Two research groups comprised of eight Grade-12 ABM students from UP High School in Iloilo (UPHSI) participated in the 16th International Conference on Environmental and Rural Development (ICERD) at Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan, held from March 13-16, 2025. The students presented their research through a poster presentation, with one group receiving the prestigious Award of Excellent Poster Presentation—one of the conference’s prestigious recognitions.
The 16th ICERD, organized by the International Society of Environmental and Rural Development, aims to explore effective strategies for sustainable agriculture and rural development. It provides a platform for student researchers, professionals, scientists, and facilitators from international, governmental, and non-governmental organizations to share innovative solutions for enhancing community resilience and sustainability, particularly in response to climate risks.
The event began with a pre-conference session, where selected participants received guidelines and tips on effectively presenting their research in both oral and poster formats. This was followed by a welcome party, which provided attendees with an opportunity to network, exchange insights, and discuss advancements in rural sustainability. The official conference proceedings commenced the next day with an opening program, followed by research poster and oral presentations. Participants from around the world gathered to share their findings, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
During the poster presentation session, the research group led by Mickole Borjie Atinado, along with members Poi Marie Cabrera, Ma. Isabelle Cordova, Rochelle Fuentes, and Zharry Joy Zerrudo, presented their study titled "Assessing the Financial and Economic Viability of Artisanal Salt Production Methods: A Case Study of Miag-ao’s Budbud and Guimaras’ Tultul Salts." Similarly, another research group led by Lori Ysabel Doricarion, with members Ranee Arjuonne Eclavia and Mary Nicole Pornel, presented their study titled "Financial and Economic Viability of Milkfish Farms in Dumangas, Iloilo Using Earthen Pond Technology." Both teams engaged with conference chairs and fellow researchers, sharing their findings and contributing to discussions on sustainable development.
The conference concluded with a closing and awarding ceremony, where Atinado, Cabrera, Cordova, Fuentes, and Zerrudo’s research group received the esteemed Award of Excellent Poster Presentation. Among numerous international entries, their research was highly praised by professionals and conference chairs, earning recognition for its quality and impact.
As part of the conference experience, participants also enjoyed a guided excursion around Tokyo, allowing them to explore the city’s cultural and historical landmarks.
The students were accompanied by their research adviser, Dr. Reynold D. Tan, who mentored them through the conceptualization and development of their studies under the IREAP course.
Their achievement at the 16th ICERD highlights UPHSI’s commitment to research excellence and sustainable development, reinforcing its students’ role in addressing real-world economic and environmental challenges.
