Given the growing interest in the field of Japan-Philippine studies, the Division of Social Sciences (DSS), in collaboration with the Center for West Visayan Studies and the Asian Center, University of the Philippines Diliman conducted a Japanese Studies Research Writing Workshop last February 21, 2024, at the GCEB Training Rooms, UPV Iloilo City campus.
The activity aimed to provide college students, junior faculty members, researchers, and academics a venue for discussion on topics related to Japan and Japanese Studies research; to engage participants in hands-on activities to enhance their understanding of research methodologies on Japanese studies and related research; to offer opportunities for budding researchers of Japanese Studies to learn effective manuscript preparation, submission processes, and strategies for successful publication in reputable journals; and to establish and strengthen linkages and networks between local and international scholars through workshops, lectures and seminars, and other knowledge-sharing activities.
The workshop was participated by students and faculty members from the University of the Philippines Visayas and various educational institutions, including the University of San Agustin, West Visayas State University, and representatives from the National Museum Western Visayas.
Dr. Johnrev Guilaran, Chair of the Division of Social Sciences, delivered the workshop's opening remarks, reflecting on his past training experience in Kobe, Japan. As a disaster psychologist, he stressed that as Filipinos, we can reflect and learn how Japan navigated its various challenges through learning their best practices.
Meanwhile, Dr. Matthew Constancio Santamaria, a Professor at the Asian Center, introduced the Asian Center and the MA Asian Studies program to the audience, remarking on the program’s multi and interdisciplinary approach to understanding Asia. He also showcased various opportunities and collaborative programs hosted and organized by the Asian Center.
Prof. Chiho Ogaya, Professor of Sociology at the Ferris University in Yokohama, Japan, discussed the current trends in Japanese Studies by highlighting her research experiences on the gendered implications of the feminization of migration to Japan. Dr. Karl Ian Cheng Chua and Dr. Amparo Adelina Umali III, professor of the UP Center for International Studies proceeded with the workshop proper, where they shared their insights and tips on academic writing including their field work experiences. After the series of lectures, the participants were allowed to ask questions through an open forum. To conclude the one-day activity, Asst. Prof. Frances Anthea Redison, Director of the Center for West Visayan Studies gave the closing message to the participants.
By conducting the workshop, DSS, in collaboration with the Center for West Visayan Studies, remained steadfast in providing avenues to enrich research and public service by carrying out its vision in response to changing local, regional, and global trends in research. This is part of the division’s mandate to enrich the University’s instruction, research, and extension activities in the field of social sciences.
