ICMAR 2025 Highlights SLSU’s Pioneering Role in Research and Innovation

The International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR 2025) successfully concluded its four-day run hosted by Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), with Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) researchers and leaders making a remarkable impact throughout the event.
The week opened on Tuesday with a full day of virtual paper presentations. SLSU made its presence felt early, with researchers actively presenting their studies online. Among them, Velinda T. Gorduiz stood out for her paper “Assessment of Machine Learning Algorithms for Land Use and Land Cover Analysis using Google Earth Engine Cloud Platform: A Case Study for NCR, Philippines” (Track 4: Environmental Sustainability). Her exceptional delivery earned her the recognition of Best Virtual Presenter, bringing pride to SLSU and setting the tone for the University’s strong performance at ICMAR 2025.’
On Wednesday, the conference formally opened with a grand processional, cultural showcase, and inspiring messages from academic leaders. The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno III, RD Leader for SLSU and one of the Stanford/Elsevier World’s Top 2% Scientists. His message underscored the importance of aligning research with global development goals.
The day also featured Plenary Speaker Dr. Eiten, who discussed advancing methodologies in research. An engaging open forum and the presentation of a Plaque of Distinction followed his talk. The afternoon was dedicated to on-site paper presentations, where SLSU faculty members actively contributed.
Thursday was filled with another round of research presentations and plenaries. Dr. Tahsina Yasmin delivered the second plenary, “Innovation for a Sustainable Future: Transformation in HEIs,” which was followed by a dynamic open forum.
SLSU presenters once again demonstrated the breadth and quality of their research. Papers tackled themes ranging from inclusive development to sustainable economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability.
Notable presenters included:
- Lucia Estella Grace Armada Abaa – Describing the OJT Program of BS-Social Work in SLSU-MCC (Track 2: Inclusive Development)
- Jorton A. Tagud – Inferential Analysis of Education Level Towards AI Usage Using Logical Regression (Track 2: Inclusive Development)
- Jet G. Sarvida – Grammatical Analysis of Education Student’s Vlog Scripts (Track 2: Inclusive Development)
- Dorris S. Lintao – Development and Implementation of Automated Notarial Data Management System (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Juanita M. Costillas – Analyzing Key Factors in Predicting Workforce Participation: A Quantitative Approach (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Karina G. Gutierrez – Optimizing Library Services: A Development Study for a Library Information System at SLSU-Maasin City Campus (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Jose C. Agoylo, Jr. – KNN and Naïve Bayes-Based Data Mining Approaches for Predicting Apple Quality (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Ingrid M. Uy – Charting the Path: A Bibliometric Analysis of Student Mobility and Global Leadership Research (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Dinah F. Catamco – Mapping Research Trajectories in Digital and Smart Tourism: A Bibliometric Review (2010–2024) (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Alma M. Arnejo – Mapping the Knowledge Base in Measuring Hotel Financial Performance: A Bibliometric Review (Track 3: Sustainable Economic Development)
- Jhon Mar A. Majerano – Evaluating the Impact of Feeding Frequency on Growth Performance and Feed Efficiency in Milkfish (Chanos chanos) (Track 4: Environmental Sustainability)
Day 3 also featured the awarding of Best Papers and Best Presenters per strand, where SLSU researchers emerged as strong contenders.
The week concluded on Friday with the Cultural Immersion Program, where participants explored Biliran’s scenic and cultural treasures: Ulan-Ulan Falls, ASEMCO Hilltop, Agta Beach Resort, Dalutan Island, and Bethany Hills. The immersion allowed delegates to connect outside the academic halls and celebrate culture, nature, and friendship.
Throughout the conference, SLSU’s pioneering role was evident — from research presentations and recognition of excellence, to leadership within the consortium. Dr. Jude A. Duarte, SLSU President and Chair of the VMCJP Board of Directors, and Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, SLSU Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Services and TWG Chairperson, were recognized for their vision and leadership that helped steer ICMAR 2025 to success.
For Southern Leyte State University, ICMAR 2025 was not only a showcase of its researchers’ excellence but also a reaffirmation of its leadership in driving innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration in the regional and national research landscape.