Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) delegates stood out at the 3rd International Convention on Student Affairs and Services (ICSAS) 2023, themed "Accelerating SAS Programs toward attaining Sustainable Development Goals," held from September 29 to October 1 at Baguio Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City, Philippines.

BiPSU students who participated in the On-the-Spot Essay Writing and On-the-Spot Poster Making competitions emerged as champions. Christian Lloyd Pomar and Niño Salloman Nierra Torquator secured first place, while Leemark Cuizon and Joshua Usigan achieved first and second runner-up positions, respectively, in the photography competition. Kris Rubas took the second runner-up spot in the OPM Singing Contest.

Mr. Niño Salloman Nierra Torquator, reflecting on his victory, expressed his surprise and gratitude, saying, "Winning this competition is actually my first win in poster making with the use of acrylic paints. So I was really surprised and happy to be judged as the champion in that category."

In the professional category, BiPSU faculty member Dr. Ma Morena E. dela Pena won the championship in the paper presentation competition, while Mr. Robert P. Jordan secured the second runner-up position in the same competition.

Dr. Ma Morena E. dela Pena, in an interview, shared her unexpected triumph, saying, "I joined the team as a coach, not as a competitor, and didn't expect to win a competition myself. I was in a state of shock. Later, I realized that before leaving my room that day, I had brought my knees down to ask for God's wisdom and guidance."

The BiPSU delegation was composed of faculty members and students from the different schools in the university. Moreover, Mr. Ralph Arvic T. Arcenal, Dr. Ma Morena E. dela Pena, and Mr. Jenevz Duquilla Estorninos Custodio served as coaches of the student contestants.

The 3rd ICSAS, organized by Transforming Advocates and Champions (TRAC), attracted 219 student leaders, campus advisers and SAS Practitioner from 53 public and private universities nationwide. Participants shared a common goal and vision for Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN).