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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
