With reinforced efforts in advancing international collaboration and environmental sustainability, Biliran Province State University formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the Pacific at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT RRC.AP).

RRC.AP is a specialized center within the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), located in Pathumthani, Thailand. Established to address environmental and sustainable development challenges in the Asia-Pacific region, RRC.AP serves as a knowledge hub and facilitator for regional cooperation on different environmental issues.

Held on November 28 at the BiPSU HAVC, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. and Dr. Guilberto Borongan, director of AIT RRC.AP, represented their respective organizations in formalizing the agreement, which establishes a five-year partnership aimed at promoting research, innovation, and capacity-building efforts in addressing pressing environmental challenges. 

In an interview, Dr. Cañezo said that the partnership is another step for BiPSU in its vision of becoming a world-renowned university responsive to the needs of both local and global communities. 

“We are so glad to have joined hands with AIT RRC.AP,” the university president said. “We aim to contribute significantly to the body of knowledge and solutions addressing climate change and sustainable resource management.”

The MOU outlines collaborative initiatives between the two institutions, particularly in the areas of research, waste and resource management, climate change adaptation, and pollution mitigation. 

WIth the understanding memorandum, both BiPSU and the RRC.AP agreed to promote joint research projects, knowledge-sharing through webinars and other activities, and the exchange of faculty and researchers. Additionally, the partnership includes initiatives to publish research outputs and explore innovative solutions for global environmental sustainability.

Meanwhile, Dr. Borongan expressed gratitude for the partnership. “At the Asian Institute of Technology, we want to expand our reach,” the director said. “With our new president [of AIT] just being installed this year, we aim to strengthen partnerships with various institutions in different parts of the world."

Dr. Borongan also emphasized the potential for joint research initiatives between faculty members of both institutions, depending on the specific needs of both parties, particularly in advancing solid waste management strategies.

He also encouraged the university to send students for exchange programs and faculty members for graduate studies in Thailand. "The Asian Institute of Technology offers many scholarships that you can take advantage of," he stated.

The RRC.AP Director also mentioned that they offer self-paced online courses, which interested applicants can access through their e-learning platform at [elearning.rrcap.ait.ac.th](http://elearning.rrcap.ait.ac.th).

Key officials also attended the ceremonial signing including Dr. Susan S. Bentor, vice president for Academic Affairs; Dr. Roland Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services;Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, vice-president for Administration and Finance; Dr. Matias Bentor, School of Graduate Studies dean; Dr. Analiza Calles, director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Faculty Development; Dr. Conception Gayrama, director of the University Learning Resource Center; Dr. Alvin Ampong, director of Extension Services; and Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, legal officer III and director of the Internationalization Affairs Office.

This recent engagement, through the School of Graduate Studies, aligned on the university’s ongoing efforts to establish meaningful international linkages and contribute to global academic and research initiatives.

[This aligns with SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

To emphasize the importance of having a sound mind for effective leadership in various units and offices in the university, Biliran Province State University held a seminar on mental health on November 27 at the BiPSU Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center.

The activity, titled “Enhancing Mental Health for Effective Leadership”, was attended by key officials including vice-presidents, deans, directors, and unit heads.

The seminar, organized by the Human Resource and Management Office, aimed to emphasize the importance of mental health in leadership by focusing on how prioritizing well-being can improve decision-making and stress management and foster a positive work environment.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Susan S. Bentor, vice president for academics, emphasized that the seminar's goal was to help leaders embrace their humanity and cultivate a supportive, resilient culture in both their professional and personal lives.

"Today's event is about reclaiming our humanity as leaders," she said. "It is about equipping ourselves to build a culture of compassion and resilience within our workplace, our communities, and, most importantly, within ourselves."

The seminar featured Dr. Jan Harry Cabungcal, a United Kingdom-based neuroscientist, professor, and mental health expert, who led a discussion on “How to Have Good Mental Health in This Crazy World.” 

In his talk, Dr. Cabungcal explained the importance of mental well-being in today’s high-stress environment. He provided useful tips for managing stress, building resilience, and maintaining mental health, emphasizing how leaders and individuals can overcome challenges while staying healthy.

Following the discussion, an open forum session was conducted where participants had the opportunity to reflect on the seminar's content and engage in meaningful discussions about mental health and leadership.

Meanwhile, Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for research, innovation, and extension services, encouraged attendees to apply the lessons learned during the seminar to help build a healthier, more compassionate community at BiPSU. 

