Biliran Province State University is celebrating a remarkable achievement as 13 of its students have been accepted for the 2024 Department of Science and Technology Junior Level Science Scholarships (DOST-JLSS), announced on October 13.

Joining the total of 2,696 third-year college students who have secured the science and technology scholarship are 13 BiPSU students from the School of Engineering (SOE), School of Teacher Education (STEd), and School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS).

The scholarship recipients include: Stella Marie Amante, Marc Christian Casas, Laven Cañezo, Ros Van Eli Densing, Micka Grace Doydoy, Nathaniel Linao, Lendon Saludar, Frederick Tecling and Rommel Villamor from the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Civil Engineering department; Elmer Domingo of the BS in Computer Engineering department; Kurt Aaron Lobederio, enrolled in BS Mechanical Engineering; Honey Blaze Abenido, majoring in Science Education; and Jexis Worf Bejarasco, taking up BS Computer Science.

Among these scholars, seven received the Republic Act (RA) 7687 scholarship, which supports academically talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Meanwhile, five qualified for the RA 10612 scholarship, awarded to science, mathematics, and engineering students who will teach these subjects in secondary schools nationwide; and one scholar was awarded the Merit scholarship, given to students with high aptitude in STEM fields.

The 13 BiPSUnistas are among the 11,508 students who took the said national scholarship qualifying examination last July 28.

"As a BiPSUnista, the scholarship is very important to me because the stipend per semester will help me purchase essential academic tools like a laptop and printer, as well as support my daily expenses. Additionally, the two-year contract guarantees me a job after graduation," shared Laven Cañezo, one of the national scholars.

The qualifiers will enjoy two to three years of scholarship benefits, including a monthly living allowance of ₱8,000.00, learning materials and/or connectivity allowance, one-time clothing allowance, one economy-class round-trip fare per academic year for students studying outside of their home provinces, thesis allowance, graduation allowance, and group accident insurance.

In an interview, Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, dean of SOE where most of the BiPSU student-qualifiers are from, applauded the achievement earned by the new scholars.

"I am very much elated and proud of their success, and I hope that this milestone will inspire other students, especially the sophomores who will be applying for this scholarship in the succeeding year, to work even harder in their academics and pursue similar opportunities in the future," he stated.

As these students continue their education with the support of the DOST-JLSS, they are poised to make significant contributions to the fields of science and technology, further enhancing the reputation of BiPSU and positively impacting the community.

Pagpupugay sa mga bagong iskolar ng agham!

#WoWBiPSU

[The article aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]

Embracing its core values of innovation, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Teacher Education (STEd), has introduced a groundbreaking burger patty development, showcasing a skill beyond instruction and a mind that thinks out-of-the-box.

In the landscape that we found ourselves in today, burgers, those tempting delights perfect for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner, seem to be available on every street corner. However, despite their mouth-watering appeal, they come with a hidden cost to our health. Laden with dietary cholesterol and saturated fat, these juicy patties are made from meat that is notoriously high in both. This combination is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and atherosclerosis.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global mean intake of adults is 4310 mg/day sodium. This is more than double the WHO recommendation for adults of less than 2000 mg/day sodium.

Consider this: an average processed meat patty contains around 310 milligrams of sodium. A single-patty burger, even without mayonnaise, can pack in 3.5 grams of saturated fat and 26 milligrams of cholesterol. A small, one-patty burger without mayo still contains 258 milligrams of sodium. Consuming a high-sodium diet can lead to elevated blood pressure and heighten the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

Acknowledging such adverse effects, the faculty members of STEd-Main Campus namely, Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, Ms. Merlyna Sacare, Ms. Miramar Serrion, Ms. Maria Carmela Sabong, Ms. Melanie Masalihit and Mr. Reymark Pabilando, launched an alternative for burger meat patty in order to lessen the consumption of meat and to make an inexpensive burger patty for commercialization — the taro burger patty.

Taro, with the scientific name of Colocasia esculenta, is a robust perennial plant which flourishes in tropical and subtropical regions. Packed with ascorbic acid, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like thiamine, riboflavin, iron, phosphorus, zinc, niacin, potassium, copper, and manganese, it also boasts analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

In Filipino cuisine, taro is a key ingredient in a variety of exotic dishes. When combined with banana, sweet potato, cassava, sago, and coconut milk, it creates the beloved dishes known as Landang or Binignit. Additionally, taro is often used in sinigang, a savory soup featuring fish or pork, kangkong leaves, and chili, among others.

