9th PASCHR International Conference at CatSU sets new standards for Cultural Research The

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9th PASCHR International Conference at CatSU sets new standards for Cultural Research The

The 9th Philippine Association for the Study of Culture, History, and Religion (PASCHR) International Conference concluded on May 20, 2023, at Catanduanes State University (CatSU).

The conference, with the theme "Narratives and Practices of Meaning-making: Histories, Cultures, and Religions in the Philippines in their Indo-Pacific Contexts," saw the participation of approximately 100 attendees, both online and onsite. This included 52 Paper Presenters representing 31 universities and colleges from across the country and the world.

During the opening on May 18, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed gratitude to PASCHR for choosing CatSU as the conference's partner and venue.

As a sociologist, Dr. Azanza emphasized the significance of a conference that explores culture, religion, and history, as it plays a vital role in disseminating and preserving knowledge. He stressed the importance of future generations learning about their roots and the historical foundations that have shaped society today.

Dr. Amarjiva Lochan, President of the South and Southeast Asian Association for the Study of Culture and Religion, delivered an inspirational message, pledging assistance in publishing the conference research papers in their journal.

Catanduanes leaders’ Hon. Arlynn H. Arcilla, Vice Mayor of Virac, and Hon. Joselito Alberto, Councilor of Bato, also delivered inspirational messages on behalf of Mayor Samuel V. Laynes and Governor Joseph C. Cua, respectively.

Dr. Esmeralda F. Sanchez, President Emeritus of PASCHR, introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Sophana Schrichampa from Mahidol University in Thailand. Following the keynote address, Dr. Randy T. Nobleza from Marinduque State College took the stage as the first Plenary Speaker.

The conference featured parallel sessions where paper presenters shared their research works. These parallel sessions continued on the second day, May 19, with plenary sessions led by three more research experts.

Dr. Vibha Agnihotri of Lucknow University in Uttar Pradesh, India discussed "Religions and Cultures in the Contemporary Times." Dr. Danilo M. Gerona of Partido State University presented on "Suppressing the Babylan/Catolonan: Witchcraft and the Discursive Construction of Diabolic Evil." Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs of CatSU, concluded the plenary sessions with his discussion on "The Ermitas of Virac, Catanduanes: People's Abodes of Faith."

On the third day of the event, parallel sessions took place in the morning, and the closing program was held in the afternoon.

Dr. Sarmiento expressed his gratitude for the successful hosting of the conference and the dedication to research, knowledge-sharing, and cultural preservation. He thanked all the attendees from various universities and colleges, both locally and internationally, as well as the individuals behind the event, especially CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza.  #FJBT