Describing it as a "long night, but a meaningful one," Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. announced the successful approval of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget for BiPSU and other State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) by the Senate Committee early Tuesday morning.

Prof. Cañezo, who also serves as the President of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) in Region VIII, personally attended the deliberations at the Senate to represent the region's higher education institutions.

He reported that the budget was officially carried and approved at exactly 1:30 AM on November 25, concluding a marathon session that began at 9:30 AM the previous day.

Despite the grueling 16-hour wait, Prof. Cañezo emphasized that the effort was a necessary investment for the institution’s stakeholders.

"This long wait... was worth every second, knowing that our students, faculty, researchers, and partner communities will greatly benefit from this support," Prof. Cañezo stated.

He expressed deep gratitude to the legislators for their continued championing of public higher education.

"To our Senators, thank you for recognizing the value of public higher education. Your support allows us to continue the weaving of worthiness for our people," Prof. Cañezo concluded.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) continues to strengthen its global academic presence as Ms. Chiejheaca Jehanna G. Yu, Director of the International Affairs Office, successfully completed the prestigious Shanghai Open University (SOU) International Staff Exchange Fellowship Program. This milestone directly supports the university's mission of "Weaving BiPSU with the World and the World with BiPSU," expanding its reach in open, distance, and lifelong learning initiatives.

The two-week program, held from October 16th to October 29th, 2025, aimed to promote cooperation and enhance the quality of teaching and research in open and distance learning (ODL) between the two institutions.

Director Yu participated as a visiting scholar at the Institute of International Exchange, Shanghai Open University, based on an academic evaluation process that recognized her as a capable and conscientious researcher.

During her fellowship, Director Yu engaged in intensive academic and professional exchanges focused on best practices in open and distance education. She held in-depth discussions with key departments at SOU, including the International Exchange Office, the R&D Department, the School of Science & Engineering, and the School of Economics & Management.

Ms. Yu also facilitated knowledge sharing by delivering presentations on several contemporary topics in open learning, demonstrating BiPSU's expertise on the world stage. Her seminars included AI-Enabled Personalized Intelligent Teaching & Management, The Lifelong Learning Support Service System, Generative AI and the Development of TPACK for Teachers in Open Universities, and The Construction Path and Policies of Learning Cities.

Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, University President of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), lauded Director Yu’s achievement, “The successful completion of the SOU International Staff Exchange by Director Yu is a powerful testament to BiPSU’s commitment to academic excellence and global engagement. This experience is a concrete manifestation of our university mantra: 'Weaving BiPSU with the World and the World with BiPSU.' We are not just participating in global education; we are actively contributing to it and bringing the world’s best practices in ODL directly back to our students and faculty. This international cooperation will undoubtedly elevate our services and accelerate our growth as a leading institution in open and lifelong learning.”

The fellowship served the core purpose of enhancing academic exchange between BiPSU and SOU, cementing a vital international partnership. Ms. Yu’s activities also included participation in the International Conference on Digital Lifelong Learning and valuable field visits to SOU facilities, such as the Yangpu and Qingpu Branch Schools, a Smart Classroom, the College of Public Wellbeing, and the Shanghai TCM Museum.

The knowledge and networks established through this program are held at a crucial time for Biliran Province State University as it continues to expand its own reach in open, distance, and lifelong learning initiatives, ensuring that the BiPSU community benefits from global innovation in education. 

#WoWBiPSU

Aiming to modernize pedagogical methods and strengthen foundational education, the Biliran Province State University's  School of Teacher Education (STEd)  and Extension Services Office (ESO) successfully launched Project INSPIRE (Innovative Strategies for Professional Improvement and Research in Education) at Libtong Daku Elementary School on November 20, 2025.

Spearheaded by Dr. Robert P. Jordan, the Project Leader, INSPIRE focuses on fostering teacher growth, ensuring professional well-being, and solidifying the professional identity of educators. The project implementation runs from October 2025 to March 2026.

While the launch event focused on the 11 teachers of Libtong Daku Elementary School, the extension project has a broader scope, targeting a total of 37 educators in the district. Aside from the Libtong ES, the program is also set to benefit 16 teachers at Villa Consuelo Elementary School and 10 teachers at San Pablo Elementary School.

BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, expressed his full support for the initiative, noting that the administration is fully committed to bridging the gap between the university and local schools.

