By: Keziah Nicole Fernandez

The International Knowledge Exchange on Criminology was held on January 22, 2026, at the University of the Cordilleras Theater, bringing together local and international experts to share knowledge on criminology, human rights, and criminal justice.

Through the Rights2LIFE project, special lecturers from Ghent University, Belgium, were invited to share their expertise. Prof. Dr. Christophe Vandeviver discussed criminal location and target selection, while Prof. Dr. Tom Vander Beken focused on European and South African prison systems.

Prof. Dr. Cristophe Vandeviver with his lecture on Criminal Location and Target Selection

Prof. Dr. Tom Vander Beken with his lecture on Criminal Location and Target Selection

Open Forum with Prof. Dr. Cristophe Vandeviver and Prof. Dr. Tom Vander Beken

In the afternoon, a panel discussion titled “Beyond Knowledge: Pathways to Inculcating Human Rights as a Life Value” featured Atty. Jacqueline Ann C. De Guia of the Philippine Commission on Human Rights, Ms. Signe Elneff Poulsen of the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, and Mr. Ray Dean D. Salvosa of the University of the Cordilleras, with PCPT Norishiel W Larines speaking on behalf of PCOL Roman C Arugay of the Philippine National Police.

The event concluded with an open forum and closing remarks, allowing participants to reflect on the discussions and insights shared. Overall, the activity aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through academic exchange, SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by promoting human rights and justice, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among local and international institutions.