Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) hosted a cultural show for Fundación Hakuna, a Spain-based organization, at the university gymnasium on August 12.

The cultural show, themed “Pasigarbo sa BiPSU 2024,” featured an array of performances from the BiPSU-Panamao Dance Company (BiPSU-PDC) and guests from Fundación Hakuna Spain. The BiPSU-PDC performed traditional Filipino dances such as the Maria Clara dances Cariñosa de Guadalupe and Cortejo, as well as modern and folk dances including Hip-Hop, Oasioas, Pasiguin, Inalimango, Kinhas, Bulaklakan, and Tinikling.

In his opening remarks, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. expressed his deep appreciation to the guests from Fundación Hakuna Spain. He highlighted the event’s importance in symbolically weaving BiPSU into the world.

“We are so glad and grateful that you are here at BiPSU,” Dr. Cañezo stated. “This event reflects our mission to become an internationally recognized university that meets the needs of both local and global communities.”

Fundación Hakuna is a Spanish nonprofit dedicated to advancing cultural exchange and providing humanitarian aid, particularly in underserved communities. The organization partners with local groups worldwide to empower marginalized populations through education, community development, and cultural immersion.

The cultural show was part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BiPSU and Fundación Hakuna, aimed at fostering international understanding and goodwill between the two institutions.

As outlined in the MOU, the collaboration will focus on various initiatives, including the exchange of students, faculty, and researchers; sharing academic information and publications; engaging in joint research activities; and participating in cultural and community immersion projects.

Meanwhile, the cultural show also featured performances by Fundación Hakuna Spain, including Spanish traditional dances such as Sevillanas, Mirala Cara a Cara, Los del Río’s Macarena, and a special song performed by the male members of Fundación Hakuna.

In her message, Bea Saint Malo from Fundación Hakuna Spain praised how the performances showcased the unique culture and traditions of the Philippines.

“I was very impressed by your talents. I loved the traditional dances and how they represent your daily life, such as the use of the fisherman’s net and the creative and artistic expressions in every piece,” Malo said. “It’s amazing how these dances effectively portray everyday life here.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Kevin Tanguihan, chairperson of the Cultural Affairs Development Unit, emphasized the significance of the show as a bridge between cultures. He explained that the event not only showcased Filipino culture but also provided a platform for BiPSU to pursue internationalization and build connections with diverse cultures worldwide.

“The purpose of the show is to warmly welcome our visitors and take pride in showcasing the vibrant and diverse culture of the Philippines,” Mr. Tanguihan remarked.

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Biliran Province State University’s Spain-based partner, Fundación Hakuna, hosted a half-day Spanish language lesson with students from the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) on August 12 at the university gymnasium.

Students from the first to third years of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and Bachelor of Tourism Management (BSTM) programs, along with SME faculty members, actively participated in the activity. 

Fundación Hakuna brought a wealth of experience and expertise in the Spanish language, incorporating Spanish songs and dance into the lesson to create a more interactive experience for the participants.

Moreover, it is a Spanish nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and providing humanitarian aid, especially in underserved communities. The organization works closely with local partners around the world to empower marginalized groups through education, community building, and cultural immersion.

The activity was part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BiPSU and Fundación Hakuna, which focuses on developing and promoting international understanding and goodwill between the two institutions.

According to the MOU, the two institutions will collaborate on various programs, including the exchange of students, faculty, and researchers; the sharing of academic information and publications; research activities; and joint cultural and community immersion projects.

In her speech, Dr. Mafel Piol, Dean of SME, emphasized the importance and values of the collaboration between BiPSU and Fundación Hakuna, which offer new perspectives to both cultures.

“Culture and language go hand-in-hand, and by embracing both, you’re opening the doors to new perspectives,” Dr. Piol said. “We need to keep exploring, we need to keep learning, and we need to celebrate this vibrant culture in our journey.”

Meanwhile, Ricca Serat, a second-year Bachelor of Hospitality and Management student, expressed her enjoyment and the knowledge she gained through engaging with the Spanish lesson. “The initiative to include Spanish lessons for SME students also fosters an in-depth understanding of Spanish culture and tradition.”

