Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) has once again secured an international accolade in research, with Dr. Daryl Jane A. Caballero, Dean of the College of Business and Management (CBM), winning the Best Paper Award at the Asian Association of Academic Administrators and Educators (A4E) International Research Conference 2025.
Dr. Caballero was honored in the Leadership, Governance, and Institutional Administration Category for her paper titled, “International Rankings: An Ally or All Lies for HEIs? Benefits and Challenges of Higher Education Institutions in Pursuit of International Rankings.”
The winning research offers a critical examination of the increasing global trend of university rankings. It analyzes the benefits, such as enhanced reputation and opportunities for international collaboration, while also scrutinizing the challenges faced by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in attempting to meet potentially misaligned metrics.
Following the announcement, Dr. Caballero expressed her gratitude and surprise regarding the award.
“Grateful to have bagged the BEST PAPER Award at the Asian Association of Academic Administrators and Educators (A4E) International Research Conference 2025, held today in Marikina, Manila,” Dr. Caballero stated. “Never imagined that this research would be warmly received and genuinely lauded by such a diverse and distinguished crowd of experts from parallel session rooms to the plenary hall.”
She also acknowledged the institutional support for her research pursuits.
Dr. Caballero emphasized the significance of the recognition for her institution: “Having your paper accepted in an international arena is already a huge thing, but to have it recognized as Best Paper is already beyond words… This one’s for CBM and CMU… Forever grateful to the Great God for the gifts of wisdom and humility.”
The A4E International Research Conference 2025 was guided by the theme: “Empowering the Future Workforce through Multi-Disciplinary Research: Strengthening Government-Academe-Industry Collaboration for Innovation, Well-being, and Safe Learning Environments.”
The award was presented at the conference held on November 13, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Succor College in Marikina City, Philippines. The paper’s selection as Best Paper underscores its timeliness and relevance for academic leaders and policymakers worldwide. [Iyren D. Neri]
