Bacolod News – John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Research and Development Center

Riding the Waves of Innovation: 2026 Research Festival Showcases Excellence in Research and Creativity

We made it again! Now, for the 15^th time.

The 2026 Research Festival, held on April 14–15, 2026, brought together students, faculty, and researchers in a vibrant celebration of innovation under the theme “Harnessing Wisdom: Advancing Research Across Waves of Change.” The first day featured engaging and creative competitions, including the Student Research and Innovation Showcase, alongside contests such as Research in a Meme, Digital Journal Cover Design, and Digital Promotional Video at AVR 1. These activities highlighted students’ ingenuity in communicating research through both academic and digital platforms, setting an energetic tone for the two-day event.

The second day centered on the 15th Research Colloquium and Sharing of Innovative Best Practices, beginning with opening ceremonies that included messages from Mr. Jan Michael Enriquez, who inspired participants through a values-sharing session, and from Dr. Emeliza T. Estimo, Unit Research Coordinator, who presented the event’s rationale. Dr. Sylvino Tupas, JBLCF-Bacolod Administrator, delivered the welcome message, and Ms. Darlene Sabandal introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Randdie P. Cuelo, Vice President for Academics of Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod, who emphasized the importance of adaptive and forward-thinking research. The morning session also featured presentations on innovative practices, including digital assessment integration by 3E Paul T. Olimpos, onboard training systems by 2/M Nestor A. Herpacio, Jr., and community extension models by Mr. Ivan June O. Gayotin, with reactions from Mr. Jose Sebastian M. Cuadra.

In the afternoon, parallel sessions showcased diverse research from both employees and students across disciplines. Faculty and staff researchers presented studies on recruitment strategies, academic systems, maritime career pathways, and AI integration, which were evaluated by panelists including Dr. Elmer John E. Basa, Dr. Anabelle D. Magbanua, and Dr. Araceli C. Doromal. Simultaneously, students from the College of Maritime Education and the College of Business and Education shared research on sustainability, digital literacy, financial behavior, internship readiness, and workplace experiences. The event concluded with an awarding ceremony led by 3E Bernard M. Sorbito, Jr., assisted by Dr. Estimo, recognizing outstanding contributions.

Kudos to all the winners!

The Student Research and Innovation Showcase recognized outstanding student-led projects that demonstrated creativity and practical innovation. The photos below (L to R) show the winners with Joebert D. Serra securing 1st Place for his project “Ai Nova,” while Jacqueline B. Alimpolo and her team earned 2nd Place for “Solar-Powered Automatic Waste Segregator with Dual Power Supply.” The 3rd Place award went to Alexander Nicholas B. Yee and his group for “Hybrid (Solar and Wind) Renewable Energy Converter,” with a Consolation Prize awarded to Nathaniel John B. Geneblaza and team for “Design and Development of a QR Code Vehicle Identification and Access System.”

In the creative competitions, the winners in the Research in a Meme contest were the following (L to R): Neil Gerona – 1st Place, Kyle John Herida – 2nd Place, and Mary Galle Inayan – 3rd Place. Meanwhile, Jefferson Pedreso emerged as 1st Place winner in the Digital Journal Cover Design Contest, with Nekko Muega and Lyzhen Terencio placing second and third, respectively.

During the 15th Research Colloquium and Sharing of Best Practices, exemplary presenters were also recognized for their scholarly contributions. 2/M Nestor A. Herpacio, Jr. was awarded Best Presenter of Innovative Practices for his presentation “Innovate, Integrate, Elevate: Redefining Practices in Onboard Training Systems and Interactive Learning,” earning a Certificate of Commendation for the Onboard Training Office.

In the Employees Category, Bernard M. Sorbito, Jr., with co-author Haydee B. Tibo-oc, received the Best Paper Presentation award for “Maritime Students’ Perspectives on Future Career Trajectories: Understanding Influential Factors and Alternative Career Paths.”

For the Students Category, Danny Christian L. Jumayao and his team from the College of Maritime Education won the Best Paper Presentation for “Innovative Training Module for Ship Bilge Pumping System,” while Charlotte Zerna F. Famoso and her group from the College of Business and Education won the Best Presentation for “Balancing Academic Demands and Part-Time Work: Mental Health Implications for JBLCF-B Student Aide.”

