Amid rising cases of HIV and teenage pregnancy in the province, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) of Biliran Province State University, in partnership with the university’s Medical and Dental Clinic, conducted an HIV and Teenage Pregnancy Awareness Seminar on April 2 at the BiPSU Gymnasium.

The seminar aimed to educate BiPSU students, particularly high school attendees, about the dangers of HIV and the challenges associated with teenage pregnancy. It focussed in shedding light on the transmission, prevention, and available support services for HIV and addressing the causes, consequences, and preventive measures of teenage pregnancy to help students make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting white blood cells, which weakens the body’s defenses against infections such as tuberculosis and certain cancers. Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) defines teenage pregnancy as pregnancy occurring in individuals aged 10 to 19, a period classified as adolescence by the WHO.

Eduardo A. Estroso, a registered nurse and Biliran’s provincial HIV coordinator, led the discussion on HIV awareness, focusing on dispelling myths, explaining facts about HIV and AIDS, and highlighting prevention and testing services. 

Meanwhile, Hon. Aluah Kane T. Calbahin, a nursing student and member of BiPSU’s Board of Regents, tackled teenage pregnancy, discussing its causes, effects, prevention strategies, and the importance of support systems and counseling.

In her message, Dr. Ana Maria N. Jaguros, the university physician, mentioned the importance of proactive education in addressing these pressing health concerns.

“Lack of awareness and proper education can lead to increased risk, especially unwanted pregnancy and HIV,” Dr. Jaguros said. “These issues affected past generations, affect us today, and will affect future generations if we don’t break the cycle.”

The seminar was organized in response to recent alarming data from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naval and the DOH regarding the increasing number of HIV and teenage pregnancy cases in the province. 

On March 25, LGU Naval reported a significant rise in teenage pregnancies, with cases among 15- to 19-year-olds increasing from 60 in January to 68 in February, an increase of eight in just one month.

Additionally, the DOH reported that as of December 2024, Biliran had recorded 124 HIV cases, with Naval accounting for the highest number at 53 cases. These statistics emphasize the urgent need for awareness campaigns and preventive measures to address these public health concerns effectively.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 5: Gender Equality.]

The School of Teacher Education (STEd) of Biliran Province State University - Naval Campus formally concluded Project Training and Nurturing Student Government Leaders with Acumen and Will (Project TANGLAW) on April 2 at West Biliran High School for Arts and Culture (WeBHSAC), Brgy. Tamarindo, Almeria.

Formally launched on December 5, 2023, at WeBHSAC, Project TANGLAW was developed in response to findings from a collaborative study conducted by STEd faculty and Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) Social Studies students. 

The study, titled “Examining Student Leaders’ Leadership Competence and Challenges from Selected Schools of a Rural School District: Basis for a Leadership Training Program,” identified key challenges faced by student leaders, including difficulty in managing priorities, lack of social skills, insufficient support and resources, and inadequate paperwork proficiency.

With long-term sustainability consideration, Project TANGLAW was designed to enhance leadership competencies, such as critical thinking and reasoning, self-awareness and personal development, interpersonal interaction, group dynamics, civic responsibility, personal behavior, strategic planning, and effective communication.

Over the four-month implementation, student beneficiaries participated in a series of modules and training sessions, facilitated by English, Social Studies, and Social Science educators from BiPSU’s various schools.

The culminating activity was attended by Program Leaders, including Dr. Grace L. Concepcion, chairperson of the Department of Secondary Education; Dr. Gregg O. Siat, chairperson of the Department of Elementary Education; and Kevin T. Lagat.

Also present were Project Leaders, including Hon. Vennie Coton, acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education; Bonifacio Jumtilco, Jr.; Vic Marie Bornillo; Jeremy Balondo, Extension Services Office personnel; and Miramar Serrion, STEd Extension chairperson, alongside facilitators and ESS students.

During the event, Mr. Kevin Lagat, Program Leader of TANGLAW, emphasized the project's commitment to nurturing young leaders equipped with the necessary skills, values, and vision to navigate the complexities of student leadership.

“We are honored to have been part of your journey as student leaders here at WEBHSAC, and we sincerely hope that our sessions over the past week have provided valuable insights, knowledge, and skills that will help you in your leadership roles,” the project leader said.

The activity was also attended by Dr. Elaine Joy S. Mejia, WeBHSAC’s HTV school head; faculty members; and the student beneficiaries.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte—Students from Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Naval campus advanced to the final round of the competitions of the Philippine Association of Campus Student Advisers (PACSA) Inc. National Midyear Convention 2025, April 2.

