Researchers from Biliran Province State University - Biliran Campus (BiPSU - BC) proudly represented the university at the 57th Annual Scientific Conference of the Pest Management Council of the Philippines, Inc. (PMCP), held from July 7 to 11, 2025, at Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

Mr. Jofil A. Mati-om, from the School of Agri-Fisheries of BiPSU–Biliran Campus, presented the study titled “Assessment of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Damage in Coconut Farms of Biliran, Biliran Province, Philippines.” The research was co-authored by Reymund V. Vergara, Christian Ulysses G. Cagasan, and Rossan U. Piamonte.

Surveying nine coconut-producing barangays in the Municipality of Biliran, their study reveals varied levels of infestation by the destructive Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB). The team emphasized the importance of community-based pest control and local government involvement in protecting livelihoods and sustaining coconut farming, a vital source of income for Biliran communities.

The study was among the 26 scientific papers selected for presentation from across the country at the national conference, which carried the theme “Strengthening Partnership and Innovation in Pest Management: Towards a Sustainable and Food Secure Philippines.” The event brought together researchers, scientists, and experts dedicated to advancing solutions in pest management and sustainable agriculture.

The team’s participation underscores BiPSU’s unwavering commitment to meaningful research and its ongoing pursuit of development for the local community and beyond.

#WoWBiPSU

The leadership of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU),  led by its President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, joined by Vice Presidents Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Dr. Roland A.  Niez, and Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Rogelio J. Espina, MD, FPOA, fondly referred to as the "Father of the BiPSU Charter." Under Governor Espina’s leadership, Naval State University was transformed into Biliran Province State University in 2019 through Republic Act No. 11170.

During the visit, BiPSU provided an update on its current enrollment for the 1st semester of Academic Year 2025-2026. As of July 14, the university reported a total of 11,724 enrolled students across its two campuses, with 8,715 students (74.32%) hailing from Biliran Province.

The BiPSU leadership also presented plans for upcoming national and international events scheduled for September and October, which the university will proudly host. Governor Espina expressed his full commitment to supporting these events by ensuring the province’s readiness in terms of tourism, transportation, and security.

In a shared vision for the province’s progress, Governor Espina discussed his plans to establish review centers to further equip Biliranons, a move hailed as another milestone for the community.

BiPSU extends its heartfelt gratitude to Governor Espina for his unwavering support and partnership, which continue to empower the university and the weavers of Biliran’s bright future.

#WoWBiPSU

Twenty-five Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) students from Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) recently completed a 35-day internship program at Biliran Electric Cooperative (BILECO). The program concluded with BILECO’s inaugural exit ceremony, a milestone event celebrating the interns’ dedication and professional growth. Each student received a certificate of completion and a token of appreciation for their commitment and hardwork.

Under the leadership of Engr. Gerardo Oledan, General Manager of BILECO, the BiPSU students seamlessly integrated their theoretical knowledge with practical skills, working directly with live electrical systems and gaining invaluable real-world experience.

BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, expressed his gratitude, stating, "Thank you, BILECO thru GM Gerardo Oledan for nurturing our BS Electrical Engineering OJT!"

This achievement underscores BiPSU’s commitment to preparing its students for successful engineering careers through meaningful partnerships like the one with BILECO.

Congratulations to the interns—world-ready weavers, your journey as future engineers is off to a brilliant start!

#WoWBiPSU

On July 10, 2025, the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Biliran and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), launched a transformative "Responsible Parenthood Extension Program" across eleven barangays in the Municipality of Biliran. This initiative, a part of the Integrated Community Extension Services Program (ICESP), aimed to strengthen the social fabric, promote equality-driven transformation, and foster sustainable economic growth within the communities.

The program featured a series of engaging seminars led by SAS faculty, designed to equip parents with essential knowledge and skills for responsible parenting. Topics included effective communication, child development strategies, financial literacy, and fostering emotional resilience in families. The sessions encouraged open dialogue, allowing participants to share challenges and insights on raising children in today’s complex world. “We recognize that empowering parents with the right tools can create stronger families and healthier societies,” said a faculty member, emphasizing the program's mission to drive positive change from the household level outward.

Targeting underprivileged beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the initiative prioritized accessibility and inclusivity. By providing technical assistance and fostering knowledge-sharing, BiPSU ensured that participants gained practical tools to cultivate nurturing, supportive family environments. The program also addressed local needs, such as conflict resolution and stress management, tailoring content to the unique challenges faced by  communities.

The Responsible Parenthood Extension Program reflects BiPSU’s unwavering commitment to community development and family empowerment. By investing in parental education, the university is laying the foundation for resilient, equitable communities that can thrive economically and socially. The initiative’s success has sparked discussions about expanding its reach to other municipalities, with plans to incorporate additional workshops on mental health and entrepreneurship.

