Fostering collaboration between university and other stakeholders, Biliran Province State University conducted a Sectoral and Civil Society Organization (CSO) Consultation Meeting and Budget Partnership Agreement, February 27, at the university Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

The consultation meeting was attended by eight Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including Lico Agrarian Reform (LAARCOOP), represented by Rebecca V. Payos; the Naval Municipal Employees’ Association (NAMEA), represented by Jerome Pitao; and Alumni Association represented by Jerome T. Arcenal. Additionally, Rhodel Ruben from Samahang Agpangi, Talustusan, Tricycle Operator Driver Association (SATTODA) also participated, Danilo Delda represented the San Pablo Water System & Sanitation Association (SANWASSA) and San Pablo Farmers’ Association (SPFA), along with Tito Amerigo Custodio representing the Biliran Bisexual and Gay Society (BBGS), and members of the BiPSU LHS SSG.

The said consultation aimed to refine the proposed programs, projects, and activities for the FY 2026 Capital Outlay Budget, ensuring that every peso is allocated to meaningful improvements and upgrades such as laboratory enhancements, classroom expansions, and initiatives to make the campus more inclusive and gender-responsive.

University President Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo Jr., emphasized that the proposed budget is more than just a collection of figures—it directly impacts the quality of education, infrastructure development, and the opportunities available to students and other stakeholders. He also highlighted the importance of the consultation in thoroughly reviewing and improving BiPSU's capital outlay proposals.

“The budget we propose is not just a document with numbers; it determines the quality of education we provide, the facilities we build, and the opportunities we create,” the university president. “In other words po, itong konsultation na ito ay importante para makatulong na busisihin at i-improve pa ang capital outlay proposals ng BiPSU.”

Moreover, Dr. Cañezo added that BiPSU’s partnership with Civil Society Organizations has been key to securing funding for essential projects. He noted that past successes were shaped by stakeholder insights, demonstrating participatory governance in action.

“Our collaboration with Civil Society Organizations has strengthened BiPSU’s capacity to secure funding for much-needed projects,” Dr. Cañezo added. “The success of our previous Capital Outlay Proposals would not have been possible without these discussions. Your insights and recommendations have shaped decisions that directly benefit our students and our academic community. This is participatory governance in action.”

Meanwhile, Ms. Jessica Myka B. Quijano, project development officer from the Institutional Planning Office (IPO), presented the BiPSU’s Capital Outlays, shedding light on budget allocations and development plans. After which, an open forum transpired that allowed the participants to discuss concerns and recommendations, creating a way for a more inclusive decision-making process. 

Further, taking the highlights of the event, a Budget Partnership Agreement Drafting which is the critical part of the event transpired, where internal and external stakeholders collaborated to ensure participatory budgeting.

In his message, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, vice president for Finance and Administration, emphasized that the 2026 capital outlay projects would prioritize gender responsiveness, inclusivity, transparency, and empowerment, assuring that all recommendations and feedback in the consultation meeting were carefully considered in the planning and implementation process.

“Through this consultation we ensure that our capital outlay projects for 2026 initiatives reflect gender responsiveness, inclusivity, transparency and empowerment. Rest assured that the recommendation and comments shared are well taken and considered in our planning and implementation,” Engr. Pelesco said.

Moreover, key officials who attended the consultation meeting include Dr. Susan S. Bentor, vice president for Academic Affairs; Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra,  vice president for Student and External Affairs; Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton, and other unit heads and BiPSU officials.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]