Despite the inclement weather, the Ateneo de Naga University -Graduate School successfully held its annual research colloquium with the theme “Celebrating Research Excellence in the Graduate School” on October 18, 2025, via Google Meet. This annual gathering aims to showcase the scholarly innovations made by graduate students and faculty, reaffirming the university’s commitment to a vibrant and responsive research culture.
The event commenced with an invocation and singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Dr. Digna P. Alba, Vice-President for Higher Education, delivered the welcome message, emphasizing the importance of the event in sparking scholarly discussions that drive societal advancement. Following this, Dr. Malu C. Barcillano, Dean of the Graduate School, formally declared the intent of the activity. Subsequently, Miss Marlene Ramos, the master of ceremonies, introduced the six presenters, each of whom took turns presenting their research to the audience.
Dr. Maria Rosario A. Garol, a graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy program in Educational Psychology, was the first to present her dissertation titled “Developing a Pedagogical Framework for College Online Classes: An Action Research.” Her study focuses on developing a critical pedagogical framework that enhances online college learning by making it more reflective, participatory, and socially responsive. The research was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Margarita F. Fajardo.
Dr. Mary Rose V. Duran-Arnaldo, a graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy program in Language and Literacy Development, was the next to present. Her dissertation, titled “Multiple Intelligence-Based Reading Program for Challenged Grade 10 Students,” was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Evelyn Florece. The study examines how reading comprehension challenges among Grade 10 students can be addressed through tailored programs that cater to their distinct multiple intelligences.
Mr. Charles Michael G. Salas, a graduate of the Master of Business Administration program, was the third presenter. His research paper, titled “Digital Turn of Life Insurance Companies: Insights from Bicol Financial Advisors,” was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Debbie Adriano. The study examines how life insurance companies are navigating the shift toward digitalization, drawing insights from the experiences and perspectives of financial advisors in the Bicol region.
Ms. Maria Cecilia J. Manzo-Daza, a graduate of the Master of Public Administration, was the fourth presenter. She shared her research paper titled “Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing and the Cost-Efficient Provision of Ophthalmology Services at Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center (BRGHGMC)”, conducted under the supervision of Dr. Jennifer San Jose. Her study critically examines the cost structure of ophthalmology services at BRGHGMC and explores strategic measures to enhance cost-efficiency by optimizing the use of available resources.
Ms. Raven C. Shea-Moriño, a graduate of the Master of Arts in Psychology program major in Counseling Psychology, was the fifth to present. Her research paper, titled “Amidst Uncertainty: Navigating Quarter-Life Crisis Challenges and Implications for Counseling Interventions”, was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Antonietta Rodriguez. The study explored the psychological challenges faced by emerging adults during the quarter-life crisis and identified key implications for developing effective counseling interventions tailored to this transitional life stage.
Mr. Orly V. Rentoza, a graduate of the Master of Arts in Education major in English Language Teaching, concluded the presentations with his research titled “Gamification: Its Impact on the English Language Skills of Junior High School Learners”, conducted under the guidance of Dr. Evelyn Florece. His study examines how the integration of game-based elements into English language instruction can improve students’ writing proficiency and overall classroom engagement.
After the presentations, a 10-minute health break followed. Then, an open forum was held, providing participants with the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification from the presenters. Most of the questions centered on the methodology, study limitations, and the findings. Afterward, the presenters were asked to share their dissertation/thesis journey. All the presenters agreed that it was a challenging journey, yet it was fulfilling, as they learned a great deal during the process, and, of course, they were able to graduate. Mr. Salas provided practical advice stressing the importance of knowing the process and setting a timeline. Meanwhile, Dr. Duran-Arnaldo summarized her experience through the acronym ATENEO (Always think positively. Trust the process. Engage with your adviser. Nurture yourself through constructive criticism. Ensure time for research. Open to refinement.)
After the open forum, certificates of appreciation were given to all the presenters. A photo opportunity followed this. The event concluded at 12:00. Despite inclement weather, the event, originally planned to be face-to-face, proceeded virtually, exemplifying ADNU graduate school’s unwavering resilience and commitment to academic excellence.
Prepared by:
Renie B. Lotino
PhD LLD student