Therefore, it cannot be denied where there is a group of people sitting around, having fun, one of them went speaking, "You know what would be great? We should try the rising taro for this burger." And from that moment onward, the said faculty had put their brilliant ideas into operation, which could turn into a great surprise.

Using 77.46 % taro, 9.92 % all-purpose flour, 11.62 % egg, 0.46 % salt, 0.46 % grounded black pepper, 0.04 % chili powder, and 0.04 % sugar, the taro burger patty was successfully composed. With gentle and passionate hands, it came to fruition through the process shared below.

Learn the making of taro burger patty:

• Begin by carefully peeling the skin off the taro using a peeler. Rinse the peeled taro under tap water, then drain to remove any excess moisture. Grate the taro finely and set it aside.
• Next, sift the all-purpose flour to ensure it’s light and free of lumps. In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour with the grated taro. To this mixture, add the eggs, salt, ground black pepper, chili powder, and sugar. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a well-blended taro patty mixture.
• Shape the mixture into flat, circular patties. Heat a pan with oil and fry the patties until they turn a delicious golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly, and there you have it—a perfectly crafted taro burger patty.

Now, surely while reading, a skeptical frown creased your forehead, or your lips curled into a slight grimace on how this innovation tastes like. How about knowing first-hand reviews?

Among the lucky students who have met the first-ever display of Taro burger patty at the University Student Center last August 29 during the Research, Innovation and Extension Services (RIES) Expo are Daniela Mancing and Kurt Christian Atoc, both majoring Technology and Livelihood Education (TLED), whom have tasted such food innovation.

"As you bite into the patty, you’ll notice a pleasant, earthy aroma from the taro, complemented by the savory notes of the spices," Mancing recounted.

Meanwhile, Atoc expressed that "the natural sweetness of taro is subtly enhanced by the addition of a touch of sugar. The spices, including ground black pepper and chili powder, add a gentle kick, balancing the sweetness with a hint of heat."

This only shows, BiPSU is standing with the I of its core values—Innovation, committed to advancing a culture of creativity and forward-thinking solutions. Strutting such #WoWBiPSUnista innovation, excellence has once again woven not only into the fabric of the university but also into the efforts to enhance the quality of life within the community.

The technology for the Taro (Colocasia esculenta) burger patty is protected under a registered utility model with the Intellectual Property of the Philippines (IPOPHIL), with registration granted on March 31, 2023.

#WoWBiPSU

[The article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.]

Marking the historic conversion of the institution into a state university, Biliran Province State University celebrated its 15th Universityhood Anniversary with a short culminating program held at the university gymnasium on October 14. 

This year’s universityhood culmination is part of the months-long celebration of the four milestones of the institution, its founding as a learning institution in 1945, conversion in a chartered state college in 1965, universityhood in 2009, and renaming into BiPSU in 2019, which started in August this year.

The universityhood celebration was a result of the conversion of the former Naval Institute of Technology into Naval State University in 1965 through Republic Act 4309 signed on October 14, 2009.

The said activity, which began with a solemn Mass, gathered university key officials, employees, and students.

Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton, who welcomed the event, expressed his pride in being part of the university’s significant milestone. “This celebration is not just about remembering our past achievements, but about appreciating how far we’ve come as a community. The journey from NIT to BiPSU has been a collective effort, and I am confident that with the dedication of our faculty, students, and administration, we will continue to achieve greater heights,” Regent Coton said.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized that the celebration is crucial because it signifies the moment the institution stepped onto the path of greater possibilities and responsibilities as a university. “The transformation from NIT to NSU was a collective achievement that required vision, dedication, and unwavering effort from many individuals,” the university president said.

Dr. Cañezo also paid special tribute to Dr. Edita S. Genson, the first President of NSU, and the legislators who paved the way for the university’s elevation.

“Dr. Genson, with her team, didn't just oversee the change but embodied the spirit of progress that propelled us forward,” Dr. Cañezo stated. “We also extend our deepest gratitude to the legislators who recognized the potential within our institution and championed our cause.”

