Dr. Elias C. Olapane, faculty member of the College of Education-West Visayas State University garnered 2nd Place in the Education Category during the 2026 PAEPI Central Visayas Chapter: International Extension Symposium and Technology Forum (IESTF) held on May 20–22, 2026 at the CebuTech Gymnatorium of Cebu Technological University-Main Campus.

Dr. Olapane received the distinction for his extension paper titled “Transforming Instructional Innovation into Learner Outcomes Through Action Research,” a study that underscores the transformative role of action research in improving teaching strategies, fostering instructional innovation, and enhancing student learning outcomes through evidence-based educational practices.

The symposium gathered educators, researchers, extension practitioners, and academic leaders from across the region and beyond to discuss innovative approaches in community extension, research utilization, and sustainable development. Organized under the Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementers, Inc. (PAEPI) Central Visayas Chapter, the event highlighted the theme of transforming communities through university-led extension initiatives and collaborative innovation. 

Hosted by Cebu Technological University-Main Campus, the three-day international gathering featured plenary sessions, research and extension paper presentations, technology forums, and networking opportunities that aimed to strengthen partnerships among higher education institutions, government agencies, and community stakeholders. 

Dr. Olapane’s recognition reflects the growing impact of extension-driven educational research in addressing contemporary learning challenges and promoting learner-centered innovation in the academe. His achievement also brings pride to the institution and affirms its commitment to excellence in instruction, research, and extension services.

The University Extension and Development Center (UEDC) will hold its 2026 Extension Project Termination and Presentation on May 22, 2026 bringing together faculty-led community initiatives that focus on livelihood, environmental awareness, digital literacy, and skills development. 

The whole-day event, scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on online platform Google Meet will feature project presentations, question-and-answer sessions, and an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding extension initiatives. 

The opening ceremony will include remarks from UEDC Director Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, followed by the introduction of evaluators and presentation mechanics. Rona E. Mangao will serve as moderator for the event. 

Among the featured projects is “Development of Value-Added Products Utilizing Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica): A Livelihood Project for Marginalized Communities in Bingawan, Iloilo, Philippines,” to be presented by Dr. Cynthia L. Limsiaco. The study highlights the use of locally available resources to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for communities. 

Other morning presentations include “Pag-Uswag sa Likod sang Rehas: Skills on Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Development (Pag-uswag: SEED)” by Dr. Julynn J. Rico, “Pagbulig” by Nena Vanessa A. Cabiles, Evelyn M. Cordero, and Ernalyn B. Cepeda, and “Pagpabakod” by Dr. Roberto Sagge Jr. and Dr. Sybel Joy F. Labis. 

Digital literacy and technology education will also take center stage through “ALChat: Mobile Phone Literacy Training Series for the Residents of Poblacion Delgado, Calinog, Iloilo,” presented by Dr. Elias C. Olapane. 

Afternoon sessions will focus on community empowerment and environmental responsibility. Featured projects include “TOURS (Training Opportunities for Upgrading Residents Skills)” by Lovelyn P. Wee and “Yucks to Yey (Y2Y): A Waste Management and Gardening Project in Igang, Pototan, Iloilo” by Dr. Mae B. Angeles. 

Also included in the lineup are “Driver’s Responsiveness, Initiatives & Values Education Readiness (DRIVER)” by Dr. Pablo L. Lauro and Juliet M. Seniego, as well as “Teaching Children on Environmental Responsibility (TEACHER)” by Dr. Paul Ramsey C. Belencion and Dr. Marlene S. Gloria. 

The event will conclude with a closing and awarding ceremony at 4:30 p.m., recognizing the impact and accomplishments of the university’s extension programs in partner communities across Iloilo.