Following a comprehensive screening of candidates in Visayas Core Group, the following are the BiPSUnistas advancing to the final rounds of their respective category:

Pagsulat ng Sanaysay: Gil Irinco

Dagliang Talumpati: Kevin Brane

Research Presentation (2 papers): 

Presenter 1: Remmie Joy Baluna and Junmark Cabalquinto 

Presenter 2: Chazonne Almazon and Dominic Chad Catipay

Streetdance Competition: Kenneth Berdal, Loida Jean Verian, Arian Jay Maala, and Kyle Sabalones

Mr. PACSL 2025: Chazonne Almazon

Photography: Melody Vijuan

According to the contest mechanics, each core group will select three representatives for individual categories, and two representatives for group competitions.

Moreover, the finalists will compete against the representatives from the National Capital Region, Luzon, and Mindanao core groups, tomorrow, April 3. 

The delegation was coached by Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, University and Board secretary, and Dr. Miguel Supremo, Institutional Job Placement officer.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University received the “highest commendation” for its President’s Report during the first Board of Regents (BoR) meeting with newly appointed CHED Commissioner Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela on March 26. 

Marking the first session between BiPSU and the new CHED Commissioner, the said meeting not only reported the university’s accomplishments in the first three months of the fiscal year 2025 but also addressed key financial, academic, and legal matters, aimed at ensuring sustainable growth while tackling emerging challenges in the university. 

BiPSU’s governing board, chaired by Dr. Valenzuela, unanimously passed a resolution recognizing BiPSU’s accomplishments with highest commendations during the first quarter.  

In his report, BiPSU president outlined the university’s ongoing initiatives and progress in various areas, including instruction, research, extension services, ICT and infrastructure development, resource management, human and organization capital, student support services, and linkages, with particular emphasis on internationalization efforts.

Commissioner Valenzuela commended the leadership of BiPSU president and the members of board for their vision, which has been instrumental in enhancing the university’s global presence. 

In a social media post, the commissioner expressed her admiration. “My first quarter board meeting with BiPSU was both productive and inspiring. Dr. Cañezo and the Board of Regents clearly have a strong vision for BiPSU, and their commitment to excellence is evident in the university’s impressive achievements in international rankings,” she wrote.

The CHED Commissioner praised BiPSU’s progress in strategic internationalization and sustainability efforts, which have contributed to the university’s growing international presence.

In response, Dr. Cañezo expressed his gratitude. “With the leadership of our new chair designate of the BiPSU Governing Board, we continue to improve our programs, expand our global partnerships, and promote sustainable practices to achieve the ‘Weaving of Worthiness (WOW)’ for BiPSU,” the university president said.

The Board meeting, held at the CHED Central Office in Quezon City, was conducted in a hybrid format, allowing both onsite and virtual participation. Onsite key attendees included Dr. Cañezo, Hon. Vennie Coton, faculty regent; Hon. Aluah Kane Cabalhin, student regent; Hon. Gerardo J. Espina Jr., Lone District of Biliran representative and BiPSU BoR representative of the House Committee on Higher & Technical Education (CHTE), represented by Hon. Liberty M. Bardinas; Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, university and board secretary; Joedel Penaranda, executive assistant to the President; Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, legal officer III; and Hannah B. Peñaflor, board secretary I. 

Online attendees also included Hon. Meylene C. Rosales, regional director of NEDA RO8; Private Sector Representatives Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina and Hon. Jean Clare T. Diu; and Alumni Regent Hon. Felix G. Gervacio Jr.

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education.]

Biliran Province State University Naval Campus’ School of Teacher Education (STEd) formally culminated their four-month old extension program at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Naval District Jail in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval on April 2.

The Project Kaalaman at Abilidad na Sentro at Angkop sa Napapanahong Aksyon - Yaman at Negosyo (Project KASANAYAN), a livelihood skills development program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the BJMP Naval District Jail was formally launched on November 22 last year.

KASANAYAN aimed to empower PDLs with practical skills in crocheting and handicrafts, promoting economic self-sufficiency and supporting their reintegration into society through sustainable livelihood opportunities. 

The program was anchored on the findings of a community needs assessment conducted by Miramar M. Serrion, activity leader and STEd extension chairperson; and Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and BTLEd and BPEd chairperson, entitled “Needs-Based Assessment of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) for Community Empowerment and Rehabilitation.”

The study identified the critical needs of PDLs in areas such as literacy, health, social development, and technology and livelihood skills. Serrion said that the evidence-based approach ensures the project effectively addresses the specific challenges faced by PDLs.

