Approximately 70 participants gathered for the 3rd Research Conference of the Philippine Teachers Association of Bahrain (PTAB) on November 28, 2025, at the University of Technology Bahrain. The environment was both serene and dignified, yet infused with dynamic energy, as educators, practitioners, researchers, and industry partners convened. This event underscored the growing research culture not only among overseas Filipino educators but also within global research communities and their collaborators in the kingdom.
The conference, themed “Academic Transformation Driven by Innovation and Sustainability,” emphasized PTAB’s dedication to promoting a research-oriented educational culture among overseas Filipino teachers in Bahrain.
Opening & Plenary Session
The event commenced with the national anthems of Bahrain and the Philippines, followed by an invocation. This was succeeded by welcoming remarks from Dr. Arturo C. Basbas, the PTAB Research Chair, along with messages from PTAB President Ms. Rowena M. Desierto and Dr. Firas Saidi, who is the Head of the UTB AI & Metaverse Research Center.
In his welcoming address, Dr. Arturo G. Basbas passionately advocated for enhanced collaboration among educators, school administrators, and industry stakeholders in Bahrain, urging them to jointly develop solutions to the significant challenges related to academic transformation.
A Convergence of Research, Innovation, and Collaboration
Guided by PTAB President Ms. Rowena Desierto and Research Chair Dr. Basbas, this year’s conference assembled participants from a diverse array of schools, universities, industries, and partner institutions. The assembly highlighted the importance of collaboration in realizing sustainable educational transformation.
The plenary speaker, Dr. Carlo Domingo C. Casinto, was introduced by Dr. Jose Dennis G. Dureza, a member of the PTAB Research Committee. During his address, Dr. Casinto stressed that research ought to be regarded as both a professional obligation and a means of advocacy, particularly in domains such as inclusion, learner well-being, and culturally responsive pedagogy. He encouraged attendees to perceive research as a continuous cycle of inquiry, reflection, and innovation.
Dr. Casinto, the Program Manager at the School of Lifelong Learning at Bahrain Polytechnic, inspired the conference’s intellectual direction. His notable message:
“In research, success is not measured by the number of publications or citations, but by the real impact it has on people’s lives.”
It deeply resonated with participants, reinforcing PTAB’s advocacy for meaningful, community-centered research.
Parallel Sessions: A Showcase of 18 Diverse Research Projects
A key component of the conference was the series of parallel sessions featuring 18 research papers across multiple disciplines. These studies were organized into three thematic clusters, allowing participants to engage deeply with topics aligned with their professional interest from General Education to Science and Technology, as well as Engineering and Mathematics.
Aligned with PTAB’s vision of strengthening academia–industry linkages, these presentations provided a platform for researchers to disseminate their findings and align design outputs with institutional policy development, nation-building efforts, and current market and industry needs.
Industry-Focused Panel Discussion Bridging Research and Real-World Application
The conference culminated in an insightful and highly interactive panel discussion featuring leaders from key industry sectors. Panelists included Dr. Carlo Domingo Casinto, Ar. Erwin Ereno, CEO of Erwin Ereño Design Studio, and Engr. Williamson E. Mangubat, Resident Engineer at Muharraq Wastewater Services.
Their shared perspectives highlighted the interconnectedness of academic research and practical industry application. The discussion also emphasized how research-driven innovations significantly contribute to advancing sustainability in engineering, architecture, education, and community development
Awards and Closing
Certificates of appreciation were presented to conference partners, research presenters, and the research team, while plaques of appreciation were awarded to the plenary speaker and panel members. The closing remarks was delivered by Dr. Rodalin N. Asenas, Research Co-Chair.
A Celebration of Commitment and Community
The success of the conference was also a result of the dedication of PTAB’s research committee members: Dr. Ilene Valian Agana, Dr. Rodalin Asenas, and Dr. Dennis Dureza along with the active participation of numerous delegates. Many expressed their satisfaction and appreciation for PTAB’s continuous commitment to promoting research, innovation, and meaningful partnerships within the Filipino education community in Bahrain.
A Legacy Rooted in Research and Global Competence
PTAB’s firm foundation in research traces back to its early years. As one of the founding Executive Committee (Execom) members, Dr. Jose Dennis G. Dureza emphasized how the organization under the leadership of Ms. Amor de la Cruz (2018–2020) embedded research and publication into its bylaws. This mandate continues to support PTAB’s vision “to develop members and educators to be globally competitive’’.
In 2022, during the post-pandemic recovery period, PTAB held its 1st Research Conference under the leadership of Dr. Arthur Basbas. This milestone marked the first educator-focused research conference organized by a non-profit professional organization in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Now, on its third year, PTAB continues to advance this legacy by fostering platforms that strengthen evidence-based practices and encourage lifelong learning.
Leading Toward a More Innovative Future
Dr. Jose Dennis G. Dureza underscored the vital responsibility of leaders and governing bodies to understand, apply, and advocate for research-based solutions. He cautioned that when leadership falls short whether due to lack of awareness, resistance to change, or self-serving motives such as pride or greed, innovation is hindered, sustainable development is compromised, and ultimately, communities bear the consequences. Dr. Dureza previously held key leadership roles as PTAB Vice President (2018–2021) and PTAB President (2021–2022).
The 3rd PTAB Research Conference stands as a powerful milestone in elevating academic excellence for Filipinos in Bahrain. With its strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and real-world impact, PTAB continues to empower educators to lead with integrity, global competence, and a shared commitment to building a better future.