In an interview, Dr. Piol revealed that SME has been offering a Spanish language course for first-year BSTM and BSHM students since 2005.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), in partnership with Fundación Hakuna, a Spain-based organization of young professionals, conducted a Design-Thinking Seminar at the university gymnasium on August 12.

The event, attended by over 900 students and faculty members from the School of Teacher Education (STED), aimed to provide participants with insights into design-thinking approaches while promoting international understanding and goodwill.

The seminar explored the core principles of Design Thinking, a human-centered approach to problem-solving that emphasizes empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing. It also featured presentations of outputs, with students engaging in interactive discussions with Fundación Hakuna facilitators. Ten members of the Spanish group led the series of discussions.

Fundación Hakuna is a Spanish nonprofit dedicated to advancing cultural exchange and providing humanitarian aid, particularly in underserved communities. The organization partners with local groups worldwide to empower marginalized populations through education, community development, and cultural immersion. 

The seminar was part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BiPSU and Fundación Hakuna, aimed at fostering international understanding and goodwill between the two institutions.

As outlined in the MOU, the collaboration will focus on various initiatives, including the exchange of students, faculty, and researchers; sharing academic information and publications; engaging in joint research activities; and participating in cultural and community immersion projects.

Meanwhile, Ms. Gil Irinco, a fourth-year Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in Filipino (BSEd-Filipino) student, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to learn new skills and apply them to real-world challenges.

“I believe that Design Thinking is a valuable skill set that can empower us students to become innovative leaders and problem-solvers,” Ms. Irinco said in an interview.

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"Unlike previous years, where cultural shows were at the forefront, this time we are concentrating on research and innovation," University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. said during the flag-raising ceremonies this morning.

Biliran Province State University's (BiPSU) Karatedo Team delivered a stellar performance at the 3rd Listo Berto Invitational Karatedo Tournament last August 11, in Tunga, Leyte, securing a total of 14 medals.

The team, composed of 12 student-athletes, competed in various categories, in order to bag five gold, five silver, and four bronze medals.

The tournament, renowned for bringing together top karatedo athletes from across the region, provided a competitive stage where the BiPSU athletes demonstrated both prowess and determination.

Alexis Kay Doble excelled in the Individual Kata Advance category, winning gold, and also secured a silver in the Individual Kumite Advance. Mike Javeson Paanod clinched gold in the Individual Kumite Novice 67kg, while Joey Petallana dominated the Individual Kumite 60kg division, also taking home gold. 

In addition, Jonnel L. Vallejos achieved gold in the Individual Kumite Novice 55kg and a bronze in the Synchronized Kata, while Samantha De los Santos and Ana Beth Matugas each won gold in their respective kata and kumite categories.

Moreover, Francis Adrian Guiritan and Melvin D. Esmeralda, who both earned silver medals in the Individual Kumite Novice 55kg and Advance 56kg categories, respectively. Geoff Lawrence Delantar secured a silver in Individual Kumite Advance 55kg and a bronze in Synchronize Kata. Mitchel Alistair D. Cruz earned silver in the Advance Kumite 75kg, while Mark Luna contributed with a bronze in the Synchronized Kata.

Sensei Dante Ylanan and Assistant Coach Meggan Ruth Custodio assisted the team.

Coach Ylanan emphasized that the medals earned by his athletes reflect the power of perseverance, determination, and rigorous training. “This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our athletes,” Coach Ylanan remarked.

Moreover, in a statement, Engr. Carmel Sigrid Docallos, director of the University Sports and Athletic Services, mentioned that the exceptional display of skill and determination by the team not only underscores their dedication and hard work but also reflects the strong support provided by the university’s administration

"As we are incredibly proud of what they have achieved, this success is for all of the BiPSUnistas,” Engr. Docallos said. “This achievement is made possible by the steadfast support of our current administration, led by Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. His encouragement and commitment to our athletic programs have been instrumental to our success.”

This victory adds to the growing list of accomplishments for the university's athletic programs.

In celebration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, Biliran Province State University and the Spain-based foundation, Fundacion Hakuna, conducted a joint community service initiative at Palayan Elementary School in Sitio Palayan, Brgy. Caucab, Almeria on August 9.

The Presidential Management Team (PMT) of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) conducted its Mid-Year Performance Review and Evaluation at the Sorsogon State University (SorSU) Dormtel Hall, following a benchmarking activity held at the same venue on August 7.

