CDU-CAS Clinches Best Paper Award at International Food & Nutrition Conference

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA — The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) of Cebu Doctors’ University (CDU) brought pride to the University as it earned international recognition at the 8th International Conference on Food and Nutrition, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Through its Department of Nutrition and Dietetics and Department of Physical Sciences, CDU-CAS clinched the Best Paper Presentation Award, a prestigious distinction among participants from Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The hybrid conference, held from May 22 to 23, 2025, carried the theme “Innovative Approaches to Global Nutrition and Sustainable Food Systems.”

The winning research, titled “A Survey on Dietary Intake Among Project DAREDEMO Beneficiaries in Cebu City,” was presented by Mr. John Rafael Arañas, Chair of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. The study stood out for its relevance to local community health and its alignment with global nutritional challenges.

IN PHOTO: CDU-ND Department Chairman Mr. John Rafael Arañas presents his winning research study

Meanwhile, another CDU-CAS entry, “Evaluation of Gamified Food Cards’ Acceptability: Improving Dietary Habits and Nutritional Knowledge Among Filipino Adults in Cebu,” was named a finalist in the paper presentation category. This study was presented by Ms. Gaea Iolanthe Mari Bercero, Chair of the Department of Physical Sciences, and was lauded for its innovative use of gamification to promote health awareness.

IN PHOTO: CDU-PS Department Chairman Ms. Gaea Iolanthe Mari Bercero presents her research study

Hosted annually, the International Conference on Food and Nutrition gathers experts, educators, researchers, and students from around the world to share the latest advancements in food science and nutrition. It also provides a platform for dialogue on pressing global concerns and opportunities for international collaboration.

CDU-CAS’ participation and victory at the conference underscore the university’s growing impact in global research and its commitment to addressing community health through scientific inquiry.

Congratulations to the CDU-CAS team for this remarkable achievement! Your CDU family celebrates your excellence and dedication to advancing knowledge that benefits both the local and global communities.

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CDU MPRO