Annual Dasmariñas Research Congress

In response to the global call for sustainable development, the Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas (KLD), a higher education institution funded by the City Government of Dasmariñas, established an empowering and dynamic platform that brings together diverse perspectives, ideas, and opportunities. This initiative, known as the Dasmariñas Research Congress (DRC), fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange to strengthen mechanisms that contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals. The realization of this initiative was made possible under the leadership of KLD College President, Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias.

The 1st Dasmariñas Research Congress was held on February 23, 2024, at KLD Building 2, with the theme “Securing a Sustainable Future for the Dasmarineños: The Role of Research Excellence in Advancing the City’s Knowledge-Based Economy.” The event was spearheaded by Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida, Jr., Vice President for Regal Formation and Mission, Research and External Affairs, who served as Conference Convenor. He was supported by Asst. Prof. Cecilia Raquel C. Alvaran, Jerbert A. Abargos, Rudy Bhonne R. De Lara, and Noel S. Digma as chairpersons.

The inaugural DRC served as a professional platform for approximately 500 participants from various academic institutions across the country. It facilitated the presentation of research outputs and encouraged meaningful exchanges of ideas and insights. The congress focused on key areas such as food, nutrition, and healthcare; tourism and cultural heritage; environmental governance and sustainable energy; information systems and emerging technologies; mental health and physical well-being; and scientific development.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Nathaniel C. Bantayan of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), introduced the concept of One Research and Extension in Action (AGORA) as a framework for impactful research. Plenary sessions featured Dr. Maria Ana T. Quimbo, who discussed “Future Skills: Shaping the Workforce and Learning in Higher Education,” and Dir. Emelita P. Bagsit of the Department of Science and Technology – CALABARZON, who spoke on the role of science and technology in sustainable development.

Building on its success, the 2nd Dasmariñas Research Congress was held on April 30, 2025, under the theme “Discoursing Contemporary Sustainability Issues in Education, Food Security, Science and Technology, and Climate Change for Building Smart and Resilient Communities.” The event gathered students and professionals from 62 academic institutions nationwide, with 186 presenters and co-authors participating in oral presentations and the 3-Minute Thesis Pitch competition.

A major highlight of the second congress was the launch of three key initiatives: the ASEAN Journal of Sustainable Governance, MetamorPOLISIYA, and the Consortium of Sustainability Advocates, Researchers, Extensionists, and Educators in Cavite (C-SAREEC). The keynote speaker, Mr. Carlo Alcala Sanz, shared insights on sustainable coffee farming and agricultural development. Plenary speakers included Dr. Aimee Lynn Barrion-Dupo, Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio, Dr. Dina Joana S. Ocampo-Cristobal, and Mr. Ludwig Federigan, who discussed topics ranging from science and technology’s role in addressing social issues to climate change adaptation strategies. The event was led by Conference Convenor Dr. Arianne Grace M. Revilla-Degras, with Justine Joy N. Sabanal and Christopher S. Malay as chairpersons.

Continuing this growing legacy, KLD successfully held the 3rd Dasmariñas Research Congress (DRC) on April 17, 2026, with the theme “Catalyzing Sustainable Futures: Inclusive Innovation, Green Solutions and Transformative Education.” The event was led by Dr. Maria Lyn S. Alcances as Conference Convenor and Dr. Regielene S. Gonzales as Co-Convenor. It featured distinguished experts in green solutions, transformative education, and inclusive innovation.

The event featured a special address by Dr. Rogelio T. Galera, Jr., Director IV, CHED Regional Office IV. Dr. Jennie V. Jocson, Executive Director V of the Teacher Education Council Secretariat, served as keynote speaker. Plenary speakers included Dr. Milwida M. Guevara on transformative education, Dr. Hernando P. Bacosa on green solutions, and Asst. Prof. Blancaflor P. Arada on inclusive innovation.

More than 600 participants attended, including students, researchers, professionals, and government officials from 46 academic institutions nationwide. They engaged in poster presentations, elevator pitches, and oral research presentations addressing pressing sustainability challenges. A total of 69 awards were presented to students and professionals from various academic and government institutions.

The Dasmariñas Research Congress stands as a flagship research initiative of KLD, made possible through the support of the City Government of Dasmariñas, led by the late Congressman Elpidio Barzaga, Mayor Jennifer Austria-Barzaga, Vice Mayor Third A. Barzaga, Congressman Kiko Barzaga, and the Sangguniang Panglungsod.

Through this initiative, KLD continues to provide a vital platform for policymakers, educators, researchers, and students to engage in meaningful, research-driven discussions and collaborations that address pressing sustainability challenges and promote inclusive, knowledge-based development.