An international study mission titled “Exploring Global Insights and Opportunities to Improve the Research, Development, and Innovation Landscape of Western Visayas” was organized by the Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST VI) and the Western Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (WVCIEERD). The mission took place from June 16 to 21, 2025, in Jeju, South Korea.
One of the key activities was the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Symposium, conducted in collaboration with Jeju National University (JNU). The symposium aimed to promote mutual learning, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among participating institutions.
During the symposium, Dr. Rolando A. Alimen presented his research titled “Establishment of Desalination Plant: Partnership towards Community Sustainability of Unisan Island in Guimaras, Philippines.”
The College of Maritime Education Faculty Research Colloquium was held on May 5, 2025, at the Library Extension of JBLFMU-Molo, Inc. The event featured Dr. Rex C. Casiple of CHED Region VI as the keynote speaker. The following research papers were presented:
Acceptability of Desalination Plant among Residents of Unisan Island, Guimaras, Philippines – Dr. Victor Jaleco
Maritime Schools’ Deployment of Completed Classroom Instruction (CCI) Students in Domestic Vessels: Basis for Government Shipboard Training Program – Dr. Ernie Jay Teves
Believe It or Not?: Technological Awareness, Inclination, Knowledge of Technological Information, Utilization, Technological Capabilities, and Impact on Work Productivity among Employees in the Maritime University, Philippines – C/M Rochel Lago
“Dyosa Makinista”: Struggles and Unpleasant Experiences of Gay Seafarers; Transforming Learned Helplessness into Learned Optimism – Dr. Roland John Cyril Emague and Dr. Elsie Gancia
Values of Filipino Seafarers: The Formula to a Successful Career – Dr. Agustin Bedia
The papers were critiqued by Dr. Aurora Bautista of UP Open University, Dr. Rowenah Isidro of ISAT University, and Dr. Ma. Cecilia Alimen of the University of San Agustin.
Story by: Dr. Roderick R. Germo Photos by: Dolphin and Maritime Lenses
JBLFMU (Arevalo), Inc. Successfully Hosts Research Colloquium, Sharing of Best Practices, and Innovation Exhibit
As part of the 77th Foundation Week Celebration, JBLFMU (Arevalo), Inc. successfully convened the “Research Colloquium, Sharing of Best Practices, and Innovation Exhibit 2025” on February 6, 2025, at JBL Hall. Spearheaded by Engr. Roderick R. Germo, Ph.D., Unit Research Coordinator, the event showcased the institution’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.
With the theme “Propelling Excellence Through Innovation and Collaboration,” the program commenced at 7:30 AM with registration, followed by an invocation, the Philippine National Anthem, and the JBLFMU Hymn performed by Coro Handumanan. Safety protocols were addressed by 2M Karl Danielle H. Sira, MMM, CCSSM, Safety Officer of JBLFMU (Arevalo), Inc.
Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, Administrator of JBLFMU (Arevalo), Inc., warmly welcomed participants, setting the tone for an inspiring and knowledge-filled event. Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian, Chief Executive Officer of JBLFMU, delivered an insightful message emphasizing the importance of research and innovation in shaping the maritime and academic industries. An overview of the event was presented by Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC-Director of JBLFMU Research and Development and Community Extension Services.
Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, Administrator of JBLFMU (Arevalo), Inc., warmly welcomed participants, setting the tone for an inspiring and knowledge-filled event. Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian, Chief Executive Officer of JBLFMU, delivered an insightful message emphasizing the importance of research and innovation in shaping the maritime and academic industries. An overview of the event was presented by Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC-Director of JBLFMU Research and Development and Community Extension Services.
The highlight of the morning was the keynote speech delivered by Engr. Bert S. Bayona, a renowned Nuclear Power Designer and Engineering Expert from the United States of America. His expertise provided valuable perspectives on technological advancements and innovation in the maritime sector.
