VMCJPI Strengthens Research Collaboration, Commitment and Excellence at 2025 Joint BOD and TWG Meeting
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The Visayas Mindanao Consortium for Journal Publications, Inc. (VMCJPI) Joint Board of Directors and Technical Working Group (BOD and TWG) meeting was held on February 4, 2025, at the University of San Jose-Recoletos, Cebu City in the San Jose Building Conference Room. Presided over by Dr. Jude A. Duarte, Chairperson of VMCJPI and University President of Southern Leyte State University, the meeting marked a significant milestone for the consortium.
The event was attended by BOD and TWG members, as well as representatives from member institutions, including Bohol Island State University (BISU), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), Cebu Normal University (CNU), Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU), Northeastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU), Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology (NMSCST), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), Samar State University (SSU), and the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJR). This gathering not only underscored the collaborative spirit among member institutions but also set the stage for a promising 2025.
The meeting commenced with a review of the 2024 accomplishments and financial liquidations, reinforcing the consortium's commitment to transparency and accountability. The members reaffirmed the resolutions set in 2024 and deliberated on strategic targets for 2025, guided by Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, the VMCJPI TWG Chair and Vice President of Research, Innovation, and Extension Services at SLSU.
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the proposal for the 2025 International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR) by Dr. Roland Niez, TWG Member and Vice President of Research, Innovation, and Extension Services at BiPSU. The proposal received unanimous approval from the Board members, paving the way for the signing of the conference partnership agreement. This agreement was jointly signed by Dr. Jude A. Duarte and Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, BOD Member and University President of BiPSU, demonstrating their leadership and commitment to advancing research capabilities across the consortium.
Following the enthusiastic endorsement of the conference, BOD members participated in the 2025 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, reaffirming the commitment of all member institutions. This act of unity underscored the collaborative ethos defining the consortium and its mission.
The meeting concluded with an awarding ceremony recognizing the contributions of member institutions. The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Dr. Roberto N. Padua Award. The Leyte Normal University received the Gold Award, Southern Leyte State University earned the Silver Award, and Eastern Visayas State University was honored with the Bronze Award. This ceremony not only celebrated past achievements but also inspired all members to strive for excellence in the coming years.
Looking ahead, the decisions made and partnerships forged during this meeting are set to shape the future of research and development among consortium members, ensuring that VMCJPI remains at the forefront of scientific and academic inquiry.