Showcasing its research expertise and contributing to discussions on public administration, faculty members of the University of Northern Philippines presented their research papers at the 2026 Philippine Society for Public Administration (PSPA) International Conference held on October 21–23, 2026, at the University of Makati in Metro Manila.
Representing the University of Northern Philippines at the conference were Dr. Society Salcedo, Program Head of the Master in Public Administration of the College of Open and Distance Education and MPA major in Culture-based Governance program of the College of Public Administration (CPAd); Dr. Abelardo Anicas, Program Head of the Bachelor in Public Administration program of CPAd; and Dr. Floria Ursulom, Chief of the Governance and Policy Research Center under the University Research and Development Office and a CPAd faculty member. Also presenting their research were CPAd faculty members Dr. Ivy Cariño, Prof. Joana Rivad, and Dr. Maria Day Benzon.
Highlighting the university’s commitment to advance research in governance, public administration, and social justice, Dr. Society Salcedo presented her study titled “Lipit”: A justice system of the indigenous people of Ilocos Sur,” which explored the traditional justice system practiced by Indigenous communities in the province. The research brought attention to indigenous approaches of resolving disputes and administering justice within local communities.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ursulom presented a collaborative study with Dr. Cid Javier, Dr. Anicas, and Prof. Arnold Pio entitled “Awareness and observance of R.A. 11313 (Bawal Bastos Law) in the University of Northern Philippines.” The research examined awareness and compliance with the Safe Spaces Act, which seeks to prevent and address gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, educational institutions, and other settings.
Advancing research on public sector innovation and local governance, Dr. Abelardo Anicas presented his study titled “E-Kapitolyo: Digitalization of public services in the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur,” which examined the digitalization of government services and its role in improving public service delivery in the province. The research highlighted the growing importance of digital technologies in making government transactions and services more accessible, efficient, and responsive to public needs.
Prof. Joana Rivad presented a collaborative study with Prof. Madeline Lopez entitled “Revisiting the performance and experiences of Sangguniang Kabataan in the Province of Ilocos Sur.” The study revisited the performance and experiences of the Sangguniang Kabataan, examining their roles and challenges in youth representation and local governance. It also contributed to discussions on strengthening youth leadership and promoting more effective youth participation in community development.
Contributing to research on environmental governance and sustainable local development, Maria Day Benzon, DPA graduate, presented her study entitled “Effectiveness of the Implementation of Single-Use Plastic Regulation in Selected Cities of Region I.” The research examined how selected cities in the Ilocos Region implement regulations governing the use of single-use plastics, with a focus on assessing the effectiveness of local measures in addressing plastic waste and promoting environmentally responsible practices. The study also highlighted the importance of effective policy implementation and local government action in strengthening environmental protection and advancing sustainable waste management initiatives.
Addressing a pressing environmental concern at the community level, Dr. Ivy Cariño presented a collaborative study with Dr. Joselito De la Rosa and Dr. Sina Bestre entitled “Practices and Experiences of Open Burning among Residents of Vigan City.” The research examined residents’ practices and experiences related to open burning, shedding light on a waste-disposal practice with implications for environmental protection and public health. By investigating the issue within the local context, the study contributes to a better understanding of community behaviors and experiences that may inform environmental awareness initiatives, strengthen local waste management strategies, and support efforts to promote safer and more sustainable waste disposal practices in Vigan City.
The faculty members’ participation in the international conference reflects the University of Northern Philippines’ sustained commitment to advance research productivity, facilitating knowledge exchange, and strengthening engagement with the broader academic community. By providing opportunities for faculty researchers to present their scholarly work in professional and international forums, the University continues to expand its research visibility, build academic networks, and establish stronger linkages with institutions and experts in their respective fields.
Through these research presentations, UNP further advances its mission of producing relevant and impactful scholarship that addresses local realities, preserves indigenous knowledge, and contributes to informed discussions on governance, public administration, environmental sustainability, and social development. These initiatives also reinforce the University’s role in generating research-based insights that can inform public policies, improve governance practices, and support inclusive and sustainable community development.
Article by Wilson Tolio. Photo by CPAd Faculty.
