BS Tourism Management students from Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies (SAMCIS), Ms. Meryll Diane Ariem and Ms. Nicole Gabrielle Bernal, successfully presented their undergraduate research titled “The Lived Experiences of Non-Working Mothers in the Women’s Empowerment Program of a Catholic Higher Education Institution” at the 12th HCU International Academic Conference. The event took place on 30-31 July 2025, at Huachiew Chalermprakiet University in Samutprakarn, Thailand.
Under the guidance of research promoter Ms. Lorraine Ngaosi, Ms. Ariem and Ms. Bernal represented their research group, which consisted of six additional members: Hazel Jane Alva, Donna Jen Baliton, Josh Erin Banzon, Thea Cabatbat, Vivien Ciello Calica, and Rhona Fernandez. The group was also supported by SLU President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, and Executive Assistant to the SLU President Joselito C. Gutierrez, PhD, who served as research advisers. Although their research was conducted as part of their undergraduate program, they presented alongside graduate professors from various universities.
Their research highlighted the role of the women’s empowerment program of SLU in community development and in promoting tourism industry for global collaboration. During the conference, Dr. Gutierrez also presented the University’s initiatives toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—demonstrating how SLU as a Catholic Institution inspires and drives for social transformation. SLU’s participation in this international conference supports SDG indicators 1.b and 8.5.2 addressing the socio-economic challenges of non-working mothers through empowerment programs that promote financial independence and inclusive growth and the CICM advocacies on Justice and Indigenous Peoples Apostolate that empowers women by providing culturally respectful development opportunities, fostering economic engagement and community cohesion. (Article and Photos by J. Gutierrez)
