Hat Yai is the biggest city in Southern Thailand. Hat Yai, a bustling city in southern Thailand, isn't as well-known as tourist destinations like Bangkok or Chiang Mai. This bustling city in Songkhla Province, however, has its own charm because of its history, Thai culture, delicious street food, and easy access to the southern islands. I'd like to offer some of the highlights of our recent trip to Hat Yai, where we witnessed the ideal fusion of modernity and heritage, creating moments we will never forget.

When we first arrived in Hat Yai from March 7 to 23, the lively yet calm atmosphere stood out. The streets were busy with locals, and the smell of street food filled the air.

Our first stop was Green Way Food Station, a well-known spot offering tasty, affordable, and healthy Thai and international dishes. It's famous for fresh ingredients and flavorful meals, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

On our third day in Thailand, we visited Tepomnouy School for our teaching immersion, marking the beginning of our journey, located in Hat Yai. The school creates a nurturing environment focused on fostering both academic excellence and character development in its students. We were divided into three groups, each assigned to a different grade level. While the first day was challenging and tiring due to communication barriers, we were fortunate to have several students who spoke English, making the experience more manageable. The students were exceptionally respectful, and the teachers were kind, welcoming, and incredibly accommodating.

The next day, we visited Tessaban 1, 2, and 3 Bansadao Schools in Songkhla Thailand, where we had the opportunity to conduct a teaching immersion alongside Indonesian interns. Tessaban 1 is known for its focus on quality education, community involvement, and extracurricular activities. Tessaban 2 provides a nurturing environment that develops both academic skills and moral values. Tessaban 3 Bansadao School is dedicated to offering a well-rounded education with an emphasis on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and sports.

The Songkhla Central Mosque, a stunning blend of Islamic and Thai architecture, stands by a tranquil lake, embodying the region’s rich heritage. Its towering white minarets, grand dome, and intricate designs create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Built in 1950, the mosque remains one of the largest in southern Thailand. On our recent visit, the first thing I noticed was the calm and serene ambiance. We had the opportunity to explore not only the mosque itself but also the surrounding area, which offers a peaceful blend of spirituality, culture, and history.

On a  Saturday morning, we were graciously invited by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, where we had the delightful opportunity to immerse ourselves in a truly unique experience.

On Saturday afternoon, after the mass, we decided to visit Hat Yai Municipal Park, a quiet place with beautiful views of the city and surrounding mountains. The park is home to a large Buddha statue, over 20 meters tall, offering a peaceful spot for reflection and a chance to appreciate the area's spiritual heritage. We also enjoyed a relaxing boat ride on Hat Yai Songkhla Lake before heading up to explore the park’s higher viewpoints.

After visiting Hatyai Municipal Park, we decided to have dinner at Khlong Hae Floating Market, where you can find many souvenirs and food stalls. Khlong Hae Floating Market is a lively place where both Thai Buddhist and Muslim cultures mix together. It's more than just a place to shop; it shows the traditional lifestyle of southern Thailand.

During our two-week international cultural teaching immersion, we had the chance to join an environmental project focused on protecting Thailand's coastline. The event, called "A Community Transformed," gave us the opportunity to make a positive difference and give back to the local community.

During our second week in Thailand, we had the opportunity to experience an ATV ride in Phatthalung, Songkhla. We started our journey early in the morning, excited to explore the area's natural beauty. The ride took us through muddy trails, rice fields, and rivers, all while enjoying stunning views of the countryside. It was a perfect adventure for those who love nature and seek excitement, letting us fully experience the untouched beauty of Phatthalung's landscapes.

On Thursday afternoon, after School, we decided to head to Ban Khao Rup Chang. This village, near Padang Bazzar in Thailand, is a beautiful and peaceful place. It’s known for its traditional Thai culture and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, see how locals live, and experience the rich history of southern Thailand.

We had the chance to take pictures with the monks and noticed a difference in how they interacted with a boy and a girl. Due to their religious beliefs and cultural customs, monks avoid close contact with women to maintain their spiritual purity and focus. However, they don’t have the same concerns when taking pictures with men, staying true to their vows and peaceful way of life.

It was graduation day for the kindergarten students at Tepumnouy Hatyai School. The day before, the husband of the school owner came to talk to us and asked if we could perform something, like singing a song, during the ceremony. We quickly said yes and were excited to take part. We were happy to help make the day even more special for the kids and their families. It was a wonderful chance to show our thanks and share in the happiness of their big day.