This milestone underscores BiPSU’s role as a catalyst for change, weaving together targeted education and community engagement to transform lives. As families apply their newfound knowledge, the ripple effects are expected to strengthen community bonds and promote sustainable development across the province.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) continues to solidify its position as a global leader in innovation, having been recognized as one of the Global Top 400 Innovative Universities in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025, as announced on July 10 during the 5th Hanseatic League of Universities Conference in Dumaguete City.

Since its debut in the WURI rankings in 2021, BiPSU has been consistently ranked in the said impact ranking system demonstrating a remarkable trajectory, reflecting its unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, ethical practices, and societal impact 

BiPSU’s performance in the 2025 WURI rankings underscores its strengths across key categories, achieving a global rank of 53rd in Ethics and Integrity (A6), 51st worldwide in Technology Development and Application (A7) and 61st globally in University Brand and Reputation (B8) categories.

Further, this year’s ranking included 87 countries, 1253 universities and 4866 innovative programs across the 16 categories.

The WURI ranking system evaluates universities based on their tangible contributions to society, emphasizing innovative education, industrial applications, entrepreneurial spirit, ethical values, and crisis management. 

“BiPSU has leveraged this platform to showcase its innovative initiatives, from pioneering research to community-driven initiatives. Unlike traditional rankings, WURI focuses on real-world impact, making BiPSU’s consistent presence in the Global Top 400 a clear indicator of its role in the weaving of worthiness, shaping a better future. The university’s achievements underscore its mission to produce graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also equipped to drive transformative change in their communities and beyond,” said BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP."

BiPSU’s continued recognition in the WURI rankings underscores its dynamic approach to education and innovation. By weaving ethical values, technological advancement, and global engagement into its framework, the university stands as a beacon of progress, significantly contributing to addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development.

#WoWBiPSU

On June 10, 2025, the pursuit of equitable and inclusive education took center stage at Biliran Province State University (BIPSU) as its School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) successfully hosted the illuminating seminar-workshop, "Teaching with GAD-ttitude: Seminar-Workshop in Creating Inclusive Instruction, Extension, and Research Activities." The full-day event underscored the university's commitment to embedding Gender and Development (GAD) principles deeply within its academic and outreach frameworks. The full-day event, attended by the faculty of the School of Technology and Computer Studies, underscored the university's commitment to embedding Gender and Development (GAD) principles deeply within its academic and outreach frameworks.

The event commenced with an opening ceremony, featuring welcome remarks by Dr. Reynold G. Bustillo, BSIS Program Chairperson. Dr. Bustillo underscored the importance of integrating GAD principles into teaching, research, and extension activities, positioning these efforts as essential for addressing societal challenges. 

The core of the workshop was a series of expertly delivered talks designed to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application of GAD principles. The first session, "Integrating the GAD Approach into Your Syllabus," was led by Dr. Annel Ruth D. Celis, Chairperson of the Bachelor of Arts in Economics Program. Her presentation offered faculty members actionable strategies for meticulously weaving gender-sensitive language, case studies, and perspectives into their course outlines and lesson plans, ensuring that the curriculum itself promotes gender equality.

Following this, Mr. Fernando E. Quiroz Jr., a former Head of GRASS of the BIPSU-GAD Office, presented "Integrating a Gender Lens in Academic Inquiry." His insightful discussion highlighted the imperative of conducting research through a gender-sensitive lens, emphasizing how such an approach can unveil nuanced societal dynamics and lead to more comprehensive and impactful findings. He provided guidance on formulating research questions, selecting methodologies, and interpreting data in a manner that accounts for gender differences and inequalities.

The morning session concluded with "Planning Inclusive Tech-Based Outreach Projects," a compelling talk by Dr. Marianne B. Dagaylo-An, Director of the GAD Office. She elucidated how technology can be harnessed as a powerful tool for social good, particularly in designing outreach programs that are accessible, relevant, and beneficial to all genders and marginalized groups within the community. Her presentation offered practical frameworks for developing projects that actively address gender-specific needs and challenges.

A key highlight of the afternoon was the "Research & Extension Services Proposal Presentation." Mr. Glenn Gumba, STCS Research Chairperson, and Ms. Jhanna Mariel A. Merino, STCS Extension Services Chairperson, showcased exemplary proposals that demonstrated integration of GAD principles. These presentations served as tangible examples of how faculty can translate the theoretical concepts learned into concrete, GAD-responsive research and community engagement initiatives. Each presenter acted as a skilled weaver, demonstrating how to seamlessly blend GAD principles into their respective fields.

The seminar-workshop concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Cheryl A. Ebajo, BSIS Program Chairperson, who reiterated the significance of continued commitment to GAD mainstreaming within the university. She stressed the importance for all faculty to continue to weave these inclusive practices into their daily work. 

The "Teaching with GAD-ttitude" seminar-workshop stands as a testament to #WoWBIPSU's proactive approach in cultivating a truly inclusive and gender-responsive academic and community environment, empowering its faculty to be agents of positive social change through their instruction, research, and extension activities.

[This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 5: Gender Equality.]

