BANGKOK, Thailand — A community-based research paper from La Consolacion College Bacolod earned two presenter honors during the 4th International Conference on Business, Education, Engineering and Sciences, or ICBEES 2026, held July 1-3 at Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok.
Dr. Rodjhun B. Navarro, vice president for research, innovation and linkages of LCC Bacolod, received the Best in Oral Presentation award and the Best Abstract award under the qualitative-case study category for his paper, “Women Waste Pickers in Bacolod City: Livelihoods, Empowerment, and Inclusive Waste Governance.”
The paper examined the experiences of women waste pickers in Bacolod City, focusing on livelihood, empowerment and the role of inclusive governance in strengthening waste management systems.
Navarro presented the study under the Business and Social Sciences session on July 2.
Sr. Flolyn S. Catungal, OSA, president of LCC Bacolod, said the recognition highlights the importance of research that is grounded in community realities and directed toward social transformation.
“We are proud that LCC Bacolod’s research continues to bring the stories and struggles of communities to wider academic platforms,” Catungal said. “This recognition reminds us that research becomes most meaningful when it gives voice to sectors whose experiences must inform policy, education and development.”
Catungal said the awards also affirm the college’s continuing efforts to promote ethical, relevant and community-engaged scholarship.
“As an institution, we are called to produce research that does not remain only in conference halls or publications, but contributes to the dignity and empowerment of people,” she said. “The recognition of this study encourages us to continue advancing scholarship that is inclusive, compassionate and responsive to the needs of society.”
ICBEES 2026 carried the theme “Bridging Disciplines: Collaborative Research for a Changing Global Landscape” and gathered researchers, educators, administrators and scholars from various institutions for keynote lectures, plenary sessions and research paper presentations.
The conference was organized by the International Association of Scholarly Publishers, Editors and Reviewers Inc. in partnership with LCC Bacolod, the University of Bohol, Dr. Soetomo University of Indonesia and the University of Nueva Caceres.
The awarding ceremonies were held July 3 at Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok.