“The easiest thing in life is to give up, the hardest thing is to keep going.”

In the bustling corridors of the university, where academic papers rustle and the quiet hum of study sessions fills the air, there exists a group of individuals who embody a true spirit of balance and resilience. These are the student-athletes, whose contributions go far beyond the victories on the field or court. Their role within the university is a story of ambitions and battles, one that integrates both mind and body.

As the sports season unfolds, we marvel at the athletes' impressive physicality, illuminated by the fire of their passion and the sparkle of unwavering determination. Moreover, we draw inspiration from their remarkable journey of hope and life.

Three hundred and two student-athletes from 23 sporting events are set to represent Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) on the Eastern Visayas regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Meet, which will be held from December 8-13 at the Northwestern Samar State University (NwSSU) grounds.

Them, who stand tall with strength and bravery, their presence exuding charm and charisma, celebrated and envied for their privileges. They are the university athletes, the roaring embodiment of gallant tigers, carrying our pride on their shoulders.

Them, whose clothes are stained with the sweat and grime of relentless practice, whose shoes wear thin from countless sprints, whose hands bear the bruises of perseverance. They chase after every fallen ball, endure the sting of injuries, and confront the bitter taste of defeat—only to rise again. They are our strength, our relentless warriors on and off the field.

Them, whose mornings begin before the world awakens, balancing the grueling demands of training with the weight of academics. Their dedication does not falter; they embody resilience itself. True strength, they teach us, is not just in the power of the body but in the unwavering resolve to rise after every fall.

Them, who are not just athletes but role models, whose actions speak louder than their victories. They inspire unity, lifting the spirits of the entire campus, reminding us all of the power of teamwork and shared purpose. They are the glue that binds the community, rallying us behind a common goal.

Them, whose hearts beat not just for personal glory but for the pride of their team, their school, their supporters. Every cheer from the stands, every chant of encouragement fuels their power. They play not just for themselves but for those who believe in them—for every voice that shouts their name, for every heart that beats in rhythm with theirs.

Them, who embrace discipline as their constant companion, sacrificing nights out and moments of leisure. They trade fleeting comforts for the enduring fulfillment of progress. Through sweat-soaked jerseys and aching muscles, they learn the art of perseverance, showing us that success demands more than talent; it demands grit.

Them, who find strength in camaraderie, in the bonds forged through shared struggles and triumphs. On the field, they are more than individuals—they are a united force, driven by trust and mutual respect. They lift each other when spirits falter, knowing that their strength lies in their collective unity.

Them, who face criticism and pressure, yet refuse to buckle. They carry the weight of expectations with grace, channeling doubt into motivation. In their determination to prove themselves, they remind us all that the greatest battles are fought within.

Them, who inspire us with stories of perseverance—reminding us that greatness is not handed out but earned through relentless sweat, sacrifice, and unyielding belief in oneself. Their journey is a testament to the boundless potential of the human spirit and the transformative power of hard work.

As we are about to cheer from the stands, we may absorb their lessons. We learn that the road to excellence is fraught with challenges, that each stumble is a chance to grow, and that passion and determination can brighten even the darkest paths. Through their struggle, they show us what it means to push beyond limits.

Hence, whether it’s pre-game, in-game, or off-game, let us honor the grit, courage, and the fire that fuels the BiPSU Tigers’ ambition. For in their journey—marked by struggle and triumph—we discover the essence of what it truly means to fight forward.

Rooting for you, our BiPSU tigers!

#WoWBiPSU

As an inclusive university that promotes respect for all students, Biliran Province State University, through the Gender and Development (GAD) Office, held a seminar entitled “Empowerment and Resilience: Maximizing Potential and Academic Skills for Students with Special Needs” at the Hyflex Audio Visual Center, December 3.

Attended by students with special needs, the seminar aims to create an inclusive, supportive and understanding educational environment, and empower them by providing insights and skills to maximize their academic and personal potential. It also underscores the importance of resilience and equity in education while promoting the rights and well-being of students with special needs.  

In her message, GAD Director Dr. Marriane B. Dagaylo-an, mentioned that inclusivity goes beyond merely accommodating differences, it involves celebrating and recognizing the unique strengths of each student.

“Let us remember that inclusivity is about recognizing the unique strengths of the students and ensuring that our educational system empowers every learner to achieve their full potential,” Dr. Dagaylo-an said.

The seminar includes sessions tailored to awareness of Persons with Disabilities’ rights and responsibilities under Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities. The morning session focused on students with special needs, featuring two main topics.

