Weaving the university’s role as a catalyst for community development, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), are one of the academic partners present during the 34th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC) at the Leyte Convention Center, Palo, Leyte on July 24-25.

VABC, one of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (PCCI) flagship regional initiatives, forms part of its broader national agenda to strengthen collaboration among business sectors, local chambers, policymakers and academic institutions.

Representing BiPSU are faculty members and student leaders from the departments of Business Administration and Economics, who engaged in high-level discussions, innovation forums, and technology showcases targeted to accelerating economic inclusivity through digital advancement.

Themed “Visayas Rising: Accelerating Growth Through Digital Transformation,” this year’s conference is the first gathering of its kind that puts technological transformation into the spotlight.

The 34th edition focused on the critical need for digital upgrade among the region's Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), aiming to equip them with actionable strategies, right digital tools, and a clear plan to successful technology integration, ensuring growth and competitiveness in the digital age.

“While MSMEs are the backbone of the Visayas economy, many lack the resources, digital skills, and knowledge to effectively adopt AI, automation, and other crucial technologies,” Mr. Jonathan Calvara, 34th VABC conference director said.

BiPSU delegation includes Dr. Annel Ruth Celis, chairperson of the Bachelor of Arts in Economics (AB ECon); Mrs. Marissa Nierra, Mr. Prince Japee Neil Seno and Mrs. Ma. Grace Sañosa-Docallos, faculty members of the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA); and Ms. Mariz Manito, faculty from the AB ECon.

Also in attendance are students from the Junior Business Executive Circle (JBEC) Renz Fhilip Gahum, Gerson Devio, Daphnie Familaran, Nicole Casansio, Axel Vince Uykieng and Cathy Cacharro. Joining them are Student Economic Circle (SEC) students namely Clifford Datario, Jericho Gonzaga, Josie Mae Galang, Hazel Gabing and Jocell Daang.

Said event also featured the Tacloban-Leyte Business Expo, a two-day showcase that brings together a dynamic mix of tech companies, startups, tourism enterprises, financial services, government agencies, trading firms, real estate developers, franchise brands, and 30 local MSMEs.

This activity promotes BiPSU’s ongoing commitment to bridge the gap between education and industry, highlighting the university's active role in shaping future-ready graduates and contributing to regional economic progress.

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[This article aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 4: Quality Education, No.8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]