Pasay City, Philippines – University of the Cordilleras (UC) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 4 students showcased their research excellence at the 16th MDCON Research Congress, securing top awards in various categories. The event took place on February 21, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the GT Foundation Auditorium, Manila Tytana Colleges, Metropolitan Park, Pres. Diosdado Macapagal Blvd., Pasay City.
With the theme “Harmonizing Research and Innovation: A Synergy Towards Evidence-Based Nursing Practice,” the congress aimed to provide a platform for student and professional nurse researchers to present their scholarly work contributing to evidence-based nursing practice (EBNP). It also sought to expand the perspectives of research and innovation within nursing to advance EBP. Additionally, the event aimed to enhance competencies in conducting nursing research to improve nursing practice, education, administration, and community health nursing. Another key goal was to foster local and global collaboration and linkages among nursing and other healthcare institutions. The event drew over 700 participants from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, reflecting a strong nationwide interest in advancing nursing research and innovation.
UC students excelled in the student category of oral presentations, earning top placements. Ashley Apple P. Abes and Novy Anne O. Onongen secured 3rd place in Stream 1 for their research titled “Licensed Nurses’ Viewpoints on the Possibility of Collaborating with Clinical Care Associates.” Their research was supervised by faculty adviser Gilbert D. Bernardino Jr. Meanwhile, Jomel B. Dumlao and Polly Sharon C. Fulangen achieved 1st place in Stream 4 with their study “A Qualitative Exploration: Experiences of Mothers Who Decided to Return to Schooling.” Their research was guided by faculty adviser Ervina Luisa D. Campus.
The UC delegation was accompanied by faculty mentor Jonathan H. Ilagan and included student research presenters Ryven R. Galinato, Kyla Rizziely C. Gonzales, Ashlyn Rhie A. Amoy, Annie Grail U. Addog, Chloe P. Prado, Karl Kendrich N. Velasco, Nicholai A. Escalona, Christine Caila C. Tambalo, Lavern Klyde H. Agorilla, and Rheanne Marisse A. Balay-odao. Their participation showcased the university’s commitment to fostering research excellence among its nursing students.
In her opening speech, Dean Katrina Francheska A. Lawsin of the Manila Doctors College of Nursing, Manila Tytana Colleges, highlighted the importance of translating research into practice, emphasizing the need for creativity and commitment among nurses in an ever-evolving world. Meanwhile, Elmer D. Bondoc, Immediate Past President of the Philippine Nurses Association, stressed the importance of good datasets in making informed decisions. He warned that without high-quality data, decisions become less relevant, leading to the wastage of essential resources.
The success of UC’s BSN 4 students in the 16th MDCON Research Congress underscores their dedication to advancing nursing research and evidence-based practice, solidifying UC’s reputation as a hub for scholarly excellence in nursing education.
