UCU Educators honored for Research and Mentorship Excellence at GAWAD KABADANG 2025

Urdaneta City University (UCU) celebrated the achievements of two of its distinguished faculty members: Dr. Sonny Soriano and Dr. Arnel Ocay, who were honored at the GAWAD KABADANG 2025 Awards organized by the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR) on May 28, 2025 held at La Trinidad, Benguet.

In celebration of CHED’s 31st Founding Anniversary and the 5th National Higher Education Day, the event recognized exemplary educators under the theme “Reaching Higher Heights in Research and Mentorship.”

Dr. Soriano, Director for External Affairs and Linkages and International Relations Officer, was recognized for his outstanding leadership in expanding UCU’s national and international research collaborations. His efforts have enhanced the university’s global engagement and provided broader opportunities for faculty and students in research and innovation.

“This award affirms UCU’s institutional commitment to research as a catalyst for development,” Dr. Soriano said. “Mentorship means fostering curiosity, collaboration, and purpose.” 

Dr. Ocay, a faculty member of the College of Information Technology Education, was honored for his impactful work in digital innovation and education. Through the KABADANG Research Publication Mentoring Program, he produced a peer-reviewed study addressing digital inequality in rural communities.

“KABADANG helped me realize that research must serve societal needs,” he shared. “It empowered me to mentor others, just as I was mentored.”

The KABADANG program, launched in 2018 by Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes, is a flagship initiative of CHED-CAR promoting collaborative mentorship among higher education faculty. Inspired by the Cordilleran concept of “kabadang,” meaning mutual help, the program supports educators in producing publishable and impactful research aligned with local and national development priorities.

KABADANG contributes to Sustainable Development Goals such as Quality Education (SDG 4), Innovation (SDG 9), and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), promoting research excellence and inclusive academic growth. Under CHED-CAR Regional Director Atty. Septon A. De La Cruz, the program has expanded nationwide, mentoring institutions in building sustainable research cultures. The recognition of Dr. Soriano and Dr. Ocay reflects UCU’s commitment to research and innovation through strategic partnerships, faculty development, and active engagement in programs like KABADANG.

University President Atty. Amihan April Mella-Alcazar expressed her pride and support: “We are immensely proud of Dr. Soriano and Dr. Ocay. Their achievements reflect UCU’s dedication to academic excellence, research integrity, and community impact. We remain committed to empowering our faculty to reach even greater heights.”

As GAWAD KABADANG 2025 concludes, UCU stands out as a rising leader in higher education—where research is not merely pursued, but championed as a mission to shape a better and more inclusive future.#