Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Research Development Office (RDO), conducted the 2024 In-House Review for research and development (R&D) outputs from July 9 to 19. The event, which involved various schools from the Naval and Biliran campuses, aimed to ensure the quality of R&D outputs by BiPSU’s faculty researchers with the assistance of external experts, increasing their chances of publication in reputable research journals.

The School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) held its review on July 9, with Dr. Magdalene C. Unajan from Visayas State University (VSU) as the external panelist. Commendations were given to Mr. Tito Amerigo Custodio, Mr. Eric John Celis, and Mr. John Raymund Calderon for their papers, while Dr. Analiza Calles, Mr. Custodio, and Mr. Calderon were recognized as presenters. Sixteen completed research papers were presented from STCS.

The School of Teacher Education (STED) completed its review on July 11, presenting a total of 19 research papers. Ms. Jenny A. Genoguin, Dr. Ernil B. Sumayao, and Mr. Robert P. Jordan excelled in their presentations. Best Paper awards went to Robert P. Jordan, Jerson Caotivo, Dr. Sumayao, and Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan. Dr. Gerald Jayson B. Balanga of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) served as the external panelist, along with Dr. Sumayao and Mr. Jordan.

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) also conducted its review on July 11 via Zoom, facilitated by SNHS Research Chairperson Sheilomay Majait, with Dr. Emiliano Ian B. Suson II from Cebu Normal University (CNU) as the external panelist. Eleven completed research papers were presented, with Dr. Pearl Irish V. De Paz, Ms. Flossie L. Tangpuz, Dr. Mae Geraldine E. Dacer, and Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel recognized for their papers.

The School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) held its review on July 13, led by their Research Chairperson Mr. Bonn Jumetilco, with 26 research papers presented. Outstanding presentations were made by Dr. Alexander Rex E. Sañosa, Mr. Vic Marie L. Bornillo, Ms. Arlene G. Obejero, Dr. Norberto J. Camarines, Jr., and Mr. Jerson Caotivo. Best papers were awarded to Dr. Sañosa, Mr. Bornillo, Ms. Obejero, Dr. Camarines, and Dr. Mafel A. Piol. Ms. Nikki G. Corales-Bajas from Leyte Normal University (LNU) joined Dr. Estelito R. Salut, Jr., Dr. Sañosa, Mr. Bornillo, and Mr. Jumetilco as panelists.

Also on July 13, the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) conducted its review with panelists Dr. Christopher R. Vicera, Dr. Annel Ruth D. Celis, Dr. Vicente Q. Solteo, Ms. Claire Theresa S. Bentor, and external panelist Dr. Ludito V. Ramirez from Southern Leyte State University (SLSU). From the 12 R&D outputs presented, Best Paper awards were given to Ms. Marriz S. Manito, Dr. Annel Ruth D. Celis, and Mr. Vincent Justine L. Realino. Best presenters were Dr. Celis, Ms. Manito, and Mr. Realino.

The School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) held its review via Zoom on July 13, led by SCJE Research Chairperson Mr. Ryan Duran, with Dr. Kerwin Paul J. Gonzales from the Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR) as the external panelist. Mr. Duran, Ms. Daiselyn Palconit, and Karlotte Mae Paquiz received Best Presenter awards, while Best Paper awards went to Mr. Duran, Ms. Palconit, Mr. Noel Filemon Gayrama, Mr. Edgardo Gensiton, and Mr. Pablo Cepriano. Nine completed research papers from SCJE were presented.

On July 17, the School of Agribusiness and Forest Resource Management (SAbFoRM) and the School of Agri-Fisheries (SAF) conducted their joint review with Dr. Ruben M. Gapasin from VSU as the external panelist. The Best Paper award was given to Rhelivyn M. Rosendal, and the Best Presenter award went to Novie A. Sales. The activity was led by SAbFoRM and SAF Research Chairpersons, Mr. Jofil Matiom and Ms. Opelia Maranguit, with a total of 13 research papers presented from both schools.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), in collaboration with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), held a training workshop on "Basic and Advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) for Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP)" from July 16 to 19 at the BiPSU Hostel.

The event aimed to improve spatial analysis and data-driven decision-making skills for more efficient campus operations, enhanced safety measures, and strategic expansion planning.

Further, the training workshop featured two resource speakers, which included Mr. Darien Rio M. Jaropojop, Housing and Homesite Regulation Officer (HHRO) II at the Environmental, Land Use, and Urban Planning Development Division (ELUPDD), and Engr. Louie O. Juan, HHRO III at ELUPDD.

The four-day event included five presentations and five workshops, led by Mr. Jaropojop and Engr. Juan, with participants from BiPSU’s Technical Working Group (TWG) for LUDIP, headed by Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco.