Naval Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Mr. Jan Albert I. Isulan discussed the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, emphasizing that persons with special needs have the rights and protection of living with equal freedom, respect, and support as they are part of society.

Moreover, Mr. Jhonny Barrameda, Project-in-Charge of Norfil foundation, Inc., tackled the Concepts of Disability and Human Rights Perspective. He emphasized that it is important to change seeing persons with special needs as needing charity, instead focuse on their rights, fairness, and inclusion in all parts of life. 

Meanwhile, during the afternoon session, Mr. Barrameda presented the topic Disability Concept and Sensitivity, dedicated to the university frontliners. The discussion underscored the importance of inclusivity, equity and professional responsibility in academic settings.

The activity was held in celebration of International Person with Disability Day. 

#WoWBiPSU

To prepare students for professional success, Biliran Province State University, through the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) department, conducted a Personality Development and Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for its interns on December 2.

The whole-day event, held at the university gymnasium, emphasized workplace skills, safety, and global readiness as key areas of preparation.

The seminar featured key sessions focused on workplace values and safety. Dr. Marian Dagayloan, director of Gender and Development Office (GAD), delivered a talk titled "Safety of Work," where she highlighted the importance of maintaining a secure and healthy work environment. Meanwhile, Mr. Juan Jalober from the Department of Transportation shared a discussion on "Desirable Values at Work," emphasizing the need for ethical and professional behavior in the workplace.

Moreover, Dr. Jane Marie Genson-Inocencio, director of the External and Affairs Office (EAO), facilitated the PDOS portion, where she offered practical advice for adapting to new work environments and challenges.

In his message, BSBA program Chairperson Dr. Vicente Q. Solteo, Jr., discussed the importance of the internship experience in shaping the students' careers.

“As you continue on your final year of study, remember that the experiences and lessons you learn during your OJT will be the stepping stones to your future success,” Dr. Solteo stated.

Moreover, in an interview, Ms. Annaliza Bug-atan, a fourth-year BSBA Marketing Management (MM) student, shared how the PDOS bolstered her preparedness for her internship.

“I feel more prepared after attending our PDOS because I am informed and it gave me valuable insights about the internship, including the expectations, responsibilities, and workplace etiquette,” Ms. Bug-atan said. “It also helped boost my confidence and awareness of handling different situations during my upcoming OJT.”

Notably, the department is gearing up to deploy over 244 interns from the MM and Financial Management (FM) programs starting Wednesday, December 4.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG): 4 (Quality Education).]

With its mission to provide students with global experiences, Biliran Province State University has entered into a partnership agreement with SMS Phoenix Global Sdn. Bhd., a Malaysian-based company specializing in academic and cultural immersion programs.  

The partnership was formalized through a ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on November 2 at the Office of the University President. The agreement aims to establish collaborative initiatives that will enhance BiPSU’s teaching, learning, and international engagement opportunities.  

The MOU was signed by University President Dr. Victor Cañezo Jr. and Dr. Sri Devi Aynaru, Founder and Managing Director of SMS Phoenix Global Sdn. Bhd. 

With the collaboration, BiPSU and SMS Phoenix Global will implement a range of academic, cultural, and intellectual development programs for Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) students. These initiatives include summer camps, joint conferences, industrial visits, faculty and student exchanges, and dual diploma offerings.  

Dr. Cañezo reaffirmed the university’s vision of becoming a globally competitive institution and expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to broaden BiPSU’s academic scope and provide students with meaningful international experiences.  

“With this engagement with SMS Phoenix Global, we hope to see our students gaining global experiences that they can apply in their future careers and endeavors,” said Dr. Cañezo. “Bringing our students to Malaysia will weave BiPSU into the fabric of the global community.”  

The university president also revealed plans to send faculty members from the business administration department to Malaysia next year for postgraduate engagements, further strengthening ties between the two institutions.  

The ceremonial signing was witnessed by Faculty Regent and BSBA Program Chair Hon. Vennie Coton, BA in Communication Program Chair Dr. John Cavin Sabonsolin, BSBA Program Chair Dr. Vicente Solteo. Faculty members from the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) also attended. 

[This aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

Before heading to this year’s Eastern Visayas Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (EVRSCUAA) Games, Biliran Province State University held a special mass and ceremonial turnover of uniforms and equipment for the more than 400 EVRSCUAA delegates at the university gymnasium on December 1.

The send-off mass aimed to provide, equip, and bless the athletes as they prepare to compete, ensuring that they have both the physical resources and the moral and spiritual backing that are needed for success.

