The University Research Office (URO) of Ateneo de Zamboanga University successfully convened scholars, educators, and researchers for the Regional Research Conference 2026, held on March 11โ12, 2026 at the Carlos Dominguez Conference Hall, Salvador Campus. The conference brought together researchers, academics, and partner institutions across the region to share insights and strengthen collaboration in advancing research for sustainable development.
The two-day gathering opened with inspiring messages from Fr. Guillrey Anthony M. Andal, SJ, University President, who emphasized the importance of preserving the human dimension in research amid the growing use of artificial intelligence. He highlighted that meaningful research must continue to carry the human touch and soul that drives real impact in society.
Serving as keynote speaker, EnP Leticia Dolores II C. Abao, Regional Director of the Commission on Population and Development โ Region IX (CPD-IX), emphasized that research should not remain an end in itself but must be a continuous journey from understanding to action, from curiosity to compassion, and ultimately from theory to impact. She highlighted that the conference theme serves as a call for researchers to ensure that their work moves beyond the pages of journals and into the real world, where it can help transform communities, inform policies, and improve lives.
Across the two days, participants engaged in meaningful dialogue through plenary sessions, parallel research presentations, and open forums covering themes such as education, pedagogy, culture, health, innovation, technology, and inclusivity. The conference also featured a special lecture on Partial Least SquaresโStructural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) by Dr. Paulino T. Acebes Jr., These sessions showcased the diverse research contributions of institutions across the region, strengthening collaboration and knowledge exchange among scholars from various higher education institutions.
In her synthesis, Ms. Perla S. Ledesma, URO Director highlighted the journey of the conference through the lens of the โFour PsโโPlan, Preparations, Presentations, and Practice. She underscored that while research begins with planning and knowledge sharing, its true value lies in practiceโwhere findings are applied to improve systems, influence policy, and contribute to sustainable development. She also emphasized that research is a continuous process that must integrate multidisciplinary insights and translate them into meaningful action for communities.
As the conference concluded, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the awardees of the Best Paper and Best Presentation Awards, whose outstanding research exemplifies excellence and innovation in their respective fields. We also commend and thank the presenters and participants from partner institutions and other universities whose contributions enriched the discussions and strengthened the spirit of regional academic collaboration.
Through collective scholarship and shared insights, the Regional Research Conference 2026 continues to advance research that transforms theory into meaningful impact for communities and sustainable development.
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