During the celebration, various talents from BiPSU faculty and students were showcased, including performances by the BiPSU Zumba Tigers, BiPSU’s Tiger’s Arnis Team, and Ms. Julie Anne Lianza, who recently represented BiPSU in the Tawag ng Tanghalan School Showdown. Other presentations recognized during the recent fiesta celebration in Naval were also featured including the BiPSU faculty and the Panamao Dance Company. 

Additionally, the candidates for this year’s Mr. and Ms. BiPSU Laboratory High School were introduced to the audience.

The celebration will continue every Wednesday until February 2025, scheduled to ensure minimal disruption to classes.

#WoWBiPSU

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) recently conducted a validation visit for Biliran Province State University’s application for the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for several programs under its School of Engineering (SOE) and School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS).

The validation team, composed of five members, included Supervising Education Program Specialist Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias, along with Education Supervisors Cydric B. Suyom, Narciso S. Candiza, Jane A. Latorre, and Erlita Piñero. 

A total of 11 programs were subjected to validation, including the BS in Electrical Engineering, BS in Mechanical Engineering, BS in Civil Engineering, BS in Computer Engineering, and BS in Industrial Technology with specializations in Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, Electronic Technology, Apparel and Fashion Technology, Architectural Drafting Technology, Heating Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology, and Culinary Technology.

Opening Program and Validation Process

An opening program was held at the OP Convergence Room, attended by university key officials, directors, school deans, program chairpersons, and focal persons of the programs submitted for COPC.

Dr. Iglesias shared the objectives of the validation, which included recommending the issuance of the COPC for the Industrial Technology programs, providing technical assistance for the finalization of the BSME application, and assisting with preparations for the validation visit for graduate studies programs.

In his virtual message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized that participating in validation activities goes beyond simply meeting requirements—it involves raising the institution to international standards. “This process is essential for providing our students with an education that prepares them for a rapidly changing and interconnected world,” he stated.

Good News for Engineering Programs

Dr. Iglesias also shared some encouraging news during the said event.

She revealed that three of BiPSU’s engineering programs—BS in Electrical Engineering, BS in Civil Engineering, and BS in Computer Engineering—are ready for final evaluation by the CHED Central Office.

She mentioned that the reports for these programs had already been submitted and evaluated. “The supervisor has recommended to the regional director that these programs be endorsed to the CHED Central Office for an on-site visit,” Dr. Iglesias said.

Meanwhile, the validation of the BS in Mechanical Engineering program’s requirements for COPC proceeded as scheduled.

Validation Team Recommends COPC for BSIT Programs

During the exit conference, Supervising Education Program Specialist Narciso S. Candiza, who led the validation of the Industrial Technology programs, announced that the team would recommend the issuance of the COPC for the seven BSIT programs. 

“For the best interest of the students, the issuance of the COPC is hereby recommended for the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology programs,” Candiza shared. 

He noted that while some areas still require improvement, regular monitoring will ensure that the necessary changes are implemented within the given timeline.

Meanwhile, after the provision of technical assistance for the finalization of the necessary requirements, the BSME program will be submitting their documents next week.

BiPSU’s Commitment to 100% COPC Compliance

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Bentor emphasized that the validation visit reaffirms BiPSU’s commitment to providing high-quality education that meets and exceeds CHED’s standards. She expressed optimism about the positive outcome of the validation, hoping that it would lead to the issuance of the COPC.

If the university is granted COPC for its engineering and industrial technology programs, BiPSU will achieve 100% COPC compliance for all its undergraduate programs, officially certifying them as aligned with CHED’s academic standards.

In addition, 10 programs under the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) will undergo a validation visit on October 23. Dr. Iglesias highlighted that, out of BiPSU’s 49 academic programs, 27 already hold COPCs, with the remaining programs currently in the application process.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his optimism that BiPSU would soon achieve full COPC compliance, underscoring that the university’s commitment to submitting all its programs for CHED validation demonstrates its dedication to offering the best education for BiPSUnistas.

“This achievement would mark a significant milestone for the university, ensuring that its academic offerings meet national quality benchmarks,” Dr. Cañezo concluded.

