymn, followed by a presentation of safety protocols led by 2M Karl Danielle H. Sira, MMM, CCSSM.
2M Karl Danielle H. Sira, MMM, CCSSM.
Originally slated for Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM (JBLFMU-Arevalo Administrator), the Opening Remarks were delivered on his behalf by Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, who emphasized the institution’s vision of integrating research, innovation, and technology into the fabric of maritime education. He highlighted that Research Synergy 2025 is not just a training workshop, but a platform for faculty empowerment and academic collaboration.
Dr. Sarinas also provided an overview of the event, laying the foundation for the day’s learning sessions and setting a forward-looking tone that resonated with the participants.
Session 1: Publishing in High-Indexed Journals
The first session, “Publication in High-Indexed Journals (e.g., Clarivate Analytics/Scopus)”, was facilitated by Dr. John Erwin P. Pedroso, Associate Dean of the Graduate School, West Visayas State University.
Dr. Pedroso’s lecture demystified the rigorous process of publishing in globally recognized journals. He emphasized the importance of research originality, strong methodology, and adherence to international standards, while also sharing practical strategies on selecting journals, addressing reviewers’ comments, and avoiding predatory publishers.
This session inspired faculty participants to aim higher, encouraging them to transform institutional research into publications of international significance.
Session 2: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Research
The second session, “Use of AI in Research,” was led by Engr. Sammy V. Militante, PCpE, Director of the Statistical and Knowledge Management Center at the University of Antique.
Engr. Militante tackled the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the research landscape, from data collection to analysis, predictive modeling, and manuscript writing support. He stressed the responsible use of AI tools, highlighting both their transformative power and ethical challenges.
For faculty participants, this session opened doors to the integration of advanced digital tools in research practices, making their work more efficient, data-driven, and globally relevant.
Session 3: Mastering SPSS Analytics
The final session focused on “Statistics Using SPSS” and was conducted by Dr. Eric M. Madera, Quality Assurance Officer of JBLFMU–Arevalo.
Dr. Madera provided hands-on guidance on using SPSS for quantitative research, including data input, statistical tests, and interpretation of outputs. His session reinforced the faculty’s capacity to conduct evidence-based, data-driven research aligned with global standards.
This practical training was particularly valuable in equipping participants with tools to strengthen their research validity, reliability, and publication readiness.
Closing Program: The Spirit of Synergy
The program concluded with Closing Remarks by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, OIC–Research Coordinator of JBLFMU–Arevalo and the man behind the vision of Research Synergy 2025. In his speech, Dr. Germo highlighted the importance of collaborative research, innovation, and faculty commitment in advancing JBLFMU’s mission to be a leader in maritime education and research.
Immediately after Dr. Germo’s inspiring message, the photo opportunity was held — a fitting symbol of unity and synergy among the faculty participants who collectively embraced the challenge of pursuing higher standards in research and publication.
A Legacy of Faculty Synergy
Research Synergy 2025 was not merely a training workshop but a milestone of faculty empowerment and academic collaboration within the JBLFMU system. By focusing on high-impact publishing, artificial intelligence, and advanced statistical analysis, the workshop fortified the research culture of the university, preparing its faculty to engage in global academic conversations.
Through this initiative, JBLFMU reaffirms its dedication to nurturing faculty-driven research excellence—a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and global competitiveness under the leadership of Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC–Director of Research and Development and Community Extension Services, with JBLFMU–Arevalo as the proud host unit through the stewardship of Dr. Roderick R. Germo, together with fellow research coordinators Dr. Emeliza Estimo (JBLCF–Bacolod) and Dr. Rolando Alimen (JBLFMU–Molo).
Guiding the flow of this historic workshop with poise and professionalism were the two student masters of ceremonies, Midshipmen Carlos Manuel V. Mañas and Rein Gabrielle N. Naive, whose presence added youthful dynamism to a faculty-centered academic event.