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Yogyakarta, Indonesia – Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has officially become a member of the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings Network (UIGWURN) during the Regional Workshop on Sustainable Campus for Universities in Asia-Pacific. The event, hosted by Universitas Gadjah Mada in partnership with GreenMetric World University Rankings (WUR), marked a significant milestone for BiPSU.

On the first day of the workshop, a ceremonial signing took place, welcoming BiPSU and other new members from around the globe into the UIGWURN. This inclusion signifies BiPSU's commitment to environmental sustainability and its active participation in a global network dedicated to green campus initiatives.

Representatives from BiPSU, Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, Attorney IV and Director of the International Affairs Office, and Joedel Penaranda, Executive Assistant III and Director for Strategic Innovation and Knowledge Laboratories and Focal Person for International Rankings, expressed their gratitude to the BiPSU Governing Board and President Canezo for the opportunity to participate in the workshop. They emphasized their excitement about the membership and the potential to implement new sustainability practices at BiPSU.

"We hope to translate what we learn here to improve plans, programs, and activities at BiPSU and the communities that we serve," stated Mr. Peñaranda. "We’re also stoked to be joining the GreenMetric WUR and incisively explore diagnostics which the institution can use in improving its efforts to ensuring sustainable, livable, and equitable futures for all."

The UI GreenMetric World University Ranking, initiated by Universitas Indonesia in 2010, evaluates universities based on their environmental commitment and initiatives. The ranking uses 39 indicators across six criteria to determine the universities' standings.

Should BiPSU achieve a ranking in the UI GreenMetric, it would mark the university's third international ranking, following its inclusion in the World University Rankings for Innovation in 2021, 2022, and 2023, and the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2024. Additionally, BiPSU was rated with Three Stars by the international higher education data analytics company, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) in 2022.

The workshop and BiPSU's new membership in UIGWURN stress BiPSU's ongoing commitment to sustainability and its efforts to enhance its global standing in higher education.

Thus spoke Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., University President of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), during the Flag Ceremony held today, July 22, marking the opening of the Academic Year (AY) 2024-2025.

In his address to faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders, Dr. Cañezo urged the university to start the academic year with a WOW—symbolizing a commitment to excellence and purpose.

He emphasized the concept of “Weaving of Worthiness,” calling every member of BiPSU to understand their role as he outlined the acronym of WOW:

W - Why am I here? Dr. Cañezo stressed the importance of clarity in purpose. He urged students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders to internalize BiPSU’s vision, mission, and core values.

Moreover, highlighting the university’s aspiration to achieve international recognition, he reiterated that BiPSU exists for the empowerment and development of its people.

“Let us open our arms to embrace one another in providing quality education,” he added.

O - Open. Embracing openness, Dr. Cañezo encouraged everyone to remain receptive to exploration, learning, and challenges. He also emphasized the need to create an environment where all ideas are welcomed and quality education is provided.

“All these things will remain dreams and aspirations if we do not work for them. You are here to stop dreaming and start working,” he stressed.

W - Work on the Whys. Dr. Cañezo emphasized that turning aspirations into tangible achievements requires diligent effort. He called on every employee and student to move beyond mere dreaming and actively pursue the realization of their shared goals. He stressed the importance of learning from mistakes as opportunities for growth and urged openness in the pursuit of BiPSU’s vision and mission.

The university president expressed confidence in the capability of the BiPSU administration, key officials, faculty, and staff to achieve greatness together.

“With the kind of people here, we can make things happen in BiPSU; we can always make BiPSU a WOW,” he concluded.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has granted funding to Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) for a Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) project. The turnover ceremony took place at the Office of the President (OP) on July 19. The CEST project, titled "Empowerment of Mother Crucifix Caputo Community through Science, Technology, and Innovation Interventions," aims to support and enhance the sustainability and impact of the social enterprise initiatives at the Mother Crucifix Caputo Academy.

The project will be implemented by BiPSU-Biliran Campus (BC), led by Dr. Vilma P. Gayrama, the Project Coordinator and Chairperson of BiPSU-BC Extension Services.

Present at the turnover ceremony were BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., School of Teacher Education-BC Dean Dr. Naneta M. Panit, DOST Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Director Dr. Romeo L. Dignos, Science Research Specialist (SRS) Ms. Catherine G. Maniba, and Sr. SRS Ms. Juliet M. Aguirre.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) conducted a seminar titled “Gender Equality and Diversity in Handling Customers and Clients in the Workplace” today, July 17, at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio Visual Center (HAVC). The seminar, organized by BiPSU’s Gender and Development (GAD) Office and the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO), was attended by frontline service providers from various university offices.