"As we move forward, may the lessons we gain today serve as tools to create a healthier, more empathetic, and dynamic community here at BiPSU,” he said. “Let this seminar remind us that when we nurture our minds and spirits, we empower ourselves to live with clarity, compassion, and purpose.”

The conduct of the activity aligns with CSC Circular No. 4, S. 2020, and the CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1, S. 2020 which mandate all government agencies to establish a Mental Health Program.

#WOWBiPSU

(This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.)

In its move to empower change in the most basic political unit of the society, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) and the School of Graduate Studies (SGS), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naval and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Biliran, formally unveiled the Barangay Development Plan: Quality Assessment Tool (DBP-QUAT).

The BDP-QUAT is a structured evaluation framework designed to assess the quality, comprehensiveness, and sustainability of Barangay Development Plans (BPDs) created by barangay councils. This tool ensures that plans align with local needs, adhere to government standards, and incorporate best practices for sustainable community development.

Meanwhile, BPDs are comprehensive planning instruments for local governance that guide barangays in identifying priority areas for service delivery, resource allocation, and achieving development goals.

Tripartite community project

The university officially entered into a partnership agreement with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Biliran and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naval on November 20 last year.

The tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) outlined the implementation of the “Enhanced Barangay Development Plan Project: Building a Resilient, Safe, Self-Reliant, and Development Dominated Community.”

The groundbreaking project seeks to enhance the ability of local barangays to create comprehensive and sustainable development plans, and develop an assessment tool to measure the effectiveness and quality of BDPs.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. mentioned that forging linkages with other institutions to deliver quality extension programs is one of the university’s mandates. “We want to empower our barangay officials, because that’s our mission: to extend services for the empowerment and development of our people.

With the partnership, BiPSU faculty members from the SGS and SAS provided technical assistance to barangay officials, helping them craft three-year development plans that incorporated recommendations derived from the assessment tool.

A research-based project

The BDP-QUAT is a joint research-based extension project of BiPSU, LGU-Naval, and DILG-Biliran. The tool aimed to evaluate the BDPs of Naval's 26 barangays, identifying gaps and challenges in their formulation and implementation.

Initially, the team conducted environmental scanning and interviews with 96 personnel across the 26 barangays in Naval to identify existing practices and challenges in BDP formulation.

According to Dr. Annel Ruth Celis, project leader and chairperson of BA Economics and Master in Public Management (MPM), the research highlighted compliance with the standard 10-step BDP formulation process but also revealed issues such as incomplete documentation and weak evidence of compliance. 

“Challenges included limited manpower, unreliable databases, inadequate resources for data-driven planning, and the use of English in planning documents, which hindered effective participation,” she added.

Using the insights from this analysis, a draft version of the assessment tool was created, which included specific indicators for evaluating the quality, comprehensiveness, and sustainability of BDPs.

However, in an interview, Dr. John Cavin Sabonsolin, chair of the SAS Department of Communication, explained that the tool will still undergo reliability and validity testing next semester before it can be officially used to assess BDPs in the province, and potentially in the region and across the country.

The tool will also be pilot-tested in 15 barangays, where it will be evaluated for its practical application and feasibility.

DILG Cluster Head Carolina Ampong also mentioned that the tool will be presented to the Local Government Academy (LGA) for the institutionalization and rollout of the tool to other LGUs.

Groundbreaking project: first in the country

The assessment tool was formally presented by the SAS and SGS faculty members to LGU-Naval and DILG-Biliran on November 25 at the LGU Hall.

The presentation was attended by Naval Mayor Gretchen Stephanie Espina, DILG Cluster Head Ampong, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO) of Naval Dexter Narrido, SGS Dean Dr. Matias Bentor, Dr. Celis, Dr. Sabonsolin, and SGS and SAS faculty members and student-researchers.

Naval Mayor Espina believed that BiPSU’s BDP-QUAT is the first ever developed assessment tool to assess the quality of LBPs.

This was confirmed by DILG-Biliran Cluster Head Carolina Ampong. “In my long years in public service, I have not heard of a quality assessment tool to measure the BDPs,” she said.

The cluster head explained that, currently, the DILG has implemented various assessment tools in different areas, including the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentive Awards (LTIA), Peace and Order Council (POC), and Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC). However, there is no existing specific assessment tool for BDPs.

