TACLOBAN CITY ― In the recently concluded Pagpupugay sa Serbisyong Bayan: Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges Region VIII (PASUC8) Tribute and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Awards for Top Performers of 2023, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), under the leadership of BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., has been recognized with seven (7) awards on June 27 at Summit Hotel, Tacloban City.

The awards included recognition as Physical Performance Achievers for achieving 100% of the physical targets under the Higher Education Program; Achievers for "100% of undergraduate programs with accreditation"; Top Financial Accomplishment Award with an average Budget Utilization Rate (BUR) of 99.10%, ranking 1st among state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the region; Top Obligations BUR Performer with an obligations BUR of 99.75%, also ranking 1st regionally; Top Disbursements BUR Performer (Disbursements over Obligations) with a disbursement BUR of 98.44%, ranking 2nd; 100% Disbursements BUR Performer for achieving 100% actual disbursements over total authorities received; and Income Collection Rate Achiever with an income collection rate of 110.51%, placing 5th among all regional SUCs.

DBM Director Imelda C. Laceras, in her address, emphasized the importance of not becoming complacent, regardless of the number of awards received.

“Regardless of the number of awards you received―mayroong isa, may dalawa, may tatlo, even ‘yung pinakamadami na na-receive―don’t be complacent. In other words, keep and remain motivated no matter what,” Dr. Laceras stressed.

The event was attended by Commission on Higher Education Regional Office VIII (CHEDRO8) Director Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, SUC presidents, key officials across Eastern Visayas, the DBM team led by Director Laceras, and former SSU President Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso.

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Tacloban City—To enhance the university’s capacity in land use development and urban planning, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) partners with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) by formally signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the People's Center in Tacloban City today, June 26.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development is mandated to provide technical assistance to local government units including SUCs in building their capability to undertake housing and urban development management. This includes formulating Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) and local shelter plans (LSPs), as well as ensuring compliance with housing and urban development laws, standards, and guidelines.

Recognizing the need for a comprehensive Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP), BiPSU aims to guide and regulate land utilization and developments in accordance with Republic Act No. 11396, an act Requiring State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to Prepare and Implement a LUDIP. 

The MOA outlines specific roles and responsibilities for both parties. DHSUD's responsibilities include assigning point person/s for coordination of project activities with the BiPSU Technical Working Group (TWG); providing capacity-building through training workshops, including Basic and Advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) Training, Climate and Disaster Risk Assessment (CDRA) Training, and Campus Land Use Plan Training; offering technical assistance and coaching on LUDIP document preparation on sustainable and resilient land use; and responding to BiPSU queries regarding land use concepts, mapping, CDRA, and other related concerns.

Meanwhile, BiPSU is responsible for organizing and mobilizing a TWG to implement the project based on the agreed methodology and work plan; assigning point person/s for coordination with DHSUD; arranging fieldwork activities and workshops; engaging with stakeholders; submitting and presenting the LUDIP to DHSUD for review before submission to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); and disbursing project funds as per the approved budget and reprogram funds, if necessary.

Present at the signing ceremony from BiPSU were Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., University President, Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, Dean of the School of Engineering and LUDIP Chairperson, and Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Director for Research Development Office. Representing DHSUD were Atty. Michael Victor C. Tezon, Regional Director, and Anna Marie Camille L. Bantaculo, OIC Division Chief - ELUPD DHSUD VIII.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) welcomed a benchmarking team from Bohol Island State University (BISU) on June 21 at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio and Visual Center (HAVC). The visit aimed to facilitate the exchange of insights and best practices related to BiPSU’s QS Stars Rating application, accreditations, certifications, assessments, learning management system (LMS), student publication, instructional materials development, quality delivery of graduate studies, and various academic and administrative practices.

The BISU benchmarking team comprised Mr. Rufino M. Lorejo, Quality Assurance Office (QAO) Director; Mr. Francis A. Delusa, International Relations Office (IRO) Director; Mr. James Lloren Baluyos, IRO Program Coordinator; and Ms. Dera Joyze B. Soliva, QAO staff.

Throughout the visit, various discussions were held to share and explore effective practices and strategies. BiPSU Quality Assurance and Accreditation (QAA) Director Mr. Carlito Cabas, Jr. provided an overview of the university's QAA processes and accomplishments. Human Resource Management Officer Ms. Arrah Mae B. Tambis discussed matters related to tuition, faculty salary, and financial support. The Pillar Publication Adviser Ms. Florabelle Corpin elaborated on student publication practices, while Executive Assistant III Mr. Joedel O. Peñaranda spoke about BiPSU’s QS Stars Application.

A roundtable discussion was also held to address clarifications, queries, and suggestions for both BISU and BiPSU.

Other BiPSU key officials present included Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan S. Bentor, International Affairs Office (IAO) Director Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, Information Technology Officer Engr. Paul Matthew S. Bentor, Student Development Services Office (SDSO) Director Dr. Norma S. Duallo, Records Officer III Ms. Danica Ybañez, and University Media and Information Office (UMIO) Acting Director Mr. Vincent Justine L. Realino.

