With over 67 entries, the University of Santo Tomas dominated Kain Conference (KainCon)—emerging victorious as Thomasian students from the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management, with the mentorship of Asst. Prof. Jame Monren T. Mercado, won the titles of Champion and First Runner-up for Best Research Paper – Student Category.
Having presented their studies live via Zoom, Team Karasa Kainan, led by 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 the study entitled Kusina han Dalan: Elucidating the Culinary Significance and Safeguarding Cultures of Catbaloganon Street Food using the Value-based Approach which aims to elucidate and preserve the culinary significance and cultural heritage of Catbalogan’s street food. The output of the study is a proposed interpretational tour plan that highlights key locations, recognizes community stakeholders, and emphasizes the collective responsibility to safeguard this traditional heritage for future generations. The project was in partnership with the City Government of Catbalogan, Samar.
While the announcement of the champions provided a thrilling conclusion to the awarding proper for the student category of the conference, Team Sampalukin 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 group was 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 shines a light on 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, it was discussed that a coffee table book documenting the mapped dishes of the study site will be authored by the group, which will then be published by the Municipal Government of Sampaloc, Quezon.
Also, another student-academic staff research collaborative team made it as one of the finalists under the student category. It is the research entitled, Langkatulad!: The Purchase Intention in Developing Jackfruit Seed-Based Chocolate Spread. The student researchers are Emilio Andres P. Aganinta, Adrienne Grace R. Alvarez, Lourice Nicole M. Domingo, Josh Kane R. Guevarra, and Maybelle Ann Waynely S. Narnola. The adviser and co-author is Ms. Ramona Olga D. Ko.
The Kain Conference (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 inspires 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.
