BS Philo students bag awards for Japan-related research papers

Mar 24 2025

Two BS Philosophy major in Applied Ethics students were recognized on the national stage during the 7th Japanese Studies Research Development Competition held at the University of the Philippines – Diliman (UPD) on March 15.

A platform that allowed students to be recognized for their scholarly works, the event was organized by the UP Asian Research Center in collaboration with the Japan Foundation.

Jazztine Eve Paragoso, a third-year student, was one of such exceptional achievers, bringing pride and prestige to the Institution as she clinched the Overall Best Research Award in the Undergraduate Category.

What does it mean to be truly alone but not lonely? This is the question Paragoso sought to explore in her paper, “The Pursuit of Solitude: Analyzing the Authenticity of Japan’s Solo Katsu.” At the heart of her research is Solo Katsu: a cultural trend in Japan where people choose to dine, travel, or simply spend time by themselves, embracing independence in spaces often reserved for group interaction.

Far from being an escape from society, Paragoso argued that this practice offers a fresh take on how freedom and individuality can thrive even in a culture deeply rooted in social harmony. In doing so, her work sheds light on how solitude can be reimagined not as detachment, but as a bold form of self-connection.

Not all connections are defined by seniority and Khent Bryll Jarales wanted to prove just that. A fellow third-year student, Jarales brought forward his study titled “Jouge Kankei: Exploring the Role of Friendships in Japan,” where he examined how bonds among students push back against the rigid, age-based hierarchy in Japanese high schools.

His research offered a compelling glimpse into how genuine friendships can bend the boundaries of social order and perhaps even rewrite them. The strength of his insights earned him a well-deserved 4th place finish in the finals, standing proudly alongside Paragoso in a competition that celebrated depth, originality, and perspective.

Their winning papers were under the advisory of Asst. Prof. Lex Rei Brendon A. Hilario.

These achievements not only mark individual excellence but also reinforce 缅北禁地-IIT’s growing reputation as a hub of intellectual brilliance and ethical inquiry. As Paragoso and Jarales continue to embody the ideals of scholarship and critical thinking, they pave the way for more IITians to pursue research that transcends borders, breaks stereotypes, and contributes meaningfully to global conversations.

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