Rev. Fr. Antonio Sevilla, the mass priest presider, reminded the athletes that while physical training is essential, spiritual strength is equally vital.

“As you head into the competition, prayer is the best preparation,” Rev. Fr. Sevilla emphasized.

Further, essential equipment and uniforms were distributed to the delegates during the turnover ceremony.

In his inspirational message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the importance of expressing gratitude to the coaches and trainers, acknowledging their crucial role in shaping the athletes' performance.

"Our coaches are the backbone of our athletic program, dedicating countless hours to train and mentor our athletes, instilling in them not only athletic skills but also valuable life lessons,” Dr. Cañezo said. “We owe them our sincere appreciation for their unwavering commitment."

Meanwhile, Vice President for Student and External Affairs Dr. Erwin Salvatierra encouraged the athletes to let their pride inspire their determination and passion, driving them toward victory as they not only represent themselves but also their coaches, families, fellow students, and the entire university.

"Let that pride fuel your determination, ignite your passion, and compel you toward victory,” Dr. Salvatierra said. “This is not just about winning; it’s about the experience, camaraderie, and the memories you’ll create."

Notable attendees included University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Vice President for Student and External Affairs Dr. Erwin S. Salvatierra, Supply Officer Joemard Calvez, Sports Director Engr. Carmel Ingrid Docallos, student-athletes, coaches, and trainers.

Moreover, delegates’ departure will take place on December 6, heading to Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), the host university for the 38th EVRSCUAA Games.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No: 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 10 (Reduced Inequality), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)]

As part of the EMpowerment program of the university which stands for Educational Mentorship for its faculty members, Biliran Province State University continued its research mentorship workshop for Scopus Publication held on November 29 at the University Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC), featuring World’s Top 2% Scientist and founder of GHF University Excellence, Dr. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno.

Now on its third leg, the said activity centered on writing thought papers for publication in Scopus-indexed journals. The session covered how to identify the right journals, navigate the submission process, and improve research impact, while offering faculty advice on structuring thought papers to increase their chances of acceptance in top journals.

Selected faculty members from various schools attended the whole day training, organized by the Research and Development Office (RDO).

In an interview, Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, RDO director, emphasized that the mentorship workshop was an important opportunity for faculty to further develop their academic writing skills, better understand the publishing process, and improve the quality of their research.

“This session is a crucial step in strengthening your research and writing skills,” she said. “It’s an opportunity not only to learn the ins and outs of academic publishing but also to refine your work so that it can make a real impact in top-tier journals, ultimately contributing to the university’s growing academic prestige,” said Dr. de Paz.

Moreover, the session featured experts, including Prof. Prisno, together with Jerico Ogaya, program manager at GHF-University Excellence, who guided participants in refining their research and publishing strategies to help elevate the university’s academic standing.

In an interview, Roann A. Solayao, instructor at the School of Management of Entrepreneurship, expressed her appreciation for the event, noting how it had provided her with both the confidence and practical skills to improve her research, while also thanking the administration for their continuous support, which plays a key role in enabling faculty growth and academic success.

“I’m truly grateful for this event, as it has provided me with invaluable insights into the academic publishing process,” she said. “I also want to thank the administration for their unwavering support, which continues to help us grow as scholars and advance our research.”

The training to capacitate its faculty members aligned with the university’s goal to increase the volume of research papers published in Scopus-indexed journals.

[This article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education.]

Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, University & Board secretary, and Mr. Joedel Peñaranda, director of the Strategic Innovation & Knowledge Laboratory (SIKLAB) and executive assistant to the President, formally concluded their participation in the Higher Education Leadership Mentoring (HELM) Fellowship Program at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

The UPLB HELM Fellowship, a new initiative under the UPLB Office for Institutional Development in Higher Education (OIDHE), offers officials and administrators from UPLB's partner Higher Education Institutions—including Biliran Province State University—the opportunity to engage with UPLB leaders.

This program, which started this year, provides Fellows with exposure and immersive experiences at UPLB, designed to enhance their leadership skills and contribute to the development and advancement of their respective institutions.

EA Peñaranda and Dr. Arcenal, who were officially accepted as fellows on September 4 this year, participated in the program from November 25 to 29. During this five-day engagement, they personally interacted with various offices at UPLB, immersing themselves in its systems and operations.

Dr. Arcenal explained that the fellowship lasted only five days, as specified in their acceptance form. He further noted that the Fellows could have opted to participate in the program for a longer duration, such as one month.

Throughout the fellowship, BiPSU officials had the opportunity to observe UPLB's systems and operations across various units, depending on their chosen fellowship tracks.

