San Fernando, La Union – April 10, 2026
Union Christian College successfully hosted the 3rd ASCRIBE SIMP–AAIRI–UCC Virtual Research Festival with the theme “Research for Resilience, Innovation, and Sustainability.” The event brought together undergraduate students from various academic disciplines, providing a platform for research presentations, scholarly exchange, and academic collaboration in partnership with the Singapore Institute of Multidisciplinary Professions.
The conference underscored the importance of strengthening research culture, fostering innovation, and advancing academic excellence in response to pressing global educational and societal challenges. The program formally commenced with opening remarks from Dr. Grace Hope P. Bautista, Principal of the Basic Education School of Union Christian College, followed by a welcome address from the College President, Rev. Dr. Ferdinand Anno. Both institutional leaders emphasized the critical role of cultivating student research engagement and reinforcing academic inquiry to address evolving global issues and promote educational transformation.
Keynote Speakers and Insights
The event featured distinguished keynote speakers who provided insights into research innovation, academic leadership, and emerging global trends in technology and finance. Dr. Mohammad Masukujjaman, Senior Lecturer at Management and Science University, Malaysia, Managing Director of ABS Research Academy, and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Human-Social Nexus, delivered his keynote address entitled “From Efficiency to Responsibility: Building Resilient and Sustainable Financial Systems in the Age of AI.” He talked about how digital transformation is changing financial systems.
He pointed out several key issues, including the convenience of digital transactions leading to overspending, the disparity between awareness of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and actual behavior, concerns regarding trust in AI adoption, and the growing need for financial discipline in a technology-driven environment. He emphasized that “Technology can accelerate progress – but only responsibility can sustain it.”
The second keynote speaker, Dr. Sandeep Poddar, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Lincoln University College, Malaysia, presented “Research for Resilience, Innovation, and Sustainability.” He discussed essential components of conducting rigorous research, including research planning, formulation of research questions, defining research purpose, methodological selection, utilization of resources, and adherence to ethical standards. He emphasized that research must be conducted responsibly and ethically, highlighting how technological advancement enables continuous discovery and innovation across industries. He further noted that past research findings continue to evolve, contributing significantly to societal progress and development.
The session concluded with an open forum, where both speakers actively engaged with participants and provided insightful responses to academic inquiries.
Panel of Evaluators
To ensure rigorous academic assessment, researchers were evaluated by distinguished panel members.
Humanities and Health Sciences
- Dr. Rose Merlyn M. Jubilo – Clinical Instructor at the School of Health Sciences, UCC.
- Dr. Cherrel G. Ignacio – Dean of the School of Education, Arts and Sciences, UCC.
Technology and Business
- Dr. Emma A. Ganuelas – Dean of the School of Business Sciences, UCC.
- Mr. Blendie V. Quiban Jr. – Program Head of BSCS/BSIS at the School of Business Sciences, UCC.
Advancing Basic Education Through Sustainable Research
The 3rd ASCRIBE highlighted exemplary student research across diverse disciplines, including Technology, Business, Humanities, and Health Sciences. The event also recognized the invaluable contributions of research advisers, organizing committees, and keynote speakers whose collective efforts ensured the success of the virtual conference.
The conference concluded with a message of gratitude delivered by Prof. Homer Noel P. Bautista, Coordinator of the Senior High School Basic Education Schools at Union Christian College, who underscored the importance of sustained academic collaboration, innovation, and research-driven development. He highlighted the collective efforts of all participants in advancing the institution’s research culture and strengthening scholarly engagement.
The organizing body, AAIRI, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting scholars, educators, and partner institutions in future initiatives that advance research excellence and address the evolving challenges of the contemporary academic and global landscape.
Stay Connected
For more information on upcoming research festivals, conferences, and academic collaborations, stay connected with the Ascendens Asia International Research Institute:
- Email: connect@aairi.org
- WhatsApp: +63 976 413 1096 / +65 8413 7706
- Facebook Page: Ascendens Asia International Research Institute
Social Profiles