The colloquium featured a series of research paper presentations by distinguished JBLFMU scholars and faculty members:
Research Paper Presentations
Paper 1: Emotional Intelligence and Student Engagement as Determinants of Academic Performance of Marine Engineering Students in Region VI: Bases for an Intervention Plan by C/E Roger John J. Natial, with a reaction from Dr. Cecilia D. Alimen of the University of San Agustin.
Paper 2: Journey of JBLFMU Maritime Graduates from Completion of Classroom Instruction to Conferment of Bachelor’s Degree: Implications for Program Enhancement by 3E Bernard S. Sorbito, Jr., with a reaction from Dr. Aurora Fe C. Bautista of the University of the Philippines.
Paper 3: Entrepreneurial Knowledge, Business Competence, and Management Skills of Administrators of Maritime Institutions by Dr. Ronald S. Baynosa, with a reaction from Dr. Nenita V. Quiñon of the University of San Agustin.
Dr. Emeliza T. Estimo, Research Coordinator of JBLCF (Bacolod), Inc., introduced the paper reactors, facilitating deeper engagement with the presented studies.
An engaging open forum, moderated by Dr. Rolando A. Alimen, Research Coordinator of JBLFMU (Molo), Inc., allowed participants to discuss and reflect on the presented studies.
Sharing of Best Practices
The second part of the event focused on best practices in various fields:
Kapeling: Fueling Minds with Coffee presented by Ms. Rutchel T. Digao.
Building a Resilient Future: Best Practices in JBLFMU-Arevalo Disaster Risk Reduction presented by 2/M Karl Danielle H. Sira.
Online Document Request System presented by Engr. Martin F. Fagar.
Development of Marine-ICT-Electro-Automation Advance Trainer presented by Engr. Allan Y. Roberto.
Unveiling the Potentials of JBLCF-Bacolod as a TVET Provider presented by Ms. May M. Baylon.
Registration Department Innovative Practices: Facing the Challenges for Continuous Improvement presented by Ms. Haydee B. Tibo-Oc.
Reactions to the best practices were provided by esteemed faculty from various JBLFMU campuses.
Innovation Exhibit
The event concluded with the ribbon-cutting ceremony and the opening of the Innovation Exhibit, led by JBLFMU CEO Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian, Capt. Luis G. Evidente, Dr. Ma. Elena J. Eleperia, and Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas. The exhibit showcased groundbreaking projects and innovations from different JBLFMU campuses, highlighting the institution’s forward-thinking approach to research and development.
The Research Colloquium, Sharing of Best Practices, and Innovation Exhibit 2025 successfully provided a platform for intellectual exchange, collaboration, and the promotion of excellence in research and innovation. With the unwavering support of JBLFMU’s leadership and faculty, the event underscored the institution’s dedication to academic growth and technological advancement in the maritime industry.
Design and Development of Desalination Plant Powered by Solar Energy in Unisan Island, Guimaras, Philippines
This project is anchored on the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (R.A No. 9513). This Act affirms the Philippine government’s commitment to accelerating the utilization of renewable energy (RE). The utilization of solar energy will enable the operation of a Fresh Water Generator to produce potable water for the residents of Unisan Island, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, Philippines.
This project focuses on SDG No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure—promoting innovation by designing a freshwater generator powered by solar energy. The new feature of this freshwater generator will enable the residents of Unisan Island to have potable water sourced from seawater.
This project is based on SDG No. 17: Partnership for the Goal, strengthening the means of implementation and revitalizing the global partnership for sustainable development. It involves collaboration with local manufacturers, the local government unit, and government agencies. The establishment of this type of freshwater generator will allow different stakeholders in the maritime university to collaborate and conduct studies focused on sustainable freshwater solutions for Unisan Island, Guimaras.
Dr. Elsie Gancia reads her paper “Assessing the Relationship Between Reading Achievement and Academic Performance in Marine Engineering Freshmen Cadets: A Quasi-Experimental Approach” at the 44th Thailand TESOL International Conference on January 24-25, 2025.