As part of its extension activities aimed at enhancing public service accessibility and transparency, Biliran Province State University, through its Extension Services Office and the the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), recently conducted a two-day extension event to support the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Almeria in launching its new website and training staff for its management.

Held at the Municipal Annex Hall on November 7-8, the event included the official unveiling of almeria.gov.ph, a website developed by the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS) students from STCS. 

The site is designed to streamline access to municipal services and improve community engagement. Additionally, the training session equipped LGU staff with the skills needed to manage, update, and maintain the site effectively, ensuring its continued relevance and accessibility.

Attendees of the activity included Almeria Mayor Richard D. Jaguros, STCS Dean Dr. Chona B. Sabinay, BSIS Chairperson Dr. Chery B. Ebajo, STCS Extension Chairperson Jhanna Mariel Merino, and BiPSU’s Knowledge and Information Management Unit Head, Glenn Gumba. Lorenzo de la Cruz, Private Secretary II and Municipal Information Officer of Almeria, also joined, along with LGU staff members, responsible for the website.

The BSIS student developers, Jecel May F. Gervacio, Jane M. Rosales, Mildred L. Santiañez, Claire D. Complisa, and Jayson B. Jamin, were guided by STCS faculty mentors, including Gerald Emerson S. Corpin, Eric John D. Celis, John Raymund D. Calderon, Niva M. Salas, Joshua P. Casas, and Lorna G. Delos Santos.

In his message, Mayor Jaguros praised the collaboration, acknowledging BiPSU’s support in enhancing Almeria’s digital capabilities. "This new website marks a significant advancement in our service delivery, enabling us to meet our community’s needs more effectively,” he said.

Aligned with the Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018, the website cuts down on red tape and makes it easier for residents to access services, allowing them to complete various transactions online instead of needing to visit in person.

Through this successful technology transfer, BiPSU and LGU Almeria have set a new standard for local governance, strengthening the government’s relationship with its constituents and paving the way for continued digital innovation in public service.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]