University of Luzon College of Criminology Hosts 2026 Research Conference on Innovation and Criminal Justice

On January 31, 2026, the University of Luzon College of Criminology reached a significant milestone in its pursuit of academic rigor and professional development through the successful execution of the 2026 College of Criminology Research Conference. Orchestrated under the steadfast leadership of Dean Dante A. De Castro, Ph.D., JD, and Program Head Prof. Salvador Samson, the assembly was guided by the timely and evocative theme, “Bridging Theory and Practice: Innovation and Challenges in Criminal Justice Education.” This formal gathering functioned as a premier venue for scholarly discourse, allowing Luzonians to engage deeply with the evolving complexities of the modern justice system while reinforcing the essential link between classroom instruction and real-world application. The atmosphere of the conference was one of intellectual curiosity and professional decorum, reflecting the high standards maintained by the university’s criminology program.

A primary highlight of the proceedings was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Adrian Lawrence P. Carvajal, whose presence added a layer of global perspective to the local academic environment. Dr. Carvajal’s address provided a comprehensive roadmap for developing impactful research that transcends local boundaries to achieve international significance. His insights were directed not only toward the aspiring student researchers but also toward the faculty members in attendance, emphasizing the necessity of continuous scholarly evolution in a rapidly changing world. The University of Luzon extends its profound appreciation to Dr. Carvajal for his expertise and his generous commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within the institution. The success of such an ambitious undertaking was further made possible by the tireless efforts of Prof. Jesus Aquino and Prof. Nizelyn Beltran, whose administrative and logistical coordination ensured a seamless experience for all participants.

The academic integrity of the conference was further bolstered by the participation of an esteemed Panel of Reactors, including Prof. Bonifacio Alvarez, Prof. Vanessa Sinaban, and Prof. Norie S. Neri. These subject matter experts provided the critical scaffolding necessary for a high-level research symposium, offering thoughtful critiques, probing questions, and meaningful engagement that challenged the presenters to defend and refine their findings. This interactive process proved invaluable for the ten research groups composed of fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Criminology students. As these seniors presented their scholarly works, they did more than complete an academic requirement; they served as mentors and inspirations for the third-year Criminology students who observed the sessions. This transfer of knowledge fostered a deeper appreciation for the research process and underscored the importance of evidence-based practice in the field of criminal justice.

The activities of the 2026 College of Criminology Research Conference align closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notably SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing inclusive and equitable lifelong learning opportunities that enhance the professional competencies of Luzonians. Furthermore, the focus on innovation and the challenges within the legal framework directly supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, as the scholarly output produced by the students contributes to the broader understanding of how to build effective, accountable, and inclusive systems at all levels. Through these academic endeavors, the University of Luzon continues to demonstrate its dedication to producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also socially responsible contributors to the global quest for a more just society.