On the last day of our second week of teaching, Friday morning, we got the chance to take some photos with our students at Tepumnouy Hatyai School. We were really happy and thankful for these students because they made our experience so special. The memories we made together will stay with us forever, and we’re grateful for the time we shared with them. Their excitement, kindness, and willingness to learn made this experience unforgettable, and we will always remember the time spent with them.

It was a Friday afternoon, the last day of our teaching experience, and we had the opportunity to perform a dance, one of the most well-known dances from the Philippines. Mrs. Su, along with the teachers and students of Tepumnouy Hatyai School, were filled with joy and appreciation for our performance. As a token of their gratitude, they presented us with a gift symbolizing the friendship and partnership between our group and the school. This heartfelt gesture truly touched us, marking the end of an unforgettable journey. 

The memories we created, the bonds we formed, and the lessons we learned from each other will remain with us forever. It was a beautiful reminder of how cultural exchange can build bridges of understanding and friendship across borders. Of course, huge thanks to Biliran Province State University, headed by Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., all members of the Board of Regents and the School of Teacher Education for letting us experience and explore the possibilities beyond the university’s borders.

As we said our goodbyes, we left with full hearts, knowing that our time in Hatyai had enriched us in ways we could never have imagined.

Being an inclusive institution that aims to provide a safer space for its students, BiPSU, through its Guidance and Counseling Services Office (GCSO), conducted a three-day Peer Facilitators Training from March 25-27 at the university hostel.

The training program was attended by selected guidance counselors and 28 newly recruited peer facilitators from various schools of the university, equipping them with essential skills to support fellow students. 

This initiative aimed to capacitate the participants willing to extend psychosocial support in effectively assisting their peers by promoting dialogue through small-group discussions, events, and other means. 

In his message, University President Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the significance of mental health and peer support in achieving a holistic academic experience. 

“Our university is not just a place of learning but also an institution that nurtures and supports one another,” Dr. Cañezo said. 

He also commended the GCSO team and student peer facilitators for their dedication to creating a positive and inclusive campus atmosphere.  

Meanwhile, the training includes a series of sessions that equips the participants with necessary skills. The first day of training focused on building a strong foundation in peer facilitation. Themed "Understanding the Role of a Peer Facilitator," the session aimed to familiarize participants with their roles, responsibilities, and the essential qualities required.

Additionally, the second day of training, anchored with the theme "Empowering Peer Facilitators with Essential Skills," emphasized on developing core facilitation abilities, conflict resolution strategies, and problem-solving skills. Participants engaged in interactive activities designed to strengthen their ability to mediate conflicts, offer guidance, and provide meaningful support to their peers.

The last day of the training, centered on the theme "Bringing It All Together: Practical Application and Commitment," focuses on applications where participants are able to apply their learning in the real scenarios through a series of workshops and action-planning exercises.

Peer facilitators who have fulfilled the training will be officially introduced during the student orientation that is set to transpire this August. 

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being; SDG 4: Quality Education; and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.]

As part of the National Women's Month celebration, Biliran Province State University's Gender and Development (GAD) Office, in collaboration with the Provincial Council for Women's Welfare, Inc. and BiPSU's Human Resource Management Office (HRMO), conducted the EmpowerHer: Building Capacity for Gender and Development Trainers seminar workshop on March 26 at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center.

With the theme "Women Empowerment: A Celebration of Strength, Equality, and Progress," the seminar aimed to equip GAD advocates with the skills to promote gender-responsive programs and practices across the university.

GAD secretariats and faculty members handling Gender and Society courses from various schools actively participated in the day-long workshop.

In her opening message, Dr. Marianne S. Dagaylo-an, director of the BiPSU GAD Office, emphasized the crucial role of gender and development trainers in fostering inclusive environments.

"The role of gender and development trainers is more crucial now more than ever as we strive to build inclusive spaces," Dr. Dagaylo-an said. "We must equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge, skills, and strategies to effectively promote gender-responsive programs and practices."

The seminar featured in-depth discussions on key topics led by esteemed experts. Fernando E. Quiroz, former head of GRASS, delivered sessions on the code of conduct for GAD trainers, effective training methodologies, and foundational knowledge on Gender and Development (GAD) and Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC).

Meanwhile, Dr. Annel Ruth D. Celis, a member of the Philippine Commission on Women's (PCW) Regional Pool of Experts, presented insights on Google Analytics (GA) and the Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF), highlighting data-driven approaches to assess and enhance gender programs.

In his message, BiPSU's Vice President for Administration and Finance, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, emphasized the seminar's broader significance beyond academic discourse, framing it as a call to action for educators to drive societal change.

