Category: Bacolod News

In an effort to elevate academic research and strengthen its position in global rankings, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation-Bacolod Research and Development Center conducted a two-day writing workshop aimed at guiding its core group of authors toward Scopus-indexed publication, an innovative strategy to help propel JBLFMU toward another milestone as a university. Held on March 18-19, 2025, at the MLA Conference Room, the workshop highlighted the importance of publishing high-quality research and addressed the challenges researchers encounter when preparing manuscripts for prestigious journals.

The workshop began with an exploration of the motivations behind academic publishing, emphasizing its role in career advancement, knowledge dissemination, and institutional prestige. Participants were reminded that successful publications contribute to JBLFMU’s aspiration to attain higher university rankings while addressing critical hypotheses and providing evidence-based insights.

A significant portion of the workshop focused on understanding why manuscripts are often rejected. The facilitator outlined both editorial and technical reasons for rejection, such as lack of novelty, ethical issues, methodological flaws, and poor writing quality. Researchers were encouraged to view rejection as an opportunity for improvement rather than a setback. Practical advice was provided on how to respond constructively to reviewers’ feedback and refine submissions.

The workshop featured several interactive sessions designed to equip participants with practical skills:

• Searching for Journals: Participants learned how to identify suitable Scopus-indexed journals using platforms like Scimago Journal Rank and free publication databases. Factors such as journal scope, audience, impact factor, and acceptance rates were discussed.
• Manuscript Preparation: Authors were guided through the process of structuring their papers according to journal guidelines, with particular focus on organizing results and discussions effectively.
• Proofreading and Final Editing: The final phase of manuscript preparation included scanning for errors, ensuring compliance with formatting requirements, and polishing language for clarity.

The workshop concluded with a roadmap outlining the submission, revision, and publication process. Participants were encouraged to finalize their manuscripts by April 30, 2025, as part of a collective effort to enhance JBLFMU’s research output.

By equipping its faculty and researchers with the tools necessary to publish in Scopus-indexed journals, JBLCF-Bacolod, one of the academic units of JBLFMU, is taking a significant step toward fostering a culture of academic excellence while contributing valuable insights to the maritime field. As institutions worldwide strive for greater visibility in global research databases, initiatives like this serve as vital platforms for growth and collaboration.

The participants were able to identify potential Scopus-indexed journals where they could submit their research articles for publication. Reflecting on this activity, we are reminded of the power of resilience, innovation, and collective effort. Whether we are exploring new frontiers, overcoming challenges, or celebrating achievements, the path forward is always illuminated by the potential for growth and transformation. By embracing our passions, fostering creativity, and supporting one another, we can unlock a brighter future filled with endless possibilities.

On November 25 to 29, 2024, a team from JBLCF-Bacolod, composed of 3E Bernard M. Sorbito, Jr., Quality Assurance Manager; C/M John Erll N. Destacamento, PhD, Dean of the College of Maritime Education; and 2O Nestor A. Herpacio, Jr., On-Board Training Supervisor, visited shipping companies and manning agencies in Makati, Metro Manila for the biennial Industry Satisfaction Survey. The purpose of the visit was to gather vital feedback on the performance of JBLFMU graduates, the challenges facing the maritime industry, and potential future trends. This survey not only provides insights into how the institution can adapt to industry needs but also guides JBLFMU in refining its priorities to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future. By fostering strong partnerships with industry leaders, JBLFMU remains committed to shaping maritime education that benefits its graduates and the global maritime community.

