USTP CDO TCM students win top research presenter awards at SCOP Research Congress
By Jhezierae Rhya Enif B. Alcantara, DTCM Student, USTP CDO
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Fourth-year Technology Communication Management (TCM) students from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Cagayan de Oro (USTP CDO) were recognized as Best Research Presenters in the Undergraduate Category during the Speech Communication Organization of the Philippines (SCOP) International Convention, Research Congress, and 40th Founding Anniversary Celebration.
Held on April 25, 2026, at Centro Escolar University in San Miguel, Manila, the event carried the theme “Voice of Integrity: Truth, Speech, and Communication for Sustainability.”
The Speech Communication Organization of the Philippines (SCOP) is a scholarly and professional organization dedicated to promoting the responsible and effective use of speech communication in developing articulate professionals and leaders committed to social development. As the oldest and only national organization for speech communication in the country, SCOP’s recognition marks a significant achievement for the student researchers. The convention also serves as a major platform for communication scholars, students, educators, and professionals to present innovative research and advance discourse in the field.
Leading the winners was Kent Joahs G. Escabarte, who secured 1st Place for the study, “Giya: A Digital Communication Tool for Streamlining Non-Clinical Healthcare Communication in Outpatient Services as Baseline for Enhancing Patient Experience in a Public Hospital.”
The study was co-authored by Rave M. Arao, Justin D. Balaman, Elgy G. Dianito, Hannah G. Gumban, Disney Zcalcy Pabayo, and Kristine P. Valenzuela.
Placing 2nd was Jhezierae Rhya Enif B. Alcantara for the research, “eSulti: A Knowledge Management-Driven Digitalized Barangay Feedback System as Basis for Program Creation and Enhancement for Active Citizenship.”
Co-authors include Carl D. Velez, Jane Ignacia S. Abragan, Ralph Matthew S. Aclao, Amira R. Al Hamadani, Julmar A. Buyoc, and Pamela C. Cuizon.
Both award-winning studies were mentored by Ms. Angeli P. Monsanto, associate professor of the Department of Technology Communication Management.
The event gathered participants from 45 schools nationwide across three categories: senior high school, undergraduate, and graduate. In the undergraduate category alone, 20 studies were presented, highlighting the competition’s rigor. Participating institutions included the University of the Philippines Diliman, University of Santo Tomas, Philippine Normal University, Centro Escolar University, Trinity University of Asia, First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities, and West Visayas State University.
The convention also featured prominent speakers, including Atty. Marco Cicero F. Domingo, Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education – National Capital Region (CHED-NCR); broadcast journalist Bernadette Sembrano-Aguinaldo of ABS-CBN; and Dr. Sarinthip Sutthikanpakorn, Research Officer from Surindra Rajabhat University, Thailand.
Beyond their winning presentations, the student researchers were commended for the innovation reflected in their outputs. Their studies showcased communication-centered digital solutions addressing real-world challenges in community and public service contexts.
Anchored on the event’s theme, the students’ achievement highlights how communication extends beyond the exchange of words—it serves as a powerful tool for innovation, meaningful impact, and transformative social change toward a more sustainable future.
Their recognition at the national research congress reflects the core of TCM education—developing innovative communicators, critical thinkers, and socially responsive leaders who harness technology and communication to create meaningful solutions.
Keep moving onwards and up, Trailblazers!
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