"As educators, we hold the power to shape mindsets, influence perspectives, and inspire the next generation to embrace inclusivity," Engr. Pelesco said. "Through this initiative, we aim to strengthen the capacities of our faculty members and GAD secretariats, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to integrate gender perspectives in teaching, research, and policy-making."

The Seminar Workshop on EMpowerHer: Building Capacity for Gender and Development Trainers is part of BiPSU’s month-long observance of this year’s National Women’s Month.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 – Gender Equality.]

To recognize and reward exceptional human resource management practices and the outstanding performance of both teaching and non-teaching personnel during the fiscal year 2024, Biliran Province State University will once again stage this year’s edition of the WoW Awards.

First introduced as the NSU is YOU Awards in 2018 and BiPSU WoW Awards in 2021 to 2023, this year's WoW Awards, will honor individuals and teams for their extraordinary contributions in the fiscal year 2024, to recognize their role in furthering the university’s vision and mission, in line with the WoW BiPSU Development Plan 2.0.

The WoW Awards 2025 will feature five distinct categories, with awards presented by the Offices of the Vice Presidents for Academic Affairs; Research, Innovation and Extension Services; Student and External Affairs; Administration and Finance, and special awards from the Office of the University President.

Here  are the various awards under the  Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs: 

• Brilliance in Student Mentoring
• Brilliance in Flexible Learning Teacher (Rookie Level)
• Brilliance in Flexible Learning Teacher (Junior Level
• Brilliance in Flexible Learning Teacher (Senior Level)
• Outstanding School for Faculty Development
• Brilliance in Research Advising
• Brilliance in Laboratory Instruction
• Library Prime Mover (School Category)
• Library Resource Champion (Faculty Category)

Outlined below are the awards issued by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Services:

• SIBOL Faculty of the Year
• SIBOL School of the Year
• SIBOL for Research Publications
• SIBOL for Research Presentations
• SIBOL for Research Citations
• SIBOL for Research Awards
• SIBOL for Intellectual Properties
• SIBOL for Research Grants
• SIBOL for Scopus Indexed Publications
• Best School Research Chairperson
• Best Research Personnel of the Year
• Best Innovative Extension Implementer
• Best Innovative Extension Project
• Best Extension Chairperson
• Most Number of Beneficiaries
• Best in Food Development Research
• Best in Developed Food Product
• Gawad Galing sa Wika at Kultura

Kategorya sa Paaralan

• Galing sa Salin
• Galing sa Kultura
• Edukasyong Maka- Pilipino
• Galing sa Wika
• Galing sa Panitikan

Kategorya sa Propesor

•  Galing sa Salin
•  Galing sa Panitikan
•  Galing sa Kultura
•  Galing sa Wika

Kategorya sa Tanggapan at Mga Kawani

• Galing sa Salin
• Galing sa Kultura
• Galing sa Panitikan

Meanwhile, the  Office of the Vice President for Student and External Affairs also released the following list of awards for this year’s event. This includes: 

• Outstanding Coach (Individual Category)
• Outstanding Student Welfare Implementer (Individual Category)
• Outstanding Institutional Student Programs and Services Implementer (Individual Category) 
• Outstanding Student Development Implementer (Group Category)
• Outstanding School Coordinator (Individual Category)
• Outstanding Dean in Alumni Engagement and Support (Individual Category)
• Outstanding School in High Employability Rate (School  Category)
• OJT Program Management and Mentorship Excellence
• Outstanding Program Coordination and Trainee Guidance
• Outstanding Innovation and Impact
• Most Inspiring OJT Coordinator
• Global Impact Training Excellence
• Service to the Community
• Community Impact and Development (Progress)
• Excellence in Service- Learning Facilitation (Service)
• Resilient Advocate for Disaster Preparedness (Progress and Service)
• Outstanding Socio- CIvic Engagement (Brilliance and Unity)
• Excellence in Support Services

Additionally, the Office of the  Vice President for Administration and Finance will feature the following awards: 

• Outstanding Administrative Employee (1st Level Category)
• Outstanding Administrative Employee (2nd Level Category)
• Outstanding Administrative Employee (COS Category)
• Outstanding Team
• Best Driver
• Best Security Guard/Watchman

For the awards from the Office of the University President are the following: 