Meanwhile, Naval MLGOO Narrido mentioned that implementing the groundbreaking tool will be a revolutionary move in enhancing local governance and the services at the barangay level. “Once we implement this, we will be changing mindsets and empower LGUs,” he said.

Mayor Espina: ‘Government projects should be research-based’

Mayor Espina expressed her gratitude to the university for choosing the LGU-Naval to be the beneficiary of the extension program. 

She emphasized the importance of anchoring government projects and policies on research studies as it will ensure data-driven decision-making, enhance the relevance and effectiveness of initiatives, and address community needs more comprehensively.

“It is frustrating to have beautiful and ideal research studies na hindi naman nai-implement [that are not being implemented],” the Naval mayor said. “Why not we do: you do the research, and here in LGU, we implement it.”

Mayor Espina pledged to make sure that QUAT will be implemented in LGU-Naval once it gets a go signal for implementation. 

“It’s not an overnight implementation, it takes a lot of political will,” Mayor Espina said. “But here in LGU, we will do this because we need it here.”

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) continues its global strides as Joedel Peñaranda, Director of Strategic Innovation & Knowledge Laboratories (SIKLAB), represented the institution at the Dubai Future Forum (DFF) 2024. The event took place on November 18-20, 2024, at the iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The Dubai Future Forum, recognized as the largest gathering of futurists globally, brought together 2,500 participants from over 100 countries. With more than 150 speakers and 70 workshops and sessions, the event served as a platform for fostering dialogue and innovative solutions on foresight and future studies.

This year’s theme, "Empowering Generations," aligned with the UN Summit of the Future's recommendations. Discussions explored optimistic futures for children worldwide, focusing on critical domains such as health, longevity, and environmental well-being under the subthemes: Optimizing Health, Transforming Humanity, and Futuring Nature. Key highlights included the launch of UNICEF's flagship report, "The State of the World’s Children 2024," and the recognition of groundbreaking innovations through the Dubai Future Solutions awards.

Mr. Peñaranda’s participation was further facilitated by a generous travel subsidy, emphasizing the importance of supporting thought leaders and innovators in engaging with critical global conversations. His attendance underscores BiPSU’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and integrating forward-thinking approaches into its educational and research initiatives.

As part of the Global Futures Society, 20 new international organizations joined during the forum, expanding its membership to 60 institutions worldwide. The event also celebrated advancements in foresight through the Dubai Foresight Awards, emphasizing change-making initiatives for individuals, communities, and the planet.

Peñaranda’s involvement in this prestigious gathering reflects BiPSU's dedication to contributing to international discussions shaping the future of education, innovation, and sustainability.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 13: Climate Action.]

To further support the university’s research endeavors, Biliran Province State University distributed 10 printers to research chairpersons from both the Naval and Biliran campuses. The turnover ceremony was held during the flag-raising event at the university gymnasium on November 25.

With a total value of P162,530, the printer provision aims to enhance the research capabilities of various schools within the university, eventually contributing to BiPSU’s goal of advancing research and innovation in the country.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. underscored that this initiative reflects the university’s commitment to empowering its research chairpersons. He emphasized that the printers represent an investment in their potential to conduct groundbreaking research, further solidifying BiPSU’s position as a leader in research.

“May they inspire innovation, strengthen collaboration, and bring us towards new heights of knowledge and discovery,” Dr. Cañezo said.

The recipients from the Naval Campus include Jean Paul Logronio, Fernando E. Quiroz, Shellomay Majait, Bonifacio Jumetico Jr., Crismar V. Hoylar, Kevin Lagat, and Karlotte Mae Paquiz.

Meanwhile, recipients from the Biliran Campus are Johnalisa Bulasito, Jofil Mati-om, and Maria Opelia Moreno.

This initiative highlights BiPSU’s dedication to enhancing research capabilities, promoting academic excellence, and providing practical support to its faculty members.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 4: Quality Education.]

Biliran Province State University School of Graduate Studies held a seminar-workshop on Data Privacy and Protection and Ethical Use and Social Impact of Technology in Management on November 24 at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio Visual Center (HAVC).

Anchored on the theme “Digital Responsibility: Shaping Safe and Ethical Tech Use in Management Practices”, the workshop aimed to raise awareness and understanding of key issues related to data privacy protection, the ethical use of technology and its social impact in the management context.

