The University of Santo Tomas, through the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management and under the mentorship of Asst. Prof. Jame Monren T. Mercado, won Champion and First Runner-Up for Best Research Paper at the Kain Conference (KainCon) 2025.
Having presented their studies live via Zoom, Rod Fredric S. Villamarin, along with Lovely Dolina B. Cumla, Mikaela Margaret N. Dimaano, Janella Anne Mae P. Flavio, Sophia Isabelle V. Hernandez, and Danica A. Lara won the Best Research award for their study titled, “Kusina han Dalan: Elucidating the Culinary Significance and Safeguarding Cultures of Catbaloganon Street Food using the Value-based Approach,” which aims to unravel and preserve the culinary significance and cultural heritage of Catbalogan’s street food. The output of the study was a proposed interpretational tour plan that highlighted key locations, recognized community stakeholders, and emphasized the collective responsibility to safeguard this traditional heritage for future generations. The project was in partnership with the City Government of Catbalogan, Samar.
Another group of students bagged the First Runner-up title for their research titled, “Rekadong Legado: Unraveling the Narrative of Sampalukin Heirloom Familial Cooks on Safeguarding the Culinary Heritage Significance.” The research team was composed of CTHM students led by Anna Karissa P. Borromeo, along with Ma. Sophia Lorenz P. Aga, Chad Allaric R. Dela Cruz, Andrea Isabel C. Dionisio, Maverick Justine L. Padicio, and Sofia Angela M. Paja. The students’ study highlighted families as key factors in the preservation and continuation of Sampaloc, Quezon’s culinary heritage through the transmission of the locals’ knowledge and skills from one generation to another. Furthermore, the group intends to collaborate with the Municipal Government of Sampaloc, Quezon to create and publish a coffee table book that documents the mapped dishes of the study site.
Additionally, a collaborative research team between students and academic staff was one of the finalists under the student category with their research titled, “Langkatulad!: The Purchase Intention in Developing Jackfruit Seed-Based Chocolate Spread.” The student researchers were Emilio Andres P. Aganinta, Adrienne Grace R. Alvarez, Lourice Nicole M. Domingo, Josh Kane R. Guevarra, and Maybelle Ann Waynely S. Narnola. Their adviser and co-author is Ms. Ramona Olga D. Ko.
The KainCon is an annual academic conference jointly organized by the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement (PCHM) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). Serving as a significant platform for researchers, scholars, and food enthusiasts nationwide, it facilitates sharing insights on gastronomy and the local food sector. Coinciding with Filipino Food Month in April, KainCon is dedicated to exploring and promoting the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. The conference is acknowledged for its crucial role in celebrating Filipino cuisine’s history and cultural significance, fostering a sense of community among food advocates, and contributing to both the preservation and innovation within the culinary arts. These remarkable achievements not only bring pride to the university, but also inspire young researchers and imparts them with dedication and the innovative spirit to make significant contributions in their respective fields. These honors celebrate hard work and embody the Thomasian spirit of showcasing world-class standards in both academic and extracurricular activities.