Biliran Province State University, led by the Cultural Affairs Development Unit (CADU), officially kicked off the “Hulma Kultura: School-Based Culture and the Arts Literary and Musical Competition 2025” through a Grand Opening Ceremony held at the university gymnasium on February 5.

The grand opening ceremony started with a parade around the town of Naval, bringing together students, faculty, employees, different student organizations, and stakeholders from both Naval and Biliran campuses.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., reaffirmed the university’s commitment to nurturing a well-rounded educational experience that extends far beyond the classroom, and encouraged the students to use the event as an opportunity to grow.

“At BiPSU, we recognize that academic learning and cultural enrichment are mutually reinforcing,” Dr. Canezo stated. “Engaging in extracurricular activities—whether as active participants or as thoughtful observers—cultivates a set of skills that are indispensable in both academic pursuits and professional endeavors.”

“I encourage you to see every moment as an opportunity to grow—not only as artists but as future professionals who value creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning,” he added.

Meanwhile, BiPSU-CADU also kicked off the first-ever LGBTQIA+ Cheerdance competition, highlighting the university’s commitment to inclusivity within the institution.

Three clusters composed of the different schools across the university showcased their flawless routine execution and enthusiastic cheers and yells. In the end, Cluster 1, composed of the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and the School of Engineering (SOE) clinched the top spot; while Cluster 3, composed of the different schools of BiPSU Biliran Campus; and Cluster 2, composed of the School of Teacher Education (STED), School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), and School of Criminal Justice Education, ranked second and third, respectively.

Moreover, Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, vice-president for Student and External Affairs, Dr. Susan Bentor, vice- president for Academic Affairs, Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice- president for Research, Innovation and Extension Services, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, vice- president for Administration and Finance, Faculty regent, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, deans and directors of the different schools, also graced the grand opening ceremony.

It can be noted that the said school-based competition kicked off last January 22, featuring two competitions namely, Short and Sweet Play and Radio Drama at the Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

The event will run until February 14 and will feature various activities and competitions including the Dance Workshop, Visual Arts competition, and Literary Arts competition.

Meanwhile, awarding of the winners for this year’s Hulma Kultura will be slated on February 13 during the Student’s Organization Night at the Student Center.

[This aligns with SDG Number 4 and 5: Quality Education, Gender Equality]