In its ongoing mission to cultivate scholarly excellence and socially responsive leadership, St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. proudly participated in the 5th International Research Congress held from April 14–16, 2025, at the St. Joseph Gymnasium of the Basic Education Department. The event gathered undergraduate researchers from the College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) and graduate students from the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. With distinguished speakers such as Dr. Korsiney Cabasis, Dr. Brian Bantugan, Dr. Oradol Kaewpasert, Dr. Jantima Kheokao, and Dr. Edgar Eslit, the congress aimed to enhance research skills, promote global academic collaboration, and showcase innovative studies that respond to pressing societal needs.

This annual academic gathering stands as a testament to SMC’s dedication to shaping ethical, analytical, and community-centered scholars. By engaging in this large-scale research forum, students not only presented the outcomes of their academic pursuits but also embraced their role as emerging contributors to global knowledge production.

Research Excellence as a Foundation for Quality and Lifelong Learning (SDG 4)

The Research Congress is deeply anchored in SDG 4: Quality Education, particularly in fostering lifelong learning, critical inquiry, and the responsible generation of knowledge. Through oral presentations, research exhibits, and interactive discussions, the congress provided participants with a platform to demonstrate the integration of theoretical frameworks, data-driven insights, and practical solutions.

Students showcased studies ranging from consumer behavior, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, marketing innovations, leadership dynamics, and community empowerment—highlighting the breadth of academic exploration within the CBAA and MBA programs.

The congress cultivated important research competencies such as analytical thinking, methodological rigor, ethical research practice, and scholarly writing—all essential for future business professionals, educators, and leaders. Furthermore, it allowed students to receive constructive feedback from esteemed experts, reinforcing the value of intellectual humility and continuous improvement.

Strengthening Innovation and Evidence-Based Solutions (SDG 9)

Aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, the congress highlighted the crucial role of research in driving innovation. Many of the presented studies explored strategies for sustainable business models, digital transformation, innovative technologies, and infrastructure challenges in developing communities. Students demonstrated how empirical data, when carefully analyzed and contextualized, can lead to actionable solutions that advance industries and improve organizational systems.

The congress emphasized dynamism in the field of business research—showing that students are capable of addressing real-world challenges through creative and research-based approaches. Their studies reflected a growing consciousness toward sustainable development, industry ethics, and the practical application of innovative tools.

Collaboration, Knowledge Sharing, and Global Partnerships (SDG 17)

The success of the International Research Congress lies heavily in its collaborative nature, embodying SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. The convergence of local and international speakers highlighted shared efforts to improve research culture and academic quality. Through keynote presentations and panel discussions, experts exchanged insights grounded in global perspectives, shaping a more holistic understanding of research in business and education.

This collaboration extended to interdepartmental and inter-institutional partnerships. The participation of the CBAA and MBA programs underscored SMC’s commitment to academic synergy—encouraging cross-disciplinary learning and elevating the research capabilities of both undergraduate and graduate students.

The congress also fostered a sense of global citizenship among participants, preparing them to become future professionals capable of engaging in international academic spaces with confidence and competence.

Ethical Responsibility and Respect for Intellectual Property

One of the key values reinforced throughout the event was ethical research practice—a principle deeply aligned with SMC’s moral and Catholic identity. Students were reminded that research is not merely about gathering data but about doing so with integrity, respect for human dignity, and adherence to ethical standards.

Participants observed proper citation, intellectual property guidelines, responsible authorship, and ethical data collection methods. These academic practices reflect SMC’s commitment to forming scholars who uphold truth and honesty in all scholarly endeavors.

A Catholic Approach to Research: Guided by Faith and Service

The congress was also a moment of formation. Guided by Catholic social teachings, the event emphasized the role of research in serving communities, uplifting marginalized groups, and advocating for justice, fairness, and human dignity. Inspired by the compassion and wisdom of Mother Mary, students approached research with humility, empathy, and a sense of mission.

This grounding in faith distinguishes SMC’s research culture—one that values not only academic excellence but also social transformation. Students were encouraged to use their research to illuminate truth, contribute to nation-building, and support the common good.

Empowering Future Leaders Through Knowledge and Inquiry

Overall, the 5th International Research Congress marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of SMC’s business students. It reinforced essential values such as intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, ethical responsibility, and servant leadership. Through this event, students realized that research is not merely a requirement but a powerful tool for advocacy, innovation, and societal change.

As St. Michael’s College continues to build a robust research culture, the congress stands as a symbol of its unwavering commitment to transformative education—molding Michaelites who lead with integrity, collaborate with purpose, and think critically for the betterment of their communities.