Saint Mary’s University officially opened Lingkod at Likha 2026: Harmonizing Public Service and Creativity through AI-Enhanced Research on April 27, 2026, bringing together members of the Marian Community for a day that highlighted faith, collaboration, and innovation.

The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Mary Seat of Wisdom Chapel, presided over by Rev. Fr. Nemesio F. Huesca, CICM, and organized by the Campus Ministry and the Office of the Vice President for Mission and Identity (VPMI). The Eucharistic celebration set a reflective and hopeful tone for the week, reminding participants that faith remains the foundation of service and learning.

Following the Mass, the community gathered for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Opening Program, formally launching the exhibits and activities organized by the University Research Center (URC). The event marked the start of a week dedicated to showcasing the University’s research, creative works, and extension initiatives.

Among the highlights was the launch of SMU Online Journals, which aims to provide a wider platform for faculty and student research. This was followed by the introduction of the MARIAN Journal (Multidisciplinary Advances in Research, Innovation, and Academic Nurturing), an international peer-reviewed publication that reflects the University’s growing presence in the global research community.

The SMU INSPIRE Programs (Impacting Nations through Sustainable Projects, Innovation, Research, and Engagement) were also presented through video features, highlighting the University’s ongoing efforts to advance innovation, strengthen research culture, and expand community engagement.

Adding inspiration to the program, Dr. Rommel S. de Gracia, Officer-in-Charge of the Curriculum Implementation Division and Senior Research Specialist of the Schools Division Office of Nueva Vizcaya, delivered a talk emphasizing the importance of research and innovation in education and community development. He encouraged both students and faculty to engage in meaningful and impactful scholarly work.

Day 1 of Lingkod at Likha 2026 set a strong and inspiring start to the celebration, reaffirming Saint Mary’s University’s commitment to service, creativity, and research in the age of artificial intelligence.