• EPDOLikhain for Planning and Development
• EPDOLikhain for Building Maintenance
• EPDOLikhain for Grounds and Beautification
• Media Excellence (School Category)
• Media Excellence (Administration Unit Category)
• Media Impact and Innovator
• GAD Tanglaw in Leadership
• GAD Tanglaw for Diversity and Inclusive Leadership
• GAD Tanglaw for Research and Innovation Best Paper
• GAD Tanglaw for Community Empowerment Best Extension Program
• GAD Tanglaw Best School Implementer
• GAD Tanglaw Outstanding GAD Secretariat

Moreover, the Office of the University President also opens five special WoW awards such as the Prime Mover for World Universities with Real Impact (WURI 2024), Prime Mover  for UI Greenmetric World University Rankings 2024, Prime Mover for Performance Governance System (PGS) Trailblazer Award, Prime Mover for Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP) and the Prime Mover for Times Higher Education.

The WoW Awards form an integral part of the university’s Rewards and Recognitions (R&R) program, which serves to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of faculty, staff, and administrators across various sectors. It also serves as an important component of the PRIME-HRM (Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management), a framework that supports the university’s commitment to merit-based recognition in all its human resource practices.

For more details on the guidelines and criteria, please refer to this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1c1sal4FFG5WHXfHFDgqmfAvefRPhIrlZ?usp=sharing

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University recently participated in the Writeshop on Journal Peer Review on March 20-21 at Surigao del Norte State University-Del Carmen Campus, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. 

The event, organized by the Visayas-Mindanao Consortium on Journal Publications, Inc. (VMCJPI), aimed to enhance the peer review capabilities of researchers and academic editors, ensuring the quality and integrity of scholarly publications.  

The BiPSU delegation composed of eleven members was led by Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Roland A. Niez, Research and Development Office (RDO) Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, and Journal of Society and Technology (JST) Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Ruffy Rodrigo.

In an interview, Dr. de Paz explained that BiPSU’s participation in the said activity is an important step in the preparation for BiPSU’s plan to relaunch its peer-reviewed official journal in April 2025—the Journal of Society and Technology (JST)—which aims to become a premier platform for high-quality research publications.

“We aim to streamline our peer review processes, elevate the quality of our published research, and align our practices with international academic standards,” Dr. de Paz said. 

Throughout the two-day event, participants underwent intensive training focused on improving the peer review process. Sessions emphasized the importance of conducting thorough and objective reviews, addressing common challenges in virtual peer reviews, and promoting professionalism and ethical standards in academic publishing. 

The workshop also provided practical guidelines to ensure that submitted works meet the rigorous requirements of reputable academic journals.  

BiPSU’s selected research chairpersons from various schools and members of the editorial team of the JST journal also attended the said writeshop including Kevin T. Lagat, STEd research chairperson; Glenn Gumba, STCS research chair; Bonifacio M. Jumetilco, SME research chair; Ma Grace Sañosa-Docallos, SAS research chair; and RDO staff Ma. Shiela C. Torregoza, Phia Jane Llesis, Rambee Golin, Myra Ivy Parac.

VMCJPI is a consortium of Higher Education Institutions aimed at initiating activities that will propel attainment of higher accreditation level in journal publication and indexing among all of its member institutions.

BiPSU recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the VMCJPI for the university’s hosting of the 2025 International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR) on September 16-19 this year.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

During the flag ceremony held today, March 24, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo underscored the importance of focused learning as the second semester of the school year 2024-2025 nears its end. 

“Do not end the semester without learning something,” Dr. Cañezo said. “Let’s focus on teaching and learning, considering that we are about to close the second semester.”

In his address, BiPSU President urged both students and faculty members to keep their attention on teaching and learning, stressing that the semester should not end without ensuring valuable learning outcomes.

He called for everyone’s dedication, reminding the faculty and students that this is the time to make the most of the remaining academic period. He also appealed to the faculty to carry out the task with compassion, courage and humility. 

The BiPSU president also provided important updates regarding the final examination schedule for both campuses. He announced that the final examination for Biliran Campus will be held on April 28 and May 8, while the Naval Campus exams are scheduled for April 29 and May 8, 2025. 

Dr. Canezo reminded students and faculty to ensure that all expected Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude (KSAs) for each subject are covered before exams begin.

Moreover, the president directed faculty to review their syllabi carefully to guarantee that all necessary content and outcomes have been met. He also encouraged and emphasized that any planned vacations should only take place after the completion of the final exams.

“Double your time, make an effort,” Dr. Canezo added, urging everyone to finish the semester strong with valuable learning outcomes.