As the festival concluded, Dr. Emeliza T. Estimo reminded the participants that beyond awards and recognition, the true value of the event lies in the shared commitment, collaboration, and openness to learning that strengthened the academic community. Carrying forward new insights and renewed motivation, everyone is challenged to sustain the momentum by transforming ideas into meaningful action and continuing the pursuit of excellence in research.

JBLCF-BACOLOD LEADS COLLABORATION AMONG MARITIME INSTITUTIONS

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.

Building Capacity, Creating Impact: Faculty and Mentors Unite in 2025 Capability Workshop

JBLCF-Bacolod, August 19–20, 2025

“When time is short, teamwork stretches possibilities; when pressure is high, peer mentoring lifts the weight; when research feels uncertain, collective thinking leads to breakthroughs.” These words captured the spirit of the 2025 In-House Research Capability Enhancement Training Workshop of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (JBLCF)–Bacolod, held on August 19–20, 2025.

With the theme “Building Capacity for Innovative and Impactful Research,” the two-day activity brought together faculty members and aspiring researchers for intensive capacity building. The event tapped the institution’s powerhouse of resident experts and research mentors, who guided participants in aligning with the University’s Research Agenda, identifying relevant research problems in the maritime and business sectors, and crafting high-quality proposals that maximized time, talent, and resources for results that matter.

Research topics were anchored on global, national, and institutional priorities to ensure strategic and sustainable outcomes. These included the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), the National Higher Education Research Agenda (NHERA), the University’s Ten-Point Agenda and IMS Policies, and the Philippine Association of Maritime Institutions (PAMI) Research Agenda. By aligning with these frameworks, JBLCF–Bacolod reinforced its commitment to producing research that not only contributes to academic advancement but also addresses pressing societal and industry needs.

Beyond technical training, the workshop also highlighted the power of collaboration. Day 1 focused on orientation and capacity-building sessions, while Day 2 challenged participants to consolidate their learning, refine their proposals, and present outputs in a culminating activity that resembled a “graduation.” Organizers emphasized that the event was as much about building a community of scholars as it was about developing individual research competencies.\

The Research and Development Center described the workshop as a vital step toward strengthening the institution’s research culture. By cultivating innovative and impactful research practices, JBLCF–Bacolod empowered its faculty and staff to generate knowledge and solutions that are relevant, credible, and transformative—anchored on both local realities and global standards.

As the 2025 In-House Research Capability Enhancement Training Workshop came to a close, participants carried with them more than sharpened skills and completed proposals—they left with a renewed sense of purpose as scholars and innovators. The two-day journey proved that when ideas are shared, challenges are faced together, and research is anchored on a collective vision, the results transcend individual achievement. It was not just a training, but a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the boundless potential of research to create impact that matters for the institution, the industry, and society at large.

From Feedback to Impact: Research Workshop Strengthens Departmental Strategies

JBLCF-Bacolod, July 21, 2025

“The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime.” These words set the tone for the opening day of the collaborative workshop organized by the Research and Development Center of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (JBLCF)-Bacolod.

The workshop brought together the following department heads of the unit in a unified effort to evaluate and refine their respective action plans: Mr. Virgilio Goba, Jr. (Head-Management Information System), Jun C. Montaño (Unit International Relations Officer), 2/O Nestor A. Herpacio, Jr. (On-board Training Supervisor), 3/E Bernard M. Sorbito, Jr. (OIC Quality Assurance Manager), Ronnie C. Montaño (Head-Laboratories & Academic Assessment Office), Dr. John Erll N. Destacamento (Dean-College of Maritime Education), Mr. Reinand Y. Ramirez (Head-Finance Department), Engr. Ritchie J. Navarro (Head-Services & Facilities), Mr. Ivan June Gayotin (Community Extension Officer), Mr. Rexenel S. Ibardolaza (Head-Student Affairs & Services), Ms. May M. Baylon (Technical Vocational Education Training Officer), Ms. Haydee B. Tibo-oc (Registrar), Dr. Emeliza T. Estimo (Unit Research Coordinator), Dr. Ma. Eva M. Hilay (Principal-Basic Education Department), Dr. Violeta A. Neri (Dean-College of Business & Education).

