by Michael T. Sebullen and Cherrie Mae M. Manuel
Binalonan, Pangasinan – May 28, 2025 — The 3rd Research Innovations for Sustainable Education (RISE 2025) officially opened today at the WCC Aeronautical and Technological College (WCC ATC) in Binalonan, Pangasinan. The event brought together academic leaders, researchers, students, and international collaborators in a unified effort to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, research, and innovation.
The program began with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by officials from CHED Region 1, WCC-ATC executives, and representatives of co-organizing higher education institutions. This was followed by the invocation and the singing of the Philippine national anthem, the Pangasinan and Binalonan hymns, and the official hymns of CHED and WCC-ATC. In the absence of Dr. Raymond V. Guico, President of World Citi Colleges and WCC-ATC, the Welcome Address was delivered by Dr. Roger A. Martinez Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Martinez emphasized the vital role of research-driven innovation in addressing societal issues and advancing the goals of sustainable education.
The morning’s plenary talks began with the keynote address of Dr. Jude William Genilo, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, who tackled the challenges and opportunities in aligning research with sustainable development. This was followed by Dr. Gaurang Rami of Veer Narmad South Gujarat University in India, who highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary and industry-academic collaboration as a driver for innovation. Adding to the momentum of scholarly exchange, Dr. Mosharrof Hosen of Taylor’s University in Malaysia discussed the role of higher education institutions in achieving the SDGs.
Dr. Raymundo D. Rovillos, President of Pangasinan Polytechnic College, focused on how culture and creativity can shape sustainable development. Mr. Gomer Gomez, Bank Officer II of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, capped the plenary talks with insights on digital finance and green banking for a sustainable future. While Dr. Christine Nabor Ferrer, Director IV of CHED Regional Office I, was unable to join the morning sessions, she arrived later in the day and delivered an inspirational closing message. In her remarks, Dr. Ferrer reaffirmed CHED’s support for research and innovation initiatives that position higher education institutions as key players in achieving national and global development goals.
A brief awarding ceremony followed to recognize the contributions of the keynote, plenary speakers, and co-organizers of the event. In the mid-morning segment, Dr. Rosalie Sheryll T. Rosales, Director of the Research and Project Development Office of WCCATC Binalonan Campus, and Dr. Marilyn M. Obod, Head of the RDPO of World Citi Colleges, led the presentation of delegates for the project exhibits. The assessment and judging of the exhibits were conducted by an esteemed panel composed of CHED RO1 officials and industry experts like Dr. Thelma D. Palaoag of the University of the Cordilleras.
In the afternoon, the program continued with SDG Boot Camps grouped by focus areas and culminated in a dynamic round table discussion among delegates. RISE 2025 was held from May 28-May 30, 2025, at the WCC ATC Cabin Hall, and is expected to generate meaningful outcomes that support sustainable transformation in education and beyond.
The success of RISE 2025 was made possible through the dedicated preparations and collaboration of WCC Aeronautical and Technological College, Baguio Central University, Pangasinan State University, University of Luzon, Lyceum-Northwestern University, Urdaneta City University, World Citi Colleges (Quezon City and Guimba campuses), the Commission on Higher Education, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Pressenza, Ginhawa, Inc. Regional News Group (RNG) Luzon, and C&E Publishing, Inc.
Conference participants expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the seamless organization and warm hospitality extended by these institutions and partners. Together, they fostered an inspiring environment for knowledge exchange, innovation, and commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This collective effort not only highlighted the power of academic and institutional partnerships but also set a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration toward sustainable development and transformative education in the years ahead.
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