#WoWBiPSU

Scholars from Biliran Province State University under the Scholarship for Coconut Farmers and their Families (CoScho), Tulong-Dunong Program (TDP), and Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) gathered today, October 11, at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC) for an orientation session.

Ailene D. Doblas, CoScho focal person, and Sheryl R. Siscar, project support staff, led the orientation for CoScho scholars. Meanwhile, Diana Jane Abedejos, Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs) focal person, facilitated the sessions for TDP and TES scholars.

The CoScho program welcomed 26 new grantees, with 19 from the main campus and seven from the BiPSU Biliran campus. For TDP, 523 new beneficiaries and 860 continuing grantees were recorded. TES, on the other hand, recorded a total of 1,339 scholars—1,297 of whom are new, with 42 continuing.

The CoScho scholarship, prioritizing students in agriculture, business, economics, and tourism programs, provides grantees with Php 40,000 stipend per semester, plus a one-time computer allowance of Php 30,000.

During the orientation, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) also released a letter of introduction, allowing scholars to open accounts at the Land Bank of the Philippines, where their grants will be deposited through an Automatic Teller Machine (ATM).

Before the orientation, Abedejos held an assessment of the university’s implementation of the TDP and TES scholarship programs.

Abedejos revealed during the exit conference that the university has made exceptional performance in handling the scholarship programs. “We commend the university for making sure that the grantees receive their full subsidies, for offering helpful orientation and for submitting liquidation on time.”

She also shared that with the complete liquidation of the cashier, the 14-million peso fund allocation for the first and second sem of SY 2023-2024 was already endorsed, and will be distributed soon. 

Coinciding with the event, CHED also conducted the on-site Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) validation for the School of Engineering (SOE) and the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS).

#WoWBiPSU

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) partnered with Biliran Province State University and the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) to host a forum for the student leaders last October 9 at the University Student Center.

The said forum dubbed Good Governance, Leadership Qualities, and Digital Career Opportunities for the Future, aimed to equip student leaders with essential knowledge regarding good governance, effective leadership qualities, and opportunities in the digital job market.

In an interview, Rodrigo S. Victoria, the Information Center Manager of PIA Biliran, emphasized the forum's significance, explaining that it plays a vital role in helping students make informed choices for the upcoming midterm elections while also fostering leadership skills and discovering potential career paths in the digital world.

“As the only state university in the province, I believe this forum is very much important for students to make informed decisions for the upcoming midterm elections, Victoria said. “This forum will also help them learn the qualities of a good leader and explore digital career opportunities.”

More than 200 student leaders and classroom officers from various schools attended the said activity, which aligns with the university’s commitment to developing not only academically proficient students but also socially responsible and forward-thinking leaders, 

Atty. Dick Guiller G. Delfin, BiPSU legal officer and director of the Internationalization Affairs Office, discussed the topic Good Governance.

Moreover, Mr. Ian Conan B. Juanico, PDO II (Regional Focal) from the ICT Literacy & Competency Development Bureau of DICT Regional Office VIII, tackled the Digital Career Opportunities for the Future; while Atty. Sabino C. Mejarito, provincial election supervisor from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Biliran Provincial Office, shared insights on Leadership Qualities.

Meanwhile, Mr. Alfred James O. Acebedo, the president of D' Organization of Language and Literature Students (D'OLLS), expressed his gratitude to the administration for conducting the event. 

“As a student leader, I am very grateful for this opportunity, especially to our institution, BiPSU, for being able to conduct this kind of activity that is really helpful and insightful for student leaders like us,” he said.

Biliran Province State University continues to expand its international footprint as its president, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., was invited to the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2024 in Manchester, United Kingdom. 

The summit, titled "Making a Difference: The Purpose of Universities in a Rapidly Changing World," was held from October 6 to 10, 2024, at the University of Manchester, participated by various leaders from international higher education, industry, and policymaking to discuss on how universities can serve as catalysts for positive change in local, national, and global communities.

Dr. Cañezo’s attendance at the summit was a notable achievement for BiPSU, as the university sought to enhance its global partnerships and acknowledged its recent success in the THE Impact Rankings, released in June this year where among the 2,152 universities evaluated from 125 countries, BiPSU earned a place in the 1501+ tier, indicating a considerable leap in its international recognition.

