CLARK, PAMPANGA — Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) once again showcased its growing research and extension excellence after its researchers and extensionists secured top honors in both the Research and Extension categories during the OPFBEX 2026 International Research, Innovation, and Education Conference, held on September 19–20, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Clark, Pampanga.
Representing SKSU, two teams earned Best Paper and Best Presenter Awards, both placing first in their respective categories on Research Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship, bringing distinction to the University on the national and international research platform.
EXTENSION CATEGORY — 1st Place
Best Paper Award and Best Presenter Award
Rande B. Dechavez, PhD — Presenter
Marissa C. Hitalia, PhD — Co-Presenter
Co-Authors: Dennis M. Meriales, Daphne-Vi P. Capili, and Bryan Rey B. Tejano
Extension Title: DOST-PCAARRD-SKSU Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator
RESEARCH CATEGORY — 1st Place
Best Paper Award and Best Presenter Award
Lemuel P. Bravante, PhDc (Presenter),
Co-Authors: Mildred F. Accad, PhD and Abraham S. Accad, PhD
Research Title: From University Research to Community Impact: Exploring Waste-Based Innovation Through Research-Extension Linkages
The two-day conference, held in partnership with ETCOR (Embracing the Culture of Research) brought together researchers, educators, students, and professionals from various parts of the country to share studies and innovations in food, tourism, hospitality, agriculture, and Kapampangan heritage studies.
The conference was led and organized by Dr. Richard D. Sanchez, President of the ETCOR Educational Research Center, who welcomed delegates and formally opened the research presentations.
The event also featured a keynote address by Dr. Lora L. Yusi, Director IV for Institutional Quality Assurance and Governance of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), who emphasized the important role of higher education in connecting food, agriculture, tourism, hospitality, education, culture, and heritage.
Speaking on the theme “Transforming OPFBEX 2026 into a Center for Research, Innovation, and Heritage,” Dr. Yusi highlighted the need for higher education institutions to strengthen the connection between academic research and grassroots realities and to foster meaningful collaboration among academe, industry, government, researchers, students, and communities.
The conference also underscored the importance of developing a genuine culture of research, encouraging students to engage in research early and promoting collaboration where communities are recognized as active partners in knowledge creation.
The recognition received by SKSU researchers and extensionists reflects the University’s continuing efforts to strengthen research, innovation, extension, community engagement, and knowledge transfer.
The accomplishments also support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.
Congratulations to our SKSU researchers and extensionists for bringing honor to Sultan Kudarat State University!
