by  Genevieve Balance Kupang

03.06.24 – Binalonan, Philippines. The WCC Aeronautical and Technological College (WCC ATC) proudly hosted the inaugural RISE 2024: ICREATE, the 1st International Conference on Research and Exhibits on Aviation and Aeronautics, Tourism, Engineering, and Education on May 28 and 29, 2024. This landmark event was co-hosted by the University of Luzon, University of Eastern Pangasinan, Señor Tesoro College, Pangasinan State University-Lingayen Campus, Lyceum Northwestern University,  and Baguio Central University. This brought together distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and innovators from across Luzon and the international community to explore the frontiers of scientific research and technological advancements.

A Grand Opening with Distinguished Guests

Mr. Raymond Patrick V. Guico, President of WCC ATC/World Citi Colleges, delivers his inspiring and impactful welcome address. Photo credit: Regional News Group – RNG Luzon

 The conference began with a warm welcome address by Mr. Raymond Patrick V. Guico, President of WCC ATC/World Citi Colleges, who emphasized the institution’s unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant platform for the exchange of ideas across various disciplines. His speech set the tone for an event aimed at igniting new avenues for intellectual discourse and collaboration.

Emphasizing the significance of the event, Mr. Guico stated, “This conference marks a momentous occasion. It signifies our unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant platform for the exchange of ideas across various disciplines.” He highlighted the conference’s potential to be a crucible of knowledge creation and collaboration, spanning the frontiers of scientific research and technological advancements.

Mr. Guico expressed confidence that the diverse perspectives and experiences of the participants would enrich discussions and ignite new avenues for intellectual discourse. He remarked, “Over the next two days, we will delve into a captivating array of themes encompassing research, innovation, science, technology, and education. Let us embrace this opportunity to challenge boundaries, explore uncharted territories, and collectively chart a course towards a brighter future.” His speech set a tone of enthusiasm and optimism, underscoring the transformative power of collaboration and the promise of groundbreaking advancements that would benefit communities worldwide. Mr. Guico also extended heartfelt gratitude to the organizing committee, sponsors, and collaborators for their invaluable support, concluding with, “May RISE 2024: ICREATE be a resounding success, igniting a spark of innovation that continues to illuminate our path forward.”

 The opening ceremony was graced by Dr. Christine Nabor Ferrer, Director IV of the Commission on Higher Education, Regional Office I (CHED REGION 1), who highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in enhancing the global standing of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Luzon.

Conference participants engaging in the event. Photo credit: Regional News Group – RNG Luzon.

Keynote and Plenary Sessions: A Confluence of Minds

Dr. Thelma D. Palaoag, Director of Innovation & Technology Transfer at the University of Cordilleras, delivered an inspiring keynote address on the first day of the conference. Her speech underscored the critical role of innovation and technology in driving educational and societal advancements.

The conference featured an impressive lineup of plenary speakers, including Dr. Hwansoo Jung, CEO of Biochar Company and Vice Chairman of Innopolis Community in South Korea, who shared insights on sustainable innovations. Ms. Maria Luisa A. Elduayan, Chief of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office at the Pangasinan Provincial Capitol, Ms. Natalia Dalaten, Provincial Director of the DTI Pangasinan Office, Engr. Leonora Quarte, Education Supervisor II at the Commission on Higher Education, Regional Office I, and Dr. Leonilo Capulso, CEO of Beyond Books Publications, also contributed their expertise on various themes spanning tourism, technology, publication, and education.

As Dr. Roger A. Martinez, Jr., WCC ATC VP for Academic Affairs and Executive Chairman of RISE 2024: ICREATE, and Dr. Rosalie Sheryll T. Rosales, Director of RPDO WCC ATC Binalonan Campus and Conference Chairman, stated, the conference is a momentous occasion that signifies an unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant platform for the exchange of ideas across various disciplines. From scientific research to technological advancements, RISE 2024: ICREATE offered a melting pot of knowledge creation and collaboration.

Dr. Darwin G. Quintos, Director of RPDO WCC ATC North Manila Campus and Conference Chairman, expressed confidence that the presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities offered at RISE 2024: ICREATE would inspire creativity, stimulate critical thinking, and ultimately lead to groundbreaking advancements benefiting communities and the world at large.

Dr. Jeanica C. Joson, Research Director at the University of Luzon, delivered a compelling speech during the conference on behalf of the University of Luzon President, Dr. Luis M. Samson, Jr. She emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation and addressing complex societal challenges. Dr. Joson highlighted the University of Luzon’s commitment to fostering research excellence and its role in advancing knowledge across various fields. Her speech resonated with attendees, further reinforcing the conference’s theme of collaboration and innovation.

BCU President’s Message

Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, President of Baguio Central University, addresses the brilliant researchers, scholars, and leaders of the co-host institutions at the RISE 2024 ICREATE conference. Photo credit: Mr. Oscar D. Rillera.

At the RISE 2024: ICREATE International Conference, Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, President of Baguio Central University, delivered a compelling address emphasizing the transformative power of collaboration. Representing the Cordillera Administrative Region, Dr. Rillera expressed BCU’s honor in co-hosting the event, highlighting the unique spirit of the Cordilleras. She stated, “Just like the crisp mountain air that invigorates our campus, we aim to bring a refreshing perspective, fueled by our university’s core values of libertad, justitia, veritas, and equitas, as well as excellence, integrity, and service.” Her remarks underscored the conference’s alignment with the theme of the 30th anniversary of the Commission on Higher Education and the UN Sustainable Development Goal #17 – “Partnerships for the Goals.”

Dr. Rillera extended heartfelt gratitude to WCC Aeronautical and Technological College and the co-hosting institutions for making RISE 2024: ICREATE a success. She expressed immense pride in BCU’s deans, faculty members, and students for their active participation, stating, “Their dedication and passion are the true essence of BCU’s spirit.” Dr. Rillera concluded her speech with a call to harness the power of collaboration, share diverse perspectives, and spark groundbreaking ideas, aiming to make the conference a testament to the transformative power of partnerships. “From the cool heights of the Cordilleras, we at Baguio Central University extend a warm appreciation and our unwavering commitment to a successful conference! Mabuhay!” she declared, inspiring participants to engage fully in the event’s collaborative and innovative spirit.

To our dear readers, please stand by for the next series. Thank you.

Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer, Director IV of CHEDRO1, and Mr. Raymond Patrick V. Guico, President of WCC ATC, lead the prestigious ribbon-cutting ceremony for the cutting-edge academic exhibit. Atty. Capulso, Dr. Rillera, Dr. Palaoag, and other esteemed leaders of co-host institutions look on. Photo credit: WCC The Chronicle.

Juan G. Macaraeg National High School Rondalla instrumentalists captivate conference participants with a vibrant medley of songs performed on the banduria.

This is the first in a series of articles covering the RISE 2024: ICREATE conference. Stay tuned for more detailed updates in the coming days.

#RISE2024 #ICREATE2024 #ElevatingHorizonsThroughResearchExcellence.

About the Author:

 Genevieve Balance Kupang serves as the Dean of the Graduate School at Baguio Central University (BCU), a co-host for this conference. She was the lead convenor of the BCU delegation. At the conference, she won the Best Presenter and Best Paper awards for her research, “Weaving Narratives of Integrative Intelligences: Lived Experiences and Impact of Award-Winning Women Peace-Builders.” She is a Leadership Team Member for the Exceptional Woman of Peace Award at Pathways to Peace, a UN Peace Messenger Organization, and the Chair of Special Interest Groups (SIG) of the World Council for Curriculum and Instruction (WCCI).