NAVAL, BILIRAN, Philippines—The 6th International and 9th National Conference on Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development (iPOVCON 2025) continued its second day with a series of breakout sessions showcasing researches aligned with the conference theme, “Technology-Driven Solutions for Poverty Alleviation and Inclusive Sustainability.”
One of the highlights was Track 1: Emerging Technologies for Health and Education Equity, specifically Subtrack 1A: Digital Transformation and Innovations in Education, which featured 14 paper presentations from researchers representing higher education institutions across the Philippines. The session underscored the pivotal role of technology in transforming education systems and promoting equity, access, and quality in learning.
Among the presenters was Ramil T. Gaborni of Catanduanes State University, who discussed the “Development and Evaluation of an Interactive Book on Selected Topics in Electronics and Electrical Technology.” Sigmund Fletcher D. Tarrayo of the University of the Philippines–Tacloban College examined the “Digital Divide and Functional Literacy in Eastern Visayas.”
From the State University of Northern Negros, Rechie B. Pabelona presented her study, “Enhancing Governance Capacities of Barangay Officials in Sagay City.” Joanne D. Gorospe of Occidental Mindoro State College contributed two studies: “Ethical and Practical Challenges and Limitations of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Instructional Approaches in Teacher Education” and “Teachers’ Use of Digital Tools as a Determinant of Student Engagement and Skill Acquisition in Technology and Livelihood Education.”
Artificial intelligence was also highlighted in the presentations of Renz Alvin E. Gabay from Sorsogon State University, who delivered “Exploring Perspectives Toward Generative Artificial Intelligence Integration in Science Education: A Cross-Generational Study” and “Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) for Academic Writing in Higher Education: A Scoping Review of Applications, Challenges, and Implications.” Likewise, Aaron A. Funa, also from Sorsogon State University, presented “Policy Guidelines and Recommendations on AI Use in Teaching and Learning: A Meta-Synthesis Study.”
Other presentations included Sherilyn De Leon Macaraig of Batangas State University, who examined “Inclusion of SOGIESC in Job Searching: Impact on LGBTQ BatStateU Graduates (2018–2022) as Input to GAD Programs,” and Mira Lei M. Marigmen-Balinjare of Occidental Mindoro State College, who discussed “Leadership Management and Organizational Capacity of Selected Women Associations in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.”
In the area of sustainability and student welfare, Jeruel B. Rubas of Leyte Normal University presented “Modelling the Relationship of Student Allowance on Carbon-Intensive Consumption Behaviors in a State University.” Arly B. Balingbing of Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges shared her study, “Technical Difficulties and Challenges Encountered by BTVTED Students in the New Normal: Basis for Instructional Intervention,” while Ana Liza O. Ordinario of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University discussed “Technology and Livelihood Education Program of DMMMSU: Analysis and Enhancement.” Completing the lineup was Aveliza T. Basibas from the University of Eastern Philippines–PRM Campus, with “Utilization of Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and Academic Performance of College Students.”
The presentations were evaluated by Dr. Leoncio P. Olobia, Assistant Professor of Leyte Normal University; Dr. Sweet Mercy F. Pacolor, Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Samar State University; and Dr. Roland A. Niez, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU).
Throughout the session, the presenters and evaluators engaged in meaningful discussions closing educational and poverty gaps.
At the conclusion of all paper presentations, each track will announce Best Paper awardees, including Track 1A which will declare its respective Best Paper Presentation awarde in recognition of outstanding scholarly contributions and high-impact delivery of the scholars.