In celebration of the Linggo ng Likha at Lingkod, the School of Graduate Studies (SoGS) of Saint Mary’s University held a groundbreaking research forum on March 29, 2025, at the Pedro Calungsod Hall. Organized by the University Research Center, the event gathered esteemed faculty, dedicated students, and academic leaders, all driven by a shared commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering sustainable solutions.

Led by Academic Dean Dr. Mayvelyn S. Covita and supported by the Graduate Program Cluster Department Heads and University Research Director Dr. Darwin Don M. Dacles, the forum served as a platform for intellectual exchange and scholarly discourse. 

Dr. Dacles challenged the participants, stating, “The essence of research lies not just in seeking answers but in daring to ask bold questions. Remember that the real measure of our work is not solely in academic accolades, but in the lives we improve and the futures we transform through the empirical data that we gather.”

With the theme “Driving Innovative Solutions, Empowering Communities, and Ensuring Lasting Impact for a Sustainable Future,” the forum showcased research that tackled pressing societal challenges and introduced transformative ideas. 

A distinguished panel of evaluators—Dr. Dominga C. Valtoribio, Dr. Christopher Allen S. Marquez, and Dr. Harrison T. Villanueva—offered valuable insights and constructive feedback, ensuring the presented studies met the highest academic standards.

The event featured an array of thought-provoking research presentations spanning multiple disciplines—including science education, educational management, commerce, Indigenous peoples’ studies, mathematics, social studies, information technology, and engineering. This diverse range of topics reflected the breadth of expertise and scholarly pursuits within the SoGS community:

• Mayflor Galleno Agustin, PhD Science Education Major in Biology
  “Enriching DepEd Advocacies and Activities to Senior High School Specialized Biology Subjects Toward Sustainable Science Education”
• Aireen Orate Santos, PhD EdM
  “Evaluation of Multimodality Learning Program in Basic Education: Towards Learning Innovation and Flexible Teaching (LIFT)”
• Aryan L. Yuzon, MBA
  “SWOT Analysis of Emerging Movers in the Coffee Industry of Ifugao”
• Kenneth L. Maslang, PhD EdM
  “Integrating Indigenous Peoples’ Studies into Higher Education: A Proposed CICM-PSN Framework”
• Mart Jasper G. Antonio, MST Mathematics
  “Unraveling Calculus Performance: An Integrative Model of Expectancy, Value, Cost, and Misconceptions”
• Divine Grace R. Rabut, MAT Social Studies
  “Self-Efficacy and Attitude of Senior High School Learners in the Specialized Subjects of Humanities and Social Sciences Strand in Tuao High School”
• Erika Galleon Llabres, MIT
  “An Enhanced Library Management System in Higher Education Institution”
• Engr. Jenah T. Antonio, MECE
  “Rehabilitation of Gundaway-Doña Imelda Farm to Market Road in Quirino Province”

Among the remarkable presentations, Mart Jasper G. Antonio was awarded Best Paper Presenter for his study on calculus performance, which delved into the complex interplay of expectancy, value, cost, and misconceptions in mathematical learning. His work not only highlighted the critical need for refining pedagogical strategies but also made us all proud of the academic excellence within our community.

The research forum underscored the School of Graduate Studies’ dedication to producing innovative research that addresses real-world challenges and brings about transformative change. By fostering a culture of inquiry and knowledge-sharing, the event reaffirmed the University’s mission to empower communities through research-driven solutions and contribute to a hopeful, sustainable future.

As the forum concluded, participants left inspired, armed with new insights and a renewed commitment to making meaningful contributions to their respective fields. The event was a testament to the power of research—not just as an academic pursuit but as a force for transformational change and societal progress.

Haydee D. James, GPCDH, TEH Cluster