EA Peñaranda, who selected the administrative track, visited UPLB's administration and planning and development units. Meanwhile, Dr. Arcenal, opting for the academic track, explored all units under the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs.

EA Peñaranda highlighted that the program was structured as a mentorship, providing personalized guidance from UPLB key officials. This involved one-on-one interviews, shadowing sessions to observe their operations firsthand, and document reviews.

Moreover, during the exit conference on November 29, held via Zoom, Dr. Arcenal expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to learn directly from UPLB officials, emphasizing his plans to apply the knowledge and insights gained to BiPSU.

“My five days under the HELM Fellowship were nothing short of WoW: Warm, Overwhelming, and Worthwhile,” he shared, referencing BiPSU’s WoW trademark. “I am forever grateful and will certainly bring all that I have learned back to my university.”

Meanwhile, EA Peñaranda said that the fellowship was also their chance to benchmark UPLB's best practices and expressed optimism that their immersion and exposure to UPLB’s operations would significantly benefit BiPSU.

“This experience has really provided us with insights and practices that we can adapt to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our own systems at BiPSU,” he said.

Both fellows from BiPSU are the last participants to conclude the UPLB HELM Fellowship, which officially ends on November 30.

The exit conference, held on November 28, was attended by key officials from both UPLB and BiPSU.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education]

MANILA, Philippines—To enhance the academic offerings in both institutions, particularly in engineering and its graduate programs, Adamson University (AdU) and Biliran Province State University (BIPSU) forged a partnership in collaborative teaching and faculty development, held at Adamson University, Manila, on November 29.  

The partnership was formalized through the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) spearheaded by Fr. Daniel Franklin E. Pilarion, president of Adamson University, and Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., president of Biliran Province State University. 

Witnessing the said MOA signing from BiPSU were the OIC-Vice President for Administration and Finance Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, Planning Officer I Engr. Ronn Lennard Napala, and University Media and Information Office Director Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, while attending from AdU were Dean Dr. Merlinda A. Palencia, and Engineering Program Chairpersons Engr. Jerome Jordan F. Famadico, Engr. Jerry G. Olay, Engr. Joan D. Sta. Ana, Engr. Adrian Raymund C. Fernandez, Engr. Noemi B. Fernandez, and Engr. Lester Alfred M. Olasiman. 

The  MOA outlines a commitment between the two universities to engage in joint teaching in undergraduate engineering programs at AdU. These programs include Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

Under this partnership, BIPSU will provide qualified faculty members to collaborate with their counterparts at AdU in delivering professional courses. 

Adamson University will also offer graduate study opportunities to eligible faculty from BiPSU. These include master’s programs in engineering disciplines, such as Master of Engineering major in Civil, Computer, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering, as well as specialized programs like Master of Science in Construction Management and Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Major in Geotechnical Engineering.

The modes of delivery for delivering the programs include in-person classes at AdU, online or blended learning platforms, and collaborative research initiatives or joint projects, which may be conducted at AdU or BIPSU's research facilities. 

In his message delivered before the AdU officials, BiPSU President Cañezo expressed his hope that the partnership will not only improve the quality of instruction for students but will help the institution attain the COPC compliant for the engineering programs. 

“Indeed there is a spirit of cooperation and not competition  by sharing your (AdU) human resource  to help our engineering programs. We are happy to avail the services of AdU so not only we can improve the quality of instruction but this partnership will also contribute in realizing your vision and your mission to help those underprivileged.”  

AdU President, Fr. Pilarion revealed plans to expand the university’s program offerings in Mindanao. However, he highlighted that partnering with BiPSU presents an opportunity to extend their services first  in the Visayas. 

The president of AdU also noted that Biliran could become a central hub for universities in Eastern Visayas, particularly in offering  master’s programs in engineering. “We are grateful for this opportunity,” he said. “Sharing expertise is essential—the more it is shared, the greater the impact," he disclosed.

Key officials from the AdU Engineering Department, including President Pilarion, are scheduled to visit BiPSU at the start of the second semester in January 2025. The visit will include a face-to-face meeting with faculty and students from BiPSU's Engineering Department.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education]

Over 100 academic scholars from various schools of Biliran Province State University participated in the research mentorship workshop on writing thought papers publishable in Scopus Indexed Journals on November 28 held at the student center.

The training aimed to help the participants in finding the right journals that are indexed in Scopus for publishing research articles, given the advantages in terms of credibility and impact. On the same day, a writeshop and mentoring proper transpired.

In his message, Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, highlighted the opportunity that the research mentorship workshop will bring for students.

