In a move set to bolster regional academic growth and collaboration, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and Cebu Normal University (CNU) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 17, 2025, at the OP Convergence. This landmark five-year partnership represents a true "weaving of worthiness", uniting two State Universities in a commitment to mutual academic advancement.

CNU President Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso, Sr., representing the First Party, and BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr., representing the Second Party, affixed their signatures to the document. The agreement is explicitly founded on the spirit of friendship, reciprocity, equality, and mutual interest.

The MOA outlines a robust framework for academic and cultural exchange, aiming to enhance the quality of education and research at both institutions:

✅Mobility and Exchange: The agreement encourages the exchange of students for a given period through a recognized program and the exchange of scholars, professors, lecturers, and researchers. The host institution is responsible for organizing cultural orientation sessions for incoming students.

✅ Research and Information Sharing: Both universities will organize joint scientific research programs and other research projects in fields of mutual interests. They will also encourage the exchange of research materials, periodicals, and academic publications.

✅Innovation in Education: The partnership includes sharing experiences and best practices in innovative teaching methods, course design, and the systems and operations of their respective smart campuses.

✅ Joint Activities: The universities will organize joint symposia, workshops, and conferences and encourage joint educational programs and curriculum development.

A crucial component of the partnership is the provision for intellectual property rights. All copyrightable works produced as a result of the collaboration will be jointly owned by the parties, ensuring that fees and royalties benefit both institutions.

The MOA shall take effect immediately upon signing and will remain in full force for five (5) years from October 17, 2025. The agreement is renewable under mutually agreed-upon terms. 

#WoWBiPSU

The School of Teacher Education (STEd) Extension Services of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) is ramping up its community engagement efforts by consulting with and presenting the Project INSPIRE proposal to two elementary schools in Naval.

On October 16, 2025, the STEd Extension Services conducted its initial consultation meeting and proposal presentation for Project INSPIRE at Villa Consuelo Elementary School (ES).

Led by Project Leader Dr. Robert Jordan, the team—which included Chairperson Ms. Miramar Serrion and Facilitator Mr. Greggo Legaspi—met with Principal Mrs. Christiane Polinar and the dedicated faculty of Villa Consuelo ES.

This strategic initiative aims to address the target needs of teachers, aligning all activities to enhance their capabilities and ultimately benefit the students. With Project INSPIRE, the partnership between the STEd Extension Team and Villa Consuelo Elementary School is poised to make a meaningful impact in the education sector.

Following up on their efforts, the STEd Extension Services held another consultation meeting and proposal presentation for Project INSPIRE today, October 17, 2025.

The meeting with Mrs. Gretchym Dela Peña, Principal of Libtong Daku Elementary School, took place at the STEd Faculty Room, BiPSU Naval Campus.

The session was led by Ms. Miramar M. Serrion, STEd Extension Chairperson, together with her dedicated team members: Ms. Jamaica Casas, Ms. Jenny Genoguin, Mr. Sherwin Sarzuelo, Mr. Johnny Sumbise, and Ms. Jergen Casenio.

This collaborative session aimed to present the proposed activities and objectives of Project INSPIRE, which is designed to address the specific needs of teachers and strengthen their professional growth. Through this partnership, the STEd Extension Team and Libtong Daku Elementary School seek to foster a shared commitment to educational excellence and community empowerment.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University - Biliran Campus researchers have presented significant progress in developing a sustainable biological control method against the aphid that transmits the devastating Abaca Bunchy Top Virus (ABTV).

The project, titled "Survey and Assessment of Entomopathogens Against the Aphid Vector, Pentalonia nigronervosa of Abaca Bunchy Top Virus in Eastern Visayas," was recently reviewed by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).

The BiPSU team showcased their work on the collection and laboratory evaluation of Entomopathogenic Fungi (EPF)—fungi that kill insects—gathered from Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte.

The initial results are highly promising, indicating that these collected fungi have strong potential as biological control agents against the Pentalonia nigronervosa aphid. This tiny pest is the primary vector responsible for spreading the crippling ABTV disease throughout abaca farms.

