“By instilling financial discipline and resilience in every Filipino, we can create a more stable and prosperous country.”

In an inspirational message marking the celebration of Economic and Financial Literacy Month of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., university president, stressed out the importance of financial literacy in achieving a prosperous, resilient middle class in the country.

Addressing the students of the Department of Business Administration and Department of Economics from the School of Arts and Sciences during this year’s celebration, themed "Empowering Filipinos Towards Realizing a Prosperous Middle-Class Society through Economic and Financial Literacy," Dr. Cañezo reiterated that financial literacy should be seen as a transformative, collective force vital for societal advancement.

"Financial literacy is not just an individual pursuit—it is a collective movement," Dr. Cañezo asserted. 

The university president encouraged students and faculty to embrace financial literacy, stressing that an informed population builds resilient communities, prepares people to face economic challenges, and equips them to take advantage of opportunities for progress.

“Reflecting on this, I am reminded of my own experiences and the financial challenges I faced,” shared the president. 

Dr. Canezo narrated personal stories from his childhood, recalling his family’s financial limitations and the lessons learned from those experiences. These experiences, he explained, taught him discipline and patience—values he sees as fundamental to financial literacy. 

"From a young age, I learned the importance of stretching what we had and the value of every peso, even now that I am your president," he said, noting that even small savings could have transformative effects over time.

The university president also shared his experiences growing up in a family that lived on a modest income and reiterated that learning to budget and prioritize spending from a young age was a necessity. 

"Every expense was carefully considered," he recalled. The president described how even small desires had to be postponed. These challenges, he explained, instilled patience and appreciation for financial discipline.

In his address, the university presented financial literacy as a tool that everyone can access, regardless of financial background. 

"Financial literacy enables each of us to aspire to a future where our dreams are achievable," he noted. 

He added that knowing how  to budget, save, invest, and manage debt can transform lives and expand opportunities.

Addressing the younger generation, Dr. Cañezo highlighted the financial struggles faced by students who work part-time to fund their education while supporting their families.

For many of them, he noted, financial literacy offers a crucial lifeline.

"Learning to budget and save not only helps them survive but empowers them to thrive," he added. 

"We dream of a prosperous middle-class society, and financial literacy is the bridge that can take us there," he noted.

The president also emphasized that financial discipline and resilience are not just personal assets but essential values for a thriving society.

Dr. Cañezo extended his gratitude to the event organizers, recognizing their dedication to building a financially literate nation. He also urged everyone to use Economic and Financial Literacy Month as an opportunity to learn and to grow.

"Let’s envision a future where every Filipino has the knowledge and means to live comfortably and independently," he concluded. 

The celebration, held today, November 13, at the BiPSU Gymnasium, also featured two resource speakers: Joseph C. Pica, Information Officer from the National Economic and Development Authority, and Erma L. Lagarte, Economic Affairs Staff at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Visayas Regional Office.

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