Kalinga State University participated in the 4th Loretta Makasiar Sicat Prize for the Social Sciences awarding ceremony and the accompanying scientific lecture titled “Filipino Reception and Appropriation of Modern Astronomical Knowledge, 1859–1958,” delivered by Mr. Emmanuel Jason V. Bolata of the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP), on April 11, 2025, at the Pilar Herrera Hall, CSSP, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.

KSU’s attendance at this Philippine Social Science Council (PSSC) event underscores its growing role in the national research landscape, particularly as it prepares to co-host the 11th National Social Science Congress (NSSC), scheduled for September 18–20, 2025.

Representing the university at the event were Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, University President; Dr. Perfelia R. Buen, University Board Secretary; and Mr. Alih Tucay, University Chairperson for Social Sciences. Also present were Ms. Michelle Sicat-Powell, benefactress of the Loretta Makasiar Sicat Prize for the Social Sciences, and Mr. Angelo Vince S. Marfil, Training Officer of PSSC.

A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between PSSC and KSU for the co-hosting of NSSC11. The MOA was signed by Dr. Shirley N. Dita, PSSC Chairperson, and Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, KSU President.

The National Social Science Congress is a prestigious gathering of Filipino social scientists aimed at fostering dialogue, collaboration, and cohesion among scholars and practitioners nationwide. For this year’s edition, PSSC has selected KSU- through its Department of Social Sciences as its official university partner.

This strategic partnership affirms KSU’s commitment to research excellence and its proactive engagement with national academic initiatives. Through this collaboration, KSU not only contributes to the development of the social sciences in the country but also strengthens its position as a leading institution fostering critical discourse, policy formation, and knowledge production.

The MOA signing symbolizes a shared vision between KSU and PSSC for advancing inclusive and impactful research across the nation.