Academic Roadshow 2025 Commenced in Sorsogon, Pushes for Stronger Collaboration

SORSOGON CITY – The Bikol Foundation for Higher Education (BFHE) roadshow 2025 officially launched on March 11, 2025, at Sorsogon State University (SorSU). The event gathered university presidents, deans, and faculty members of higher education institutions from both private and public institutions to discuss advancements in research and extension.

Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin Nebres III, president of Bicol University (BU) and BFHE, welcomed attendees, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation in education. “Our mission is to nurture the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators who will shape the future of our region and beyond. To do this, we must embrace the ever-evolving educational landscape,” Nebres said.

A key discussion on bridging gaps in higher education was led by Dr. Alex B. Nepomuceno, dean of Bicol University College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP). He underscored the importance of applied research in achieving tangible results.

“The rubber has to touch the road. Research should not just stay on library shelves—it should drive real progress,” Nepomuceno stressed.

Meanwhile, Dr. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya, president of University of Nueva Caceres, Naga City and vice president of BFHE, highlighted the organization’s 45-year journey in strengthening partnerships and uplifting higher education in the region. “This roadshow brings the community closer to BHFE as we celebrate our 45th anniversary. BFHE is the only regional multi-typology organization recognized by CHED, and it’s being recommended as a model for other regions,” Lauraya said.

Rev. Fr. Odine L. Areola of Veritas College of Irosin discussed BFHE’s plans and accommplishments.

Further, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region V, Regional Director Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan, Jr. commended the BFHE’s initiatives and urged HEIs to prioritize research that addresses real-world challenges. “Give students and researchers the space to explore community issues and provide solutions. HEIs serve as knowledge production centers, and we must actively contribute to this endeavor,” Anduyan stated.

Dr. Rosemarie R. Jadie of BU Gubat Campus (BUGC) shared her research and extension initiatives. She emphasized the roles of technology transfer and commercialization in community development. Dr. Jadie’s project in ginger turmeric has provided her adopted organization a source of livelihood.

Signing of memorandum of partnership was also held to signal the establishment of a collaborative partnership among higher education institutions and the BFHE to enhance research, instruction, and community engagement.

As the event host, SorSU reaffirmed its commitment to expanding research collaborations and training opportunities through BFHE.

The BFHE Roadshow 2025 will continue in various provinces, promoting knowledge-sharing and strengthening the research and extension culture across the Bicol region. On March 18, 2025, the BFHE roadshow will take place in Ateneo de Naga to cater the HEIs in Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte. The roadshow will conclude on March 25, 2025 in Legazpi City

𝒗𝒊𝒂 𝑲𝑷𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒛𝒖𝒆𝒍𝒂_𝑩𝑼𝑬𝑴𝑫

𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒕𝒐𝒔 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒚: 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒚 𝑴𝒂𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒏̃𝒂, 𝐁𝐔𝐄𝐌𝐃 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐟𝐟