San Fernando City, La Union — Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), through its University Research, Development, and Innovation (URDI) Office, recognized the most outstanding research studies during the 2025 University Selection of Best Undergraduate Research, Graduate Research, and Dissertation held at the DMMMSU Open University System (OUS) Multipurpose Hall on May 14-15, 2025.

Participants from the University’s four operating units—North La Union Campus (NLUC), Mid La Union Campus (MLUC), South La Union Campus (SLUC), and OUS—competed across nine thematic categories, namely: Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources; Health, Food, and Nutrition; Information and Communication Technology; Education; Mathematics and Statistics; Economics and Social Studies; Gender and Development; and Governance. A total of 53 entries were presented: 27 undergraduate studies, 16 graduate-level works, and 10 doctoral dissertations.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Keneth G. Bayani, Director for Research, emphasized the role of research in nation-building and DMMMSU’s vision of becoming a globally ranked institution. He also outlined the presentation guidelines and criteria for evaluation.

The panel of evaluators comprised experts from national agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), and the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAPDev), along with representatives from the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) and the City Government of San Fernando, La Union (CSFLU). Representatives from private academic institutions—including Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation and Union Christian College—also extended their expertise.

Twenty-two papers received top honors, boasting innovative solutions aligned with community needs and global challenges, and ranging from AI-driven tools to sustainable agriculture and social policy research. The 22 winning papers during the two-day event are listed as follows:

In her closing message, Prof. Priscilla S. Abellera, OUS Research Head, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to research as a key driver of development and public service. (By Carl Justin B. Arciaga)