With the theme “Higher Heights in Higher Education,” the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR) hosted a momentous awarding ceremony on May 28, 2025, at the CHED Regional Office. This ceremony was held in celebration of CHED’s 31st Founding Anniversary and the 5th Philippine Higher Education Week, and served as a tribute to the exceptional contributions of researchers under the 2022–2023 batch of the KABADANG Mentor-Mentee program.

The ceremony was led by Atty. Septon A. De La Cruz, CESO III, the esteemed Regional Director of CHED-CAR. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the essential role of research in advancing higher education and shaping the future of Philippine society. He acknowledged the relentless efforts of the researchers in producing meaningful and impactful research, particularly those aligned with national development goals and community empowerment. Atty. De La Cruz underscored the importance of fostering a research culture that not only enhances institutional reputation but also addresses real-world challenges faced by local communities.

Additionally, the event brought together researchers and academic representatives from various higher education institutions across the Cordillera Administrative Region, as well as participants from Region I, highlighting the collaborative spirit and regional solidarity in pursuit of academic excellence. Among the invited participants was the University of Baguio, which proudly included eleven faculty and non-teaching personnel who had successfully published their research in reputable, peer-reviewed journals. Their inclusion in the awarding ceremony marked not only a significant academic achievement for the individuals but also a testament to the University of Baguio’s strong commitment to research, innovation, and scholarly contribution to national and regional development. The presence of these dedicated researchers highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to foster a research-oriented culture that supports both faculty and staff in their pursuit of academic and professional growth.

The awarding ceremony was not merely a celebration of completed research projects but also a powerful recognition of the dedication, perseverance, and intellectual rigor that each researcher poured into their work. It was a proud moment that underscored the rewards of tireless effort and academic integrity.

As highlighted in previous speeches by Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes, former Regional Director of CHED-CAR and the lead author of the KABADANG Mentor-Mentee Program, the publication of a study is not the end of the research journey but rather the beginning. “As researchers,” he stated, “we are called to continuously contribute to the ever-expanding body of knowledge.”

This sentiment was also echoed by Dr. Erlinda C. Palaganas, a distinguished educator and researcher, who underscored the interrelated roles of educators in society. “We teach, we do research, and we do extension,” articulating the core functions that define and drive higher education. Dr. Palaganas further elaborated that extension services, being the application of academic expertise to real-world community needs, should be properly coordinated through the institution’s extension office to ensure alignment with institutional priorities and visibility of efforts.

Her words served as a powerful reminder of the holistic responsibilities borne by members of the academic community, urging educators not only to impart knowledge and generate new insights but also to actively engage in societal transformation. Dr. Palaganas’ message resonated deeply with the audience, reaffirming the essential mission of higher education to serve as a bridge between scholarship and service.

The Gawad KABADANG 2025 was more than an awards ceremony, it was a celebration of passion for knowledge, a reaffirmation of the academic community’s commitment to nation-building, and an inspiration for future researchers to reach even greater heights. | Photo by Elton John Delos Santos, RN