SMU Research Center

29/10/2026

𝗦𝗠𝗨 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗘: 𝗡𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗩𝗛𝗥𝗗𝗖 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺!

Saint Mary’s University (SMU), through its School of Health and Natural Sciences (SHANS), celebrates the outstanding achievement of Jan Xedric Timbang, a senior nursing student who clinched 1st Place in the Digital Poster Presentation (Student Category) at the Cagayan Valley Health Research and Development Consortium (CVHRDC) Annual Health Research Forum, held on October 26–27, 2026, at Highlander Hotel & Resort in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya.

Timbang earned the top honor for his research, “Experiences of Nursing Students on Artificial Intelligence,” which explores nursing students’ experiences and perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in nursing education. His work highlights the importance of understanding how emerging technologies shape nursing students’ learning experiences and preparation for future professional practice.

Similarly, the nursing team led by Caleja represented the "Research to Reels" video contest. This initiative actively promotes health research through public education and community engagement.

SMU Nursing faculty members also represented the University in the professional research competitions:

Mary Rose Jontilano presented “Teenage Filipino Fathers: A Transition into their Lived Experiences” in the Digital Poster Presentation (Professional Category).

Precila Kyla Thiam presented “Exploring the Postpartum Experiences of First-Time Teenage Mothers” in the Oral Presentation (Professional Category).

Exchere Tiara Alzate competed in the 3-Minute Pitch to Policymakers category with “Psychosocial Effects of Mobile Games on Senior High School Students.”

Anchored on the forum’s theme, “Blending Research Innovation with Indigenous Knowledge, Culture, and Resources for Sustainable Futures,” these accomplishments reflect SMU’s commitment to research, innovation, and the advancement of health and education.

These research initiatives also contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Congratulations to Jan Xedric Timbang and our dedicated faculty researchers for bringing pride to the Marian community! May your achievements inspire more students and faculty members to pursue meaningful research that advances knowledge and serves society. Marian excellence in research, innovation, and service!

29/10/2026

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗪𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝘄𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗬𝗔 𝟳.𝟬 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗣𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Students from Saint Mary’s University (SMU) School of Accountancy and Business (SAB) secured two of the five major awards at the KINAYA 7.0 Social Entrepreneurship Development Program’s Business Pitching Competition held on October 21, 2026, at the Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) Mini Theater in Bayombong.

Leading SMU’s wins, AniWorth earned Best Overall Business Plan for its proposed social enterprise that transforms eligible surplus vegetables into marketable snacks, including tomato and cabbage chips. The team comprises King Ranier C. Ambeguia (BSE 4), Anasha Charmelotte V. Cinense (BSBA-MM 4), Julliana C. Panaligan (BSE 3), Daniella Evelyne E. Tolentino (BSBA-FM 2), and Maria Atasha Dorain Reyes (BSBA-MM 3). The team was coached by Mrs. Claire L. Guinomon and Mr. Roy B. Lumidao.

Meanwhile, DALAW won Most Innovative Product for its reusable cloth sanitary pads, which promote affordable and sustainable menstrual care while providing livelihood opportunities for women and menstrual health education for young girls. Its members are Khatarina Jane R. Castillo (BSBA-MM 3), Giorgia Trish C. Castillo (BSBA-MM 4), Josea Glorien T. Castillo (BSBA-FM 2), Ma. Anne Lorraine S. Corpuz (BSE 4), and Allia Jadyn A. Nicolas (BSTM 4). The team was coached by Ms. Mikaela Arantxa R. Nuestro and Mrs. Angela C. Garra.

The other awards recognized enterprises from partner institutions. Patulud of PLT College Inc. received Best Social Impact for its local tricycle-hailing application, while Vizora of NVSU–Bayombong won Best Environmental Impact for its three-in-one, bio-based crop protection product made from orange, ginger, and marigold. Katmona, also from NVSU–Bayombong, received Best Economic Potential for its katmon fruit-based food products.

The three-day KINAYA 7.0 culminating activities, held from October 20 to 22, were organized by PeopleDev International Corp. (PIC), Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU), and the Production and Operations Management Association of the Philippines (PROMAP). Anchored on the theme “Empowering Communities through Innovation and Sustainable Enterprise,” the program brought together students, educators, and industry practitioners to promote innovation, social entrepreneurship, and sustainable community development.

The recognition highlights the Marians’ efforts to develop business concepts that address community needs while creating economic, social, and environmental value.

