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.
Double Win for Engr. Antero D. Mappang, Jr., a BCU MPA Graduand and DENR Valued Personnel
Adding to the university’s accolades, Engr. Antero D. Mappang, Jr.a—n 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.
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.
Kristel D. Alcantara, a working student from CNSM, won the Best Presenter Award
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.
BCU Graduate School Dean and Faculty Triumph as Best Presenters
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.
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’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
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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