Evaluators from the DOST-PCAARRD Crop Research Division (CRD) praised the research team's substantial progress, emphasizing that the findings could offer a crucial, environmentally-friendly solution for managing destructive aphid infestations in the regional abaca industry.

Following the successful program review, which included S&T Consultant Dr. Virginia C. Cuevas from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, the BiPSU team is moving forward with the next phase.

The identified promising EPF isolates will undergo testing under screenhouse conditions before proceeding to comprehensive field trials. These rigorous steps are necessary to confirm the fungi's effectiveness and safety, paving the way for eventual deployment to abaca farmers in Biliran Province and the wider region.

The review meeting was attended by project teams from both BiPSU and Visayas State University (VSU), alongside DOST-PCAARRD representatives led by CRD Director Leilani D. Pelegrina and Industry Strategic S&T Program Manager for Abaca Kristine Joy P. de Guzman.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Office of the Legal Counsel, recently hosted a high-level Dialogue and Focus Group Discussion titled “Security Risks and Safety on the Bench and Bar.” The timely event, held on October 15 at the HyFlex Audio-Visual Conference, convened key figures from the legal and law enforcement communities to address the critical issues of security and safety within the justice system.

The attendance reflected a unified commitment to the issue, bringing together all judges from the Regional Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts in Biliran. The judiciary was led by Executive Judge Hon. Luz P. Navarrete of RTC Naval, Branch 16.

Also present were public prosecutors, led by Chief Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Edna P. Honor; lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO); and officers and members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines–Biliran Chapter, headed by its president, Atty. Redentor C. Villordon. Crucially, the security sector was fully represented by Chiefs of Police from all eight municipal police stations, alongside the Biliran Provincial Chief, PCol. Erwin I. Portillo.

The intensive discussion centered on proactive security measures, including the identification of current threats and incidents involving members of the bench and bar, establishing enhanced security protocols for court proceedings, and ensuring coordinated action during emergencies. Participants also developed proposals for vital joint security initiatives and long-term partnerships.

The University proudly affirmed its role as the host, with BiPSU’s Office of the Legal Counsel, led by Atty. Guiller Delfin, co-organizing the activity with the Office of the Executive Judge pursuant to the mandate of the Supreme Court. The successful dialogue underscores BiPSU's commitment to supporting its stakeholders in the legal profession and the judiciary, recognizing these institutions as vital partners in the enduring pursuit of peace and security. 

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Extension Services Office, officially launched its newest community extension initiative, “WoW BiPSU Extension in Action: A Community Extension Project through Radio Broadcasting,” weaving another milestone in the university’s mission to bring education, innovation, and public service closer to communities across the province.

The program, which aired its pilot episode live via Radyo Natin FM on October 7, 2025, aims to expand BiPSU’s extension services beyond the rural centers and into the airwaves—making information, training, and community empowerment accessible even to residents in remote areas of Biliran and neighboring provinces.

Hosted by Mr. Lorenzo R. de la Cruz, Director of the University Media and Information Office (UMIO), the inaugural broadcast opened with a message from BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., who underscored the university’s commitment to transforming lives through inclusive and responsive community engagement.

“This radio program is more than communication, but a connection,” Prof. Cañezo spoke. “It is how BiPSU reaches every home and every community to help change lives.”

During the program, Dr. Alvin Ampong, Director of the Extension Services Office (ESO), explained the vital role of extension in higher education as one of the fourfold functions of state universities, alongside instruction, research, and production. He described the new radio platform as a creative response to the call of President Cañezo to expand the academe’s reach and make BiPSU’s services accessible to the most marginalized sectors.

“Through radio, the knowledge and innovations developed within the university will reach even the farthest communities of Biliran and beyond, extending our extension service to more meaningful lives and impact,” Dr. Ampong said.