"Project INSPIRE exemplifies our dedication to sharing resources and expertise with our community partners. By strengthening our teachers, we are investing in the future of our youth," President Cañezo stated.

During the project presentation, Dr. Jordan emphasized that INSPIRE is designed to equip these teachers with contemporary tools to handle the evolving demands of basic education.

The launch featured a series of technical sessions headlined by expert resource speakers who introduced gamification and foundational strategies.

Mrs. Kayla O. Mercader discussed “Pedagogical Approaches in Early Childhood and Elementary Education,” with a specific focus on strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy.

Ms. Jenny A. Genoguin presented on “Interactive Instructional Materials and Different Game-Based Instructions,” highlighting methods to increase pupil engagement.

Ms. Nova Lyzza Ejorcadas conducted a session on “Designing Game-Inspired Learning Materials,” teaching faculty members how to create dynamic learning aids.

The event was attended by key university officials, including Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, Director of Extension Services, and Ms. Miramar M. Serrion, STEd Extension Service Chairperson and Assistant Project Leader. Mr. Bill Reniel A. Ariaso facilitated the program flow.

Following the workshops, the school’s representative expressed a strong commitment to applying the newly acquired game-based strategies and literacy approaches in their classrooms.

The successful launch of Project INSPIRE reinforces STEd’s mission to deliver relevant, sustainable extension programs, contributing to the university's collective weaving of worthiness by empowering teachers and uplifting the quality of community education.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), has successfully delivered another significant public service broadcast, with the airing of WoW BIPSU Extension in Action: A Community Extension Project through Radio Broadcasting centered on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) awareness, testing, and prevention on November 18 via Radyo Natin FM Naval.

The episode served as a timely and vital response to the growing HIV situation in the country and the pressing need for comprehensive health education in local communities.

Hosted by Mr. Lorenzo R. de la Cruz, University Media and Information Office (UMIO) director, the program opened with an overview of the national HIV surveillance report, citing that the Philippines continues to record one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the ASEAN region.

The latest data from the Department of Health Epidemiology Bureau (DOH-EB) estimates 252,800 People Living with HIV (PLHIV) nationwide as of June 2025, with more than 95,000 diagnosed with life-saving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).

Zooming in on the local context, the episode revealed that Biliran province has recorded at least 124 HIV/AIDS cases, with several new cases detected in recent years—an indication that rural provinces are not exempt from rising infections. These numbers underline the critical importance of early education, routine testing, and community-driven prevention efforts.

Shedding light on the realities faced by PLHIV and the current response mechanisms in the province, the event featured Dr. Fortunato Casas, Jr., Development Management Officer of the Provincial DOH Office, and Mr. Dary Jake Dagalea, provincial HIV case manager, who shared a clear, data-driven discussion on HIV transmission, symptoms, testing processes, and the importance of early detection.

The experts noted that many diagnosed cases continue to fall under late detection, where patients only seek medical help when symptoms are already advanced—significantly affecting survival rates and quality of life. They further emphasized that HIV is not a death sentence, as modern ART allows PLHIV to live normal, productive lives.

However, this can only happen when individuals feel safe and supported enough to get tested early. Dagalea reiterated the availability of free and confidential services in the province, such as HIV screening, pre- and post-counseling, condom distribution, and ART enrollment. Local health facilities and provincial health offices work closely with DOH to maintain accessible services even in far-flung communities.

Moreover, the resource speakers discussed practical, community-based prevention strategies—abstinence, mutual monogamy, correct condom use, and avoiding risky behaviors. They emphasized the importance of open communication, especially between parents and young people, to normalize discussions on sexual health and responsible decision-making.

"Testing is not just an individual responsibility, it is a community effort," spoke Dagalea. "The sooner we overcome stigma and fear, the sooner we can protect lives".

Ms. Baby Danica B. Nuñez-Dalumpines, extension chairperson of the SNHS, reminded listeners that these cases can be prevented, managed, and controlled, only if communities choose information over stigma and care over silence. "Knowledge, self-care, and responsible decisions are the most effective defense against HIV," Nuñez-Dalumpines stated.

Expressing his support for the initiative, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. commended the program, emphasizing the university's mandate to serve the public beyond the classroom.

