Category: Arevalo News

Estancia, Iloilo, Philippines, April 8, 2026 — The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), Inc. actively participated in a benchmarking activity hosted by the Northern Iloilo State University focused on best practices in research and extension, reinforcing institutional collaboration through knowledge exchange, innovation, and partnership-building. The activity culminated in the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between both institutions.

The initiative was spearheaded by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, OIC Research Coordinator of JBLFMU-A, who led and organized the JBLFMU-A delegation throughout the benchmarking engagement. His leadership ensured the smooth coordination of institutional participation and strengthened JBLFMU-A’s commitment to advancing research and extension systems through strategic partnerships.

Opening Program and Institutional Welcome

The program formally opened with an invocation, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the NISU Hymn. The welcome remarks were delivered by Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension of NISU, who introduced the university’s key research and extension officials and emphasized the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in advancing innovation, research productivity, and community engagement

Presentation of JBLFMU-A Delegates and Institutional Overview

The presentation of JBLFMU-A delegates was delivered by Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC Director for Research and Development and Community Extension Services of JBLFMU, on behalf of Mr. Robert O. Parcia, Administrator of JBLFMU-A.

Dr. Germo, as the lead organizer of the delegation, ensured the proper coordination and participation of all JBLFMU-A representatives.

During the session, Dr. Sarinas also presented a comprehensive video overview of the JBLFMU system, highlighting the university’s academic programs, maritime training facilities, research initiatives, and extension services. This provided NISU participants with a holistic understanding of JBLFMU-A’s institutional systems and development direction.

Sharing of Best Practices in Research, Innovation, and Extension

The benchmarking activity featured structured presentations from NISU’s experts:

• Research Initiatives – Ms. Ladelyn Tolentino, Research Specialist II, NISU Research Office
• KMITT Initiatives – Dr. Bon Eric Besonia, University Director, Knowledge Management, Innovation, Technology Transfer (KMITT)
• Extension Initiatives – Dr. Rene Jun B. Belgica, University Director, Extension Services Office

These presentations highlighted effective systems in research management, innovation development, and community extension programs that promote sustainable development and institutional excellence.

An open forum followed, allowing both institutions to exchange insights and identify potential areas for future collaboration.

MOA and MOU Signing: Formalizing Institutional Collaboration

A significant milestone of the activity was the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), formally strengthening the partnership between NISU and JBLFMU-A.

The agreement establishes collaboration in:

• Joint research and extension programs
• Faculty, staff, and student exchanges
• Capacity building and professional development
• Innovation and knowledge sharing
• Disaster Risk Reduction and resilience initiatives
• Intellectual property and research collaboration

Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas and Dr. Geneva Eler, Dean of the Graduate School served as representatives of Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, Administrator of JBLFMU-A.

On the NISU side, Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension, represented Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, D. Eng., University President of NISU, and also served as witness to the agreement.

The MOA and MOU reflect both institutions’ shared commitment to advancing academic excellence, strengthening institutional systems, and promoting impactful research and extension initiatives.

A Step Toward Stronger Academic Synergy

The activity concluded with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to sustain collaboration through future joint programs, research initiatives, and extension engagements.

Through this benchmarking activity led by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, JBLFMU-A strengthened its institutional linkages with NISU and gained valuable insights into best practices in research and extension. The engagement underscores a shared vision of transforming academic collaboration into meaningful, sustainable, and impactful contributions to society and the maritime industry.

The 2nd International Conference on Business, Education, Science, and Technology (ICBEST 2025), held on 22–24 October 2025, successfully convened leaders, educators, researchers, and professionals from around the world through a hybrid and virtual academic platform that enabled dynamic exchanges, scholarly discussions, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Organized by Bulacan State University through the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation (OVPREI) and the Research and Innovation Office (RIO), in partnership with IFERP, the conference was spearheaded by the BulSU Sarmiento Campus as Conference Chair.

Demonstrating its sustained commitment to research productivity and global academic engagement, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), Inc. was represented by five (5) faculty-researchers who presented their studies virtually during the international conference. Despite the online modality, JBLFMU–Arevalo’s researchers delivered impactful presentations that highlighted the university’s strength in community-based, sustainability-driven, and education-focused research.

JBLFMU–Arevalo Virtual Research Presentations

1. Empowering Communities for Marine Conservation: Strengthening Awareness, Policy, and Sustainability in the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary

Virtual Presenter: Mr. June Raymund Peter V. Flores
Co-Authors: Dr. Maria Corazon S. Navallasca, Dr. Marlon Terunez, Dr. Roderick R. Germo

This study emphasized community participation, policy support, and sustainability mechanisms for effective marine sanctuary management.

2. Partner Communities’ Perspective of the Level and Factors Contributing to the Sustainability of the Community Extension Services Projects

Virtual Presenter: Mrs. Clarence Kay S. Gabasa
Co-Author: Capt. Luina A. Cuadra

The paper examined key factors influencing the long-term sustainability of university extension programs from the viewpoint of partner communities.

3. Short-Term Analysis of Fish Catch per Unit Effort by Fisherfolk in Communities Surrounding the Igang Marine Sanctuary, Guimaras, Philippines

Virtual Presenter: 2/M Frank Adrian C. Lavega
Co-Authors: Chona T. Alim, Ph.D and Roderick R. Germo, Ph.D.

This research provided empirical insights into fisheries productivity and its implications for marine conservation initiatives.

4. Dissatisfaction of Stakeholders with Educational Services: A Guide for Creating an Intervention Program

Virtual Presenter: Mrs. Cecilia C. Salinas
Co-Author: 2/M Jerry A. Alingalan

The study offered a data-driven framework for designing intervention programs to improve educational service delivery.

5. The Impact of Rainwater Catchment System among University Partner Communities — BEST PAPER

Virtual Presenter: Capt. Stephen G. Reyes
Co-Authors: Capt. Gerry Y. Germo and C/M Eleuterio P. Fernandez

Focusing on sustainable water solutions, this paper demonstrated measurable socio-environmental impact among partner communities

A Mark of Research Leadership

The Best Paper recognition earned by Capt. Stephen G. Reyes stands as a testament to JBLFMU–Arevalo’s culture of high-impact research, one that translates academic inquiry into tangible benefits for partner communities. Collectively, the five presentations showcased how maritime and multidisciplinary research can inform policy, strengthen community resilience, and advance sustainable development.

As ICBEST 2025 concludes, JBLFMU–Arevalo extends its congratulations to all presenters and co-authors, and its gratitude to Bulacan State University and partners for providing a world-class venue for knowledge exchange. The university remains steadfast in advancing research that matters, locally grounded, globally relevant, and socially transformative.

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.

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — September 19, 2025

Photos by: Maritime Lenses

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.