Central to the discussions were three key focus areas: addressing stakeholder feedback, integrating research findings and recommendations, and evaluating the impact of innovations already implemented across various units. The activity aims to foster a culture of collaboration and evidence-based decision-making within the institution. By reflecting on feedback, research, and innovation outcomes, the workshop seeks to ensure that departmental strategies remain responsive, sustainable, and aligned with the college’s vision of academic excellence and continuous improvement.

The presence of department heads underscored the institution’s commitment to shared leadership and accountability. Through open dialogue and structured evaluation, the participants identified strengths, gaps, and opportunities for further enhancement. This collective approach, organizers emphasized, is vital to ensuring that action plans are not only achievable but also grounded in real needs and measurable impact.

The event concluded with department heads reaffirming their commitment to working together toward a common goal: making JBLCF-Bacolod a stronger and more innovative institution. As the workshop continues, more concrete strategies and collaborative initiatives are expected to emerge, reinforcing the spirit of teamwork and collective success.

As the momentum of this workshop carries forward, it serves as a powerful reminder that transformation begins when minds come together with purpose and passion. By harnessing the collective wisdom of its leaders and anchoring every plan in research and feedback, JBLCF-Bacolod is not only strengthening its strategies but also shaping a future where innovation and collaboration define its journey. With unity as its foundation and excellence as its compass, the institution stands poised to turn vision into lasting impact.

From Campus to Conference: JBLCF-Bacolod’s Strong Presence at PSERE 2025

JBLCF-Bacolod made a significant impact at the 32nd Philippine Society for Educational Research and Evaluation (PSERE) Conference by sending five representatives who presented a total of six research papers. These presentations underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing innovation and best practices in education, in line with the university’s strategic focus on adapting to rapid technological advancements.

The conference, themed “Phygital Convergence: The Real and Digital World,” provided a platform for participants to explore the intersection of physical and digital learning environments. JBLCF-Bacolod’s contributions addressed several key sub-themes, including:

Digital Connected Campus
Next-Generation Technologies (Innovation and Invention)
Revolutionizing Education and Research for Sustainable Development
Machine Learning in Campus Operation
Institutional Best Practices and Innovations

By aligning their research with these themes, the participants demonstrated their proactive approach to integrating technology and innovative strategies in education, reinforcing their role as leaders in academic excellence and forward-thinking educational practices. The following papers were presented by the researchers of JBLCF-Bacolod at the PSERE Conference.

Technological Inclination, Knowledge, Awareness, Capability, Skills, Utilization, and Impact: A Technology Barometer Survey with Employees	Dr. Emeliza T. Estimo Ms. Geneveve M. Aguilar
Challenges and Coping Strategies of Maritime Students from Pre-Onboard to Post-Onboard Training: Implications for Maritime Program Enhancement	3E Bernard M. Sorbito, Jr. Jason June A. Almonte Albert P. Golen
Integrated Protection Device for Inductive Loads Against Power Abnormalities: A Collaborative Innovative Project	Engr. Joel Panganiban Engr. Ruby S. Oro Engr. Ritchie J. Navarro 3E Paul T. Olimpos Mr. Rogie E. Padernal
Utilizing Google Workspace to Monitor and Update Students’ Onboard Training: Shared Best Innovative Practices of the Onboard Training Office	3E Bernard M. Sorbito, Jr.
Development of an Innovative Training Module for Automation in the Ship’s Bilge Pumping System	C/E Joni P. Gan 3E Paul T. Olimpos Engr. Angel Mae J. Gangoso
Exploring Library Innovations in the Digital Age	Dr. Elisa V. Garcia

As JBLCF-Bacolod continues to champion innovation and excellence, its active participation in the 32nd PSERE Conference stands as a testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to shaping the future of education. By embracing new technologies and pioneering best practices, JBLCF-Bacolod not only empowers its students and faculty but also inspires the broader academic community to rise to the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. With every research endeavor and collaborative effort, the institution reaffirms its vision of creating a dynamic, future-ready learning environment—one where the boundaries between the real and digital worlds are seamlessly bridged for the benefit of all. The JBLCF-Bacolod delegation was led by Dr. Emeliza T. Estimo, Unit Research Coordinator, who is the current Public Information Officer of the PSERE.