The said activity, spearheaded by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS), featured Atty. Edna Pitao-Honor, chief prosecutor of the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor, and Assoc. Prof. Reymon Manuel Santiañez, head of the System Development and Automation of BiPSU MIS. The workshop was attended by the Doctor of Management and Education students of graduate studies.  

In her message, Dr. Chona Sabinay, dean of School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), emphasized the necessity of learning data privacy, and its role in an organization.

“Privacy is not a thing that we are merely  entitled to, it's an absolute prerequisite, that  privacy is not just a right, it is necessary for security and trust,” Dr. Sabinay said.

Atty. Honor discussed the topic, “Navigating Data Privacy Laws and Best Practices in Management”, underscoring the importance of understanding and complying with data privacy regulations while implementing effective practices to safeguard both personal and management data.

Meanwhile, Dr. Santiañez delivered his lecture on the topic “Ethical Technology Use and Its Social Impact in Modern Management”, highlighting the socially responsible application of technology in management settings, and its potential consequences. 

The discussion also examined how modern technology is being integrated into management practices and the ethical considerations surrounding its application in society.

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

Biliran Province State University, through its Guidance and Counseling Services Office (GCSO) and in collaboration with second-year Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) students, hosted the “APT: A Positive Turn Symposium” on November 22.

With the theme “Breaking Free from the Shackles of Teenage Pregnancy,” the symposium aimed to address concerns about early pregnancy by promoting community-wide discussions on the importance of education, access to reproductive health services, and empowering young women.

The event, which was attended by Grade 12 students from BiPSU Laboratory High School (BiPSU LHS), was held at the University Student Center.

In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Jocelyn Caing, head of GCSO, emphasized that the symposium was anchored in the university’s mission of empowering students to make informed career and life choices. “You will be empowered with the knowledge and strategies to enlighten you on what decisions to make that would give you a better future,” she said.

The main session, titled “Teenage Pregnancy Behavior,” was delivered by Ms. Maria Lovella B. Ang, who underscored the need to raise awareness among the youth about teenage pregnancy and to combat the stigma surrounding it.

Following the discussion, an open forum allowed students to ask questions related to teenage pregnancy, followed by a sharing session where participants expressed their thoughts on how to help raise awareness about its prevention.

Furthermore, the event marked the final activity in GCSO’s series designed to promote personal growth, awareness, and well-being among students, reinforcing the university’s commitment to cultivating an informed and empowered academic community.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 5: Gender Equality.]

As #WeExtendtoEmpower the community and the Biliranons, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Teacher Education (STEd), officially launched Project KASANAYAN, a livelihood skills development program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval.

KASANAYAN, which stands for Kaalaman at Abilidad na Sentro at Angkop sa Napapanahong Aksyon – Yaman at Negosyo, aims to empower PDLs with practical skills in crocheting and handicrafts, promoting economic self-sufficiency and supporting their reintegration into society through sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Ms. Miramar Serrion, activity leader and STEd extension chairperson, explained that the program was anchored on the findings of a community needs assessment conducted by her and Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and BTLEd and BPEd chairperson, entitled “Needs-Based Assessment of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) for Community Empowerment and Rehabilitation.”

The study identified the critical needs of PDLs in areas such as literacy, health, social development, and technology and livelihood skills. Serrion added that the evidence-based approach ensures the project effectively addresses the specific challenges faced by PDLs.

The KASANAYAN launching, held on November 22, was attended by BiPSU Extension Office Director Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, STEd Dean Dr. Maribel Zipagan, STEd program chairpersons and faculty members, PDLs, and BJMP personnel, headed by Acting Warden JSINSP Elizer B. Bacog.

The launching marked the official start of the months-long engagement between STEd faculty members and the PDLs, which will run until February 2025.

In his message, JSINSP Bacog expressed his gratitude to the university for selecting the BJMP as the project's beneficiary. “Isang napakagandang programa po nito para sa ating mga kapatid dito dahil napagtitibay po ang adbokasiya natin na matulungan ang ating mga PDL [This is a very good program for our brothers and sisters here because it strengthens our advocacy to help our PDLs],” he said.

The warden also expressed his optimism for more impactful collaborations between the BJMP and BiPSU, emphasizing the importance of partnerships among agencies in championing different causes.

Under the project, PDLs will undergo weekly training sessions in crocheting and handicrafts, focusing on skills that are viable for income generation. These sessions will be conducted throughout the project duration, with STEd faculty members who are experts in livelihood education personally facilitating the training.