The event aimed to equip BiPSU’s frontline service providers with skills to handle various clients, especially those with diverse social orientations, gender identities, and expressions (SOGIE). Additionally, it sought to improve the understanding of client satisfaction measurement among service providers.

The one-day event featured discussions led by resource persons both from within and outside the university. Mr. Victorino D. Mendiola III, Assistant Manager at Starlegends Adventures, Inc., led the morning session with a discussion on “The Art of Service Excellence: The Essentials for a High-Quality Service.” In the afternoon, Mr. Fernando Quiroz, Jr., Head of BiPSU Gender Research and Admin Support Services (GRASS), covered “GAD Sensitivity and Inclusivity in the Workplace.” Moreover, Mr. Vincent Justine L. Realino, Acting Director of BiPSU University Media and Information Office (UMIO), presented guidelines on the implementation of the “Harmonized Satisfaction Measurement.”

BiPSU key officials present during the seminar included Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Rossini B. Pitao, Supply Officer III Mr. Joemard Calvez, and Human Resource Management Officer Ms. Arrah Mae B. Tambis.

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PASAY CITY, PHILIPPINES — Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) participated in the 2024 National Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Annual Convention and General Assembly at the SMX Convention Center, Manila, on July 15-17.

Among the representatives were Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Vice President for Student and External Affairs; Hon. Vennie G. Coton, Faculty Regent; Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, Legal Officer III; Mr. Joedel O. Peñaranda, Executive Assistant to the President; Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, University and Board Secretary; Dr. Concepcion Gayrama, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Administration; Atty. Pahmi Ampaso, CAO - Finance; Dr. Sheila Day A. Gabuya, Supervising Administrative Officer - Finance; Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, Director for Extension Services; Ms. Ammabelle Sabagkit, Cashier III; and Ms. Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, Information Officer II and Special Assistant to the President for Appointments and Public Affairs.

Anchored on the theme “Advancing Competitiveness of SUCs for National Development,” this year’s convention aimed at strengthening State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) as contributors to the nation’s growth, enhancing programs and initiatives, and aligning these with the needs of the global society.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Tirso A. Ronquilo, PASUC National President, elaborated on key components of the convention, which included examining the current state and future directions of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), identifying opportunities and challenges related to financial frameworks, and exploring innovative approaches necessary for maintaining and improving the quality of education amidst fiscal challenges. He also emphasized the importance of enhancing the global competitiveness of SUCs.

“We need to highlight the role of quality assurance in maintaining and elevating educational standards to ensure that the benefits of higher education are maximized and sustained,” he added.

Meanwhile, PASUC President Dr. Ronquilo also presented the President’s Report for 2022-2024, highlighting accomplishments in governance and management, representation and partnerships, and various programs, activities, and projects implemented.

“We still have a lot to do, and it is important to remember that we will be measured by our actions, not our intentions,” he emphasized.

Other highlights during the event included discussions on the Philippines Free Higher Education: Issues, Challenges, and Ways Forward; Positioning Philippine SUCs in a Competitive Global Village; The Imperatives of Quality Assurance: Ensuring the Gains of Higher Education; Health, Wellness, and Longevity; the ROSSS Phase II: Inspiring Productivity and Efficiency of SUCs Workplace; Scaling Research and Innovation Ecosystems: Strategies, Challenges, and Opportunities; and Artificial Intelligence: Engineering a Smart Campus for Sustainable Development.

This year’s PASUC convention also featured prominent speakers from national and international organizations and other partner agencies, including Hon. Ralph G. Recto, Secretary of the Department of Finance and principal author of the Universal Access to Quality and Tertiary Education Act.

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The Federation of Supreme Student Councils (FSSC) of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) concluded the Pandayan 2.0 Annual Student Leaders Convergence 2024, held from July 10 to 12 at the BiPSU Gymnasium. The event aimed to enhance the leadership skills of student leaders and equip them with knowledge in managerial and governing tasks.

The three-day event featured two plenary sessions. The first, "Strategic Foresight and Futures Thinking in Student Leadership," was led by Mr. Jezreel Larry R. Caunca, Professional Futurist and Foresight Coordinator at UNESCO Chair on Anticipatory Governance and Regenerative Cities. The second session, "Futures Thinking of the Student Leaders in the New Generation," was discussed by Dr. Mark Michael O. Unlu-Cay, Executive Assistant III of the Office of the President of the National Youth Commission.

