With the steadfast support of University President Dr. Samson L. Molao, the College of Health Sciences and College of Medicine proudly represented Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) at the 10th Mindanao Research Convention (MRC) held on October 10, 2025, at The Farm, Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City, South Cotabato.
Centered on the theme “One Health and Public Health: Collaborative Strategies for Global Health,” the convention served as a vital venue for academic exchange in the region. It featured twelve oral presenters from various institutions, including SKSU.
Among the university’s representatives, Ms. Shahany Napoles, a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing student, earned First Place in the Interschool Research Oral Presentation category for her study titled “Awareness, Utilization, and Acceptance of Youth on Established Adolescent-Friendly Health Facilities in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.” The research was supervised by Franklin E. Menor, MAN, RN, RM, with team members Shairylle Shane M. Bautista, Ralph Rainier B. Manzano, and Irene B. Samillano. Their study underscored SKSU’s strong research foundation and contributed to advancing discussions on youth health services in the region.
Likewise, Ms. Dyan Leizel C. Bermudez secured Second Place for her research titled “Frequency Distribution of ABO and Rh(D) Blood Groups in the Teduray Indigenous Cultural Community of Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.” The study was guided by Rowenie Cynthia T. Non and conducted with team members Angelo Stephen A. Bolodo, Bhea Shane Ann M. Bayona, Moclisa U. Abas, and Krizel Mae O. Betalac.
In the Poster Presentation category, Ms. Precious Gem F. Estocada presented the study “Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases Among Tricycle Drivers in Tacurong City,” supervised by Cesar J. Nallos III, MAN, RN, alongside Shielo D. Castroberde, Lyra Camille F. Duadua, and Jenny Rose E. Ramos.
The convention, organized by St. Alexius College in partnership with the DOST XII–Health Research Development Consortium (HRDC) and QUIPPER Philippines, emphasized the One Health paradigm that integrates human, animal, and environmental health to address global challenges through sustainable, evidence-based strategies. Sessions explored intersectoral collaborations, reviewed best practices, and formulated recommendations for translating research into policies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The achievements of SKSU students at the MRC demonstrate the university’s unwavering commitment to research excellence and regional health development. Their success reflects SKSU’s dedication to nurturing inquiry, innovation, and leadership in support of the global call for sustainable and inclusive health systems.
– By: Yvrin Gabriel Lagcao