"Our commitment to 'weaving worthiness' includes ensuring the well-being of our community through relevant and timely information," Dr. Cañezo stated. "By addressing critical health issues like HIV, BiPSU reinforces its role as a partner in development and a catalyst for a healthier, more informed Biliran."

With this program episode, BiPSU ensured that life-saving information becomes accessible to all. This initiative reaffirmed its role in shaping a more aware, compassionate, and health-conscious society. The university will continue to uphold its mission of empowering communities and transforming lives through education, advocacy, and responsive extension work.

#WoWBIPSU #WoWBiPSUExtenstionInAction

A powerful alliance between the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Biliran, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 8 is set to usher in a new era of progress, integrating Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) into Biliran’s local development plan. This initiative seeks to harness STI to modernize and enhance government services across the province.

The planning workshop for the Biliran Provincial Science, Technology, and Innovation Council (PSTIC) was held on September 11-12, 2024, under the leadership of Biliran's proactive and visionary Governor, Hon. Gerard Roger M. Espina. The university demonstrated its institutional commitment to provincial progress by actively participating in the crucial discussions.

Representing BiPSU, which functions as a key catalyst for local development, was Dr. Roland A. Niez. BiPSU joined other key stakeholders, including EnP Hossana E. Gomez of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), Hon. Vicente V. Curso Jr., Vice Mayor of Naval and President of the League of Municipalities of Biliran, and Representatives from various government agencies across the province.

The participants, including the BiPSU representative, were grouped according to the province’s core sectors—Social, Institutional, Environmental, Infrastructure, and Economic—to ensure the resulting development plan is comprehensive and addresses the specific needs of the local communities.

The workshop was a convergence of data-driven insights and expert guidance, aiming to build a solid foundation for STI integration:

Engr. Rex R. Palconit of the PPDO outlined Biliran’s provincial vision and presented key socio-economic and physical profiles from the Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP).

PSTO-Biliran Supervising SRS, Maria Catherine G. Maniba, shared the results of the Social Network Survey (SNS), which assessed existing stakeholder collaboration, providing a crucial baseline for the STI mainstreaming initiative.

Dr. Edgar M. Reyes, Jr. of UPLB provided an orientation on how STI can be mainstreamed into the PLGU’s vision, emphasizing its potential to modernize regional and national policies.

In the workshop’s main session, led by EnP Janssen Andrew S. Calvelo, participants were introduced to the Virtual Reality Gap (VRG) Analysis. This tool will be utilized to craft the provincial vision statements with precise descriptors and measurable success indicators.

Governor Espina, who also serves as the Chairman of the PSTIC, graced the event and delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the essential role of science and technology in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of government services.

“Being a small province should not hinder the adoption of digital technology,” the Governor stated, calling for strong collaboration between agencies to drive innovation. He stressed the importance of streamlining efforts and utilizing the workshop as an ideal platform to initiate discussions that avoid program overlaps, setting the stage for a digitally advanced Biliran.

Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD., CHRP, President of BiPSU, affirmed the university’s dedication to this partnership. “BiPSU is committed to lending its expertise, research capabilities, and human capital to the Provincial Government to ensure that science and innovation are at the core of Biliran’s progressive development,” he stated. “We are ready to work hand-in-hand with our partners to bring about meaningful, technology-driven change, solidifying the weaving of worthiness between the academe and the community we serve.”

BiPSU's active engagement signals a firm commitment from the academe to contribute its resources and expertise toward realizing the province’s vision for a future driven by science and innovation.

#WoWBiPSU #OneDOST4U

The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) Department successfully conducted a crucial Fire Safety Awareness Seminar on Thursday, October 24, 2025, at the University Gymnasium. This proactive event targeted the BSBA 4th-year students who are poised to begin their workplace internships in the upcoming second semester.

This activity is a key component of the department's comprehensive pre-internship preparatory measures. It is designed to ensure that the students are not only academically and professionally ready for the corporate environment but are also equipped with essential knowledge in safety and disaster preparedness—a critical need in any modern workplace, especially in a region prone to natural occurrences.

The department, led by Mr. Hans Christian V. Molina, Chairperson, underlined the significance of moving beyond classroom theory.

Mr. Molina remarked, "Our priority is to ensure our future professionals are not just academically sound but also prepared for the real-world environment. Equipping our interns with these life-saving skills before they step into their respective offices is non-negotiable; it underscores our commitment to their total well-being and responsible professional practice. This holistic training is key to developing a true HusayPreneur—a competent business leader with integrity and social responsibility.

