Envergan researchers present VR cultural tourism study at ICoCo 2025 Malaysia

Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation researchers presented Development and Usability Evaluation of a Mobile Virtual Reality Application for Cultural Tourism in the Philippines at the International Conference on Computing, Oct. 6.

Delivering a remote presentation to Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, the team presented how the tool can help preserve heritage and enrich visitor learning through tested, intuitive design.

Assistant Prof. John Rover Sinag presented the paper with co-authors Roselyn Maaño, John Paul Jaballa, Ruth Anne Labitigan, Bren Joi Atajar and Maricel Herrera.

The hybrid conference setup enabled the Envergan team to present remotely and field questions on the app’s design, content and user testing protocols.

The work is slated for publication in IEEE Xplore, a Scopus-indexed digital library, in the coming months.

“Our former EMC students built the VR app to put Philippine heritage in people’s hands and verified its usability with real users so learning stays simple, engaging and accessible,” Sinag said. 

“The results show strong potential for different tourism cultural destinations.” Sinag added.

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This achievement supported MSEUF’s mission and outcomes-oriented education by integrating research, technology and community impact in a real-world venue. It reflected the University’s core values—Excellence in rigorous usability testing, Service and Unity through cultural stewardship with partners, and Fortitude as the team advanced innovation from concept to publication.

Related SDGs:

• SDG 4: Quality Education — The VR tool and usability study strengthened digital learning resources for students and educators.

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — The app opened pathways for sustainable, skills-based jobs in culture and tourism tech.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure — The project advanced applied research in immersive technologies and user-centered design.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — Virtual access supported preservation and promotion of cultural heritage sites.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — Conference participation and planned IEEE Xplore publication fostered international collaboration and knowledge sharing.