Research Innovation and Extension Services successfully hosts Multi-Track Research Competitions
On May 24, 2024, Research Innovation and Extension Services of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) proudly hosted a series of concurrent research competitions aimed at fostering innovation and academic excellence among its students. The events, organized by the Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES), took place simultaneously, showcasing the university’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant research culture. The opening, closing, and awarding ceremonies were held at the Library Mini-Theater, bringing together participants, judges, faculty coaches, and guests for a celebration of scholarly achievements.
Pitching Competition Highlights
The Pitching Competition saw remarkable presentations from student teams, each demonstrating innovative solutions to real-world problems. The champion project, "Revolutionizing Travel Experiences in Southern Leyte: A Comprehensive Analysis of ExploreSL," was developed by Jane Juliette Eta, Jolly Me Gerona, Jenny Galano, Egielyn Mae Quisado, Alondra Diserie Robles, Shiela Mae Rin, and Kiara Therese Yangson. Their travel guide app and website aim to enhance the travel experience in Southern Leyte by providing personalized recommendations and comprehensive information about local attractions, accommodations, dining options, and events.
First place was awarded to "Automated Electrical Safety Outlet," a project by Raul Poliran and Jerry Polo. This innovative electrical outlet incorporates a digital indicator to assess load and automatically shuts off power in case of voltage fluctuations or abnormal current levels, significantly enhancing electrical safety in homes and communities.
The second place went to Maica R. Senones and Sheila Mae S. Montano for their "Organic Scented Candle," a composition of organic materials aimed at creating a sustainable and eco-friendly candle product.
Exhibit Competition Highlights
The Exhibit Competition, held outside the Library Mini-Theater, echoed the successes of the Pitching Competition. The "ExploreSL" project by Jane Juliette Eta and her team once again emerged as the champion, highlighting its comprehensive approach to revolutionizing travel experiences in Southern Leyte.
First place in the Exhibit Competition was awarded to Maica R. Senones and Sheila Mae S. Montano for their "Organic Scented Candle," demonstrating the versatility and sustainability of their innovative product.
Second place was secured by Arjay G. Ocot and Nilo F. Tagoctoc for their "Portable Piglet Castration Device." This project showcased a novel approach to improving efficiency and user experience in the pig farming industry, with a focus on reducing castration times and enhancing productivity.
Researchlympics Highlights
The 3rd edition of the Researchlympics, held in the Library Conference Room and IAS Building Room 4, covered diverse academic tracks. In Tract 1 – Education and Social Sciences, the champion project was "Sexual Offender’s Perspective: Understanding the Factors that Lead to the Commission of Sexual Offenses and Their Realizations in the Detention Facility," presented by Irish Jancinal, Reyna Mae Velarde, Kristel Carren, Syra Guarino, and Elda Abao from the College of Criminal Justice.
First place in Tract 1 was awarded to "Dimensions of Students’ Behavioral Intentions to Invest through E-Wallets," a study by Edilo Madrazo and Jessa Jagna from SLSU – San Juan, which evaluated factors influencing student investment behavior.
Second place in Tract 1 went to "Sipat-Suri ng Wikang GenZ" by Mary Rose Arape, Melirose Cerbo, Devie Grace Duenas, Gieian Juncy Vertudazo from SLSU – Tomas Oppus, which explored the linguistic features of GenZ language among students.
In Tract 2 – Engineering and Technology, the champion was "Comparative Assessment of Aboveground Carbon Stocks of Natural and Planted Mangroves in Bontoc and Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte," by April Joy T. Tolentino from SLSU Hinunangan, which highlighted the significant carbon sequestration capacity of natural mangrove stands.
First place in Tract 2 was awarded to "Innovative Fusion: Creating Nutrient-Packed Kropek Crackers Infused with Sweet Potato and Squash Fortified with Malunggay," a project by Mary Rose Catubig, Stephanie Gasque, and Rosalinda M. Salazar from SLSU – Hinunangan, which focused on optimizing the formulation of nutrient-rich snacks.
Second place in Tract 2 was secured by "Municipal Emergency Response System (MERS) Using GMaps and SMS," a study by Reynard S. Narciso, John Gene D. Ortega, Rica O. Gula, and Arcelie B. Silvio from SLSU – Tomas Oppus, which aimed to improve emergency response capabilities through technology integration.
The multi-track research competitions at SLSU were a resounding success, showcasing the ingenuity and dedication of its students. Initiatives by the Research, Innovation, and Extension Services have not only highlighted the potential of SLSU students to address pressing challenges but have also reinforced the university’s role as a hub of academic and technological innovation. The vibrant atmosphere and high level of participation reflected the strong research culture at SLSU, promising a bright future for the institution and its stakeholders.
Special acknowledgments go to the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy; the Director of Knowledge and Technology Transfer, Engr. Khorina Aguilar, who led the Pitching Competition; and the Director for Research and Innovation, Marie Khul Langub, for the 3rd edition of Researchlympics. Their leadership and dedication were instrumental in the seamless execution and impactful outcomes of the competitions, solidifying SLSU's reputation as a leader in research and innovation.
The competitions were further enriched by the expertise of esteemed judges. For Researchlympics Track 2: Engineering and Technology, the judges were Engr. Adonis Talabo, Ms. Elvira Entero Ongy, and Mr. Lemuel Preciados. For Track 1: Education and Social Sciences, the judges were Dr. Beverly Fernandez, Mr. Paulo Batidor, and Ms. Adelfa Diola. The Pitching Competition judges included Mr. Michael Nuñez, Mr. Erwin P. Remojo, and Ms. Rio Katrina Avila. Their invaluable contributions ensured the high standards and success of the events.