Prof. Victor C. Canezo, Jr. EdD., CHRP, President of BiPSU, lauded the department's initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the University’s core mission of human empowerment.

"The success of our students is not measured by academic excellence alone; it is also defined by their readiness, resilience, and commitment to safety. This initiative embodies BiPSU's commitment to the weaving of worthiness—building graduates who are valuable in all dimensions of professional life, contributing positively to their communities and industries.

We are proudly sending out professionals who are not only equipped with sharp business skills but also with the essential, life-saving protocols that are critical in any workplace. This preparedness ensures their well-being and allows them to be responsible, contributing members of their future organizations. We continue to invest in these crucial, non-academic skills, affirming our commitment to producing highly competent and socially responsible graduates. We are immensely proud of this initiative. WoW BiPSU!"

By integrating specialized safety knowledge into their pre-internship curriculum, the BiPSU-BSBA Department continues to advance its mission to produce highly competent, safety-conscious, and responsible professionals for the local and national workforce.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) successfully hosted a high-level delegation from Burauen Community College (BCC) for a comprehensive benchmarking activity on October 29, 2025. The visit, which was highly collaborative, focused on key academic units at BiPSU, providing BCC with essential models as they prepare to launch new, in-demand programs in their locality.

The benchmarking team from Burauen Community College dedicated their time to understanding the operational best practices within three of BiPSU’s schools: the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), where discussions focused on curriculum rigor, clinical affiliations, and maintaining high licensure examination passing rates; the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), exploring innovative teaching methodologies, industry-responsive course design, and fostering a strong entrepreneurial spirit among students; and the Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Program, reviewing the program's unique integration of modern agricultural science with crucial business and management principles, including field laboratory management and extension services.

The comprehensive sessions provided BCC's representatives with detailed blueprints on various institutional pillars, including curriculum alignment, resource management, and faculty development strategies.

Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, President of Biliran Province State University, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration and BiPSU's role in regional academic growth:

"This benchmarking activity is a powerful demonstration of academic partnership and our shared commitment to regional development. At BiPSU, we do not just strive for excellence in our own right; we believe in extending our resources and expertise to our fellow institutions. By transparently sharing our successful models, particularly in high-impact programs like Nursing and Agribusiness, we are actively contributing to the creation of a stronger, more skilled workforce across Eastern Visayas. We commend Burauen Community College for their proactive approach and look forward to seeing their new programs thrive."

The representatives from Burauen Community College expressed profound gratitude for the transparency and hospitality shown by BiPSU’s faculty and administration. The insights gained will be instrumental in the smooth and effective implementation of their upcoming academic offerings, ensuring that BCC students receive education that is both relevant and of the highest quality. This successful benchmarking activity reaffirms BiPSU’s role as a leading academic institution and a dedicated partner in educational development, perfectly embodying the mantra: "Weaving BiPSU with the world and the world with BiPSU." By sharing our standards of excellence and learning from inter-institutional exchange, BiPSU connects its academic strengths with the broader educational community, making its internal success a catalyst for external progress. 

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Procurement Office, successfully conducted a crucial two-day seminar titled "Strengthening Good Governance: NGPA Orientation and Capability Training" on October 29–30, 2025, at the BiPSU Gymnasium.

The vital activity aimed to proactively enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency across the university's procurement processes, ensuring full and immediate compliance with the newly enacted Republic Act No. 12009, or the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA).

BiPSU President, Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, addressed the participants during the opening, underscoring the paramount importance of this initiative.

"Good governance is not just a policy; it is the foundation of trust between the University and the public we serve," stated President Cañezo. "By mastering the New Government Procurement Act, we are actively participating in the weaving of worthiness—ensuring that every decision, every process, and every peso spent is ethical, compliant, and contributes directly to the success of our students and the fulfillment of our institutional mission. Compliance and capability must go hand in hand."

The training featured distinguished resource persons from national government agencies, providing participants with expert-level guidance on the law and its implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

Day 1 kicked off with an orientation on the "Key Provisions of RA No. 12009 (NGPA) and its IRR," delivered by Director Imelda Laceras, Recognized GPPB Trainer and Regional Director of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Region VIII. Director Laceras also led discussions on "Strategic Procurement Planning."

