To advance research outcomes and foster interdisciplinary collaboration on pressing national and global issues, Cebu Technological University (CTU) held its 21st In-House Review and International Conference from October 7 to 10, 2025, gathering faculty researchers, resource speakers, and guests from local and international universities.
With the theme “Fostering Collaborative Research Toward Inclusive Growth and Global Competitiveness,” the four-day event explored transformative research across five domains: Environment, Sustainability, and Natural Resources; Technology and Innovation; Education, Social Science, and Governance; Health and Well-Being; and Business, Entrepreneurship, and Industry Development.
In his message, newly appointed Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-7 Regional Director Dr. Tristan L. Abando hoped that the in-house review and international conference would spark new ideas, strengthen partnerships, and address challenges, including food and water security, disaster resilience, and the competitiveness of local industries.
“On behalf of DOST-7, we look forward to deeper collaboration with Cebu Technological University (CTU) to ensure that science, technology, and innovation truly serve the people,” he added.
The activity was organized by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Development, led by Dr. Pet Roey L. Pascual, who stressed CTU’s focus on research rooted in collaboration and innovation.
Meanwhile, CTU President Dr. Joseph C. Pepito, in his speech, expressed his gratitude to faculty researchers and project leaders, emphasizing that their work stands at the heart of the event.
“This platform further inspires collaboration, reflection, and a shared drive to use research as a tool for inclusive development,” the President noted.
Plenary talks highlighted a range of expert research in the following areas:
Plenary Lecture 1: “Driving University Research Towards Sustainability Needs through a Responsible Innovation Model” by Dr. Kenneth Fung Hon Ngen, Lecturer from UOW Malaysia, KDU University College.
Plenary Lecture 2: “Barriers and Facilitators to HPV Vaccine Uptake Among Out of School Girls in Urban Philippines” by Dr. Erin Go, Fulbright Research Grantee from New York Metropolitan.
Plenary Lecture 3: “Harnessing Artificial Light: Transforming Food Production and Medical Plant Cultivation For A Sustainable Future” by Dr. Ida Bagus Made Artadana, Faculty of Biotechnology Department from the University of Surabaya, Indonesia
Plenary Lecture 4: “Ethnographic Study of Maternal and Women’s Health of Ati People in Iloilo, Philippines” by Dr. Eliza Marie Tagle, Fulbright Research Grantee from New York, United States
Plenary Lecture 5: “Knowledge Transfer in Food Processing: From Academia to Industry – Bridging the Gap between Research and Application” by Asst. Prof. Kitti Mueangtoom, Vice Rector of Uttaradit Rajabhat University, Thailand
Plenary Lecture 6: “Are we missing the mark? Using mixed methods for Extension Program Evaluation” by Dr. Audie Lynn Cherry, Fulbright Research Grantee from Clemson University, South Carolina
Participants represented CTU’s satellite campuses in Argao, Carmen, Main, CCMSC, Barili, Tuburan, San Francisco, Moalboal, Consolacion, Daanbantayan, and Danao, as well as its extension campuses in Naga, Bantayan, Tabogon, Malabuyoc, and Ginatilan.
Throughout the four-day international conference, they participated in meaningful talks, open forums, and plenary discussions with evaluators and resource speakers, all centered on collaborative research for growth and global impact.
Outstanding presenters who received the Best Paper Awards were honored during the culminating day’s awarding ceremony.
The 21st In-House Review and International Conference marked a strategic push to elevate CTU’s research culture through strategic partnerships, innovation, and alignment with national and global development goals.
