The University Research Center (URC) of Saint Mary’s University conducted a Capacitation and Certification for Language Editors on October 28, 2026, at AP Computer Laboratory 203, equipping participants with essential knowledge and practical skills to enhance the quality of academic writing and research publications.

The program opened with a prayer led by Ms. Jelie Anne Tallungan, URC secretary, followed by the opening remarks and statement of objectives delivered by Miss Jones K. Liwan, STEH Research Coordinator, who also served as the emcee.

The one-day activity featured Dr. Zayda S. Asuncion, Principal of SMU Junior High School and Science High School, as the resource speaker. She facilitated sessions on the Review of the APA 7th Edition and Bias-Free and Ethical Editing, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, consistency, inclusivity, and ethical responsibility in scholarly communication.

The participants, composed of Marian faculty members representing different academic programs of the University, took part in the training to strengthen their editorial competencies and prepare for their potential roles as language editors. Their participation reflected the University’s commitment to developing a pool of qualified faculty members who can support the preparation and publication of quality research manuscripts across disciplines.

The morning session focused on reviewing the seventh edition of the American Psychological Association (APA) Publication Manual, strengthening participants’ understanding of academic writing conventions, citation practices, and reference formatting. To reinforce learning, Dr. Asuncion incorporated interactive exercises throughout her lecture, encouraging participants to apply the concepts discussed. The participants actively engaged in the activities, enthusiastically sharing their answers and demonstrating their willingness to learn and improve their editing skills. These interactive exchanges fostered an engaging learning environment where participants could test their understanding, exchange insights, and clarify common editing concerns.

The session continued with a hands-on manuscript editing activity, allowing participants to apply the principles discussed and enhance their ability to identify and correct language and formatting issues in academic manuscripts.

In the afternoon, Dr. Asuncion discussed bias-free and ethical editing, highlighting the responsibility of language editors to promote fairness, objectivity, and respectful language while preserving the intended meaning and integrity of scholarly work. The question-and-answer session further encouraged the exchange of ideas and clarification of issues relevant to academic manuscript preparation.

Following the question-and-answer session, a certificate and token of appreciation were presented to Dr. Asuncion in recognition of her valuable contribution as resource speaker. Meanwhile, participants received their certificates of participation immediately after completing the program evaluation through the provided QR code.

The program culminated in an examination administered to the participants to assess their knowledge and competence in language editing. The examination results will serve as a basis for determining their qualification to become officially recognized language editors of Saint Mary’s University. This assessment reinforces the University Research Center’s commitment to ensuring that prospective language editors meet the necessary standards of competence and ethical responsibility in reviewing and refining academic manuscripts.

By investing in editorial competence and fostering active, collaborative learning, Saint Mary’s University continues to advance a culture of research excellence and contribute to the dissemination of credible, well-written, and publication-ready scholarly work.