Day 2 focused on the technical and legal aspects of the procurement law. The session featured EnP. Absal N. Abah, MPA, JD, GPPB Recognized Trainer and Chief Administrative Officer of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Region VIII. EnP. Abah delivered in-depth discussions covering the "Modes of Public Procurement Requiring Bidding" and the "Modes of Public Procurement Not Requiring Bidding."

The participants, comprising officials and personnel involved in procurement, gained a clearer, actionable understanding of the NGPA's principles and procedures, which are essential for upholding good governance standards within the institution. The university affirms that this commitment to capacity building demonstrates its dedication to responsible fiscal management and exemplary public service.

#WoWBiPSU

The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) family proudly celebrates the success of three alumni who have been recognized as 2025 Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) – Startup Category Awardees.

This prestigious award, given by the Department of Agriculture (DA), honors young individuals who are starting or expanding innovative agribusiness projects.

The three BiPSU alumni recognized as awardees are Ms. April Rose Ann Luaña (BiPSU-Biliran Campus, Bachelor of Agricultural Technology), Ms. Emily Plantilla (BiPSU-Biliran Campus, Bachelor of Elementary Education), and Ms. Ameryll Sale (BiPSU-Naval Campus alumnus from Almeria, Biliran), whose proposed enterprise is named "HOG KITA."

The Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) is a highly competitive financial grant program spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture (DA). It is designed to support and empower young Filipinos who are launching new agri-fishery enterprises or expanding innovative agribusiness projects.

As recipients in the Startup Category, both Luaña, Plantilla and Sale will each receive a substantial grant of ₱80,000.00. This financial assistance, as announced by the Department of Agriculture – Eastern Visayas, will be instrumental in establishing their proposed enterprises.

Their success highlights the commitment of BiPSU graduates to innovation and development within the agricultural and business landscape of Biliran and the wider Eastern Visayas region.

Congratulations to Ms. April Rose Ann Luaña, Ms. Emily Plantilla, and Ms. Ameryll Sale! Your BiPSU family is incredibly proud of your achievement and wishes you the best of luck in establishing your vital agri-fishery enterprises!

#WoWBiPSU

The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) successfully executed its disaster response program, known as BiPSU R.E.A.D.Y (Response, Evacuation, Action for Disaster: Your Safety), providing critical shelter for a total of 576 individuals (132 families) across its two campuses during the threat of Typhoon Tino.

This massive public service operation reinforced the University’s commitment to community welfare and safety.

The university's disaster response protocols were formally activated, allowing its facilities to function as critical evacuation centers. The successful activation covered both the main campus in Naval and the Biliran campus.

The BiPSU Main Campus sheltered 339 individuals (82 families). This decisive action was taken per the request of Naval Mayor Gretchen Stephanie M. Espina to accommodate residents from vulnerable areas. The joint evacuation of displaced residents from low-lying barangays in Naval was successfully completed through coordinated efforts with the BiPSU Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Office, the LGU Naval DRRM Office, and the Naval Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO). The affected communities included Barangays Lucsoon, P. I. Garcia, Larazabal, Calumpang, and Sto. Niño.

The BiPSU Biliran Campus Research and Academic Building provided a safe haven for 237 individuals (50 families). These families were successfully evacuated from high-risk coastal areas in Biliran town, specifically the Barangays of San Isidro and Burabod.

BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD., CHRP, acknowledged the tireless efforts and dedication of all personnel involved in making the operation a success.

"Our mission extends beyond education; it is fundamentally about public service and ensuring the safety and welfare of our community in times of crisis. I extend my deepest gratitude to all the personnel involved in the BiPSU DRRM Offices across both the Naval and Biliran Campuses, for their swift, selfless action, and meticulous execution of necessary protocols. We also thank our invaluable partners from the Local Government Units of Naval and Biliran for their close coordination. Your dedication ensured the safety of 576 individuals, proving that when we work together, we can overcome any challenge. We pray for everyone's continued safety!"

The University designated specific areas for evacuation purposes and established clear rules and protocols to maintain order, security, and cleanliness within the university shelters. The successful implementation of BiPSU R.E.A.D.Y underscores the University’s steadfast commitment to public service and safety during this challenging period. 

#WoWBiPSU