The Graduate School of the Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) successfully held the second installment of its annual research colloquium, BALAYAG 2025, with the theme “Conversations that Matter: Advancing Graduate Research Through Critical Dialogue.” The one-day event was held at the EdTech Room, ASSCAT Main Campus, drawing participation from graduate students, faculty researchers, and academic stakeholders.

Spearheaded by the ASSCAT Graduate School, BALAYAG 2025 aimed to deepen scholarly engagement through critical discussions and interdisciplinary dialogue. The colloquium served as a platform for graduate researchers to present emerging studies, receive feedback from academic panels, and interact with thought leaders on pressing issues in education, ethics, and policy.

Among the distinguished plenary speakers was Dr. Joy C. Capistrano, ASSCAT College President, who delivered a keynote address titled “ASSCAT to ADSSU: Unlocking a New Era of Excellence in Education, Industry, and Learner Opportunities.” In her message, Dr. Capistrano highlighted ASSCAT’s evolving trajectory as it prepares for its transition to full university status, emphasizing the role of graduate research in shaping institutional relevance and regional development.

Also sharing their insights were Dr. Rolyna S. Trugillo, Supervising Education Program Specialist from CHEDRO–Caraga, who spoke on “The Role of Research in Shaping Progressive Education Policies,” and Prof. Vidi Sukmayadi of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, who presented on “AI Ethics for Academics and Researchers.” Their discussions emphasized the critical importance of evidence-based policymaking and ethical responsibility in the age of artificial intelligence.

The colloquium featured parallel sessions where graduate students presented their research papers across various disciplines. Faculty evaluators from the ASSCAT Graduate School served as panels, offering feedback to enhance academic rigor and conceptual clarity. The event fostered a collaborative environment where emerging scholars were encouraged to challenge assumptions, refine methodologies, and explore innovative frameworks.

According to Graduate School Dean Dr. Shiryl T. Ytoc, BALAYAG continues to reflect the institution’s commitment to cultivating transformative research and scholarly leadership among its graduate scholars. “We envision Balayag not only as a forum for presentation but as a space where conversations truly matter—where inquiry meets impact,” the dean said.

Now in its second year, the Balayag Research Colloquium is fast becoming a cornerstone event in ASSCAT’s academic calendar. The initiative supports the College’s research agenda and aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

As ASSCAT looks ahead to broader academic horizons, BALAYAG stands as a testament to the College’s growing research culture—anchored in critical dialogue, inclusive scholarship, and community-responsive innovation.