SSC Leads with Excellence as Co-Host and Awardee in the 6th NMSCST Research Congress
Siquijor State College proudly served as a co-host of the 6th Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology (NMSCST) Research Congress held on November 6–8, 2025, at the NMSCST Convention Hall, Labuyo, Tangub City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines.
The congress focused on the theme “Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through Innovative, Inclusive, and Impact-driven Research,” that gathered researchers, educators, students, and professionals from co-hosts institutions from SAFE Network, St. Paul University Manila, USTP-Panaon, St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Palompon Institute of Technology, Universitas Andalas–Indonesia including Siquijor State College.
“Alam ninyo madalas kong sinasabi sa mga State Universities and Colleges hindi sapat na nakapublish lang tayo ng research. The question that we must always ask is who benefits from our work because the true measure of research excellence is not the number of citations but the number of lives we uplift.” – CHED Commissioner, Dr. Desiderio Apag III, shared one of his key points in his plenary address.
The Research Congress was divided into four strands, from Track 1 to Track 4, encompassing both student and faculty research categories. SSC also celebrates its remarkable achievement, receiving both the Best Paper and Best Presenter during the event. With honor and pride, SSC secured the following Best Paper Awards under Track 3 – Sustainable Economic Growth and Good Governance Faculty Category in which SSC got 1st place and 3rd place. On the other hand, Best Presenter Awards under Track 2 – Inclusive Education and Human Development Faculty Category in which SSC secured 2nd place while Track 3 – Sustainable Economic Growth and Good Governance Faculty Category secured 1st and 2nd place.
Dr. Dawn Iris Calibo-Senit, Director for Research, had proudly shared her valuable expertise as a Plenary Speaker with an insightful lecture titled: “Rethinking Research and Policy for Sustainable Economic Futures.” She also served as the track 3 panel evaluator. Meanwhile, Dr. Roel Taroc, VP for PRIME, served as the track 2 panel evaluator.
“Amidst of the effect of Typhoon Tino impacting Siquijor and Negros Island Region, we are unable to join the congress physically, nevertheless, our support, solidarity, and shared commitment as a co-host remains steadfast. We stand beside our colleagues and partner institutions in advancing meaningful scholarship and collective actions. May this congress inspire thoughtful dialogue, deepen collaboration and spark research that creates lasting and transformative impacts. May it continue to nurture a culture of inquiry that serves society and strengthens our shared future. Padayon! In purpose, in partnership and in progress. Together we rise. Together we realize. May our research light tomorrow where hope and wisdom harmonize.” – expressed SUC President II, Dr. Steven J. Sumaylo in his inspiring message on the second day of the event.
The participation of SSC in the NMSCST Research Congress highlights the institution’s continued dedication to advancing research that creates meaningful impact, under the leadership of the ever-dynamic SUC President II, Dr. Steven J. Sumaylo. Through its achievements and active involvement, SSC reaffirms its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development in higher education.