Companies Visited:

1. Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTC, Inc.)
2. PHILCAMSAT (Training Center) – Partner of PTC, Inc.
3. Amaya Shipping Incorporated, Sealanes Marine Services Inc., and Pandiship Corporation
4. Var-Orient Shipping Co., Inc.
5. Marimar Shipping Agency Corporation
6. BW Shipping Philippines, Inc.
7. Synergy Group Operations, Inc.
8. Arctic Shipping Corporation
9. Torm Shipping Philippines, Inc.
10. Dalisay Shipping Corporation
11. Bouvet Shipping Management Corporation
12. Phoenix Maritime Corporation
13. Crossworld Marine Services, Inc.
14. Seacrest Maritime Management and Songa Crew Management
15. Laurel Carriers Philippines, Inc.
16. Dakila Ship Management Corporation
17. F. A. Vinnen Philippines, Inc.
18. Eaglestar Marine Services
19. Alster International Shipping Services
20. Parola Maritime Agency Corporation
21. Epsilon Maritime Services, Inc.
22. KJCM Maritime Corporation & Epsilon Maritime Services, Inc.
23. Net Ship Management Inc.
24. DOHLE Seafront Crewing (Manila), Inc.
25. Friendly Maritime Services, Inc.

The Industry Satisfaction Survey 2024 conducted by the team yielded several key insights regarding the performance and preparedness of its graduates in the maritime industry. Here are the summarized key points gathered from the feedback:

General Observations

Stakeholders stressed the need for JBLFMU’s curriculum to align with the evolving demands of the maritime sector, highlighting that continuous engagement with industry leaders is essential for adapting educational programs to better prepare graduates.

Specific Feedback Highlights

Industry feedback highlighted several key areas for improvement regarding graduate preparedness:

Graduate Preparedness: While graduates demonstrate foundational skills, there is a recognized need for enhancement in practical applications and essential soft skills for maritime operations.

Training Infrastructure: Observations from training centers indicated a necessity to upgrade training facilities and methodologies to provide students with relevant hands-on experience aligned with current industry practices.

Networking Opportunities: There is a call for improved networking initiatives, particularly aimed at female cadets, to boost job placement prospects for graduates.

Areas for Improvement

Curriculum Development: Feedback pointed to specific competencies, including advanced technical skills and leadership training, that need greater emphasis in the university’s training programs.

Industry Challenges: Stakeholders discussed various challenges facing the maritime sector, such as regulatory changes and technological advancements, indicating that the university should prepare students to navigate these complexities.

Positive Feedback

Strengths of Graduates: Several companies acknowledged the strong theoretical foundation of the university’s graduates, particularly in maritime regulations and safety protocols, which are critical in the industry.

The biennial Industry Satisfaction Survey conducted by the team from JBLCF-Bacolod has provided invaluable insights into graduates’ preparedness for the maritime industry. The feedback gathered underscores the importance of aligning educational programs with industry demands, particularly in enhancing practical skills and soft competencies. Additionally, improved training infrastructure and networking opportunities have been highlighted as essential for better graduate outcomes. By addressing these areas and fostering strong partnerships with industry stakeholders, the institution is well-positioned to adapt its curriculum and training methodologies, ultimately ensuring its graduates are equipped to meet the challenges of an evolving maritime landscape. This commitment benefits students and strengthens the maritime sector as a whole, paving the way for a more competent and competitive workforce.

The two-day training workshop “Employing AI in Qualitative Research: A Practical Workshop,” held on November 21-22, 2024, brought fresh ideas on how AI can be utilized as a welcome addition to promoting qualitative research in JBLCF-Bacolod.

Designed to address the challenges qualitative researchers face in today’s data-rich environment, the workshop highlighted how artificial intelligence (AI) can streamline the analysis of complex textual data, as traditional methods can be time-consuming and subjective. Throughout the workshop, the participants engaged in a comprehensive intellectual journey that included foundational concepts of AI in qualitative research and hands-on sessions that allowed them to apply AI techniques, such as text preprocessing and visualizing thematic structures through multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis, directly to their work.

Turning Knowledge into Practice

With the new knowledge and skills learned from the training workshop, the JBLCF-Bacolod participants have committed to forming another valuable Core Group in Research specializing in the production of Qualitative Research while utilizing AI-assisted technologies such as Orange Data Mining Software in processing and analyzing data analysis and Mendeley in organizing references. Another workshop intended to strengthen our familiarity with and use of these technologies will be conducted at the start of 2025, inviting more participants from the unit also to join.