SDG #4; SDG #17

Baguio Central University (BCU), in collaboration with Beyond Books Publication (BBP) and partner institutions (St. Vincent’s College Inc., Saint Estanislao Kostka College, Inc., and WCC Aeronautical and Technological College, Inc.), proudly hosted the 5th International Multidisciplinary Research Conference (IMRC) and Awarding Ceremony on June 22-23, 2024, at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman campus. This event brought together scholars, researchers, leaders, health practitioners, educators, and advocates. Participants shared their expertise, celebrated groundbreaking research, and explored innovative approaches across various disciplines, fostering a spirit of collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Leaders at the Helm: Graduate School Dean Dr. Genevieve Balance Kupang, a plenary speaker at the 5th IMRC, poses at the UP Diliman University Hotel with fellow plenary speaker Dr. Pratik Rajan Mungekar from India and Conference host Dr. Leonilo B. Capulso. Kupang and Mungekar were both Outstanding Leadership Awardees during the ceremony. Photo credit: BBP

New Study Reveals “Invisible Burden” Faced by Filipino Nurses and Doctors Undergoing IVF (by Czarina Mendoza-Teneza)

PhD Student Czarina Teneza reveals the challenges Filipino nurses and doctors face during IVF. Her  research proposes a multifaceted support system to empower them and improve global healthcare for all.  #IVF #healthcare #research #support

 Ms. Mendoza-Teneza investigated the previously unexplored challenges faced by Filipino nurses and doctors undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Her qualitative research explored the lived experiences of these medical professionals, revealing a unique and complex burden they grappled with despite their medical expertise. Balancing demanding healthcare careers with the emotional, logistical, and financial challenges of IVF treatment took a significant toll.

Teneza’s research aimed to illuminate this under-researched phenomenon. By examining the emotional, logistical, professional, and personal aspects of their journeys, the study offered insights into the coping mechanisms and challenges Filipino nurses and doctors face. This valuable information can empower other medical professionals considering IVF and inform the development of improved support systems within Philippine healthcare workplaces. Ultimately, this research has the potential to significantly impact both the medical profession and the lives of Filipinos struggling with infertility. Teneza’s research was recognized for its excellence, receiving the First Best Research Paper (Science) and First Best Oral Presenter (Science) awards.

PhD student Czarina Mendoza-Teneza presents her research, “The Lived Experiences of Nurses and Doctors Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization,” with Dr. Rosalie Rosales, Dr. Ryan Jason De Los Reyes, and Dr. Sonny Soriano serving as panelists for the Science category.

Manilyn D. Botilas Presentation: “Enhancing HR Practices Through Awareness and Problem-Solving: Analyzing DepEd-CAR PRIME-HRM Implementation”

PhD student Manilyn D. Botilas presents her research titled ‘Enhancing HR Practices Through Awareness and Problem-Solving: Analyzing DepEd-CAR PRIME-HRM Implementation.’ Her insightful work aims to advance human resource practices by highlighting the importance of awareness and effective problem-solving strategies. Photo credit: Camella Mangili.

Botilas’ mixed-method study explored the implementation of PRIME-HRM within DepEd-CAR, focusing on recruitment, selection, placement, learning, development, performance management, and rewards. It assessed Level I employees’ awareness and application of PRIME-HRM. Findings revealed variability in awareness, emphasizing the need for continuous education and training. The research highlighted strategic HRM’s critical role in organizational success and the necessity for regular assessment and adaptation of HRM practices. By addressing gaps in awareness and practice, DepEd can enhance HRM competencies, foster a culture of meritocracy and excellence, and improve its capacity to deliver high-quality educational services. In the Management category, Botilas won both the First Best Research Paper and First Best Oral Presenter awards.

 A Presentation by Dr. Edna P. Culbongan: Developing Research Skills in High School: A Foundation for Better Research Manual”

A study by Dr. Edna Culbongan sheds light on the research capabilities of high school students. The study, titled “Developing Research Skills in High School: A Foundation for Better Research Manual,” investigated the self-reported knowledge and perceived challenges of 228 Grade 12 learners at BCU during the 2023-2024 academic year. Employing a quantitative approach, Culbongan utilized a researcher-developed questionnaire to assess the students’ understanding of research paper components, technical writing skills, and perceived difficulties. The findings revealed that the learners reported high self-confidence in both research paper structure and technical writing abilities. They attributed this confidence to positive teacher feedback and targeted instruction in the classroom.

While the study identified moderate challenges in research writing, Culbongan’s research suggests a need for further exploration into how research manuals can be improved to better address students’ specific needs and build upon their existing knowledge. This innovative research was recognized where Culbongan received both the First Best Research Paper and First Best Oral Presenter awards in the Education category.

 Dr. Cherrie Mae M. Manuel’s Presentation “Community Immersion: Its Effect on the Lifelong Learning Skills of NSTP Students”

Dr. Cherrie Mae Manuel smiles after successfully presenting her paper at the UP Diliman School of Statistics organized by Books Beyond Publication.

Dr. Manuel shares her insights about her experience: “This international conference has shown me just how much there is to learn about research. Attending and participating in conferences like this is incredibly valuable for educators like myself who are involved in research-oriented teaching. While presenting at conferences can be nerve-wracking, I ultimately find it enjoyable because it helps me build my confidence.  Therefore, as someone who thrives in academia, I yearn for more opportunities to participate in international conferences, connect with a wider range of professionals, and continue learning from them.”

Manuel investigated the impact of community immersion (CI) programs on students’ lifelong learning skills. Her award-winning research (Second Best Research Paper and Oral Presenter in Leadership and Skills) focused on the National Service Training Program (NSTP), which combines community service with civic education. A survey of 217 NSTP students assessed their participation, perceived benefits, and effectiveness of immersion activities in developing lifelong learning skills. The findings revealed high engagement among students (mean score: 4.17 on a 5-point scale), with activities emphasizing teamwork, documentation, and solidarity building receiving the highest marks. There is a significant contribution of CI programs (mean score: 4.33) to lifelong learning, particularly in life skills development, self-understanding, and relationship-building. The program’s effectiveness was also highly rated (mean score: 4.26). She concluded that CI provided students with valuable experience and contributed to their holistic development, equipping them with a diverse skill set crucial for lifelong learning. These findings highlighted the importance of understanding community engagement initiatives to refine program strategies and ensure ethical practices.

PhD student Camella K. Mangili Shares her Conference Experience

Camella Mangili proudly holds the Certificate of Recognition awarded by BBP for BCU’s outstanding institutional partnership.

“The 5th IMRC at UP Diliman was a truly enriching experience. The energy and enthusiasm of researchers from diverse fields were palpable. It fostered a strong sense of community, a collective drive to push knowledge boundaries and solve pressing issues. This reminder of research’s global impact left me motivated to keep learning in my field.

 Most valuable were the connections forged. Engaging in discussions, sharing research, and learning from diverse experiences proved invaluable.  New and old friendships formed around a shared passion for research and innovation. The camaraderie and collaborative spirit were truly inspiring.

 The 5th IMRC’s legacy lives on. The knowledge shared, connections made, and inspiration ignited will continue to shape the future of research and innovation. Let this be a catalyst for ongoing intellectual exploration. There will be future conferences, new connections, and a never-ending wellspring of knowledge to explore. So, let’s keep the fire of curiosity alive. Who knows? At the next IMRC, your research or mine might spark inspiration in others.”

 The BCU community and Baguio City officials beam with pride at the achievements of their faculty and students at the 5th IMRC. These successes showcase BCU’s research excellence and the transformative power of innovation within our academic family.

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