BiPSU’s performance in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

BiPSU has recently received recognition in the THE Impact Rankings, showing its commitment to addressing global challenges through its performance in four (4) key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The university ranked 801-1000 for SDG 1 – No Poverty and SDG 4 – Quality Education, ranked 601-800 in SDG 5 – Gender Equality and 1501+ for SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals. 

Dr. Cañezo said earlier that BiPSU’s appearance in the THE ranking highlights the administration’s commitment to bringing the university to the international consciousness.

“This is just the start,” Dr. Cañezo said. “We are aiming to improve our standing in the next few years.”

Strategic internationalization and knowledge partnerships

The said summit also aligned with BiPSU’s internationalization goals, as outlined in the Board Resolution No. 66, series of 2024, noting that the university has been actively working to establish a network of international higher education institutions (HEIs) and industries, strengthening collaborations that enhance research and academic exchange.

In addition, Dr. Cañezo hoped to build partnerships with globally recognized institutions, aiming to strengthen faculty and student mobility programs and create joint research initiatives centered on sustainable development, which aligns with BiPSU’s strategic focus on knowledge transfer partnerships (KTPs). 

A key highlight of Dr. Cañezo’s trip was his meeting with Ritin Malhotra, general manager and director for Asia of Times Higher Education. During their discussion, both explored strategies to strengthen BiPSU’s collaboration with THE, particularly in terms of improving the university’s performance in global rankings and participating in initiatives that streghten collaboration among Asian universities.

"Our discussions with THE leadership were pivotal in exploring ways to strengthen our university’s global standing. This achievement in the impact rankings motivates us to continue our efforts in internationalization and sustainable research," Dr. Cañezo shared in a virtual interview.

Strengthening BiPSU’s role in global academic innovation

At the summit, key themes such as civic responsibility, innovation for the future, and collaboration within and between institutions were explored. “With the university already making efforts in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, we are positioning BiPSU as a key player in contributing to solutions for global challenges, particularly those tied to the SDGs,” he stated.

"This summit has reaffirmed our belief that BiPSU can make a meaningful impact on the global stage. We are committed to driving progress through innovation, research, and international partnerships," Dr. Caňezo added.

BiPSU’s participation in the THE World Academic Summit 2024 through President Caňezo represents a key achievement in BiPSU’s efforts to become a globally recognized institution.

Moreover, the university president also emphasized his commitment to delivering high-quality education, research, and outreach programs that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that both students and faculty are equipped to succeed in a more connected world.

This summit also marks Dr. Caňezo’s first international engagement of the year which underscores BiPSU’s mission to build global collaborations, enhance educational opportunities, and tackle some of the world's most pressing issues.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University, through the Sports and Athletic Services Office (SASO), kick-started the third season of the Inter-school Sports Tournament at the university gymnasium, October 3. 

Athletes, coaches, and students marched around the university oval grounds while doing their yells and cheers, making the competition for this year’s sports tournament over-all champion more intense. The said tournament featured basketball and volleyball men and women.

The basketball court was ablaze as School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) Griffins narrowly defeated the School of Teacher Education (STED) Raptors with their fiery shots in a nail-biting finish, 80-76; while School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) Dragons dominated the court, with sharp eyes to defend the championship title, edging out School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) Scorpions with a scores of 80-57.

In a quest to defend the men’s volleyball crown, STED Raptors pounced on their prey with precision and agility, securing a hard-fought win of 25-23, 21-25, 25-17 against BilCam Buffalos. Meanwhile, SME Griffins soared above STCS Dragons in a reverse-sweep victory in a thrilling set match, 21-25, 25-14,25-17.

In the women's division, Lady Scorpions stung the Lady Black Mamba with their powerful serve and intensive prowess, winning scores of 25-21, 25-10. In another match, Lady Griffins demonstrated their strength on the court, outlasting  Lady Chimera with ease in a straight set of  25-7, 25-9.

Moreover, the second leg of  the tournament will transpire on October 9, with games happening every Wednesday until the grand championship on February 25. 

The said sporting event was participated by schools across the university namely, SAS Scorpions, STED Raptors, School of Engineering (SOE) Chimera, School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) Hawks, SME Griffins, STCS Dragons, School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) Black Mamba, and BiPSU Biliran Campus (BilCam) Water Buffalos.

