In line with Biliran Province State University's Kick-Off Founding Celebrations this year, a series of activities highlighting research and innovation culminated on August 29 at the university’s Student Center.

“We gather not only to honor our rich history but also to look ahead and shape a future driven by innovation, research excellence, and transformative ideas,” Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice-president for Research, Innovation, and Extension, said.

Booth exhibits featuring Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES) were displayed by different schools from both the Naval and Biliran campuses, with themes centered on the Sustainable Development Goals.

The event was opened by Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., university president; Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VIII director; and Prof. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno, founder of GHF-University Excellence.

Additionally, an Innovation and Technology Pitching Competition highlighted presentations by faculty and students pitching new technologies or ideas to potential investors and business partners.

Four entries from the Faculty Category qualified for the 3-minute pitch competition, representing the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), the School of Teacher Education (STEd), the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and the School of Engineering (SOE).

Meanwhile, there were five entries in the Student Category, representing STCS, STEd, SME, the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), and the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE).

The participants had previously attended a seminar-workshop titled "How to Pitch Your Innovation Start-up in 3 Minutes," facilitated by Dr. Reynaldo Garnace, a SPED Generalist based in New York, on August 22-23.

The Board of Adjudicators, composed of scientists and innovators from DOST Region VIII, included Dr. Ramil T. Uy, regional coordinator for the Grass Roots Innovation, Smart and Sustainable Community Program, and Science and Technology Scholarship Program; Dr. Romeo L. Dignos, Chief Science research specialist; and Ms. Jean Gay O. Ragub, Senior Science research specialist.

After a competitive round of presentations, the victors of the Technology and Innovation Pitching Competition were announced: the STED students won with their innovation, "Space Sailors Game Application: Revolutionizing Astronomy Education Through Gamification," while the STCS faculty impressed with their "SMART Cacao Helper" technology pitch.

In second place, SME students and SOE faculty showcased innovations in coconut pastil and a solar-powered rice vending machine, respectively. Third place went to SCJE students and STEd faculty, who impressed the judges with their alternative magnifying glass holder for forensic analysis and a biocycle game application, respectively.

The winners of the booth exhibition will be announced on August 31.

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