Written by: Ms. Mikaela Arantxa R. Nuestro
Photos by: Daniella Evelyne E. Tolentino and Ms. Sheryl Adducul- Baria

29/10/2026

𝗦𝗠𝗨 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗔𝗚𝗢𝗦 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

On October 19, 2026, Team AGOS of Saint Mary’s University secured third place in the Cagayan Innovation Hack 2026 Final Pitch with a research-based decision-support system designed to help communities prepare for potential water shortages amid El Niño.

The team is composed of Ms. Rocel Audrey J. Batara, ICLMS Department Head, Ms. Krby Zyryll G. Perez, Mr. Kim Paolo C. Salgado, Mr. Muhammad Al-Batesh and Mr. Ic Ramzil Ruiz.

AGOS, which stands for Adaptive Geographic Optimization System for Water Security, integrates geographic data to help local governments assess water availability, identify potential shortages, and explore practical solutions. Amid El Niño and dry spells, the system aims to support data-driven planning and strengthen water security across the region.

“Nu tikag awan danum, nu bagyo layos,” shared Mr. Muhammad Al-Batesh, highlighting the importance of preparing for water-related challenges.
Through AGOS, the team advocates proactive planning, collaboration, and continued innovation to safeguard water resources. By translating research into practical solutions, AGOS aims to help communities make informed decisions and build a more water-secure and resilient future.

The Cagayan Innovation Hack 2026 was organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region II and the Cagayan Valley Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development Consortium (CVIEERDEC), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Cagayan Innovation Hub (PGC iHub).
Participating researchers addressed actual problem statements identified by the province, developing research and technology proposals through mentoring sessions before presenting their solutions during the final pitch.

Team AGOS’s achievement reflects SMU’s continuing commitment to research and innovation that transforms ideas into practical, evidence-based solutions. As communities face growing challenges in water resource management, initiatives such as AGOS underscore the importance of research-driven action in building sustainable and resilient communities.

Written by: Ms. Krby Zyryll G. Perez, PIO Coordinator
Photo by: Ms. Rocel Audrey J. Batara, ICLMS Department Head

29/10/2026

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗽 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀: 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶-𝗥𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝘀 𝗣𝗦𝗖 𝗫𝗜 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝟮 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽, 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗞𝘄𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝗴𝗼

From the Top 17 regional finalists to the championship title, Saint Mary’s University continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation as Team Agri-Renta emerged as champion in the Philippine Startup Challenge XI (PSC XI) Regional Competition in Region 2. Meanwhile, Team KwartoKeeper secured the Best Logo award, marking SMU’s fourth consecutive win in the category.

Anchored on the theme “The Next Frontier of Filipino Innovation,” PSC XI highlights the creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial potential of Filipino students as they develop innovative solutions to address real-world challenges.

Team Agri-Renta is composed of Mr. Andrei Luis Raymundo, Mr. Cecilio Cesar Liwag, and Mr. Ned Bryne Pinkihan, with Ms. Krby Zyryll Perez as their mentor. The team will advance to the cluster-wide competition.

Meanwhile, Team KwartoKeeper, composed of Ms. Me Jouy Paspie, Ms. Jerulyn Kate Sagun, and Ms. Sheila Mae Liwanag, with Ms. Rocel Audrey Batara as their mentor, earned the Best Logo award.

Special recognition is also extended to Mr. Jericho Pineda and Mr. Ken Quiambao for their valuable guidance and support to both teams throughout the competition, as well as to their thesis group members, Mr. John Paul Dress, Mr. Neil Teddy Ajaban, and Mr. Jerome Dwight Angelo Bautista, for their unwavering encouragement and support throughout the competition.

The achievement highlights DICT Region 2 commitment to nurturing young innovators and strengthening the startup ecosystem by empowering students to transform ideas into innovative solutions.

As Team Agri-Renta prepares for the cluster-wide competition, SMU proudly celebrates both teams for embodying the university’s guiding spirit, Inspired by Mission and Driven by Excellence. Their achievements reflect SMU’s commitment to nurturing student innovators who transform ideas into meaningful solutions and contribute to a more enterprising and innovation-driven Philippines.

Written by: Ms. Krby Zyryll G. Perez, PIO Coordinator
Photo by: Ms. Rocel Audrey J. Batara, ICLMS Department Head

29/10/2026

𝗥𝗖 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁𝘀

Advancing the university’s commitment to high-quality research, the University Research Center (URC) conducted the Capacitation and Certification of Quantitative Data Analysts on October 28, 2026, at AP Computer Laboratory 202. The training equipped participants with practical statistical analysis skills and greater confidence in selecting methods suited to their research data and questions.