Under the project, PDLs underwent weekly training sessions in crocheting and handicrafts, focusing on skills that are viable for income generation. These sessions were conducted throughout the project duration, with STEd faculty members who are experts in livelihood education personally facilitating the training.

The culminating activity was conducted after more than four months of the project’s implementation. The program was attended by Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and technology and livelihood education and physical education department chairperson; Glenn Gomba, head of Research Office’s Knowledge and Information Management Unit; Miramar M. Serrion, project facilitators, and extension office personnel. 

JSINSP Elizer B. Bacog, acting warden of BJMP Naval District Jail, also attended the activity along with the BJMP personnel and PDL beneficiaries.

In his message, Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, director of Extension Services Office, represented by Glenn Gumba, said that the program has been a journey of empowerment, resilience, and transformation, providing the PDL participants with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience to help them build a better future. 

“Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to rehabilitation, skills development, and reintegration, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society,” Dr. Ampong said.

Meanwhile, in his message, JSINSP Bacog expressed the bureau’s gratitude for BiPSU’s extension service and highlighted the project's importance in providing hope for the PDLs.

“Thank you for showing them [PDLs] that learning doesn’t stop even within confined facility,” the BJMP warden said. “Hindi lang ito paghahabi ng sinulid, ito ay paghahabi ng pag-asa [This is not just mere weaving of threads, but also a weaving of hope].”

PDLs also shared their experience and the impact of the extension service. One female PDL expressed her gratitude for the project which she described as a stepping stone to having new life once they are reintegrated to the outside community.

“Daghang salamat kay may mga tawo nga sama ninyo nga nakahinumdom sa amo dire [Thank you so much for having people like you who remember us here],” the PDL said. “Pinaagi sa inyong tabang sa amo, wala diay mi ning-anhi para mapreso lamang, kundi para mabag-o ang kinabuhi ["With your help, we are not here just to be confined, but to change our lives].”

Another young PDL also shared that his appreciation to the university for the extension program. “Nakaka-appreciate na kahit nandito kami sa aming komunidad, meron pa palang mga taong handang tumulong sa amin at nagpakita sa amin kung paano namin pwedeng gawing makabuluhan ang stay namin dito [It is appreciating that even though we are here in our community, there are still people willing to help us and show us how we can make our stay here meaningful],” he said.

Moreover, handicrafts such as crocheted bags, apparel, coin purse, vase, and bayongs were also exhibited during the culminating activity.

Certificates of Completion, which the beneficiaries may use once reintegrated to the community, were also provided.

[This aligns with SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions]

To extend the research initiative to empower not only faculty, but also students, BiPSU, through its Research and Development Office (RDO), hosted a two-day research mentorship workshop at the Maritime Audio-Visual Center last March 27-28.

The two-day workshop, titled “Enhancing Undergraduate Students' Competence in Scholarly Writing: A Seminar-Workshop on Crafting Thought Papers for Scopus Publication,” was attended by twenty-eight selected students from the School of Teacher Education (STED) Naval campus.  

Furthermore, the event was designed to help selected undergraduate students develop the skills to write scholarly papers for scopus-indexed journals, improve their technical writing, and generate ideas for academic publications.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Service, stated that becoming a research-based institution requires not only faculty efforts, but also student support to enhance the university's research culture.

“The main purpose of our gathering is to fulfill our mandate of becoming a research-based institution, a goal that requires not only the faculty's efforts, but also the support and cooperation of students to strengthen the university's research culture,” Dr. Niez said.

Dr. Don Eliseo Lucero- Prisno, a World’s Top 2% Scientist and founder of GHF University Excellence, and Program Manager Jerico Ogaya, led the discussion and shared their expertise. 

During day 1, students had an orientation on crafting thought papers for scopus publication, exploring the process, purpose, benefits, and significance of these papers for both the university and their personal academic growth.

Following this, on the second day, students were assigned topics and tasked with creating their own thought papers, which they then presented during the session, allowing each student to receive feedback on their papers.

In an interview, Alfred James Acebedo, a second-year BSED-English student, shared his appreciation for being chosen to attend the seminar and described the experience of writing a scopus publication paper as both challenging and rewarding.

“I am truly grateful to have been selected as one of the students to attend this seminar workshop, which gave me the opportunity to experience writing a thought paper for scopus publication,” Acebedo said.

“Unlike the usual articles and essays I write, it wasn’t easy, but I’m proud to have gotten through it, gaining knowledge and feeling excited to refine my paper further,” he added.

Moreover, also present at the event were Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Research and Development Office (RDO) director, and Mr. Kevin Lagat, Research chairperson of STED Naval Campus.

#WOWBiPSU

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

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