The episode also featured Mr. Glenn Gumba, Head of the Knowledge and Information Management Unit, who introduced the Integrated Community Extension Services Program (ICESP)—BiPSU’s blueprint for delivering knowledge-based and people-centered programs. He highlighted the 12 core components of ICESP, ranging from literacy and continuing education, disaster risk management, and livelihood development to biodiversity management, technopreneurship, and digitalization of barangays.

Moreover, Dr. Ampong discussed how communities and organizations can avail of BiPSU’s extension services. Interested groups may coordinate directly with the Extension Services Office through formal requests, which will be matched with the appropriate resource persons or servicing units within the university.

Mr. Candelito Belocura, Head of Continuing Education, also recognized the crucial role of the active partners whose collaboration ensures every initiative is inclusive, impactful, and sustainable.

The program’s tagline, “Empowering Communities, Bridging Local and Global Connections,” enfolds BiPSU’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable development through accessible and meaningful engagement.

The next episode, set for October 14, will feature the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) with faculty experts discussing digital innovation and technology-based community programs.

Through the WoW BiPSU Extension in Action, the university reasserts its enduring pledge to public service—one that transcends boundaries, uplifts communities, and echoes the university’s core value: “We help change lives.”

#WoWBiPSU

In pursuit of strengthening community resilience and sustainable agriculture, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), with its Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) project, partnered with the Department of Science and Technology–Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST-PSTO) Biliran to conduct a Training on Climate Risk Management and Disaster Preparedness cum Food Safety Orientation on October 7 at the Canaan Hill Farms, Barangay Uson, Caibiran, Biliran.

Titled “Empowering Communities in Biliran Province through Science, Technology, and Innovation Interventions: STI Interventions to the Marginalized Community of BLGU Uson, Caibiran,” the initiative aimed to equip local farmers and community members with the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to climate change, strengthen disaster preparedness, and ensure food safety in their agricultural practices.

PSTO Director Dr. Romeo L. Dignos emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia, government, and local communities in building sustainable livelihoods.

“Through this partnership, where research institutions generate solutions, government agencies provide support and policy direction, and communities actively participate in applying these innovations, we can create longterm science-based solutions that truly uplift the lives of the people,” Dr. Dignos said.

BiPSU Biliran Campus’ Mr. Christian Ulysses G. Cagasan and Mr. Jofil A. Mati-om delivered clever lectures on Climate Risk Management in Agriculture: Caring for the Soil in a Changing Climate and Managing Pests in a Changing Climate, respectively.

In addition, Mr. Sherwin A. Macantan from DOST Region VIII tackled disaster preparedness, while Ms. Juliet M. Aguirre and Mr. Mark Anthony R. Curso of PSTO Biliran discussed basic food hygiene and safety.

These discussions highlighted the importance of integrating science, technology, and innovation to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure food safety, and promote resilience amid climate challenges.

President of the Caibiran Association of Diversified Farmers (CADFA) Mr. Jeffrey Espinazo expressed gratitude to BiPSU and DOST for their continuous support to grassroots communities through various interventions.

“This training shows us the university’s mission to change lives through knowledge and public service,” Mr. Espinazo shared. “We are grateful for the opportunity to be selected and further empowered.”

BiPSU remains to pave the way for a climate-resilient, disaster-prepared, and food-secure Biliran—proving that science and education, when united with community action, faithfully work for the people.

#WoWBiPSU #OneDOST4U

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Records and Archives Office, successfully held its inaugural Briefing on Records Disposition Administration on October 9, 2025, at the BiPSU Academic Wellness Center.

The significant event was conducted in partnership with the National Archives of the Philippines (NAP). The activity saw participation from both the Biliran and Main Campuses.

The briefing was expertly delivered by resource speakers from the NAP: Ms. Elizabeth B. Eje, Chief Records Management Analyst, and Ms. Ehxia R. Dondonilla, Senior Records Management Analyst. They provided crucial guidance on lawful and sustainable records-disposition practices and procedures.

