A group of researchers from the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) clinched the Best Paper Presentation (Cluster I) award at the 7th Research Congress held at the University of Makati, Makati City, today, October 17.

The award-winning research titled “Voice of Commitment: Capturing the Stories of Nurses’ Will to Stay in the Philippines”, was a collaborative effort led by SNHS faculty member Dr. Arlene S. Supremo and 4th-year nursing students Crituto M. Congcong, Jr., Babie Jean C. Olimba, Alyza Jean P. Lucion, and Florabelle B. Nierra. 

The award was personally received by the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation, Dr. Roland A. Niez; and Director of the Research Development Office, Dr. Pearl Irish De Paz.

Their study, which was presented virtually during the research congress, explores the experiences and dedication of registered nurses in Biliran Province who choose to remain in the country, despite challenges in the healthcare industry. The study also offers insights into nurse retention and aims to inform government policies on supporting healthcare workers and improving nurse satisfaction. 

This recognition highlights BiPSU's commitment to advancing research that addresses pressing national issues and contributes to the improvement of the Philippine healthcare system.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University has achieved a growing list of high-impact research contributions after recording a total of 41 Scopus-indexed publications to date, as confirmed by the Research Development Office Director, Dr. Pearl Irish De Paz. This latest accomplishment includes the publication of an article by Dr. Roland A. Niez, the university’s Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation (REI), in the internationally acclaimed Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology journal.

Dr. Niez's article, titled "Genre and Motif Variations in Biliran Folk Narratives: Insights for Literary and Cultural Studies," explores the rich cultural heritage of Biliran through its folk narratives. Published in Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology (ISSN: 2576-8484), a Scopus-indexed journal, this article highlights the importance of safeguarding oral traditions that are rapidly disappearing in the face of modern societal changes.

The study involved collecting 21 folk narratives from various towns in Biliran and analyzing them using content and discourse analysis. It revealed recurring themes of magic, mythological figures, physical trials, and community values, such as the Bayanihan spirit and religious devotion, which root the customs and beliefs of the Biliranons, passed down through generations.

In the study, Dr. Niez emphasized the importance of documenting these stories to prevent their loss as technology continues to shape modern culture. The findings underscore the value of Biliran's folk narratives as a repository of the region's mythical and historical past, serving as a rich resource for literary and cultural studies.

In a recent interview, Dr. Niez highlighted the significance of his publication on Biliran’s folk narratives, describing it as a meaningful step in preserving the cultural heritage of the province. “Folk narratives are more than stories; they are reflections of our community's values, beliefs, and history,” he said.

Dr. Niez also noted that the research contributes to BiPSU's ongoing efforts to integrate local culture into academic programs, particularly in history, literature, and social studies. On a global scale, he believes the study raises awareness of Biliran’s cultural richness and offers opportunities for collaborations with institutions focused on cultural preservation.

“It opens doors for collaborative projects with other institutions interested in cultural preservation. This enables BiPSU to become a hub for research that promotes both local and global cultural understanding,” he noted.

According to Dr. Niez, this achievement strengthens BiPSU’s influence in global academic discussions, increasing international partnerships and encouraging research that addresses both local and global challenges. Furthermore, the research points to the need for further documentation efforts in Biliran and neighboring provinces to preserve these oral traditions for future generations.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his pride, stating, “Reaching 41 Scopus-indexed publications is a testament to the dedication of our researchers and faculty in pursuing academic excellence. This is part of our mandate to produce world-class research that uplifts our university’s profile while contributing to the preservation of our local culture and heritage.”

Dr. Cañezo added that this research on Biliran’s folk narratives is particularly meaningful as it safeguards the rich traditions of the province and presents them to a global audience, highlighting the importance of integrating local knowledge into academic frameworks, not just for scholarly pursuits but also for cultural preservation.

The university is targeting 50 published articles in Scopus this year and is on track to achieve 100% of this goal, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing academic research.

To view the research article:
https://doi.org/10.55214/25768484.v8i5.2005

In a gripping battle of grit, agility, and power, the BiPSU Tigers men's basketball team successfully defended their home court against the visiting Dasig Naval Eagles, during the Tune-up Game held last October 16 at the BiPSU Gymnasium, edging them out with a thrilling 80-77 victory.

From the first whistle, the Tigers pounced aggressively, though they trailed behind in the opening period with a 17-26 deficit. 

The Eagles soared early, using their speed and sharp shooting to control the pace. But the Tigers, undeterred, clawed their way back into the game. In the second period, they tightened their defense and found rhythm offensively, though still behind at 14-20, cutting the gap before halftime.

The third period saw a dramatic shift. Fueled by a roaring home crowd, the Tigers unleashed a powerful offensive surge, scoring 28 points to the Eagles' 20. Their quick transitions and attacks disrupted the Eagles' momentum. The Tigers had found their groove, with every basket roaring through the gym.

By the final quarter, both teams fought tooth and nail, but the Tigers’ intensity proved unstoppable. With a score of 21-11 in the last stretch, BiPSU's players delivered crucial plays, pulling ahead just when it mattered most. The Eagles attempted a late comeback but were grounded by the Tigers' defense and execution in the dying moments of the game.

As the final buzzer sounded, the Tigers raised their hands in triumph, their 80-77 victory cementing their dominance on home court.

#WoWBiPSU

Ensuring that the best service is provided to the BiPSUnistas, Biliran Province State University continues to strategize for the continuous development of its various offices through the recent training on workplace performance.

Aimed at furnishing the non-teaching personnel with a comprehensive understanding of performance management evaluation, Biliran Province State University hosted a two-day seminar workshop on Workplace Performance Evaluation and Development at the ASEMCO Hilltop Resort in Almeria, Biliran, on October 15-16.

The activity, held in partnership with the Biliran Council of Human Resource Management Practitioners, Inc. and the Civil Service Commission (CSC), was attended by at least 60 non-teaching personnel.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., mentioned that the activity is under the university’s development plan, Weaving of Worthiness 2.0 (WoW BiPSU), which encapsulates the university’s overarching direction. 

“We are reminded of the collective effort required to strengthen the institution,” Dr. Cañezo said. “This initiative reflects our dedication to fostering an environment where each member of our community plays a vital role in weaving together excellence, collaboration, and service for the greater good.”

The workshop featured Director Michael M. Dela Cruz of the Southern Leyte Civil Service Commission Field Office, as the resource speaker. His discussions revolved around the Performance Management System-Office Performance Evaluation System (PMS-OPES) developed by the CSC.

He highlighted the critical role of performance evaluation in bridging the gap between individual contributions and the university’s strategic objectives. “This performance management system serves as a vital tool for ensuring that every employee’s efforts are aligned with the institution’s vision.”

The conduct of the activity was rooted in Administrative Order No. 241, series of 2008, which mandates the establishment of a performance evaluation system grounded in objectively measured outputs and performance metrics. The seminar-workshop aimed to provide participants with a thorough understanding of performance management evaluation, aligning individual performance with organizational goals.

Topics discussed during the seminar included the legal bases and purpose of Performance Management (PM), its alignment and benefits to the organization, and the stages of the Performance Management Cycle.

Moreover, participants were also introduced to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), goal setting and alignment using SMART goals, and the importance of cascading individual goals to meet the organization’s objectives. Additionally, the workshop emphasized the significance of regular feedback, effective feedback techniques, and linking performance to development plans.

#WoWBiPSU

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.