Further, Dance Sports Third World Competition took center stage, featuring the LGBTQ+ community, showcasing the grace, athleticism, and artistry of the participating teams.

#WoWBiPSU

Atty. Leonito Bacalando, Jr., an alumnus of Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) - now Biliran Province State University - is making history abroad after being appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the Federated States of Micronesia.

In a resolution signed on September 25 this year, the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia confirmed the appointment of Atty. Bacalando. 

"Be it resolved by the Twenty-Third Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia, Fifth Regular Session, 2024, that Congress hereby confirms the nomination of Mr. Leonito M. Bacalando Jr., Esq. to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Justice of the Federated States of Micronesia," the Congressional Resolution No. 23-214 stated.

In an interview with GMA Integrated News, Atty. Bacalando shared that he feels good about the appointment because it “sends a very good message to the world in terms of what Filipinos can do.” 

“I'm proud of my family, I’m proud of the community that I represent in the Philippines, and proud of the community where I belong now as my second home,” Atty. Bacalando spoke to GMA Integrated News.

A native of Naval, Biliran, Atty. Bacalando is the first Filipino to be appointed as the head of the justice department in Micronesia. He first worked in the Attorney General’s Office of Micronesia and later served as Chief of Law and Assistant Attorney General.

The DOJ secretary graduated in NIT Laboratory High School (LHS) as the class salutatorian in 1993.

Dr. Josephine M. Casas, DepEd Biliran Education Program Supervisor of the Schools Governance Operations Division, who was also Atty. Bacalando’s high school friend and classmate, described him as a diligent and quiet student who always made a strong impression during class recitations.

“Leonito was our class salutatorian and he was really smart and a good leader,” Dr. Casas said. “In fact he was our CAT [Citizen Army Training ] Core Commander.”

Atty. Bacalando, a son of both tailor shop owners, finished his law degree at the University of San Carlos in Cebu.

Meanwhile, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed pride in Atty. Bacalando’s recent appointment noting that it is a proof that the BiPSUnistas are now making significance even in national governance abroad.

“We are so proud of Secretary Bacalando’s appointment in the Micronesian government,” the university president said.

Notably, Atty. Bacalando reached out to Dr. Cañezo last year to commend the university’s developments through the years.

Micronesia, a sovereign country in the western Pacific Ocean, comprises four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae.

Two employees from Biliran Province State University were officially hailed as the King and Queen of Naval 2024 during the coronation night held on October 4 at the Naval Gymnasium.

BiPSU’s University Media and Information Office Director, Apple Joy Balondo- Visitacion, and BiPSU Cashier Personnel, Prince Delos Santos, represented the Academe Sector, which comprised BiPSU, the Department of Education (DepEd)-Biliran, and private schools.

The King and Queen of Naval 2024 event, one of the highlights of the Naval town fiesta, featured participants from four sectors: the Academe, Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies, and Religious and Business Groups, along with Balik Naval. The winners were determined by the most number of tickets sold, with the academe sector raising more than Php 1.3 million.

In her speech during the coronation night, Apple Joy, a former DepEd employee, expressed her desire to contribute to the Naval community and support the efforts of the local government through the Fiesta Executive Committee.

"I believe that the funds raised during this event will go toward meaningful causes, and being part of that is an honor I couldn’t pass up," she said.

Meanwhile, Prince Delos Santos emphasized the crucial role of the academe in fostering community development.

"Let this serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the values of education, unity, and excellence,” Delos Santos stated. "Together, we are building a future where every dream is possible, every goal attainable, and every individual empowered to contribute meaningfully to our community."

For several years, BiPSU has been a strong partner of LGU-Naval in the celebration of the town fiesta. Notably, BiPSU candidates were also crowned in the 2022 Queen of Naval search.

University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr. highlighted that the university’s active participation in the LGU’s activities is a way of giving back and honoring the town where BiPSU is located.

"Naval is home to our beloved university," Dr. Canezo said. "And we always love our homes, ensuring that we contribute to its growth and prosperity."

The National Government Agencies' representatives were declared 1st Runner-Up, while the candidates from the Religious and Business Groups, as well as Balik Naval, were named 2nd Runner-Up. The LGU sector finished as 3rd Runner-Up.

#WoWBiPSU