The 3rd RISE 2025: ICREATE IMPACT International Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Conference, held from May 28 to 30, 2025, at WCC Aeronautical & Technological College in Binalonan, Pangasinan, once again showcased groundbreaking research and innovation aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With the theme “ICREATE-IMPACT: Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Presentations Advancing SDG-Focused Collaborations & Technological Innovation in Aviation & Aeronautics, Business, Tourism, Engineering, Health, & Education,” the conference gathered scholars, practitioners, and students dedicated to driving sustainable development through collaborative research and SDG-focused boot camps.
Baguio Central University, Recognized as Official Co-Organizer
Baguio Central University (BCU) proudly co-organized this prestigious event for the second consecutive year, submitting studies spanning a wide range of disciplines and presenting talks and workshops for the SDG #16 and #17 boot camp. The university’s dedicated contingent of administrators, faculty, and students not only showcased their work but also earned top honors, served as evaluators, and chaired sessions—underscoring BCU’s commitment to partnerships for the goals, academic excellence and sustainable innovation.
Plaque of recognition for Baguio Central University for the outstanding contribution as CO-ORGANIZER of the RISE 2025.
Double Win for Engr. Antero D. Mappang, Jr., a BCU MPA Graduand and DENR Valued Personnel
Engr. Antero D. Mappang, Jr. poses for posterity with his Certificate as a Presenter, joined by esteemed evaluators Dr. Teddy M. Fernandez and Dr. Irene De Vera from Pangasinan State University. Photo credit: The Chronicle Publication.
Adding to the university’s accolades, Engr. Antero D. Mappang, Jr., an MPA graduand and dedicated employee of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, won both Best Paper and Best Presenter for his pioneering research on the Implementation of the Philippine Reference System 1992 in Baguio City. Kudos as well to Engr. Criselda Felix, PhD, his knowledgeable adviser, who serves as a graduate school faculty member and research coordinator of the College of Engineering.
This conference marked Engr. Mappang’s first time presenting outside of Baguio, representing a significant milestone in his academic and professional journey. Special thanks are extended to Engr. Paquito T. Moreno, Jr., CESO III, Regional Executive Director of DENR-CAR, Engr. Benjamin A. Ventura, DENR-CAR OIC Asst. Regional Exec. Director for Technical Services; and to his colleagues at DENR for their invaluable support and for granting Engr. Mappang the opportunity to present his work at this prestigious international forum.
Engr. Antero Mappang and fellow BCU presenter Mr. Jefte Panganiban from the College of Criminal Justice Education proudly display their certificates. Mr. Panganiban presented the research titled “Dispute Resolution Strategies of the Lupon Tagapamayapa in Palma Urbano, Baguio City: A Qualitative-Descriptive Analysis.” Also in the photo is Engr. Criselda Felix, adviser to Engr. Mappang, who supported his research journey. Photo credit: Sonny Boy T. Ancheta.
His research: 1) Showcased the leadership of the University, BCU in advancing UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, particularly Target 9.1, which focuses on developing reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure—including geodetic systems that support national development and community well-being. 2) Strengthened academic and research networks by fostering impactful collaborations both regionally, thereby expanding opportunities for knowledge sharing and innovation. And 3) Promoted research initiatives aligned with the UN SDGs, driving advancements in sustainability and technological solutions.
Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dean and Research Coordinator (Graduate School), and Dr. Michael Sebullen, Director, RDO receive the Best Paper Award on behalf of Engr. Antero Mappang, Jr. Credit: The Chronicle Publication
Kristel D. Alcantara, a working student from CNSM, won the Best Presenter Award
Ms. Kristel D. Alcantara (College of Nursing and School of Midwifery) receives her Certificate of Recognition as the Best Presenter Awardee for the category of Health Technology. Photo credit: The Chronicle Publication.
Meanwhile, Kristel Dayami Alcantara, a student from the College of Nursing and School of Midwifery (CNSW), earned recognition as a Best Presenter for her compelling paper on the Challenges and Resilience of Parents Navigating a Child’s Cancer Diagnosis. She explored the emotional, financial, and social challenges faced by parents of children diagnosed with cancer in one of the Baguio City hospitals. The study highlighted the emotional burdens, varied coping strategies, and financial strains experienced by families, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive support systems. The research aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), advocating for holistic care that addressed both patient and family needs.
