On May 23, 2024, the Cavite State University – Carmona Campus, through the Research Services Office, successfully held the 2024 Research Symposium for Proposed and Completed Research Projects at the Campus Library from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. With the theme “Nurturing Research Culture through Sustainable Developments and Innovations,” the event served as a strategic platform for advancing research initiatives within the campus, fostering intellectual collaboration among faculty researchers, and reinforcing the institutional commitment to evidence-based, transformative research practices. This initiative was anchored in the university’s thrust to continuously strengthen its four-fold functions—instruction, research, extension, and production—by aligning research efforts with the CvSU R&E roadmap and institutional priorities.

The symposium formally opened with the registration of participants facilitated by the department research coordinators. The program began with an invocation led by the Audio-Visual Presentation Team, followed by the welcome remarks delivered by Prof. Carlo Emil B. Mañabo, Campus Research Services Coordinator. In his speech, Prof. Mañabo emphasized the importance of revitalizing the research culture in the campus and underscored the significance of institutional support in building a sustainable research environment. This was followed by a message from the Campus Administrator, Dr. Cristina M. Signo, who inspired faculty researchers to pursue projects that not only contribute to the university’s goals but also address pressing societal issues.

The morning plenary sessions featured two timely and relevant topics. The first plenary session focused on “Nurturing Research Culture through Sustainable Developments and Innovations,” delivered by a distinguished resource speaker. The presentation highlighted the role of innovation in creating impactful, sustainable solutions through research. The speaker emphasized the interconnection between research, policy, and community engagement and encouraged faculty to explore interdisciplinary and transformative research approaches. This was followed by an open forum where participants engaged in insightful discussions, asked questions, and clarified concepts related to sustainable research practices. The second session titled “Research Funding Opportunities in CvSU,” was led by another expert resource speaker who provided an indepth orientation on the university’s internal funding mechanisms, including the CvSU Research Grant program. The speaker discussed the requirements, proposal submission procedures, evaluation criteria, and implementation guidelines, which were of great value to both new and seasoned researchers. Another open forum followed, where participants were able to clarify the funding process and share their experiences and concerns. The morning session concluded with the awarding of certificates to the resource speakers and a ceremonial photo opportunity with participants and organizers.

After the lunch break, the symposium resumed with the paper presentation segment, one of the most anticipated parts of the event. Dr. Regene G. Hernandez, Chair of the Department of Industrial and Information Technology, formally introduced the panel of reactors composed of experienced faculty evaluators from different academic departments. During this session, faculty researchers presented their proposed and completed research projects. Each presentation was followed by evaluative feedback from the panel, which aimed to strengthen the scientific rigor, alignment with institutional research priorities, and practical impact of the projects. The papers presented covered a variety of disciplines—from education and social sciences to technology and sustainable practices—reflecting the diverse expertise and research interests of the campus faculty. This segment not only provided an opportunity for faculty to showcase their research output but also served as a learning experience to refine their methodologies and deepen their understanding of research ethics, planning, and dissemination.

Following the presentation session, an open forum was conducted to address remaining questions, provide additional feedback, and encourage collegial sharing of insights among participants. The program ended with the awarding of certificates to all participating faculty researchers, reactors, and support personnel. The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Michael G. Consignado, Chair of the Department of Management, who commended the faculty’s growing enthusiasm and commitment to research excellence. He reminded everyone that research is a continuous journey that requires curiosity, collaboration, and purpose. The singing of the CvSU Hymn and the ceremonial group photo marked the formal conclusion of the event.

The 2024 Research Symposium successfully met its goals of reviewing R&D efforts, aligning with CvSU's research agenda, and empowering faculty researchers. It reinforced the campus's commitment to innovation and marked a significant step toward becoming a center of academic excellence and impact. The event also fostered collaboration among faculty. With continued support, the campus aims to produce research that drives positive change within and beyond the university.