On July 9, 2025, Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, President of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and Regional Chairperson of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), attended the 2025 PASUC Midterm Convention and General Assembly at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

In a statement, Prof. Cañezo expressed his honor in joining fellow state university and college (SUC) leaders during the event, particularly highlighting his participation in the processional alongside other regional PASUC chairpersons. “I was deeply humbled to join this significant gathering of academic leaders,” he said.

During the convention, Prof. Cañezo took time for a photo opportunity with Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, the event’s keynote speaker, and personally thanked her for her steadfast support of BiPSU. “On behalf of BiPSU, I sincerely thank Secretary Pangandaman for her continued commitment to our university’s growth and mission,” he said. He also acknowledged the DBM’s role, stating, “We are grateful to the DBM for believing in our vision and empowering BiPSU to reach greater heights.” Prof. Cañezo highlighted the recommended budget of over PHP 732 million for BiPSU for Fiscal Year 2026, expressing his appreciation for this significant allocation.

The PASUC convention serves as a platform for SUC leaders to discuss issues in higher education, share best practices, and strengthen collaborations to advance the country’s state universities and colleges.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals No. 4: Quality Education and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU)-Biliran Campus has forged a groundbreaking partnership with EMIR Mineral Resources Corporation (EMRC) to advance sustainable forestry, responsible mining, and student success. This collaboration, weaving academic excellence with industry innovation, is a significant step toward producing globally competent graduates and fostering community-driven sustainable development.

On May 22, 2025, five BS Forestry students—Dianne Christel Aradillos, Marvin P. Calarion, Mariale E. Malinao, Lovely A. Martinito, and Rose Ann J. Sillar—embarked on a 22-day (176-hour) On-the-Job Training (OJT) program at EMRC’s operations in Homonhon Island, Eastern Samar. Concluding on June 16, 2025, the program adhered to CHED Memorandum Order No. 104, s. 2017, offering intensive, hands-on exposure to mining operations, including weekends and holidays to mirror real-world industry demands.

Formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), this partnership reflects BiPSU’s mission, led by University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, to drive transformative learning and regional progress. Key contributors from BiPSU included Dr. Randy A. Villarin (Dean of SABFORM), For. Melanie P. Moncada (Chairperson), Dr. Mario C. Nierra (External Affairs OJT Coordinator), For. Florante T. Sabejon (OJT Program Coordinator), and faculty members Dr. Ruffy Rodrigo, For. Apple Cyrriel R. Labides, Biologist Ofelia M. Moreno, Engr. Rommel Quinte, For. Neña Rose A. Corpin, and Agriculturist Neo Kenneth P. Moncada. Their efforts ensured robust support for the student-interns.

EMRC’s team, led by Engr. Eduardo R. Garcia, Jr. (OIC Resident Manager), included Engr. Angelito V. Gomez (Project Manager), For. Erika Loren C. Dulfo (Pollution Control Officer), For. Jing Omoso (Company Forester), Engr. Edward L. Padulaga (Safety Engineer), Gerlie O. Binabise (Community Relations Officer), and John Vic C. Tagoc (Head, Assay Laboratory). Together, they provided practical training in field operations, site rehabilitation, and biodiversity conservation.

A Strategic Alliance for Learning and Impact

Beyond fulfilling academic requirements, this partnership aligns with the Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) and sustainability goals of EMRC, as mandated by the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942). Students gained critical insights into responsible mining, environmental monitoring, and community engagement. The collaboration also extends to research, with student theses focusing on tree growth in rehabilitated mine sites and biodiversity monitoring, contributing to ecological restoration and community development.

A Vision for a Sustainable Future

BiPSU extends heartfelt gratitude to EMRC for their support and dedication. This collaboration highlights the critical role of foresters in conserving biodiversity, restoring ecosystems, and advancing responsible mining practices, paving the way for a greener, brighter future.  #WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 15: Life on Land.]

Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, President of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), expressed profound gratitude and inspiration after attending the National Network of Quality Assurance Agencies (NNQAA) Gala Night and Thanksgiving Dinner. The event held on July 08, 2025, celebrated Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), for her unwavering dedication to quality and inclusive education.

In a heartfelt statement, Prof. Cañezo shared, “Truly honored to have joined the NNQAA Gala Night and Thanksgiving Dinner in celebration of our very own CHED Chairperson, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis — a woman I deeply admire for her passion and commitment to quality and inclusive education.” He highlighted the significance of being surrounded by fellow university presidents, educators, and respected colleagues, noting that the evening reinforced their collective mission to serve with excellence and integrity while transforming education.

The gala provided a platform for meaningful conversations and warm reunions, fostering a sense of unity among education leaders. Prof. Cañezo described the event as “definitely one for the books,” underscoring its impact on his commitment to advancing BiPSU’s role in weaving transformative education.

The NNQAA Gala Night not only honored Dr. Agrupis’ contributions but also served as a reminder of the shared vision among Philippine higher education institutions to uphold quality and accessibility in education.