By: UC-CCJE College Student Council
The College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) successfully conducted its 3rd College of Criminal Justice Education Research Forum on July 10, 2026, at the University of the Cordilleras, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research excellence, innovation, and evidence-based practices in the field of criminal justice.
The event brought together criminology students, faculty members, researchers, and distinguished professionals in a dynamic academic gathering that showcased high-quality undergraduate and graduate research. The forum served as a platform for the presentation of innovative studies addressing contemporary criminal justice issues, while promoting collaboration, critical thinking, and the practical application of research toward building safer and more resilient communities.
The program was graced by Dr. Robino D. Cawi, Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education, and Dr. Ariel Nimo B. Pumecha, Vice President for Academic Affairs. Delivering the keynote address, SJO4 Caroline C. Chelnag underscored the vital role of research, technological innovation, and data-driven decision-making in enhancing public safety, improving criminal justice systems, and empowering communities through informed policies and sustainable interventions.
The College extends its heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed panel of evaluators whose expertise, professionalism, and commitment to academic excellence greatly contributed to the success of the research forum:
PCPT Loreta P. Tiago
Dr. Darlyn D. Tagarino
Dr. Daisy Begawen-Olli
Dr. Ferdinand D. Lawan
Dr. Janice P. Milo
Vanessa Kate C. Aniceto, MBA
PMAJ Laborah May Q. Nabunat
Dr. Virgilio C. Ablaza
Of course, research excellence also deserves recognition. The following are the Outstanding Awardees:
🏆 Best Paper Award (Basic Research – Undergraduate Category)
Developing Needs-Based VAWC Interventions for Baguio City: Insights from Spatial Patterns and Contributing Factors (2020–2024)
Corresponding Author: Keana Mae Pugao
🏆 Best Poster Award (Applied Research – Undergraduate Category)
Improving Police Checkpoint Visibility and Efficiency Through Portable-Enhanced Signage: An Innovation-Based Approach
Corresponding Author: Roliezyl Aleeyah Manzano
🏆 Best Paper Award (Graduate School Category)
Managing the Ifugao Reflection Camp: A Phenomenological Exploration of Stakeholders’ Lived Experiences
Author: Hyrizel P. Bahni-Umhao
🏆 Best Presenter Award (Graduate School Category)
Joy Nicole C. Canutab
🏆 Best Presenter Award (Undergraduate Category)
Estelle Gem M. Poklis
The 3rd CCJE Research Forum exemplifies the College’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a vibrant research culture that encourages innovation, scholarly excellence, and community engagement.
The College of Criminal Justice Education extends its warmest congratulations to all presenters, awardees, faculty members, organizers, evaluators, and participants whose passion, dedication, and collaborative efforts made the 3rd CCJE Research Forum a remarkable and inspiring success despite earthquake and typhoon.
Together, we continue to advance research, inspire innovation, and transform communities through knowledge and evidence-based practice.
The activity aligns with the SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the advancement of research excellence, innovation, critical thinking, and lifelong learning among students and professionals. It also supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by encouraging the development of innovative, technology-driven, and evidence-based solutions to address pressing criminal justice and public safety concerns. Furthermore, the forum contributes to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by fostering research that informs effective policies, strengthens criminal justice institutions, promotes ethical and data-driven decision-making, and advances safer, more inclusive, and resilient communities. Through collaboration among academia, law enforcement, and industry experts, the College continues to demonstrate how research serves as a powerful catalyst for sustainable development, good governance, and positive societal transformation.
