Elevating its commitment to global research engagement and knowledge exchange, Pangasinan State University (PSU) through its Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension and Innovation (OVPREI), hosted the International Conference on Technology, Social Science, Business, Agriculture and Fisheries (ICTSBAF) 2025 at the Aseana Hall of PSU Golden Lion Hotel, Lingayen, Pangasinan, today, November 24.
Co-hosted by Thu Duc College of Technology (TDCT) in Vietnam, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region I, and Caraga State University (CSU), together with local and international partners, the event brought together university presidents, regional leaders, research scholars, and industry innovators for interdisciplinary discourses on sustainable solutions to contemporary global issues.
In his welcoming message, PSU President Dr. Elbert M. Galas, represented by VPREI Dr. Razeale G. Resultay, highlighted the significance of the conference in fostering idea exchange, strengthening institutional linkages and creating pathways for inclusive growth.
“As we gather here, we are reminded that the challenges we face—environmental pressures, social disparities and economic uncertainties—transcend borders. Addressing them requires not only innovation but also sustained collaboration, openness to diverse perspectives, and a collective will to work toward shared goals,” he said.
This was affirmed by Dr. Pham Huu Loc, president of TDCT and co-chair of ICTSBAF 2025, who emphasized that “collaboration with PSU and international partners remains a strategic priority in advancing globalized education and research.”
Meanwhile, CariagaSU President Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil, represented by CSU VP for Research, Development, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Jeffrey T. Dellosa, reminded the participants that their mission extends beyond classroom instruction. “We are expected to empower communities with evidence-based solutions and ensure that science, technology and innovation continue to serve society,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Pangasinan Governor Hon. Ramon V. Guico III, represented by Pangasinan Polytechnic College President Dr. Raymundo D. Rovillos, challenged the researchers to develop sustainable solutions grounded in empirical data and informed scientific inquiry. “I encourage you to be critical, but constructive. Challenge each other’s mythologies and frameworks, but support each other’s goals,” he urged.
The program also saw keynote speaker Prof. Hoang Nguyen of TDCT in his talk titled “AI Across Borders: Sustainable Intelligence and the Future of Inclusive Innovation in Asia,” where he emphasized the essential interconnection of human insight, technological advancement and shared ethical responsibility.
“Let us use AI responsibly. Let us innovate inclusively. Let us grow together,” he said.
The international conference served as a valuable platform for PSU to strengthen its research culture by connecting with local and international researchers and innovators to pave the way for more sustainable, relevant and grounded scholarly pursuits.
In addition, PSU Research Director Dr. Rhowell Dellosa said the two-day event also features parallel sessions with more than 240 paper research presentations.
Story: Jamaica Liezl Patungan, The Reflector Editor in Chief
Photos: PRIO Main/PRIO Bayambang/TR Team
