Caraga Center for Peace and Development - CCPD

Big minds create meaningful change.

Congratulations to Vitalian Christophere L. Napone, PhD candidate and Center Chief of the Caraga Center for Peace and Development, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, for successfully defending his dissertation entitled “Positive Duty, Negative Duty, and the Third Duty in the Light of Paul Ricoeur’s Distinction of Ethics, Morality, and Practical Wisdom” on May 6, 2026, via Zoom.

This achievement marks a proud milestone in his Doctor of Philosophy in Ethics at Ateneo de Manila University.

Gratulationes tibi, Sir Napone!

Words by Adamjo G. Mendez

🎉 Congratulations to our CSU Psychology Department Faculty on their New Publication!

We proudly congratulate our colleagues from the Department of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHASS), Caraga State University, for their recent publication:

“Spatial Ability Across Nations: Measurement Invariance of the Three-Dimensional Cubes Test in Filipino and Austrian Undergraduates”
Presented at the 1st International Online Conference on Human Intelligence (MDPI), March 25–26, 2026

👏 Special recognition: Anna Lyn A. Masing, Rustum A. Salvaña, and Ruth E. Sanchez

This study examined whether the Three-Dimensional Cubes Test (3DC) measures spatial ability fairly across Filipino and Austrian undergraduates using Item Response Theory and Rasch modeling to assess measurement invariance. The findings highlight the need for culturally and psychometrically sound assessments, emphasizing that cross-national score differences should be interpreted cautiously without established equivalence, and contribute to advancing fair global research practices while strengthening the presence of Filipino scholars in cross-cultural psychology.

🔗 Read the full paper here:
https://sciforum.net/paper/view/29874

📚 Citation:
Heller, J.; Masing, A.A.; Oberleiter, S.; Salvaña, R.A.; Sanchez, R.E.; Steininger, B.; Tecson, A.; Pietschnig, J. *Spatial ability across nations: Measurement invariance of the Three-Dimensional Cubes test in Filipino and Austrian undergraduates*, in Proceedings of the 1st International Online Conference on Human Intelligence, 25–26 March 2026, MDPI: Basel, Switzerland.

Once again, congratulations on this remarkable achievement! 👏

What if we cannot fully explain God but we can understand how we experience Him?

A proud moment for the Department of Communication and Humanities, CHASS, as Mr. Vitalian Christophere L. Napone achieved a Scopus-indexed publication in International Studies in Catholic Education under Taylor and Francis on April 17, 2026.

His study uses the ideas of Edmund Husserl, explained through Manuel Dy Jr., to explore how people experience God in real life.
The study shows that our experience of God can be seen in three simple ways: God is beyond us (transcendent), known through signs and moments (mediated), and felt in a personal and relational way. It reminds us that while we may not fully understand God, we can still find meaning in how we encounter Him in our daily lives. This work also highlights the beauty of Filipino faith and how it helps us reflect on the sacred in simple, human experiences.

Congratulations, Sir Vitalian Christophere L. Napone, on your international publication!

To cite:
Napone, V. C. L. et al. (2026) ‘Phenomenology of god’, International Studies in Catholic Education, pp. 1–16. doi: 10.1080/19422539.2026.2642728.

Research with purpose. Scholarship with impact.

Congratulations to the CSU Psychology Department student researchers for their successful paper presentations at the 1st Caraga Regional Research Conference on Gender and Human Rights Studies held on March 25, 2026, at the CSU-HERO Library.

Guided by their mentor, Ms. Jonne Pearl Q. Alas, a faculty member of the CSU Psychology Department, these student researchers shared meaningful work that highlighted important psychological, cultural, and social issues in the community under the conference theme, “Beyond the Surface: Uncovering Gender Truths and Human Rights Realities in the Region.”

We proudly recognize the following paper presentations:

Sub-theme 1: Gender, Law, Conflict, and Human Rights
📌 Exploring the Psychosocial Challenges of Persons Deprived of Liberty: A Phenomenological Study in Butuan City Jail
Presenter: Angela T. Mahinay
Researchers: Angela Mahinay, Edwina Bosito, Adelaine Caluscos, Jayques Balingan, Stephanie Calamba, Jhon Ivan Danlag, Lyndie Love Luceñara, Ma. Drea Mulay, and Cherrie Ann Nogas

Sub-theme 2: Gender, Media, Technology, and Education
📌 Working for Survival: The Psychological and Cultural Dimensions of Indigent Older Adults’ Continued Work in Butuan City
Presenter: Noemi Rocile Palma
Researchers: Noemi Rocile Palma, Fujii Virtudazo, Julianna Ruth Longaquit, Jeah Cagulada, Johan Salas, and Zwyck Alwag
Awards: Best Research Paper and Best Presenter

Sub-theme 3: Gender, Development, Health, and Sustainable Livelihoods
📌 Psychological Mechanisms Behind the Persistence of Begging Among Street Children: A Case Study in Butuan City
Presenter: Maria Alexandra D. Leones
Researchers: Xydrick Russel Guisok, Maria Alexandra Leones, Audrey Daniella Salgado, Jonathan Uba, Carevy Zate, Geraldine Anoos, John Martin Genido, and Nea Lyka Leopardas

Your work reflects the CSU Psychology Department’s commitment to relevant, socially responsive, and research-driven education. We are proud of your dedication, scholarship, and courage in sharing knowledge that illuminates important gender and human rights realities in the region.

