By Renelyn Faith Gabucay
Central Philippine University–College of Nursing co-hosted the 1st International Healthcare Conference: “TRENDS” alongside the Faculty of Nursing, Burapha University, where student nurses eagerly participated and showcased a wide range of research, reflecting their dedication during the event held from November 2 to 5, 2025, at the Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall (PEACH), Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand.
Amidst an ever-changing world, the role of research extends far beyond data and statistics—it serves as a pillar for advancement and betterment, offering solutions to both contemporary and emerging uncertainties. Embracing research fuels the desire to innovate, to question what has long been accepted, and to carve new paths, especially in the fields of healthcare and well-being. With curiosity and passion driving them, students from the Central Philippine University College of Nursing embarked on a journey toward discovery, innovation, and the advancement of healthcare through research.
With the college co-hosting the 1st International Healthcare Conference: “TRENDS” alongside the Faculty of Nursing, Burapha University, the student nurses eagerly participated and showcased a wide range of research. The event was held from November 2–5, 2025, at the Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall (PEACH), Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand.
The event featured Mr. Zian Christian F. Lirazan and Mr. Francis Lorenz Vito from BSN 4D and 4F as oral presenters for their studies, “Utilization of Technological Learning Platform and Class Performance Among Student Nurses in a Selected University in Iloilo City,” under the guidance of Dean Melba C. Sale, and “Knowledge and Perceived Readiness of Clinical Instructors in Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Nursing Education,” advised by Dr. Raymund H. Partisala. They were accompanied by their group members, Chelsea B. Limbungan and Marthy Grace Yngayo.
Meanwhile, the poster presentations were led by students from BSN 4B, 4D, and 4E. Bernd Justin Cruz presented his study, “Self-Assessment of High-Fidelity Simulation-Based Training and Clinical Performance Among Student Nurses at a Private University in Iloilo,” under the guidance of Dr. Betty T. Polido. Aynah Layo presented “Attitude Towards Simulation-Based Training, Level of Engagement, and Clinical Performance of Student Nurses in a Private University,” advised by Dr. Sarla F. Duller. Another poster, “Adaptability, Engagement in Technological Applications, and Academic Performance Among Student Nurses in a Selected University in Iloilo City,” was presented by Julia Lourdes Panizal with the participation of Ma. Ysabel Paniagua, under the guidance of Mr. Rockie Cordero.
Under the sunlit skies of Thailand, a vibrant convergence of students, educators, and healthcare professionals transformed the conference halls into a playground of ideas and innovation. Research was not just shared—it came alive, sparking curiosity and inspiring collaboration. For every participant, each presentation and discussion offered a glimpse into the future, fueled by passion, creativity, and the drive to make a global impact. Being part of this large-scale event was no small feat, and only those with brave hearts and passionate spirits dared to step onto such a global stage.
For Ms. Limbungan and Ms. Panizal, who were among the students who joined the event, the journey to Thailand began with a mix of surprise, hesitation, and anticipation. Ms. Limbungan recalled that personal challenges almost kept her from going, but through God’s intervention and the unwavering support of her research mates—and the hard work they had poured into their study—she was motivated to take the leap. Meanwhile, for Ms. Panizal, the opportunity began as a rumor she thought was a joke, yet when it became real, encouragement from her group and family gave her the confidence to step forward. She believed that immersing herself in an environment surrounded by passionate and talented individuals would push her to learn and grow beyond her comfort zone. Both students were driven by the desire to honor their group’s efforts and share their research on an international stage.
Preparing for an event like this demanded more than skill—it required patience, passion, and perseverance. Ms. Panizal entered the conference hall not just as a presenter but as someone who had lived and breathed their research. She crafted their poster ahead of time and reread their manuscript repeatedly, even during the long bus ride from Bangkok to Pattaya. She rehearsed her lines, anticipated questions, and refined every detail, supported by her research partner Ysabel Paniagua, who timed her practice runs. Their clinical instructors also played a vital role by offering insightful questions and feedback that strengthened her confidence.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the event floor, Ms. Limbungan, who served as the research leader of their group, took on equally crucial responsibilities. She designed their PowerPoint, crafted the abstract, organized submissions, and anticipated challenging questions—all while supporting her assistant leader, Mr. Zian Christian Lirazan, one of the oral presenters. For her, the event unfolded like a whirlwind of discovery. She was amazed as she explored the massive facility and saw high-fidelity simulators beyond the familiar Apollo and Lucina models, as well as experiencing virtual reality firsthand. The thought of presenting their work before experts from various medical fields was nerve-racking, yet deeply inspiring. Balancing academic requirements with research preparations tested her time-management skills, especially with last-minute revisions made just a day before the event. Despite exhaustion, the experience became one of her most cherished milestones.
When asked how participating in the research conference impacted them as student nurses, both Ms. Panizal and Ms. Limbungan shared insights that went far beyond presenting a study. For Ms. Panizal, standing on an international stage was both exhilarating and overwhelming, pushing her to recognize her abilities and the importance of stepping outside her comfort zone. She recalled the quote, “A ship in harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for,” realizing that growth often comes from taking risks. Observing how other countries approached nursing inspired her to aim higher and keep learning.
Ms. Limbungan, on the other hand, was struck by the breadth of healthcare beyond hospital settings. She met professionals from diverse fields—lawyers, professors, and businessmen—all connected by a shared commitment to improving health outcomes. Engaging with them underscored the importance of collaboration, showing her that meaningful change in healthcare arises when different disciplines work together toward a common goal.
Ultimately, the 1st International Healthcare Conference: “TRENDS” in Thailand served as more than a platform for presenting research—it was a transformative journey that strengthened their skills, ignited their curiosity, and expanded their horizons as future nurses. Beyond the posters and presentations, the students showcased their brilliance, passion, and determination, using the opportunity to grow, learn, and push the boundaries of what they once believed possible.
In embracing this journey, these student nurses proved that curiosity, dedication, and the courage to explore uncharted paths drive the advancement of healthcare and the enduring impact of research. As they returned home, they carried not only memories of a remarkable event but also strengthened confidence and a renewed determination to continue advancing nursing and making a difference in the lives of others.