ECHAGUE, ISABELA — June 4, 2026 — Isabela State University (ISU) Roxas Campus once again demonstrated its commitment to research excellence after securing top honors during the 2026 Undergraduate and Graduate Research and Development (R&D) Symposium – University Level held at the De Venecia Hall, ISU-Echague.
Competing against outstanding research entries from various ISU campuses, ISU Roxas Campus emerged as one of the top-performing campuses, earning two First Place awards and one Second Place award across major research categories.
Award-Winning Researches
🥇 1st Place – Undergraduate Higher Education Research Category
“Redefining Research Integrity in Higher Education Amid the Rise of Generative AI”
Researcher: James L. Collantes
Adviser: Januard D. Dagdag
The study explored the evolving landscape of research integrity in higher education amid the increasing use of generative artificial intelligence, providing valuable insights that can guide future policies, ethical practices, and responsible AI-assisted scholarship.
🥇 1st Place – Undergraduate Technical Research Category
“Sustainable Utilization of Tomato Overproduction: Product Development and Market Potential of Tomato Seasoning Mix”
Researchers:
- Rhea Mae A. Lovero
- Regie F. Macalma Jr.
- Nathan Jay A. Salguet
Adviser: Edna M. Valdez
The research focused on addressing post-harvest losses through the development of a tomato seasoning mix, demonstrating its technical feasibility, market potential, and contribution to sustainable agricultural utilization.
🥈 2nd Place – Graduate Technical Research Category
“Occurrence and Multidrug Resistance Profiles of Bacteria Associated with Cage-Cultured Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in Magat Reservoir, Philippines”
Researchers:
- Jefferson K. Soriano
- Isagani P. Angeles Jr.
The study contributed significant findings on aquatic health and antimicrobial resistance, supporting sustainable aquaculture practices and fisheries management.
The annual symposium, organized by the Office of the University Director for Research and Development, serves as a platform for recognizing exemplary undergraduate and graduate research initiatives that contribute to scientific advancement, innovation, and community development.
Entries were evaluated based on creativity and originality, quality and organization of the research paper, relevance and significance of the study, and quality of oral presentation. The outstanding performance of the ISU Roxas Campus researchers reflects the University’s continuing efforts to strengthen its research culture and promote innovation-driven solutions to contemporary challenges.
University officials, faculty members, and the research community expressed their pride and appreciation for the achievements of the researchers, whose work continues to uphold the University’s vision of becoming a leading research-driven institution.
The entire ISU Roxas Campus community extends its warmest congratulations to all the researchers, advisers, mentors, and support teams whose dedication and hard work brought honor and distinction to the campus and the University.
Congratulations to our award-winning researchers! Your achievements exemplify excellence in research, innovation, and service to society, inspiring future generations of scholars and innovators.