Once again, congratulations to all presenters, researchers, and awardees. The Caraga Center for Peace and Development (CCPD) celebrates with you!

Breaking Ground in Gender and Human Rights Research!

Two faculty from the Humanities Division, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Caraga State University proudly presented their studies at the 1st Caraga Regional Research Conference on Gender and Human Rights Studies on March 25, 2026, held at Hero Learning Commons, Activity Loft, Caraga State University.

📌 Garry B. Tabugon shared “Lived Experiences of Gay Men aged 60 and Older: Challenges and Implications for Inclusive Aging Policies”, shedding light on aging inclusively.

📌 John Jeempy T. Sebuguero discussed “Expanding Capabilities through Inclusive Gender Justice: Lived Experiences of Women Farmers in Advancing Equality in Barangay Maibu, Butuan City”, highlighting the everyday struggles and triumphs of women farmers.

Their work highlights real stories and helps guide policies for inclusive and fair communities.

Congratulations to our CHASS faculty-Prof. Garry B. Tabugon and Sir John Jeempy T. Sebuguero for contributing meaningful research that pushes for equality, justice, and inclusivity in our communities!

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18GRV4RoUp/

What happens when ethical principles collide and policies reach a deadlock?

At the 16th Social Ethics Society Conference, held on February 18–20, 2026, at Holy Cross of Davao College in Davao City, Prof. Garry B. Tabugon presented the paper “Incompleteness, Metaphysical Freedom, and Realizing Justice: A Capabilities Approach to Resolving Ethical Deadlocks in Policy Contexts.”

The presentation explored how the capabilities approach can help address complex ethical tensions in policymaking and contribute to the pursuit of justice in diverse social contexts.

Congratulations, Prof. Garry B.Tabugon, on this meaningful academic contribution. Your work continues to inspire thoughtful dialogue on ethics, policy, and justice.

𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫’𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞?

The wait is over! We are bringing the Erasmus Mundus Education Fair 2026 directly to you.
This is your chance to learn how to travel, study in multiple countries, and secure a world-class scholarship that covers your tuition, travel, and living expenses!

VENUE: Hero Auditorium, University Library, Caraga State University
DATE: January 30, 2026 | 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM

𝐖𝐇𝐘 𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐃?

Get a step-by-step guide on the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s application process.
Hear firsthand from alumni volunteers about life, coursework, and mobility in Europe.
Learn how to make your profile stand out to international selection committees.
This event is proudly spearheaded by the Office of Internationalization and Global Engagement, in partnership with the College of Forestry and Environmental Sciences, and is generously funded by the Erasmus Mundus Association.

𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐎 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍:

Bring Caraga to Europe! Secure your spot by registering at the link below:
https://forms.gle/ioSPqGfrDt7QyB3AA or simply SCAN THE QR CODE in the image!

🤩 CHaSS shines twice this month! 🤩

Congratulations yet again to our CHaSS faculty member from the Department of Communication and Humanities, 𝐃𝐫. 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐫 𝐀. 𝐏𝐚𝐳, for marking his 2nd scholarly publication in just this month!
His latest article, “Between care and faith: Mothers’ experiences of ASD services, diagnosis, emotional well-being, and faith communication,” is now published in Research in Autism (Volume 131, March 2026).

📌Article Title: Between care and faith: Mothers’ experiences of ASD services, diagnosis, emotional well-being, and faith communication
📌Journal: Research in Autism (Volume 131, March 2026, 202824)

This outstanding work sheds light on the powerful intersections of care, faith, and emotional well-being in autism research, exploring mothers’ experiences in raising their children. This milestone highlights Dr. Paz’s consistency and dedication to impactful and compassionate scholarship.

Way to raise the bar, Dr. Paz! 🎉🎉

Access the article here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S3050656526000386?dgcid=author&fbclid=IwY2xjawPZcohleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFsSlhyWTREdGJIVTRoWURNc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQBMAABHhUtNKMqaQqshKelUT68yNjEFvjx7gfOdbFg3jQsEYmT9Wi52uYp5VM5sqtf_aem_xGnYg5kdA2QU2Ng1rP1hpg

𝒩𝑒𝓌 𝒴𝑒𝒶𝓇, 𝒩𝑒𝓌 𝒫𝓊𝒷𝓁𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃!

The Caraga Center for Peace and Development (CCPD) proudly congratulates CHaSS faculty member from the Department of Communication and Humanities, 𝐃𝐫. 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐫 𝐀. 𝐏𝐚𝐳, for his new publication in the journal Advances in Autism (ISSN: 2056-3868).

Article Title: Communicating autism: A qualitative analysis of daily challenges and adaptations
Journal: Advances in Autism (ISSN: 2056-3868) (eISSN: 2056-3876)
Access the article here: https://www.emerald.com/aia/article-abstract/doi/10.1108/AIA-08-2025-0088/1332756/Communicating-autism-a-qualitative-analysis-of?redirectedFrom=fulltext

This excellent workmanship demonstrates CHaSS’s dedication to in-depth research on the importance of communication in addressing behavioral and social complexities such as autism spectrum disorder. The CCPD celebrates Dr. Paz’s enthusiasm for global and transformative research.

Congratulations, CHaSS researcher!

To cite (APA 7th edition):
Paz, P. A. (2026). Communicating autism: a qualitative analysis of daily challenges and adaptations. Advances in Autism, 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1108/AIA-08-2025-0088