CMU showcases research contributions at IRICEEA 2026
Strengthening its commitment to research excellence, innovation, and academic collaboration, Central Mindanao University (CMU) participated as an institutional partner and conference co-organizer in the International Research, Innovation, and Extension Conference on Education, Environment, and Agriculture (IRICEEA 2026). The conference was held on November 4–6, 2026, at the F.I. Ortega Convention Center in San Fernando, La Union
The university’s participation was among the updates shared by University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe during the Flag Raising Ceremony on November 9, at the University Convention Center.
The update highlighted CMU’s research engagement and its faculty members’ contributions to research and knowledge sharing among researchers and higher education institutions (HEIs).
Dr. Mahalia M. Acuña, Department Chairperson of the Department of Development Communication, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, presented her research paper in the Education Track. Meanwhile, Dr. Junesa U. Cristobal of the Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, presented her research in the Agriculture Track.
Aside from presenting their research, CMU faculty members also took on important roles during the conference. Dr. Cristobal served as a Parallel Session Moderator, facilitating research presentations and discussions, while Dr. Raquel O. Salingay served as a Digital Paper Evaluator, helping assess the research papers submitted to the conference.
For Dr. Acuña, the conference provided an opportunity to broaden her knowledge, learn from fellow researchers, and connect with colleagues from other HEIs.
“Attending IRICEEA 2026 was a meaningful and enriching experience for me because it broadened my knowledge and understanding [of] research. I learned new things and met other researchers from other HEIs. Overall, the conference inspired me to become more passionate about research and motivated me to continue learning, exploring new ideas, and making meaningful contributions to the field of DevCom,” she shared.
Dr. Cristobal also emphasized that research should go beyond publications and presentations and contribute to addressing societal challenges.
“IRICEEA 2026 reminded us that the true value of research is not measured only by publications and presentations, but by its ability to generate innovations, address societal challenges, and create a sustainable future for the next generation,” she said.
The conference further highlighted the importance of connecting research, instruction, innovation, and extension to address societal needs. It also provided opportunities for academic networking, institutional partnerships, and the exchange of knowledge among participating institutions.
Through its participation in IRICEEA 2026, CMU continues to strengthen its research initiatives, promote innovation, and build partnerships with academic and research institutions. These efforts support the university’s mandates in instruction, research, extension, and production and contribute to sustainable development.
The university’s participation also supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]