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Mr. Joshua M. Ayade, a graduate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) major in Mathematics from Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), achieved a remarkable feat by securing sixth place in the March 2024 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) secondary level, with an impressive rating of 91.60%.

Ayade's journey was not easy. As the eldest son of five children, he faced significant financial challenges. His father had to stop working as a driver due to health issues and turned to swine production to support the family. Meanwhile, his mother worked in a local cassava chipping cooperative to help make ends meet.

Despite these challenges, Ayade pursued his tertiary education with determination. As a Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) scholar, he excelled academically and graduated magna cum laude in 2023. His parents’ steadfast support continued through his board exam review period.

Ayade's preparation for the LEPT included understanding his learning style, maintaining a regular exercise routine, and ensuring adequate sleep. He enrolled in the Falculan Twins’ Review Center (FTRC) and relied on his faith to guide him through the process.

On the day the results were released, Ayade was in Palo, Leyte. Upon confirming his rank, he felt immense gratitude, attributing his success to his family's support and his faith.

In an online interview, Ayade shared his advice for future board takers, emphasizing the importance of starting small but being consistent.

"One principle that I hold on to is the quote that says, 'Great things come from small beginnings.' Kung nararamdaman niyong andami niyo pang kailangan aralin, huwag kayong mag-alala kasi yan din ang pinagdaanan ko. If you want to achieve great things, a small start will do. Hindi naman kailangang malaki agad yung unang hakbang, kahit paunti-unti lang basta't consistent. Kung hindi niyo alam saan magsisimula, aralin niyo kahit ano, kasi makatutulong yan in one way or the other,” he said.

In recognition of his achievement, Ayade received a cash incentive of 100,000 pesos from the university and will be offered a regular teaching position, subject to Civil Service Commission (CSC) rules and regulations.

Mr. Ayade joins the ranks of previous LEPT topnotchers from BiPSU’s School of Teacher Education (STEd), including Ms. Kayla O. Mercader, Ms. Jennie A. Genoguin, and Mr. Sherwin C. Sarzuelo.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) welcomed a team from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Office of the Institutional Quality Assurance and Governance, for the monitoring and evaluation of the university’s CHED-Higher Education Development Funded Project titled “Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP) Development” today, June 20.

The purpose of the visit is to help identify areas for improvement and enhance the implementation of the LUDIP project. The insights and recommendations provided by the CHED team are crucial as BiPSU strives to advance its infrastructure and development to better serve its academic community.

The visiting team from CHED Central Office included Engr. Reyen M. Sabate, Chief Education Program Specialist; Ms. Theresa M. Maestro, Education Program Specialist I; Ms. Estela O. Padilla, Project Technical Staff III; Prof. Romeo C. Pati, Technical Expert from the University of Rizal System (URS); and Engr. Nelly L. Labrada, Education Supervisor II from CHED Regional Office (RO) VIII.

Representing BiPSU were University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.; LUDIP Technical Working Group (TWG) Chairperson Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco; Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Director of the Research and Development Office (RDO); Atty. Pahmi Hadji S. Ampaso, Chief Administrative Officer-Finance; Engr. Ramon L. Pitao, Jr., Chairperson of the Mechanical Engineering Department; Mrs. Sheila Day A. Gabuya, Supervising Administrative Officer-Finance; Engr. Ronn Lennard R. Napala, Planning Officer I; Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, Information Officer II; and Ms. Jesica Myka B. Quijano, Project Development Officer I.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Canezo expressed his appreciation for their visit and support saying, “We are delighted to host the CHED team and are grateful for their visit and support in ensuring the success of our LUDIP project. Their expertise will help us achieve our goals for campus development and infrastructure enhancement.”

The event included Engr. Pelesco’s presentation of the LUDIP Grant Terminal Report, followed by an evaluation conducted by the CHED-OIQAG team.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) successfully held a press conference today, June 19, to discuss the proposed two-shift class system for the upcoming academic year 2024- 2025. The event, conducted via Zoom, was organized by the university’s official tertiary student publication, The Pillar Publication, in collaboration with the Presidential Management Staff.

The press conference commenced with a presentation by Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera, Director of Institutional Planning Office, on the proposed plan's rules and guidelines. Following this, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. addressed questions from the media and showcased proposed building projects intended as long-term solutions to accommodate the rising student enrollment.

Dr. Cañezo underscored the university's dedication to ensuring that all students have access to equitable and quality education. "All that we are doing, we ensure students have access, equity, and quality," he stated. He also noted that the proposal has already gained approval from the university's academic and administrative councils, which include diverse sectors.

In attendance were media partners from the Philippine Information Agency, represented by Information Officer Mary Lailanie Tupaz; the Provincial Information Office, represented by Administrative Officer IV Aileen Casas Jornales and staff member Disa Marie De Leon; Radyo Natin FM Manager Mar Joan Aguilos; student press from BiPSU; and representatives from the University and Media Information Office.

