Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), a vibrant hub of academic excellence in Western Visayas, proudly participated in the highly successful BEST 2025 International Research Conference, held from July 17–19, 2025, at the La Carmela de Boracay Hotel on Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. The event served as a platform to showcase NISU’s unwavering commitment to advancing research and fostering innovative collaborations on both national and international fronts.

 

As a co-host of BEST 2025—alongside the Innovative Technology Convergence Society (ITCS) Inc., Aklan State University (ASU), University of Antique (UA), and Universitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI)—NISU underscored its growing influence within the global research community. This partnership highlights the university’s ongoing dedication to promoting research excellence and progressive leadership.

 

Central to the success of the conference was the strong leadership and participation of NISU. Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, University President of NISU, served as Conference Chair, providing vision and strategic guidance throughout the event. Supporting him was Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension, who played a vital role in ensuring the seamless execution of the research conference while driving NISU’s research agenda forward.

 

NISU researchers stood out among the participants, receiving several top accolades for their work. Notable awardees included:

 

Dr. Mark John A. Belleza, recognized as Best Presenter for his study “A Pyramid of Strength: The Pedagogical Resilience of Adaptive Mathematics Teachers (PRAM)”.

 

Dr. Felipe P. Vista IV, University Director for the Office of the Research and Development Services, whose paper “Improved QDCM Library & Use of Quadratic Bezier Function for Carotid Artery Plaque System” won Best Presenter and Best Paper awards.

 

Mr. Jomar Von R. Laforteza, from the Office of Scientific Publications, also received a Best Paper award for “Isolation and Characterization of Putative Probiotics from Gut Microflora of 'Lagao' (Nemipterus japonicus)”.

 

 

The conference also featured distinguished guest speakers who enriched the academic discourse. Among them was Dr. Lamhot Naibaho, S.Pd., M.Hum, Associate Professor at the English Education Study Program, Faculty of Letters and Languages, Universitas Kristen Indonesia. Additionally, Dr. Ma. Xerxa Doan P. Billones-Franco, Dean of the College of Education at NISU, served as one of the esteemed Session Chairs, ensuring dynamic and engaging discussions during the presentations.

 

Beyond the award-winning research, several other NISU scholars made meaningful contributions:

 

Dr. Noli B. Ballara (presenter) and Dr. Ma. Xerxa Doan P. Billones-Franco: “Reading Skills: The Case of Frustration Level Learners in Northern Iloilo, Philippines”

 

Dr. Denro B. Macario (virtual presenter): “Effect of Video-Recorded Replay on Physical Education Performance: Input to Physical Education Instructional Approach”

 

Dr. Rene D. Arduo (virtual presenter): “Design and Development of Faculty Evaluation Software for Teaching Effectiveness for SUCs”

 

Dr. Denzil I. Galon: “Assessment on Employability Skills of Hospitality Industry Graduating Students on Negros Island Region and Iloilo Province, Philippines”

 

These presentations reflect NISU’s diverse research interests and its commitment to tackling key issues relevant to education, health, technology, and socio-economic development.

 

NISU’s involvement in BEST 2025 is a testament to its role as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the region. As it continues to build strong linkages with local, national, and international institutions, the university remains steadfast in its vision: to become a globally competitive State University in Asia, committed to delivering quality education, pioneering sustainable technologies, and upholding Filipino values for an improved quality of life.