Biliran Province State University’s (BiPSU) Department of Communication (DepComm) showcased its academic excellence at the recently concluded 2nd International Conference and 11th Scientific Meeting of the Association of Development Communication Educators and Practitioners (ADCEP) Philippines, held from September 14 to 16, at the Visayas State University (VSU), Visca, Baybay City, Leyte.

Anchored on the theme "Science, Risk Communication and Social Development,” participants from different Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), government and non-government organizations, and international speakers indulged in a three-day plenary discussion, research presentation, and student competition, highlighting the importance of development communication in society.

The BiPSU delegation comprised DepComm core faculty and Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAComm) students. Dr. John Cavin M. Sabonsolin, Mr. Mark Andrew A. Gonzalez, and Mr. Vincent Justine L. Realino were among the presenters who showcased their research papers, contributing to the conference's intellectual discourse. Moreover, the delegation also included faculty members such as Dr. Estelito R. Salut Jr., Mr. Ralph Arvic T. Arcenal, Ms. Precious Mae T. Alcero, and Mr. Michael A. Aguilos, who actively engaged in the conference's discussions and networking sessions.

Notably, several fourth-year BAComm students, Joshua Usigan, Mark Wilson Sulla, and Ronald Padoga, brought home awards in their respective categories.

Joshua Usigan's poster infographic entry titled "A Gift or a Threat," which highlighted the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) consumption in the country, secured the third-place spot. Usigan's visual representation of AI's impact on society garnered praise and recognition from the judging panel.

On the other hand, Mark Wilson Sulla and Ronald Padoga soared to the top spot in the radio plug category with their entry titled "In the Midst of Trends." Their radio plug explored the advantages and disadvantages of AI, providing insights into this technology. Their entry emerged as the undisputed winner, outshining their peers from other participating universities.

In an interview with Sulla and Padoga, they noted that even with the lack of preparation and equipment, they were still able to give their best with the help of the DepComm faculty. In a separate interview, Usigan also stated that as long as they have the passion and strength to overcome challenges, they have the power to create and elicit change.

“In our department, we believe in a mantra saying, "We are makers; we make things possible," Joshua Usigan added.

The BiPSU DepComm’s outstanding performance at the abovementioned international conference underscores their commitment to research excellence and ability to compete internationally. This achievement reflects the dedication of the students and faculty and showcases the university's commitment to nurturing and supporting the next generation of communication professionals.