The College of Education, Arts and Sciences (CEAS) of the University of Batangas Lipa City (UBLC) gathered student researchers, faculty members, and academic leaders for the Research Colloquium 2026 on May 30, 2026, at the UBLC Tiered Hall. Carrying the theme, “The Convergence Quest: Uniting Minds, Shaping Perspectives,” the event highlighted research excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration through the presentation and evaluation of studies that address contemporary issues and contribute to the advancement of knowledge across various disciplines.
The colloquium served as a platform for researchers to disseminate findings, exchange ideas, and engage in scholarly discussions that promote critical thinking, innovation, and evidence-based solutions. Through oral presentations and research abstract evaluations, participants showcased studies that reflected the college’s commitment to academic excellence, research productivity, and community-responsive scholarship. Serving as panel evaluators were Dr. Pastor R. Arguelles Jr., Director of the Research and Publications Office; Warren P. Liwana, RPm, MSP, CHRA, faculty member of the Psychology Department; and Dr. Minerva Apita-Chavez, Dean of the College of Education, Arts and Sciences.
The event also coincided with a virtual colloquium that brought together more than 56 local and international researchers who presented studies in the areas of education, curriculum and pedagogy, engineering and technology, environmental studies, social sciences, arts and humanities, as well as undergraduate thesis research. Through these academic engagements, the colloquium fostered collaboration among researchers and further strengthened the culture of inquiry within the university.
In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Pastor R. Arguelles Jr., Director of the Research and Publications Office (RPO) of the University of Batangas Lipa City, shared insights from his professional journey from industry practice to academia, emphasizing how research became a vital bridge between theory and real-world application. Drawing from his experience as both an industry professional and academician, he highlighted the transformative role of research in advancing knowledge, informing decisions, and addressing societal challenges. He encouraged students and faculty members to view the colloquium as a starting point in strengthening the university’s research culture and building a more visible research presence within and beyond the institution. Dr. Arguelles also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting research initiatives through the Research and Publications Office, assuring participants that the necessary guidance, resources, and opportunities are available to help researchers develop studies that create meaningful academic and community impact.
Among the research papers presented, “Development and Utility of Lemon Peels Based Bio-leather: An Eco-Friendly Alternative for Biology Laboratory Protective Surface Covers at University of Batangas Lipa Campus” by Claire Ysabel Santiago, Althea Mariz Sepe, Larraine Hubilla, and Shaina Marie Gutierrez of Bachelor of Science in Psychology emerged as the recipient of both the Best Abstract and Best Presenter awards, with Santiago representing the group during the presentation. The study highlighted an innovative and sustainable approach to utilizing agricultural waste as an environmentally friendly laboratory material, demonstrating the potential of research-driven solutions in addressing sustainability challenges.
Meanwhile, the study titled “An Experimental Study on the Impact of Emotional Word Presentation on Attentional Bias Using the Stroop Task Among the Students of University of Batangas–Lipa Campus” by Jharra Loriefhel D. Arcilla, Jeric D. Baluno, Rheanna Mae Cosme, Ninna Clarice Ga, Alea Joy H. Lat, Axel R. Magpantay, Marifel Pesigan, and Sofia Andrea B. Recto, also from the Bachelor of Science in Psychology received the 2nd Best Abstract and 2nd Best Presenter awards, with Recto serving as presenter. The research examined cognitive and psychological processes among students, contributing valuable insights to the field of behavioral and psychological studies.
Also recognized during the colloquium was “Assessing Choice Board as a Differentiated Learning Strategy for College Students: Basis for a Teacher Resource Website” by Marisol D. Titular, Jean Paula T. Arellano, and Sophhia Marie J. Peñaranda, from the Teacher Education Program which earned the 3rd Best Abstract award for its contribution to innovative teaching and learning practices. The 3rd Best Presenter award was conferred upon Jasper L. Balita of the third-year class, Bachelor of Science in Psychology for presenting the study “The Effect of Notification Frequency on Mental Focus Among University of Batangas–Lipa Campus Students,” co-authored with Kaila Rhoda M. Corral, Patricia Claire Lago, Alyana Mikaella G. Marcelino, Keiai M. Undang, Keana G. Villanueva, and Barbeth Joyce A. Viñas. The research explored the effects of digital notifications on student concentration and academic performance in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
Through the Research Colloquium 2026, CEAS reinforced the vital role of research in generating knowledge, addressing societal concerns, and developing innovative solutions. The activity advanced the principles of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education by promoting research-based learning and academic excellence; SDG 9 on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through the development of innovative and sustainable solutions; SDG 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by fostering ethical, evidence-based inquiry and informed decision-making; and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals through collaborative engagement among students, faculty members, and academic stakeholders. The initiative reflects the University of Batangas Lipa City’s continuing commitment to cultivating a vibrant research culture, empowering future researchers, and producing knowledge that contributes to sustainable development and societal progress.