This milestone activity marks a clear step in BiPSU's institutional commitment to strengthening records governance. It also ensures compliance with Republic Act No. 9470, the law that governs the proper disposal of public records within the Philippines.

The briefing directly addresses the pressing need for a centralized and standardized records management system across the university. By providing personnel with foundational knowledge on organizing, appraising, and disposing of obsolete or valueless records through approved schedules, BiPSU is commencing the "weaving of worthiness"—building a more compliant and efficient records management culture.

Vice President for Administration and Finance, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, delivered the opening remarks on behalf of University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.. He emphasized the administration’s strong support for these records management initiatives, recognizing their vital role in streamlining operations and preserving the university’s institutional memory.

The Records and Archives Office stated that this briefing is merely the beginning of broader efforts to implement lawful records disposition protocols across all BiPSU campuses. These efforts will start with comprehensive awareness and training and culminate in the full implementation of standardized procedures.

Through such activities, BiPSU is reaffirming its commitment to responsible public service, institutional integrity, and continuous improvement. It is a significant step that establishes the foundation for a more organized, compliant, and transparent records governance culture at #WoWBiPSU.

A landmark commitment to elevated academic standards and collaborative innovation was sealed on October 9, 2025, as Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC) officially forged a partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, hailed the agreement as the dawn of a new era for both institutions, aimed at creating synergy in academic exchange, joint research, and groundbreaking innovation.

The new MOU establishes a formal framework for a wide array of shared initiatives that promise to significantly enhance the educational and research landscape for both communities. According to President Cañezo, this collaboration will be a powerful catalyst, specifically opening doors for faculty and student exchanges, joint teaching and research programs, and shared initiatives across critical disciplines. He emphasized that the partnership signifies a collective effort towards the "weaving of worthiness" by developing higher education services that are excellent and impactful for the students and the communities they serve.

The partnership's focus areas are strategically designed to leverage the distinct strengths of each institution, with key initiatives concentrated on working together to enhance curriculum and practice, ensuring a steady supply of high-caliber educators; collaborating on programs and research that foster entrepreneurship and economic development in their respective regions; and combining expertise and resources to drive technological advancements and solutions to local challenges.

President Cañezo affirmed the ambitious scope of the agreement, stating, "This collaboration will open doors for faculty and student exchanges, joint teaching and research programs, and shared initiatives in teacher education, business, engineering, and R&D. Surely, this will strengthen both institutions’ commitment to excellence and collaboration."

The historic signing ceremony was attended by key officials from both academic bodies, underscoring the institutional support for the unified vision.

President Cañezo acknowledged the instrumental role of the OMSC delegation, extending his heartfelt thanks to OMSC President Elbert C. Edaniol for his leadership in securing the partnership. He also recognized the efforts of OMSC's accompanying officials: Executive Assistant Dr. Melchor P. Dioso, Campus Director Dr. Miguel C. Elausa, and MIS Director Mr. Joseph O. Torres.

On the BiPSU side, the President was joined by his Vice Presidents: Dr. Roland A. Niez, Dr. Maribel Zipagan, Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, and Dr. Vivencio Pelesco. Research and Development Office Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Legal Officer Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin and Executive Assistant Mr. Joedel Peñaranda were also present to witness the landmark event.

Closing his statement with a message of profound optimism, President Cañezo expressed his excitement for the future: "Excited for the opportunities this partnership will bring for our students, faculty, and communities. Lagi’t lagi, for our beloved #WoWBiPSU." The agreement is expected to be immediately activated, with planning for initial exchange and joint programs already underway.

Samar State University (SSU), in partnership with Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Region 8, officially opened the 6th International and 9th National Conference on Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development (IPOVCON) today, October 8, at the BiPSU Gym in Naval, Biliran. The conference is a vital convergence point for advocates and experts, rallying under the theme: "Technology-Driven Solutions for Poverty Alleviation and Inclusive Sustainability."

The IPOVCON aims to provide a dynamic platform for educators, researchers, and policymakers to exchange insights and best practices that will further pursue poverty reduction programs on both the global and local landscape. SSU President and conference convener, Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, highlighted this objective in his rationale, underscoring the conference's role in driving meaningful action.

