By the Research and Development Center | October 13, 2025
The morning air of October 13, 2025, carried more than the crisp Cordilleran chill—it carried anticipation, purpose, and pride. As the University Main Hall brimmed with faculty researchers, student presenters, and academic leaders, the 15th University Research Colloquium officially unfolded under the theme “Rise, Reflect, and Research: Building a Legacy of Innovation.”
The ceremony began with reverence and rhythm—Mr. Jomard L. Calamba leading the BCU Chamber Choir in the invocation, the National Anthem, and the BCU Hymn. The hall then came alive with the steady hum of voices and excitement as Engr. Lorelie S. Malit, the host, acknowledged the participating colleges and research units, each representing the growing research force of the university.
With the symbolic Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony led by University President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, alongside with Dr. Michael T. Sebullen, the Director for Research and key officials from CHED-CAR, the colloquium was declared open—not just as an event, but as a celebration of vision and perseverance. “Every ribbon cut,” Dr. Rillera shared, “marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to knowledge, innovation, and community transformation.”
Framing Vision: Rise, Reflect, and Research
In her Statement of Purpose, Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized that the colloquium is more than an academic exercise, it is a reflection of BCU’s rising legacy. “To rise,” he noted, “is to remember where we started. To reflect is to learn from what we’ve become. And to research is to keep moving forward with purpose.
Dr. Lourdes M. Trajano, Dean, College of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts, introduced the day’s plenary speakers—each a voice of thought leadership from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED-CAR)—whose insights would bridge reflection to action.
Plenary Reflections that Moved Minds
The first plenary speaker, Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes, CHED-CAR Regional Director, set a visionary tone with his talk “Rise, Reflect, and Research: Building a Legacy of Innovation.” He reminded the audience that research reaches its highest potential when it creates practical value for industries, communities, and the nation. “BCU’s bold dreams take root,” he said, “when commitment shapes every journey and unstoppable hearts rise to shine beyond the Cordillera.”
Following him, Dr. Bernadette C. Pal-ec, CHED Education Supervisor II, represented by Dr. Christopher A. Depnag, CHED Education Supervisor II spoke on “Future-Ready Scholarship: Building a Legacy of Innovation in Higher Education.” Anchored on CHED’s A.C.H.I.E.V.E. framework, he emphasized that access, equity, quality, relevance, flexibility, efficiency, and resilience are not mere ideals—they are the foundation of globally competitive graduates. “A strong research culture is the heartbeat of a future-ready university,” he noted, calling on institutions to turn knowledge into innovation that transforms societies.
After a brief health break, Dr. Christopher A. Depnag, CHED Education Supervisor II, with his dynamic talk “From Reflection to Action: Research as a Catalyst for National Growth.” His message challenged participants to translate reflection into policy and innovation that matter. “Research finds its worth when it moves beyond publication and begins shaping governance, policy, and community empowerment,” he stated.
Closing the plenary line-up was Dr. Godfrey G. Mendoza, CHED Education Supervisor II, whose presentation “Sustaining Growth through Research Excellence and Ethical Innovation” underscored the necessity of integrity in research. “Excellence must walk with ethics,” he declared. “Innovation without integrity builds progress without purpose.” His message resonated deeply as BCU continues to strengthen its own institutional research ethics systems and responsible innovation culture.
Synthesis and Shared Commitment
As the morning drew to a reflective close, Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dean of the Graduate School and International Relations Officer, moderated the open forum and panel synthesis. The discussion converged on a single truth—that research, when anchored in ethics and purpose, becomes a bridge between academic pursuit and societal transformation.
The first day of the colloquium ended not with applause alone, but with quiet conviction. Each presentation, each insight, and each exchange affirmed that BCU’s research legacy continues to rise—rooted in reflection, strengthened by collaboration, and propelled by the collective desire to serve the greater good.
A Rising Legacy
As the university embarks on its 80th Founding Anniversary, the message of the day was unmistakable: the journey of BCU research does not stop at reflection. It must move boldly toward innovation, grounded in ethics, and guided by the shared hope of transforming communities through knowledge.
At Baguio Central University, research is not just done—it is lived.