Research presenters from various universities (Health Technology 1), including Kristel Alcantara, joined by CNSM Research Coordinator Hilario Sanglay, session evaluators, the session chair, masters of ceremonies, and supporters in this group photo. Their collaboration highlights the vibrant academic community fostering research excellence. Photo credit: The Chronicle Publication.
BCU Graduate School Dean and Faculty Triumph as Best Presenters
Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang receives her award from Conference Chair Dr. Roger Martinez, Scientific and Innovations Chair Dr. Rosalie Rosales, Ms. Angelyn Maclang, and Dr. Marilyn Morales-Obod, fellow co-organizers. Kupang secured the Best Presenter award for the second consecutive year. Photo credit: Sonny Boy T. Ancheta.
Leading the charge was Graduate School Dean and International Relation Officer Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, who secured the Best Presenter award for the second consecutive year at RISE 2025, following her double wins as Best Paper and Best Presenter at RISE 2024. She was recognized for her insightful research on “Storytelling, Truth, and Peacebuilding: A Literary Critique of Maria Ressa and Colum McCann’s Vatican Speeches,” aligned with SDG 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. Her work, alongside faculty member Dr. Lourdes Trajano—also a Best Presenter awardee for her study on Healthy Work-Life Balance Among Teachers—highlighted the Graduate School’s dedication to addressing critical social issues through rigorous scholarship.
Two-time Best Presenter awardee Dr. Genevieve Balance Kupang beams with joy after presenting her paper during Parallel Session 10: Social Science, Arts, and Humanities, celebrating the success of her hard work using literary theories and criticisms. Photo credit: Sonny Boy T. Ancheta.
Dr. Genevieve Kupang’s award-winning research offers a literary critique of Maria Ressa and Colum McCann’s 2025 Vatican speeches, highlighting how storytelling can challenge disinformation, promote truth, and foster peacebuilding. Using feminist criticism, reader-response theory, and everyday peacebuilding framework, her study underscored the role of narrative in dismantling oppression and bridging cultural divides, directly supporting SDG 16’s goals for peace, justice and strong institutions.
Dr. Lourdes Trajano, faculty of Baguio Central University’s Graduate School, receives her Certificate of Recognition as Best Presenter from Conference Chair Dr. Roger Martinez, Scientific and Innovation Chair Dr. Rosalie Rosales, Dr. Marilyn Morales-Obod, and Ms. Angielyn Maclang Racquedan. Photo credit: The Chronicle Publication.
Dr. Lourdes Trajano’s award-winning study examined the Healthy Work-Life Balance of Teachers across various levels. Using a descriptive survey, her research revealed that teachers regularly employ strategies to maintain their well-being, though challenges like salary issues and heavy workloads persist. Her findings support SDG 3’s focus on promoting mental health and reducing workplace stress, underscoring the importance of well-being in educational settings.
Baguio Central University Soars High Through the Dedication and Hard Work of Every Delegate
BCU celebrates the passion and perseverance of all who contributed to the success of RISE 2025. Evaluator, Session Chairs, SDG Speakers, Research Presenters from left to right: Hilario Sanglay, Olea Romero, Cyril Pacis, Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dr. Michael T. Sebullen, Dr. Janice Alejandrino, Dr. Lourdes Trajano, Ms. Kristel Alcantara, Mr. Jefte Panganiban, Dr. Gina Casi, Ms. Marielle Kryzyl A. Datuin, and Mr. Sonny Boy Ancheta. Not in the picture are Dr. Cherrie Mae Manuel, Ms. Sheenah Pearl Pangda, Engr. Antero Mappang, Mr. Zoren N. Inowe, Dr. Lourdes Bela-o, Sir Karl Matthiue Rillera, Ms. Michaela Caryl Rillera, and Angelo Rillera.
Beyond individual achievements, BCU’s presentations covered diverse topics including community immersion challenges, dispute resolution strategies, environmental policy analysis, and inclusive education, demonstrating the university’s holistic approach to sustainable development. The success of BCU’s delegates reflects the university’s unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge that drives positive societal impact.
The BCU conference delegates extend their heartfelt gratitude to Madam President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, Marketing Officer Sir Karl Matthieu Rillera, Ma’am Michaela Caryl Rillera, Angelo Rillera, the Vice Presidents Dr. Elma Donaal, Dr. Perfecto Lopez, and Ma’am Amalia Ancheta, Research and Development Office Director Dr. Michael T. Sebullen, Deans, Research Coordinators, and all others who supported them throughout this RISE 2025 ICREATE IMPACT Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Conference.
Mabuhay po tayong lahat!
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