During the launching program, one of the PDL beneficiaries shared his excitement about the extension program, as a fresh start and an opportunity to focus on developing his skills while inside the facility.

“Usa ni nga inspiration sa amoa nga maningkamot hangtod sa muabot ang panahon nga ihatag sa amo ang among kalayaan [This is an inspiration for us to work hard until the time comes when we are granted our freedom],” he said.

Meanwhile, in his message, Extension Director Dr. Ampong highlighted that although the project is scheduled to run until February 2025, its impact on the lives of the PDLs will extend far beyond its duration. He emphasized that the skills and knowledge gained through the program will continue to benefit the participants, supporting their reintegration into society and contributing to their long-term empowerment and self-sufficiency.

“Dako ni nga tabang so that pag-gawas nato dire, duna na kita’y magamit nga mahimo nga pakabuhian [This is a big help so that when we go out, we have something we can use to make a living],” he added.

[This aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.]

Biliran Province State University, through its Guidance and Counseling and Services Office and the second-year students of the Department of Communication, conducted a seminar on Self Awareness and Stress Management on November 21 at the student center.

Participated by BiPSU-Laboratory High School (LHS) Grade 11 students, the said session emphasized practical tools for recognizing and managing stress, as well as for gaining a deeper understanding of oneself.

During the activity, Ms. Abigail Sañosa Capales, university psychometrician, delivered a lecture on Self-Awareness and Stress Management, helping students gain a better understanding of themselves. She also discussed how to address and understand stress triggers, and learn coping mechanisms.

Meanwhile, in her discussion about mental issues, Ms. Julianne Kate Cañega, CAG president, hoped that the seminar had served its purpose: to give students insightful knowledge on dealing with stress and have self-awareness 

“I hope this seminar has served its purpose which is to give you knowledge on managing stress especially in today’s situation where students are vulnerable to academic stress” 

Moreover, an open forum was also held, during which participants asked questions and sought advice on managing stress and self-awareness in a student setting.

The said  seminar aimed to establish positive mental habits, promoting students’ ability to make conscious decisions and navigate life’s challenges.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being.]

Four hundred  twenty-nine Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) grantees and 870 Tulong Dunong Program - Tertiary Education Subsidy (TDP-TES) scholars have already received their stipend for the School Year 2023-2024.

A total of  14-million allocated fund was disbursed to the said number of scholars.

The release of stipends occurred over three days beginning on November 18. Scholars under TES 3B Batch 2022, New TDP 5.1, Ongoing TES, New TES 12.1, TES 3B Batch 2023, and New TDP 4.1 were scheduled in the morning, while the release of ongoing TDP 5.1 stipends was held in the afternoon.

On November 19, stipends for the 860 ongoing TDP grantees were released; while on November 20, stipends for New TES Listahanan 12 grantees were distributed.

According to BiPSU’s UniFAST office, as of today, 45 percent of the confirmed grantees have not received their stipend.

Ms. Shiela Day Salentes, BiPSU-UniFAST focal person, explained that the funds for the remaining 1,104 TDP-TES and TES scholars are yet to be disbursed, which will depend on CHED's download process.

Meanwhile, in an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo conveyed his sincere appreciation to CHED for their continued financial backing of the grants and encouraged students to allocate the money wisely, ensuring that it directly benefits their academic progress and personal development.

"I am deeply grateful to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for their support and for consistently providing funding for the scholarship grants," he said.  “Additionally, I strongly urge our students to be mindful of how they utilise these funds—ensuring that every cent is spent purposefully and in ways that contribute to their educational growth and overall development.”

TDP-TES and TES programs, initiated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), are  financial support initiatives designed to help deserving Filipino students alleviate the costs of pursuing a college degree. TDP grantees receive ₱7,500 per semester, while TES old and new grantees receive ₱20,000 and ₱10,000, respectively.

In an interview, Trixie Nicole Serrano, a second-year student, and a TES grantee, expressed her gratitude for the scholarship, noting that it came at the perfect time with finals and numerous projects approaching.

"I’m so grateful for this grant, as I plan to use the money to help cover the costs associated with my studies,” she said. “It eases the pressure, and I’m truly thankful for this support."

Furthermore, BiPSU-UniFAST announced 117 additional grantees under the Tulong-Dunong Program - Tertiary Education Subsidy (TDP-TES) Batch 6.1 and encouraged them to prepare the required documents ahead of the scheduled release in December.

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