The Higalaay Multidisciplinary Research Festival 2024 officially kicked off today, August 29, 2024, at the Barangay Agusan Gymnasium, CDOC, with the theme "Advancing Urban Development of Cagayan de Oro through Education and the RISE Agenda."
This pioneering research conference, aligned with the RISE Agenda, aims to foster a culture of research and innovation by showcasing the investigative work of students, faculty, and local researchers, addressing local challenges, and empowering the academic community of CDO. The event began with special messages of support from Hon. Councilor Suzette Magtajas-Daba, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, and Atty. Yenyen O. Empinado-Alabe, representing the Office of Vice Mayor Jocelyn "Bebot" Rodriguez. Following these messages, plenary speakers Dr. Sarah O. Namoco and Dr. Angelo Mark Walag, esteemed professors at USTP-CDO, delivered insightful discussions on their respective research topics: "Empowering Future Innovators: Aligning Research for Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Product Innovation" and "Harnessing Game-Based Learning to Advance Cagayan de Oro's RISE Agenda through Innovative Educational Practices." These research presentations, along with a plenary talk by Mr. Roderico Y. Dumaug Jr., set a dynamic tone for the day.
Furthermore, the event featured vibrant cultural performances by the XU Dance Troupe from Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan and the Gintong Amihan Dance Troupe from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines.
The morning session concluded with a panel discussion on Kagay-anon Culture, moderated by Ms. Candice Gamayon, NSTP Director of the City College of Cagayan de Oro. Stay tuned, mga kauban, as participants will present their research this afternoon in both the poster and oral categories!