The event opened with a prayer led by Engr. Rojan I. Reyes, SEAIT Research Coordinator. Ms. Geraldine Y. Ferreras, Nursing Research Coordinator, then delivered the opening remarks and presented the session’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of sound data analysis in producing reliable research findings.

Dr. Melanie G. Sarmiento served as the resource speaker. Her sessions introduced participants to Jamovi for generating statistical tables and explained how to choose suitable statistical tests based on the data and research questions. Through practical guidance, participants explored approaches to conducting analyses accurately and interpreting results with greater confidence.

The program provided faculty researchers with an opportunity to strengthen their quantitative research skills and build familiarity with valuable statistical tools. Through initiatives such as this, URC continues to support research development and the production of rigorous, evidence-based scholarship.

Written by: Dr. Monaloufel Rosario F. Jasmin, SAB-Research Coordinator

29/10/2026

21/10/2026

𝗦𝗠𝗨 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗟. 𝗘𝘀𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗱𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗯𝘂𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗮

Saint Mary’s University (SMU) proudly recognizes Mr. Ernest L. Esmeralda, Social Science faculty member of the School of Teacher Education and Humanities (STEH), for his contribution to the publication of Ang Batang Makabansa 2, an educational book that promotes Filipino identity and cultural awareness, which is expected to be available in 2027.

Mr. Esmeralda is among the contributors acknowledged in the copyright details of the publication by Instructional Coverage System Publishing, Inc. The book features illustrations of Filipino children in traditional attire, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.

The publication highlights the importance of developing educational resources that help learners appreciate Filipino traditions, strengthen their sense of national identity, and recognize the value of cultural diversity. With contributions from educators and other professionals, learning materials can serve as meaningful tools for fostering cultural understanding and social responsibility among young learners.

SMU congratulates Mr. Esmeralda on this publication milestone and commends his contribution to educational resource development and cultural appreciation. His involvement reflects the important role of faculty members in extending their expertise beyond the classroom and contributing to learning resources that support holistic education.

Book Citation
Faustino, J. B., Esmeralda, E. L., et al. (2027). Ang Batang Makabansa 2. Instructional Coverage System Publishing, Inc.

Written by: University Research Center

19/10/2026

Happy Birthday, Dr. John!

𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗕𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻!

Saint Mary’s University extends its warmest birthday greetings to our University President. May you be blessed with good health, wisdom, and continued success as you lead the University toward greater achievements.

15/10/2026

𝗨𝗥𝗖 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 (𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲)

Saint Mary’s University continue to strengthen its capabilities in the field of research as the University Research Center held another undertaking to continuously promote and manifest excellence. On October 7, 2026, URC staff conducted and facilitated Presentation of Finished Research (Project Inspire) at room AP 202 (Computer Laboratory).

The activity started with a meaningful prayer and opening remarks by Dr. Monaloufel Rosario F. Jasmin, SAB Research Coordinator formally opened the day’s undertaking.

The ten minute presentation on “Burnout and Coping Strategies Among Math Teachers in Nueva Vizcaya: Basis for an Assistive Plan” was done by Mr. Domingo Guntalilib. The research study discusses about the significance of giving attention to the teachers well being and the factors contributing to the burnout of teachers specifically focusing to the Secondary Math Teachers in Nueva Vizcaya. These factors include high volume of workload, time constraints, needs shifting and recruit demands among others. The study used a quantitative and qualitative approach and questionnaire content was carefully validated by guidance counsellors.

The findings of the study shows that burnout is generally low which means that math teachers show low overall burnout and remain engaged, though lingering fatigue and emotional exhaustion underscore the need for regular wellness initiatives and support of the institutions. For adaptive coping, teachers primarily rely on proactive coping strategies such as problem solving, strategic planning and positive reframing which should be reinforced through peer support and favorable working conditions. In response to these findings, the MATHWELL plan was created to support teachers across five key domains: Meaningful Teaching, Accessible Resources, Workload Management, Holistic Wellness and Collegial Support. In conclusion, the study’s goal is not only to respond to burnout but to prevent it. Finally, a time was allotted for the Q and A.

After the Q and A portion, Dr. Melanie G. Sarmiento, Director of the University Research Center made a proposal that the Research Council will serve as co-authors for papers not finished after the day of the training. Researchers will still submit the papers and the research coordinators will have a division of labor for the other steps to complete the paper until publication but only if the researchers will consent.

Another highlight of the day’s activity was a short talk delivered by Ms. Geraldine Yuzon, SHNS Research Coordinator about Research and Publication where an article will be critique and commented supported by references which may be done in a week or so.

A closing remark finally wrapped up the very informative activity.

Written by: Engr. Rojan I. Reyes, SEAIT Research Coordinator