Now in its eighth year, the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) continues to champion international research collaboration through its flagship event, the International STEAM Research Congress (iSTEAM+). Originally focused on core disciplines in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agri-Fisheries, and Mathematics (STEAM), this year’s congress broadens its scope to encompass equally vital fields such as health sciences (e.g., nutrition, dietetics, and allied disciplines) and social sciences (e.g., economics, humanities, and related areas). The 8th iSTEAM+ serves as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, scientific discovery, and multi-sectoral partnerships that contribute to a stronger knowledge economy and a more resilient regional innovation ecosystem.