The 8th JAAP International Research and Development Conference (JAAP-IRDC) 2026 officially commenced its activities today, June 17, 2026. Organized by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Alumni Association of the Philippines (JAAP) in partnership with the JSPS Bangkok Office, the international event addresses complex global challenges through cross-border scientific innovation.

This year’s conference is hosted by Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) in collaboration with Siquijor State College (SSC), underscoring a shared commitment to internationalization, research excellence, and capacity building.

The Pre-conference Mentorship (Day 0) focused entirely on high-level mentorship, setting the stage for academic exchange. Dr. Edwin F. Romano Jr., NORSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, delivered the opening and welcome remarks, while Dr. Maria Natalia Dimaano from the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School presented a comprehensive rationale for the conference.

The conference features a multidisciplinary panel of experts, including:
•Dr. Maria Natalia Dimaano (Chemical Engineering and Materials Science)
•Dr. Gary Benico (Phycology and Harmful Algal Blooms)
•Dr. Mary Beth Maningas (Aquatic Health and Crustacean Immunology)
•Dr. Susan Gallardo (Environmental Engineering and Catalysis)
•Dr. Maria Rowena R. Eguia (Aquaculture Genetics)
•Dr. Karl Marx Quiazon (Aquatic Biosciences)
•Dr. Fernan Tupas (Science Education)

The Pre-conference Mentorship centered on an interactive session and open discussion, giving attendees direct access to established specialists. Participants discussed critical areas of academic growth, including research productivity strategies, work-life balance, and building international networks.

Guided by the timely theme, "Building Resilient Futures: Global Collaboration for Scientific Innovation," the 8th JAAP-IRDC aims to bridge the gap between disciplines and national boundaries. By gathering foreign and local scientists, academicians, and innovators, the event serves as a premier platform to exchange evidence-based solutions, strengthen professional linkages, and establish enduring global research partnerships. After the mentorship session, the pre-conference was formally closed by NORSU Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM) Unit Head Dr. Johann Heinrich Malongo.

Tomorrow, June 18, 2026, will mark Day 1 of the event, which will feature lectures from seven prominent researchers.