THE Iloilo State University of Fisheries and Technology (ISUFST) has triumphed at the Edukalidad 2025: Prof Ed Challenge, dominating the regional research competition with three teams securing the top three spots. Held this Monday, April 7, 2025, at the West Visayas State University (WVSU), the competition saw 16 teams from various higher education institutions (HEIs) across Western Visayas and Negros Island compete.
The Champion Team, from the Main Campus-Poblacion Site, was composed of Jade Lyn Buenavides and Razel Marice Antopina, both from the BSEd-English program, coached by Prof. Glysa Marie Regidor-Bunda. Their study, “Translanguaging Contextualizing Critical Pedagogy in the English Classroom,” won the judges over its critical investigation of how the deliberate use of multiple languages can empower students and challenge established traditional power structures in English education, thus securing their top place. Buenavides said, “Seeing our efforts pay is overwhelming. This victory affirms that ISUFST is not just keeping up but leading the way in research.”
The First runner-up was Mariam Mae Duque and Honey Lyka Albor, coached by Dr. Herman Lagon, from the Main Campus-Tiwi Site BSEd-Math program. Their research, “VISME-InteDrills: A Digital Approach in Enhancing Learners’ Four Basic Operations on Integers,” was praised for its insightful exploration of digital tools in mathematics education, demonstrating depth, rigor, and practical applicability. Duque expressed, “We did not expect this, but it feels amazing to have our efforts recognized. Embracing a growth mindset—always striving to do and be more—has truly worked for us.”
The Second Runner-Up was awarded to May Claire Pajarpa, coached by Dr. Emelyn Ligasan, from the BEED program at the San Enrique Campus. Her work, “Crafting Comprehension: Designing Dynamic Worksheets for Learners Using Comic Strips,” made a significant contribution to the field by creatively improving reading comprehension via visual storytelling. She said, “I am grateful for this fantastic opportunity to present our research study at this regional event. This moment is a potent reminder that every effort counts, no matter how small.”
Other universities also performed well in this fiercely competitive field of educational research. The University of St. La Salle (USLS)-Bacolod placed fourth, with Capiz’ Filamer Christian University and Iloilo Science and Technology University Miag-ao Campus tied for fifth.
Edukalidad 2025, organized by the West Visayas State University College of Education in partnership with its Education Student Council, promotes educational innovation in the region. It debuted this year and plans to return next year with an even greater focus on academic collaboration and excellence.
ISUFST’s Research Excellence
Fresh from inaugurating the school’s P25-million Research and Extension Hub, Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., ISUFST President, praised the success of the university’s students and mentors. “We are headed in the right direction to be one of the leading and empowering research universities in the country and beyond. This appreciation strengthens our will to strive more and motivates us to keep stretching the boundaries in research and education.”
The university’s commitment to research excellence goes beyond mere award recognition. Dr. Siason encouraged the community to prioritize research that tackles real-world issues and makes a meaningful impact on society. He also expressed hope that more students and educators will be inspired to join ISUFST as it works toward becoming one of the top choices in the region, known for its research, innovation, and commitment to shaping future leaders.
ISUFST showcased its strength not only in research but also in the Demo Teaching and Quiz Bee competitions at Edukalidad 2025.
Coached by Dr. Mary Ruth Diamante, BSEd-English student Dierdre Kaye Diaz from ISUFST Dumangas Campus placed second runner-up in the Demo Teaching contest. She reflected, “Despite the time constraints, we gave our best, and I’m proud of what we accomplished.”
Meanwhile, Jolly Mae Magallon from ISUFST San Enrique Campus, also a BSEd-English student, secured a spot in the top four, guided by her coach, Instr. Russel Yamit. For Matallon: “It was an unexpected but rewarding experience. I’m proud to represent ISUFST and grateful for the opportunity to grow through this competition.”
In the Quiz Bee competition, ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site placed 8th despite limited preparation time, showcasing their competitive spirit and solid performance among the 19 participating teams. The group is teamed up with Leslie Billones (BSED Filipino), Catherine Bama (BSED Soc Stud), and Michelle Dollete (BSED Math) with coach Dr. Edmer Bernardo.
As ISUFST continues to shine in regional competitions, the university remains committed to nurturing the next generation of educators and researchers who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. (Photos by Honey Lyka Albor, May Claire Pajarpa, Glysa Marie Bunda, Mary Ruth Diamante, Silak Media, Emelyn Ligasan, Russel Yamit, and Jade Lyn Buenavides/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)