Further, he emphasized the importance of consulting various groups and sectors, especially the students, who were consulted during a Zoom meeting on June 14.

The press conference was streamed live on the Pillar Publication and BiPSU's official Facebook pages, ensuring broad participation from the students and the public.

Students from the Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAComm) program of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) achieved top 10 placements at the Philippine Journalism Research Conference (PJRC) 2024. The event took place at the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) in Quezon City on June 7.

Out of 227 entries from 41 higher education institutions (HEIs) across the country, three entries from BiPSU were shortlisted among the top 15 and ultimately finished in the top 10 in the Journalism Research (New Media, AI, and Other Emerging Trends) and News Documentary categories.

The participating BAComm students were Carl Ivan Anthony Napalit, John Cyril C. Labtic, Nichole Verutiao, Ana Grace Cabradilla, Nikelyn Pahayahay, Glenn Tan, and Justin Quidol. They were supported by three faculty members from BiPSU’s Department of Communication (DepComm) who also served as coaches, which included Dr. John Cavin M. Sabonsolin, Mr. Vincent Justine L. Realino, and Ms. Precious Mae T. Alcero.

In the Journalism Research category, Labtic and Napalit secured the 6th spot with their research titled “Analyzing News Framing Trends on Earthquake-related Articles in Leading Online Philippine Newspapers.” Verutiao and Cabradilla ranked 8th with their research titled “AI in the Newsroom: Investigating the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence among Local Media Practitioners.” In the News Documentary category, Tan and Pahayahay placed 7th with their documentary film “Daan.”

This year’s PJRC, themed "The Future of Philippine Journalism: Emerging Challenges and Opportunities," featured a panel discussion with renowned journalists Howie Severino of GMA Integrated News, Roby Alampay of One News, and Joyce Panares of Manila Standard, moderated by Kara David of GMA Integrated News.

Lectures were also delivered by UPD’s Department of Journalism professors. Prof. Rachel Khan introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism, while Assoc. Prof. Danny Arao discussed the ethical use of AI in journalism.

PJRC is an annual conference co-organized by UPD, Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), and the University of Santo Tomas (UST), and sponsored by VERA Files, the Philippine Press Institute, and the Simbulan Family. It includes student competitions in academic research, news documentary filmmaking, investigative journalism, special projects, and photojournalism.

This marks the fourth consecutive year that BiPSU’s DepComm has received accolades at the PJRC.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has officially made its appearance in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2024. The announcement, made on June 12, revealed that BiPSU is among 2,152 universities from 125 countries included in this year's rankings.

BiPSU placed in the 1501+ rank overall. Moreover, the university was evaluated on four (4) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets. For SDG 1 – No Poverty, BiPSU was ranked within the 801-1000 bracket. In SDG 4 – Quality Education, it also ranked in the 801-1000 bracket. For SDG 5 – Gender Equality, BiPSU achieved a rank of 601-800. Lastly, in SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals, the university was placed in the 1501+ bracket.

Aside from BiPSU, four other universities in Eastern Visayas (EV) appeared in the said rankings. These include Leyte Normal University (LNU), Samar State University (SSU), Visayas State University (VSU), and Southern Leyte State University (SLSU).

THE Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to the United Nations' SDGs. The rankings measure institutions' social and economic impacts, considering a wide range of indicators related to research, outreach, and stewardship. Each university's performance in various SDGs is used to compile the overall ranking, highlighting their efforts towards addressing global challenges.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has partnered with the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) for a research and development program titled “The Eastern Visayas Birth Cohort: Nutrition and Multi-omics Determinants of Children’s Growth and Development.” The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on June 6 at the Office of the President.

Attendees included BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Roland A. Niez, and BiPSU Food Research and Development Center Director Mr. Marclin G. Aguilar. Representatives from DOST-FNRI included Ms. Rachelle Dela Cruz, Project Technical Specialist II, Ms. Fhayree Vianne A. Valeriano, Project Technical Assistant IV, Ms. Lyra Mae Joy B. Gerilla, Project Technical Assistant IV, and Mr. Ricarte Q. Dayrit, Project Technical Assistant I.

The program aims to identify the nutritional and genomic factors influencing children’s growth and development. BiPSU will provide a research headquarters for the preparation of supplies and materials, data collection, sample processing and storage, data encoding and validation, and other office-based activities.

It can be noted that the research program will be conducted in the Samar and Biliran provinces.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has achieved high ranks in the recently announced 2024 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), gaining global recognition in four categories today, June 7, via Zoom.

Out of 1,072 universities evaluated worldwide, BiPSU secured the following ranks in various categories: Rank 29 in the Social Responsibility category, Rank 32 in the Leadership category, Rank 34 in the Student Support and Engagement category, and Rank 98 in the Global Top 300 Innovative Universities category.

WURI is a global ranking system that evaluates and acknowledges the innovative efforts and impact of universities worldwide, focusing on academic excellence and research output. Furthermore, it emphasizes real-world contributions and the tangible impacts universities have on industry and society.

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