𝑶𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝑴𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒔

The event commenced with a welcoming address from BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., who framed the conference as a key step in realizing the university's institutional mantra: "Weaving BiPSU with the world and the world with BiPSU." He emphasized the attendees' shared commitment to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that progress is inclusive and that "no one is left behind."

Further solidifying the conference's importance, messages of support and inspiration were delivered by several regional leaders, including Dr. Leo D. Camposano (representing CHED Region 8 Director Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe), Hon. Jade Tiu (representing Samar Governor Hon. Sharee Ann T. Tan), and Biliran Governor Hon. Rogelio J. Espina, MD, FPOA. Their collective messages stressed the crucial role of education, innovation, and collaboration in effectively addressing current poverty challenges.

𝑲𝒆𝒚𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒆 𝑨𝒅𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔: 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

The conference officially kicked off with a series of inspiring keynote speeches that set the intellectual tone for the succeeding discussions.

Hon. Meylene C. Rosales, Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDevR08) and Co-Host of IPOVCON 2025, delivered the first keynote address titled “Aligning Technology-Driven Poverty Reduction Strategies with Regional Development Plans.” Dir. Rosales emphasized the importance of innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based policymaking in achieving inclusive and sustainable growth across the region.

The focus on technology continued with Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Region 8, who spoke on “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation to Break the Cycle of Poverty.” Dr. Ocaña underscored the transformative power of science and technology in empowering communities, driving economic progress, and creating sustainable solutions for poverty alleviation.

The exchange of ideas went global with Dr. Antonius Torang P. Siahaan, Dean of the Faculty of Business at Sampoerna University, Indonesia. In his address, “Digital Financial Literacy and Technology as Catalysts for Global Economic Inclusion,” Dr. Siahaan highlighted how digital empowerment and financial inclusion can open doors to global opportunities, transforming lives and communities through innovation.

The IPOVCON provides a vital platform for educators, researchers, and advocates to foster dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnerships essential for achieving transformative education and sustainable progress.

#WoWBiPSU #iPOVCON2025

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) recently secured a significant accreditation from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), marking a pivotal moment in the institution's commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino culture and heritage. This achievement is a testament to the university's dedication to making cultural understanding a core part of its educational mission, recognizing that a deep connection to heritage is vital for holistic community development.

The successful application was spearheaded by Willard Riveral, Director of the Center for Biliran Province Studies (CBPS), whose efforts and vision were instrumental in achieving this milestone. The accreditation underscores BiPSU's vital role in the weaving of worthiness—nurturing cultural awareness and integrating meaningful cultural initiatives across its academic community and the wider region. This phrase captures the essence of the university’s mission: to acknowledge, elevate, and celebrate the intrinsic value of local culture, thereby enriching the identity and self-esteem of its people. By securing this official recognition, BiPSU is now formally empowered to act as a significant custodian of cultural knowledge and a dynamic center for creative expression.

This NCCA accreditation is not merely a seal of approval; it is a gateway. It immediately grants BiPSU access to wider opportunities for collaboration, funding, and essential cultural development programs offered through the national body. This newfound access will significantly empower the university's mission to serve as the region’s premier hub for cultural enrichment, moving beyond the classroom to engage local communities, artists, and historians.

Furthermore, the accreditation will facilitate the staging of more high-profile cultural events, such as regional art exhibitions, traditional music and dance festivals, and workshops designed to revitalize endangered cultural practices. The CBPS, under Riveral's direction, is poised to become a more active research powerhouse, documenting Biliran's unique cultural landscape and ensuring its stories are preserved for future generations. Ultimately, this NCCA accreditation solidifies BiPSU’s position as a dynamic force not just in education, but in the crucial work of national and regional cultural development. The university is set to transform the cultural landscape of Biliran Province, making heritage an accessible and vibrant part of everyday life.

#WoWBiPSU