The purpose of the event was to assess the progress of the university’s goals, ensuring alignment with the strategic plan, and providing an opportunity for the team to evaluate accomplishments, identify challenges, and make necessary adjustments to meet annual targets.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. provided an overview of the rationale behind the review, stating that the main objectives were to gauge compliance with the development plan for 2024 and to formulate catch-up plans for the various deliverables for the year. The focus was on four programs: Higher Education, Advanced Education, Research, and the Technical Advisory Program.

“Our mid-year review is crucial for ensuring we are on track with our goals and making necessary adjustments to meet our targets. We are committed to maintaining high standards in all our programs and striving for excellence,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

The team, led by Dr. Cañezo, reviewed the status of their 2024 Midyear Performance Review General Appropriations Act (GAA) targets. Institutional Planning Office Director Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera and Engr. Ronn Lennard Napala presented the status of these targets along with the WOW BiPSU Development Plans.

Engr. Cerera highlighted that 12 out of 14 mid-year performance indicator targets had been completed. Additionally, 9 out of 14 annual performance targets had been met, with focus areas needing attention, including employability, research indicators, extension training, and accomplishments in completed and published research.

The PMT is composed of Executive Assistant Joedel Penaranda and four Special Assistants: Dr. Estelito Salut, SA for Academic and Student Affairs; Jeson Vinas, SA for Research and Biliran Campus Affairs; Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, SA for Appointments and Public Relations; and Danica Ybanez, SA for Administration and Finance. The event was also attended by Board and University Secretary Dr. Ralph Arcenal, Director of IPO Engr. Cerera, Planning Officer I Engr. Napala, University Job Placement Officer Dr. Miguel Supremo, Director of Management and Information System Dr. Homer R. Ampong, University Registrar Marilyn Q. Ignacio, Information Officer I Mark Ronnie M. Mangco, and Private Secretary Analyn Yusoia.

Meanwhile, another Mid-Year Performance Review will be organized on August 20-21, to be attended by the offices under Academic Affairs, including the deans and other key officials.

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Marking the first in a series of activities under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and Fundación Hakuna, BiPSU hosted a knowledge and culture sharing session with members of the Spanish-based foundation on August 7 at the BiPSU Prayer Room.

SORSOGON CITY—To ensure continuous improvement and adoption of best practices, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), led by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., visited Sorsogon State University (SorSU) for a benchmarking activity from August 7-8.

Seventeen (17) delegates from BiPSU arrived on August 7 and were warmly greeted with a folk dance presentation by SorSU dancers.

On August 8, the BiPSU delegation paid a courtesy visit to SorSU President Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, followed by the main benchmarking activities at the Dormtel Conference Hall, attended by various key officials including Mr. Gerald Fulay, SorSU’s VP for Administration and Finance; Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort, SorSU’s VP for Academic Affairs; Campus Directors from SorSU-Sorsogon City, Magallanes, and Bulan Campuses; and other key officials.

The 2-day benchmarking activity focused on exchanging ideas and learning about key areas such as Learning Management Systems (LMS), Quality Assurance, Instructional Materials, and the Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS).

In her welcome remarks, Dr. De Jesus mentioned that all SUCs have their own strengths and weaknesses, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and shared learning between BiPSU and SorSU.

“As a matter of fact, this morning, in a simple conversation with President Cañezo, marami na akong natututunan,” she said. “Simple conversation will always end up as something that will benefit our university.”

President De Jesus also revealed that she will be visiting BiPSU on August 16 for the MOA Signing with BiPSU.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cañezo underscored the significance of benchmarking in building connection and collaboration.

According to him, there is always a need to connect with other universities in order to improve the quality of education in SUCs. “We will not compete with other SUCs, but we are here to complement each other,” President Cañezo said. “I hope that in some way, we will learn from each other.”

Following the benchmarking activities, SorSU will organize a campus tour for the BiPSU delegation to visit their various offices this afternoon. Moreover, after the visit, BiPSU will be conducting a Mid-Year Performance Assessment to enhance compliance with institutional targets and develop catch-up plans for areas needing improvement.

The delegation is set to visit Bicol University for another benchmarking activity tomorrow, August 9.

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