Additionally, the president shared an exciting announcement about the upcoming visit of the Philippine Normal University (PNU) representatives, scheduled for April 15 and 16, as part of the Educational Mentoring (EMPowerment) Program of the university. He announced that PNU President Dr. Bert Tuga, together with his faculty, are coming to conduct team teaching. 

Dr. Cañezo also outlined the plans for student engagement during the visit. All schools, except for STEd across both campuses, will implement Online Distance Education and Learning (ODeL). However, STEd students from both campuses will participate in interactive discussions and team teaching sessions held at the Naval Campus, utilizing various venues such as the BiPSU Gymnasium, Student Center, Learning Hub, and Hostel A and B.

He also announced that the university will be conducting a pre-board examination. Students will attach the results of the pre-board exam as part of the requirements of the student clearance. 

With these reminders and announcements, Dr. Canezo's speech set the tone for a focused and productive conclusion to the academic year, encouraging everyone to finish strong and continue striving for academic excellence.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with the SDG No. 4: Quality Education.]

Aimed to encourage student participation in the university's choral development and recognize the members' dedication to enhancing the university's cultural and musical programs, Biliran Province State University granted the first semester scholarship stipend to BiPSU Chorale members on March 21.

The semester release held at the Cashier’s Office, disbursed a total of P150,000  to 30 chorale members, each receiving P5,000.  

One of the chorale members, Jilian April Gervacio, shared that the stipend is a “huge help” for her basic needs and educational finances.

“I will use the scholarship to buy the things I need for my studies,” she said. “Some of it will also help with my daily needs like food and transportation.”

The said scholarship was realized through the support of University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., Vice President for Students and External Affairs Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Cultural Affairs and Development Unit Chairperson Kevin Tanguihan, Chorale Adviser Gerry Mae Gervacio, and Chorale Trainers Clark Gravoso and Josephine Gravoso.

Meanwhile, auditions are open for students interested in joining the BiPSU Chorale. Recruitments are scheduled every Wednesday at the University Wellness Center.

[This article aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals no. 4: Quality Education]

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formally awarded two cheques totaling P610,000 to Biliran Province State University to support two collaborative projects between the university and the agency.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. personally received the funding during a ceremonial turnover held on March 24 at the Office of the President.

Empowering Marginalized Communities through Science and Technology

A cheque worth P300,000 was presented by DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO)-Biliran Director Dr. Romeo L. Dignos to fund Phase II of the project titled “STI Interventions for the Marginalized Community of Julita, Biliran.” This initiative falls under DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program, which aims to drive economic development in underserved and remote areas through science and technology.

The project, a joint effort between DOST and BiPSU’s School of Engineering (SOE), focuses on providing technology-based support to farmers in Brgy. Julita. The Caimito Coconut Farmers will benefit from a new coconut dryer facility, capacity training on technology utilization, and improved livelihoods through enhanced agricultural practices.

The ceremonial turnover was also attended by DOST PSTO-Biliran personnel, including Supervising Science Research Specialist Maria Catherine G. Mamba, Science Research Specialist Nicka V. Salentes, and PSTO Staff Teddy M. Abenido.

Representing BiPSU were Project Coordinator and SOE Dean Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, Project Assistant Jessie M. Sanoy, and University President Dr. Cañezo.

Dr. Cañezo highlighted the project's importance in advancing sustainable development and strengthening the university's commitment to community engagement.

“Through this partnership with DOST, we aim to deliver practical solutions that directly uplift the lives of our local farmers and provide them with the tools and knowledge needed for long-term growth,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

Advancing Mental Health Research

An additional P310,000 grant was also handed over to support a research project titled “Psychological Stress, Suicidal Ideation, and Coping Mechanisms among Students in Selected Tertiary Academic Institutions in Eastern Visayas.”

This research is funded by DOST through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and seeks to examine mental health challenges among students in the region. The study aims to identify the prevalence of psychological stress and suicidal ideation while exploring effective coping strategies to promote student well-being.

The cheque was presented by DOST Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Council (EVHRDC) Project Staff Jeremy Jusay and witnessed by DOST PSTO-Biliran Director Dr. Dignos and PSTO personnel. 

BiPSU officials present included Project Leader and Research and Development Office (RDO) Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Assistant Project Leader Dr. Willard N. Riveral from the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), and project members SNHS Dean Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Roland Niez, and University President Dr. Cañezo.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his gratitude to DOST for their continuous support and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing pressing societal issues.

“We deeply appreciate DOST's support for BiPSU's research initiatives,” Dr. Cañezo said. “This funding will enable us to generate evidence-based insights that can inform policies and programs to better support the mental health and well-being of students across Eastern Visayas.”