Breakout sessions were also held at various venues during the second day, including the Academic and Wellness Center, the Student Lounge, Hostel Function Hall B, and the BiPSU Gymnasium. The resource persons for these sessions included Mr. Eduardo R. Alamzan, Project Evaluation Officer of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG); Atty. Pahmi Hadji S. Ampaso, Chief Administrative Officer-Finance of BiPSU Budget Office; Mr. Mark Christian R. Almazan, FSSC Adviser; Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, BiPSU Legal Officer; Mr. Christler B. Calizo, BiPSU Procurement Officer; Mr. Vincent Justine L. Realino, Acting Director of BiPSU University Media and Information Office; and Dr. Ralph Arvic T. Arcenal, University and Board Secretary.

Additionally, a Social Night on the second day provided entertainment to the participants, with the Mr. and Ms. Pandayan 2024 contest as the highlight.

On the third day, team-building activities were conducted to promote collaboration and strengthen relationships among the participants. These activities aimed to build a sense of unity and improve teamwork among the student leaders.

In his message during the closing program, incoming Student Regent Hon. Aluah Kane Cabalhin emphasized that he is expecting full support from the Supreme Student Council (SSC) and student organizations throughout the academic year.

"Your leadership does not end after this third day. We have a big year ahead of us," Hon. Cabalhin said.

"From the first day of School Year 2024-2025 until the last day of 2025, I expect 100% full support from the Supreme Student Council and all student organizations," he added.

The activity, themed "BiPSU Student Leaders Advancing Future-Proof and Sustainable Student Leadership," was attended by incoming SSC officers and representatives from various student and course-related organizations.

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As the first semester of the Academic Year (AY) 2024-2025 approaches, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) held a Training Workshop on Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU). The event took place at the BiPSU gymnasium from July 15 to 16.

The workshop aimed to equip all BiPSU's teaching personnel with strategies to utilize the remaining hour of the three-hour weekly allotment for their courses, in response to the university's implementation of a shifting class system for the upcoming semester.

In his welcome message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. explained that the new class system, integrated with ODeL, could enhance education quality by reducing direct teaching hours to four to five hours daily. This adjustment allows teachers extra time for research, breaks, or module preparation.

“Actually, this ODeL, we believe that this will enhance the quality of education by reducing teaching hours from four to five hours only,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

“For example, for Shift 1, you’ll come here by 7 in the morning but you’re only supposed to teach from 7 to 1 o’clock in the afternoon. Since you are to serve eight hours, you’re still up to 4 o’clock here but your 1-4pm will not have any teaching loads. You can have your time for research, or some break, or even work on your modules,” he added.

The event featured three resource speakers. Prof. Lorena Jean D. Saludadez, Assistant Professor at the UPOU Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS), discussed “Navigating and Winning A.I in Assessment Strategies;” Dr. Rita C. Ramos, also an FMDS Assistant Professor, presented on “Best Practices in ODeL Delivery;” and Mr. Lexter J. Mangubat, Deputy Director at the Education Media Production, addressed “Teaching Approaches and Pedagogies in the ODeL Setting.”

It is worth noting that classes for the first semester will start on July 22 for college students, July 29 for Laboratory High School (LHS) students, and August 3 for graduate students.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Sports and Athletics Services Office (SASO), recently concluded a week-long Summer Concentration Program for its student athletes, dubbed as "Tigers," from July 8 to 14. The program aimed to prepare the athletes for the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association VIII (SCUAA-8) Regional Meet 2024.

The Summer Concentration Program included rigorous training sessions, skill development activities, and performance evaluations to improve the athletes' abilities and prepare them for the upcoming SCUAA-8 Regional Meet. BiPSU seeks to improve its overall ranking in the SCUAA-8 Regional Meet, where it previously garnered 117 medals, including 17 golds, 51 silvers, and 49 bronzes.

During the opening program on July 8, medalist athletes from the SCUAA-8 Regional Meet 2023 received their monetary incentives for the second semester of the Academic Year (AY) 2023-2024. Gold medalists were granted P10,000 per semester, amounting to P20,000 for the entire academic year, while silver and bronze medalists received P5,000 per semester, totaling P10,000 for the year. Medalist athletes had previously received their first semester scholarship grants on December 20, 2023.

Additionally, selected non-medalist athletes from the recent regional sporting event are set to receive a one-time scholarship grant of P7,500 at the Cashier’s Office in the first semester of AY 2024-2025. These non-medalist grantees were chosen based on their consistent effort, willingness to learn, and commitment to their sports.

The week-long summer concentration program concluded with a team-building activity at Lavin Resort, Larazzabal, Naval, Biliran, on July 14, where student-athletes and coaches participated.

It can be noted that this year’s SCUAA-8 Regional Meet will be held at Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) from December 8 to 14.

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