A day of intellectual discovery, dynamic discussions, and groundbreaking research unfolded as JBLFMU (Arevalo) successfully hosted the Annual Faculty and Staff and 13th Student Research Colloquium on March 26, 2025, at JBL Hall. Under the theme “Innovating Maritime Education Through Research: Navigating the Future with Technology, Sustainability, and Excellence,” the event reaffirmed the university’s commitment to advancing maritime education through research-driven solutions.
Opening Ceremonies: Setting the Tone for Innovation
The event commenced with a solemn invocation, followed by the Philippine National Anthem, AVP, and the JBLFMU Hymn. This was followed by an essential Safety Protocol Briefing by 2M Karl Danielle H. Sira, MMM, CCSSM, Safety Officer, ensuring a safe and well-organized event.
In his Words of Welcome, Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, Administrator of JBLFMU (Arevalo), Inc., emphasized the significance of research in navigating the future of maritime education. He highlighted the institution’s continuous efforts to enhance academic and professional excellence through research.
Following this, Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC-Director of JBLFMU Research and Development and Community Extension Services, delivered an Inspirational Message, encouraging faculty, staff, and students to remain committed to innovation and sustainability in maritime research. He stressed that technological advancements and a research-driven mindset are key to the maritime industry’s growth.
Dr. Bernardita S. Somosa, Faculty and Staff Research Committee, provided an insightful Introduction of Paper Reactors, setting the stage for engaging discussions and valuable feedback from esteemed reactors.
Morning Session: Faculty and Staff Research Presentations
The morning session kicked off with distinguished faculty and staff showcasing their latest research in maritime education, student engagement, and workforce preparedness. Highlights included:
- Lacsonian Students’ Graduate Attributes: Basis for an Enhancement Program – 2/M Orlie R. Sican
- Students’ Academic and Extracurricular Engagement – Mrs. Ma. Agnes S. Gil
- Classifications, Challenges, and Coping Mechanisms for Maritime Students’ Special Needs – Ms. Queenzie June C. Salaver
- Core Values: Application and Life Integration Among Stakeholders in a Maritime University – Mrs. Cherry Y. Jardenil
- The Level of Job Engagement Among Maritime University Employees – Dr. Belinda G. Gavadan
- The Impact of Project Amlig Among Fisherfolk Beneficiaries – Ms. Sherelin E. Bustillo
Esteemed reactors Capt. Luis G. Evidente, Ph.D. and Dr. Nenita V. Quiñon provided valuable insights into the practical implications of these studies. Capt. Evidente, a Consultant for External Affairs and Member of the Board of Trustees of JBLFMU, emphasized the importance of aligning research findings with real-world applications to enhance maritime education and industry practices. Dr. Quiñon, a retired professor from the University of San Agustin, highlighted the critical role of research in addressing academic and professional challenges, encouraging researchers to pursue interdisciplinary studies for holistic solutions.
Dr. Roderick R. Germo, OIC Research Coordinator, commended the faculty members for their dedication to research and its significant role in maritime education. He emphasized that research is the foundation of continuous improvement and innovation in the maritime industry, ensuring the growth and sustainability of maritime institutions.
Spotlight on Sustainability: Sharing of Best Practices
A special segment on environmental sustainability followed, featuring 2/M Frank C. Lavega, JBLFMU’s Pollution Control Officer (PCO). He presented JBLFMU’s Environmental Day Celebration Initiatives, emphasizing innovative sustainability strategies and compliance with maritime environmental regulations. His talk inspired faculty, students, and industry professionals to integrate sustainable practices into their respective fields, reinforcing JBLFMU’s commitment to academic excellence and environmental responsibility.
Afternoon Session: 13th Student Research Colloquium – Empowering Future Maritime Leaders
The event started with Words of Welcome from C/M Virmari S. Tan, Ph.D., OIC-Director of JBLFMU International Relations Office and Dean of the BSMT Department, who emphasized the significance of maritime research in shaping future leaders.
Additionally, Dr. Ma. Elena J. Eleperia, Director of Academic Affairs, delivered an inspiring message on the role of academic research in fostering technological advancements and sustainability in maritime education.
A distinguished panel of judges, introduced by Dr. Mary Jean L. Dela Cruz, Faculty Assistant to the Dean, General Education, included Dr. Felipe Vista (NISU), Capt. Jorge Aborde (JBLFMU), and Dr. John Erwin Pedroso (WVSU). They provided expert evaluations and constructive feedback on the students’ research.
The Student Research Colloquium featured seven insightful oral presentations addressing pressing maritime concerns and technological advancements:
- Students’ Participation in Peer Mentoring Program: Basis for Enhancement – MDPN. Reigel Kent L. Sindingan
- Employment Challenges Encountered by Maritime Graduates – MDPN. Vernon Jr. G. Joaquin
- Relationship Between Students’ Learning Motivation and Their Academic Performance – MDPN. Jesson G. Madronero Jr.
- Passengers’ Satisfaction with Port Facilities in the Philippines – MDPN. Kenth Dave B. Zaulda
- Development of a Software Prototype for Predicting Navigational Risks – MDPN. Jhonard P. Quirino
- Impact of Navigation Hands-On Training Among Maritime Students – MDPN. Zen Jero Arthur S. Dalipe
- Fishermen’s Awareness of the Use of Semaphore Flags: A Baseline Study – MDPN. Jemar G. Tacatac
Poster Presentations: Showcasing Research in a Dynamic Format
Adding to the excitement, a Poster Presentation session at JBL Hall Lobby featured 19 additional research papers. Students enthusiastically defended their studies before evaluators, engaging in thought-provoking discussions on their contributions to maritime education.
Top Poster Presentations:
- 1st Place: “Prejudices Onboard Ship: Basis for Development of an Intervention Program” (Group 10)
- 2nd Place: “Level of Effectiveness of RADAR/ARPA Simulators on Students’ Skill Enhancement and Decision-Making Proficiency in Collision Avoidance” (Group 5)
- 3rd Place: “Level of Effectiveness of the Use of GMDSS Simulators to the Students’ Competency in Maritime Communication: Basis for Crafting an Enhancement Program” (Group 17)
Recognizing Excellence: Best Paper Presentation Winners
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing the best research papers:
- Champion:Development of a Software Prototype for Predicting Navigational Risks
- Presenter: MDPN. Jhonard P. Quirino
- Adviser: Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas
- First Runner-Up:Passengers’ Satisfaction with Port Facilities in the Philippines
- Presenter: MDPN. Kenth Dave B. Zaulda
- Adviser: Dr. Roderick R. Germo
- Second Runner-Up:Relationship Between Students’ Learning Motivation and Their Academic Performance
- Presenter: MDPN. Jesson G. Madronero Jr.
- Adviser: Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas
Sailing Forward: A Bright Future for Maritime Research
In her closing remarks, Dr. Emilie C. Coo, Student Research Coordinator, reaffirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to research-driven maritime education. She encouraged students and faculty to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in the industry.
With its dedication to academic excellence, sustainability, and technological advancement, JBLFMU remains at the helm of maritime education. The 13th Student Research Colloquium was not just a celebration of achievements but also a launchpad for future breakthroughs in the maritime sector. As research continues to chart new waters, the university stands ready to navigate the future with innovation, sustainability, and excellence!
Masters of Ceremonies
The event was seamlessly hosted by MDPN. Jeson G. Madronero and MDPN. Carlos Manuel V. Mañas, who guided the program with professionalism and enthusiasm, ensuring smooth transitions and engaging interactions throughout the day.
Photos by: Maritime Lenses and Dolphin