The findings from the study are expected to shape mental health policies and provide academic institutions with data-driven tools to create supportive and inclusive environments for students.

[This aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth]

The Research and Development Office (RDO) of Biliran Province State University has set its sights on achieving Scopus indexing for the BiPSU Journal of Society and Technology (JST) after successfully conducting benchmarking visit to the University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJR) in Cebu City to learn from the successful Scopus-indexed Recoletos Multidisciplinary Research Journal (RMRJ).

The said visit aligns with BiPSU’s broader internationalization agenda and its commitment to the ambitious WoW BiPSU 2.0 vision, which prioritizes strengthening research outputs and global recognition.

Held on March 18, the activity aims to gain insights from RMRJ’s experience in obtaining Scopus indexing, understand editorial workflows and best practices in peer review and journal management, identify key factors that contribute to citation impact and international recognition, assess JST’s current standing and develop strategies for improvement, and establish collaborations with USJ-R’s editorial board for future knowledge exchange.

Journal of Society and Technology (JST) is the peer-reviewed official journal of BiPSU which aims to become a premier platform for high-quality research publications. However, achieving Scopus indexing requires adherence to rigorous editorial and publication standards.

Moreover, the benchmarking visit, facilitated by the RMRJ Editorial Board, provided BiPSU officials with insights into best practices in editorial management, manuscript review, and citation impact enhancement. 

The benchmarking also involved discussions with RMRJ’s editorial board, presentations on the Scopus indexing process, and the formulation of an action plan to enhance JST’s chances of inclusion in the prestigious database.

Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, led the delegation. Also part of the delegation are Research Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, JST Editor in Chief Dr. Ruffy M. Rodrigo, Glenn Gumba, Eric John Celis, John Raymund Calderon, Phia Jane Llesis, Rambee T. Golin, Myra Ivy A. Parac, and Ma. Shiela C. Torregoza.

In an interview, Research Director Dr. de Paz explained the importance of the visit in the BiPSU’s efforts in elevating the university’s research visibility and international standing.

“The increasing emphasis on Scopus-indexed publications underscores the need for high-quality research dissemination,” the research director said. “Our goal is to elevate JST to meet the rigorous standards required for Scopus indexing.”

Dr. de Paz also noted the need to understand the specific requirements for Scopus indexing and refine the university’s editorial workflows to meet the standards. “Strengthening partnerships with institutions like USJR will also open avenues for collaborative research and knowledge exchange,” she added.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

The Department of Forest Science of BiPSU Biliran Campus partnered with several organizations in the Municipality of Biliran to conduct a mangrove tree planting activity on March 19 in Brgy. Sanggalang, Biliran.

This community-based mangrove restoration initiative is part of the approved extension program of the Forest Science Department and the Municipal Agriculture Office of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Biliran, titled “A Community-Driven Approach to Climate Change Mitigation, Adaptation, and Sustainable Development.”

The activity, which brought together more than 100 stakeholders in a shared commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development, aimed to strengthen coastal resilience and pave the way for agri-ecotourism development. It also aims to offer a sustainable source of income for local communities while contributing to the local economy.

Several agencies and non-government organizations participated in the activity, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) - Biliran, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) - Biliran, San Juan Nepomuceno Parish Council – Biliran, Sanggalang Farmers and Fisherfolks Association, BiPSU Biliran Campus students and faculty members, and the local community.

In an interview, For. Melanie Moncada, chairperson of the Department of Forest Science, shared that the initiative was a response to the community's need to restore the once-abundant mangrove forest in Brgy. Sanggalang.

“The area was devastated by Typhoon Urduja in 2017,” she revealed. “I believe it is our duty to help the community restore coastal protection, revive biodiversity, and enhance livelihoods.”

To strengthen the partnership between BiPSU and LGU-Biliran in recognizing the ecological, economic, and social importance of mangrove ecosystems, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is set to be signed soon.

The agreement will outline specific programs including capacity-building sessions on nursery establishment, site selection, and mangrove propagation techniques, formation of local working groups to ensure community-led restoration efforts, establishment of a functional, community-managed mangrove nursery as a sustainable restoration hub, development of alternative livelihood opportunities, such as eco-tourism and sustainable aquaculture, to provide economic benefits to local communities, and regular monitoring and evaluation to track progress, community engagement, and the long-term impact of restoration efforts.

BiPSU will also enter into a partnership agreement soon with the people’s organizations of Biliran town to advance livelihood and eco- tourism.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.]