“This is a unique opportunity to expand your knowledge, refine your skills, and take your research to the next level,” Dr. Niez said.

He also emphasized that the scholar’s dedication not only supports solely to their professional and personal development but also contributes to the broader mission of the university.

“Your dedication to this endeavor reflects your commitment not only to personal and professional growth but also to contributing to the broader mission of Biliran Province State University,” he added.

Organized by the Research and Development Office (RDO) through its Director, Dr. Pearl Irish de paz, the workshop featured top 2% World Scientist and GHF-University Excellence founder Prof. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno, and Mr. Jerico Ogaya, project manager of GHF-University Excellence.

The writeshop and mentorship program was designed to equip the university's academic scholars with the necessary skills and guidance to produce high-quality scholarly articles, write and publish thought papers in Scopus-indexed journals, and effectively learn about academic publishing. This initiative also aimed to create an active involvement in enhancing the university's research output and contributing to its continuous progress.

The training was first mentioned by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. during a meeting with all academic scholars on October 30 where he revealed about the university’s target to produce at least 1,000 thought papers by 2027.

“Our goal is ambitious yet achievable, to produce at least 1,000 thought papers that reflect the brilliance and dedication of our academic scholars,” the university president said. “This effort will not only elevate the university’s research standing but also contribute valuable knowledge to the global academic community.”

Moreover, key officials who attended the whole-day activity include Dr. Niez and Dr. De paz. 

[This aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education.]

Biliran Province State University takes pride in hosting the 6th Regional Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines (ICpEP) and CPE challenge, the biggest gathering of computer engineering students and professionals in the region, on November 25-27 held at the BiPSU Gymnasium.

A total of 99 computer engineering students, accompanied by 25 dedicated professionals and representatives from five State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the regions offering Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCpE) program, participated in the three-day event.

In her message, Engr. Maricris M. Ediza, president of ICpEP Region 8 and BSCpE faculty of Samar State University (SSU), emphasized the importance of holistic excellence and innovation. "This event is more than just brilliant minds and exceptional talents, it is a celebration of collective progress, collaboration and innovation in computer engineering," she said.

The participating SUCs include Eastern Samar State University (ESSU), represented by both its Salcedo and Main campuses, Samar State University (SSU), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), and Biliran Province State University (BiPSU).

Themed, "Innovating the future: The Role of Computer Engineers in the Digital World," this year’s convention centered on exploring the pivotal contributions of computer engineers in shaping the digital landscape.

Dr. Ryan S. Evangelista, President of the International Council of E-Professionals (ICpEP) Singapore and the inaugural speaker, delved deep into explaining this year’s convention theme. His session, titled "Smart Cities and IoT: Building a Connected Future," explored innovative solutions and offered valuable insights into how interconnected systems can transform urban living.

The convention featured a series of workshops and competitions focused on emerging technologies and innovation in computer engineering, including quiz bowl, logic breadboarding, programming, robothon, and mobile legends.

Meanwhile, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., BiPSU and PASUC-8 president, reminded the participants that true progress is achieved through steadfast commitment and collective efforts.

"This year's convention aims to seamlessly intertwine our diverse ideas, unique expertise, and shared ambitions, fostering a collaborative spirit that has the potential to lead us to even greater achievements in the future," he remarked.

Moreover, SSU emerged as the champion of the quiz bowl competition, while SLSU secured second place, and ESSU Main captured the third-place spot.

In the logic breadboarding competition, BiPSU showcased its prowess by clinching the championship title, followed closely by SLSU and SSU in second and third places, respectively.

Meanwhile, in the Java programming category, SLSU rose to the top, with SSU securing the runner-up position and BiPSU finishing in third.

SSU also dominated the C programming competition, emerging as the champion, with SLSU and BiPSU taking second and third places, respectively.

SLSU also excelled in the C++ category, winning first place, while ESSU – Salcedo Campus took second and BiPSU secured third.

In the Python programming category, SSU demonstrated its skill by winning the championship, followed by SLSU in second place and BiPSU in third.

Additionally, in the Mobile Legends competition, BiPSU clinched first place, dominating SSU and SLSU, which placed second and third, respectively.

In the anticipated robothon competition, SLSU emerged victorious, capturing the championship title with their impressive robotic design and performance. SSU finished in second place, while ESSU – Salcedo Campus earned third.

Meanwhile, SLSU was hailed as the overall champion of the event, with SSU securing second place and BiPSU finishing in third.

This year's edition marks the first time BiPSU has hosted the convention.

[This aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure]