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.

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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.

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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).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BiPSU’s performance in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

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

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

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

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

Strategic internationalization and knowledge partnerships

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

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

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

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

Strengthening BiPSU’s role in global academic innovation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Biliran Province State University reaffirmed its commitment to producing highly qualified and job-ready healthcare professionals, as evidenced by Nursing Batch 2022 securing the successful placement of 15 nursing graduates in regular nurse item positions at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC), a renowned healthcare facility in Eastern Visayas. 

The group of nurses from batch 2022 includes Via D. Vicera, Eydcel Ann Delda, Jonel Anchovas, LJ Matalcero, Ivy Jane Nierves, Jeanfer S. Caparro, Joann B. Atok, Jeah Macatumpag, Catherine Pecajas, Belinda Antoya, Christine Joy Mondido, Aliah Marie Javines, Louren Rose Antipasado, Jemmuel Medios, and Dynalyn Verutiao. 

In an interview, Jonel Q. Anchovas, one of the newly promoted nurses, emphasized the importance of the training he received at BiPSU. "In terms of skills, I'm deeply honored to be trained by our clinical instructors, who are experts in their fields. With those skills and nursing procedures they have taught us, we have easily blended into the demands of a real clinical setting and provided quality nursing care that helps our patients regain their optimum level of wellness.”

Anchovas emphasized that they embody the core values of their alma mater, vowing to provide quality nursing care to the best of their abilities. He added that through skills enhancement and development training at BiPSU, they aim to become globally competitive individuals, committed to both brilliance and service.

Meanwhile, Christine Joy Mondido, another newly appointed nurse, expressed her gratitude to the university. "BiPSU equipped us not only with knowledge but also with the skills and confidence to excel in the real world. Securing a regular position at EVMC is a huge milestone for all of us, and we owe a lot to our professors and the training we received," she shared.

Eydcel Ann Delda shared the challenging experience they all went through. "The program was rigorous, but looking back, it prepared us for the demands of the profession. I am proud to say that BiPSU truly prepares its students for employment," she stated.

Via D. Vicera advised current BiPSU nursing students to prioritize choosing an institution that supports their mental and social well-being, emphasizing the importance of being in an environment that values them like BiPSU. She also highlighted the significance of working with colleagues who contribute positively to their mental health.

In addition, Jeanfer S. Caparro also shared the impact of the BiPSU nursing program on his career. "I personally salute the BiPSU Nursing program because it is competitive enough. They make sure that every student has the confidence to stand on their own."

In an interview with the dean of the School of Nursing and Health Science, Dr. Juvy Dia Saniel expressed the whole nursing school's pride upon learning that a total of 20 BiPSU nursing graduates from the classes of 2021 and 2022 were gradually awarded plantilla positions as Nurse 1.

"This is another milestone for our graduates and for BiPSU," she claimed, adding that they were humbled by the graduates' accomplishments, especially the commendations received from their supervisors for exemplary work performance.

The employability of BiPSU students, particularly in healthcare, has seen a steady rise over the years. The university’s commitment to continuous improvement in its curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and focus on professional development has produced graduates well-equipped to meet the demands of their respective fields.

Joann B. Atok, who also secured a regular item at EVMC, mentioned that being hired in EVMC is a dream come true. “It’s an honor to serve the community and make a difference in people’s lives."

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo Jr. emphasized employability as a core mission of the university. “At BiPSU, our focus extends beyond education—we are dedicated to ensuring our students are prepared for the workforce. The success of our nursing graduates at EVMC highlights our commitment to equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world experience they need to thrive. It’s an honor to witness them making a difference in the community," Canezo remarked.

BiPSU's approach to education has consistently provided students with opportunities for success. The university’s commitment to high-quality instruction, industry partnerships, and hands-on training has made its graduates highly sought after by employers.

The nursing program, in particular, blends classroom instruction with practical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of healthcare professions. Partnerships with hospitals and clinics allow students to gain valuable experience through internships and placements, while career services and workshops equip them with the tools needed to excel in the job market.

The success of Batch 2022 only shows BiPSU's dedication to producing graduates who are not only academically prepared but also ready to make a positive impact in their respective fields. It is also noteworthy that BiPSU has consistently achieved a 100% passing rate in the Nursing Licensure Examination since May 2023.

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At just 11 years old, Julie Ann Lianza's voice was discovered by her fifth-grade adviser. Little did she know that this was the start of a journey that would eventually lead her to the national stage, representing Biliran Province State University on the country's most renowned television singing competition, "Tawag Ng Tanghalan: The School Showdown," on ABS-CBN’s noontime flagship program, It’s Showtime.

Belting out “Rain” by Donna Cruz, Julie Ann successfully gained the hurados' favor, being declared today's daily winner.

Millions of viewers across the Philippines may have witnessed her singing prowess, but her story is not just one of talent—it’s also about her faith, courage, and persistence.

Growing up in Lemon, a small barangay in Leyte, Julie Ann’s childhood was simple but filled with music. Her father, a farmer, on-call carpenter, and former band member, introduced her to music early on.

By 13, she was already competing in amateur singing contests around their barangay, her father coaching her every step of the way. “Papa was really my first trainer. He has always believed in me,” Julie Ann shared, recalling how music became a family affair—her siblings all shared a love for singing.

Sometimes, she would compete alongside her older sister, taking turns placing first or second. “Whenever both of us win, we’re sure to bring home a considerable amount of money,” she said with a laugh.

Julie Ann's journey has been anything but smooth. After excelling in local contests, including being a finalist in the Leyte Idol 2023 and Ormoc Music Pop 2022 competitions, she faced significant financial challenges. After finishing junior high school at Don Mariano Salvacion Memorial National High School, she was granted a scholarship by the local vice mayor to attend ACLC for senior high. However, that support lasted only a year, forcing her to put her studies on hold.

"I had to stop because of financial constraints," she recalled. At 17, Julie Ann left her hometown for Manila to work in a pharmacy warehouse in Cavite. It was a difficult time, but the thought of pursuing her dream never left her. "I had dreams, but times were really hard," she explained. After a year of working, she returned to Leyte, and after graduating senior high in Lemon, she enrolled at Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) Ormoc. Yet again, financial struggles forced her to leave after just one year.

Despite these setbacks, Julie Ann’s resolve to succeed remained unshaken. She moved to Cubao, Manila, and worked in a call center, later requesting a work-from-home setup to return to her family in Leyte. In 2022, she began working as an admin aide in the local government unit’s accounting office while pursuing a part-time job as a virtual assistant to help support her aging parents.

She enrolled at Biliran Province State University and took a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT). Now a second-year student, Julie Ann wants to graduate and land a stable job.

But her dream to be a professional singer never wavered. "I still continued to pursue my dream of becoming a professional singer, to become famous," she said. "I knew that one day, I would still reach my dreams."

That "one day" came when Julie Ann auditioned for "Tawag Ng Tanghalan" at Robinsons North Tacloban. Unlike her previous attempts on other TV singing contests, like "The Voice of the Philippines" and "Pilipinas Got Talent," this time, she qualified for the next round. “I didn’t tell anyone about the audition,” she admitted with a smile, “I didn’t want to disappoint anyone if I didn’t make it again.”

But the call came. "When I received the message from Gerard De Castro of ABS-CBN, I couldn’t believe it. Then they called again to confirm. I was shocked, of course."

After learning of her participation, she began intensive training. In fact, she revealed that she mastered 20 songs, one of which was chosen as her winning piece, Rain by Donna Cruz.

In bringing the name of BiPSU to the national consciousness, the university has shown its support by granting her an affirmative action scholarship, knowing that both her parents are senior citizens and that she is self-supporting.

But Julie Ann’s story is not just about chasing dreams—it’s also about family. She revealed that her parents have always been her biggest supporters.

During the interview with the Showtime hosts after her performance, Julie Ann couldn’t contain her emotions when asked about her message for her mother and father. “Ma, Pa, I know that you're watching right now. I hope I made you proud,” she said.

With her first win, Julie Ann will advance to the weekly competition on Saturday, which will be streamed through YouTube Live and television channels such as Kapamilya Channel, GMA, GTV, and A2Z.

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