The Isabela State University Cauayan Cluster successfully conducted the “2026 Search for Best Graduate and Undergraduate Research” on May 26, 2026, at the BPOTS Training Hall, Ramon Magsaysay Building, ISU Cauayan Campus in Cauayan City, Isabela, gathering student researchers, faculty advisers, evaluators, and academic leaders in a celebration of research excellence and innovation.
The activity officially began with the registration of participants from different campuses, followed by an opening ceremony that featured an invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem through an audio-visual presentation. Prof. Dr. Lorelei C. Tabago, Cluster Director for Research, Development, and Knowledge Transfer Management, welcomed the participants, evaluators, moderators, facilitators, and guests, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the culture of research within the university.
An inspirational message was delivered by Atty. Romano P. Cammayo, Campus Administrator of Roxas, who highlighted the vital role of research in promoting academic growth, innovation, and community development. Meanwhile, Dr. Rosalyn L. Bautista discussed the objectives of the competition and the evaluation criteria, noting that the activity aims to recognize outstanding theses and research studies while encouraging students to contribute meaningful knowledge and innovations to society.
The presentation of participants and evaluators was facilitated by Dr. Kelvin Kris C. Gonzales before participants proceeded to their assigned venues for paper presentations.
Research presentations were conducted under four categories: Higher Education Research, Social Research, Technological Research, and Technical Research. The evaluation focused on Creativity and Originality of Work, Quality and Organization of Paper, Relevance and Significance of the Study, and Quality of Oral Presentation. Evaluators carefully assessed each entry based on originality, clarity, applicability, and overall contribution to academic and community advancement.
During the closing program, certificates were awarded to evaluators in recognition of their support and contributions to the success of the event. Winners from the different categories were also announced.
Under the Higher Education Category, Roxas Campus participants Christine Valdez, advised by Dr. Januard D. Dagdag, secured 3rd Place, while James Collantes, also under the guidance of Dr. Dagdag, earned 1st Place.
For the Technical Category – Undergraduate Level, Nicos R. Sarte, advised by Dr. Marites R. Castro, won 3rd Place. The group composed of Rhea Mae A. Lovero, Regie F. Macalma Jr., and Nathan Jay A. Salguet, under the mentorship of Ms. Edna M. Valdez, captured 1st Place honors.
In the Technical Category – Graduate Level, Caira D. Formentera, advised by Mary Joy L. Asprec, received 3rd Place. Maria Crystel G. Salvador, mentored by Laila G. Castro, achieved 2nd Place, while Jefferson K. Soriano, advised by Isagani P. Angeles Jr., emerged as the 1st Place winner.
The successful conduct of the event demonstrated the collective efforts of organizers, evaluators, facilitators, moderators, and participants. More importantly, it provided a platform for students to showcase their research capabilities, exchange ideas, and contribute innovative solutions for academic and community development, further strengthening the research culture of the ISU Cauayan Cluster.
