Championing Cybersecurity Integration In Software Development

24th JMRC International Presenter | Information Technology Educator | Cybersecurity Research Advocate

The Mind Behind the Study

For Owen Harvey Balocon, research is not an academic checkbox—it is a responsibility.

Currently a College Instructor in Information Technology at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Owen has long been immersed in both teaching and institutional research. He previously served as Research and Extension Coordinator on his campus, guiding faculty and student initiatives toward stronger scholarly output.

His academic journey reflects both depth and direction. He is pursuing a Master of Public Affairs major in Education Management at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, holds a Master of Management in IT Management from Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba, completed his Professional Teaching Certificate at UP Open University, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from City College of Calamba.

But beyond credentials, Owen describes himself as naturally curious. His instinct to question, analyze, and validate ideas through evidence is what led him deeper into research.

“Research,” he says, “is where evidence meets innovation. It is how we move from assumption to truth.”

Securing Systems Before They Are Built

At the 24th Joint Multidisciplinary Research Conference (24JMRC) in Kuala Lumpur, Owen presented his study titled:

“Prioritizing Information Security: Analysis of Software Development Life Cycle Methodologies Using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.”

His research examined five major Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) methodologies and analyzed them through the lens of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.

Rather than declaring a “best” SDLC model, Owen uncovered something more practical—and more urgent. He identified how cybersecurity measures can be intentionally embedded within each stage of the development process.

The message was clear: security should not be added after a system is deployed. It must be integrated from day one.

In an era defined by data breaches, ransomware, and digital vulnerabilities, Owen’s work reinforces a powerful principle: prevention outperforms reaction. Organizations that anticipate threats through structured security integration perform far better than those that scramble to fix breaches after damage has been done.

“Wise leadership isn’t only reactive—it is preventative,” he emphasizes.

Discipline, Depth, and Discovery

Owen’s research journey was not marked by a single dramatic breakthrough. Instead, it was shaped by discipline and intellectual immersion.

One of his greatest realizations was the importance of reviewing related literature. What once felt procedural became foundational. Through deep reading, he identified research gaps, strengthened his arguments, and clarified his contributions.

“I let myself be absorbed by the process,” he shares. “Reading without rushing helped me think without limits.”

Time management posed challenges, as it does for many researchers, balancing academic and professional commitments. Yet through consistency, Owen found rhythm—and through rhythm, clarity.

Presenting at the 24JMRC was more than an academic milestone—it was a defining professional moment.

Inspired by a respected colleague who had previously participated in Ascendens Asia’s conferences, Owen took the leap. Standing before an international audience in Kuala Lumpur, he shared insights that resonated beyond borders.

He describes the experience as empowering: the exchange of ideas, the exposure to global perspectives, and the pride of representing his institution internationally.

One particular session on AI integration in education sparked new directions for his work. It prompted him to consider how AI might be embedded not only in IT systems, but also in curriculum design and instructional development within his own institution.

Research, for Owen, is never static. It evolves.

Research with Purpose Beyond Publication

Looking ahead, Owen plans to explore cybersecurity innovations, application development, human-computer interaction, and even development studies. His vision extends beyond journal publication.

His aspiration is clear: to see his work cited internationally, indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, and translated into practical implementations in IT security, education management, and digital governance.

“I want my work to live beyond paper—to guide action, influence decisions, and protect communities.”

In a digital world where vulnerabilities multiply daily, research like his serves not only academia—but society.

Growing with AAIRI

Owen acknowledges the role of the Ascendens Asia International Research Institute (AAIRI) in expanding his academic horizon.

Through the 24JMRC, he connected with fellow scholars, engaged with global audiences, and reaffirmed his commitment to lifelong learning. While he candidly notes areas for growth—such as expanded indexation efforts and more regional engagements—his optimism remains strong.

“AAIRI is more than a stage,” he says. “It’s a stepping stone for researchers like me to grow, connect, and lead.”

And that is perhaps the true value of platforms like AAIRI: not merely providing a venue for presentation, but cultivating a community where research becomes action and scholarship becomes leadership.

A Final Word to Emerging Researchers

“To young researchers and IT professionals: Let your curiosity drive you. Ask questions. Read widely. Share boldly. The more we seek the truth and use it for good, the more we help shape a digital world that’s not only smarter—but safer.”

As cybersecurity becomes central to digital transformation, voices like Owen’s remind us that innovation without security is incomplete—and research without action is unfinished.

For those ready to elevate their work to international platforms, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to a safer digital future, AAIRI continues to open doors.

For more information on upcoming research festivals and collaborations, stay connected with Ascendens Asia International Research Institute.
Email: connect@aairi.org
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