NDMU Researchers Earn International Recognition at 8th Asia Future Conference in Japan

SENDAl, JAPAN — Researchers from Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) gained international recognition after presenting their research studies at the 8th Asia Future Conference (AFC 2026) held on August 25–29, 2026 in Sendai, Japan.

Carrying the theme “Space and Distance: Crossing, Closing, Creating,” the conference was hosted by the Atsumi International Foundation Sekiguchi Global Research Association (SGRA) and co-hosted by Tohoku Gakuin University (TGU). The event gathered scholars, researchers, and academics from various countries to share research addressing contemporary social, educational, economic, and environmental issues.

Among the presenters was Dr. Wilma A. Mercado, who shared her study, “Vocational Institution Providers in BARMM-Maguindanao Beyond Certification: Evaluating the Satisfaction of Scholars with the Quality of Technical Education.” The research examined scholars’ satisfaction with the quality of technical-vocational education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Dr. Jennifer S. Era, CPA presented “Crossing Academic Boundaries: How Competencies Acquired by Postgraduate Degree Holders Transcend to Employers’ Work Performance Satisfaction in the Province of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat, Philippines.” The study explored how competencies developed through postgraduate education contribute to employee performance and employer satisfaction.

Representing NDMU’s sustainability and governance initiatives, Dr. Rean May C. Galang, CMITAP presented “Mapping the ESG Landscape: Examining Implementation Success Score of NDMU – A Marist School in the Philippines.” The research assessed the University’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) implementation practices and performance.

Meanwhile, Dr. John Yrick C. Era, CPA, part-time faculty member of the College of Business, Governance and Accountancy and the Master in Business Administration program, presented “The Role of Financial Resources in Strengthening Hospital Resilience in Private Hospitals in Mindanao, Philippines.” The study highlighted the importance of financial capacity in enhancing the resilience of healthcare institutions.

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NDMU’s participation was marked by notable achievements as Dr. Jennifer S. Era, CPA received the Best Presenter Award for Education and Employment, while Dr. Rean May C. Galang, CMITAP earned the Best Presenter Award for Education and Assessments.

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The recognition reflects NDMU’s growing presence in international research platforms and its commitment to producing scholarly work that contributes to education, sustainability, healthcare, and community development. Through active engagement in global academic discussions, the University continues to advance its mission of fostering research excellence and meaningful societal impact.