MANILA, Philippines - Biliran Province State University, along with the West Mindanao State University (WMSU), visited the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) to observe its Quality Assurance Center (QAC) and explore ways to enhance their academic development strategies through insights from PUP’s best practices in quality assurance. 

Both delegations from BiPSU and WMSU were given an in-depth presentation of PUP’s QAC initiatives and its operational framework.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., head of the BiPSU delegation, outlined the purpose of the visit, emphasizing that the main objective was to gain insights into the quality assurance best practices implemented by PUP.

“By learning from PUP’s exemplary quality assurance approaches, being the pioneer of the Institutional AACCUP accreditation, we are excited to bring back actionable lessons that will improve BiPSU’s academic programs and institutional operations. Our goal is to implement these learnings to elevate our own quality assurance standards," Dr. Cañezo said.

Along Dr. Cañezo are eight key officials from BiPSU, including Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, vice-president for Administration and Finance; Dr. Analiza B. Calles, director of Curriculum, Instruction and Faculty Development (CIFD); Engr. Jessie Mari D. Cerera, director of the Institutional Planning Office (IPO); Dr. Carlito C. Cabas Jr., director of Quality Assurance; Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS); Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan, dean of the School of Teacher Education (STEd); Dr. Randy Villarin, dean of SAB-Form; and Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, director of the University Media and Information Office (UMIO).

PUP’s Quality Assurance Center Director, Dr. Sanjay P. Claudio  kicked off the visit by warmly welcoming the delegates and setting the stage for a collaborative exchange of ideas. 

“We are excited to share our experiences with BiPSU and WMSU,” Dr. Claudio expressed. “Leading the Quality Assurance Center of the largest university in the country is no easy feat, but with the efforts and accomplishments we’ve achieved, we’re proud to contribute to the continuous improvement of our institution.”

The QAC Director, who has headed the office since 2017, also highlighted significant accomplishments, including the achievement of 203 CHED-issued Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) from none in 2017, and 24 newly approved campuses, offering over 230 degree programs, with 184 accredited by the AACCUP.

He also discussed the core functions of the center, stressing the integration of quality assurance into PUP’s academic and administrative systems. "Our goal is not just to maintain, but to continually improve the quality of education we offer. The QAC plays a central role in this mission," he emphasized.

Further, Dr. Claudio outlined 12 initiatives implemented by the QAC, such as restructuring the QAC Organizational Structure, increasing manpower to support expanded mandates, enhancing communication with all sectors, strengthening the branding of academic programs during QA visits, and utilizing the expertise of internal accreditors, among others.

Following the presentations, an engaging forum was held, where the delegates from BiPSU and WMSU had the opportunity to ask questions.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his appreciation for the open exchange. “It’s through such collaborations that we grow together,” he said. “The lessons we learn here today will help weave BiPSU’s future strategies for quality education.”

The visit concluded with the PUP Quality Assurance Center presenting key samples of its portfolio, highlighting the accomplishments and initiatives from Areas 1 to 9 of their quality assurance framework. The detailed presentation provided a comprehensive look at PUP’s systematic approach to ensuring excellence across various academic and administrative sectors. 

“It’s been a pleasure to be here at PUP. We hope this benchmarking visit strengthens our  commitment to quality education across all our institutions,” Dr. Cañezo stressed. 

The BiPSU delegation is also set to attend the 38th AACCUP Annual National Conference and General Assembly from March 5-7 at the Marikina Polytechnic College in Marikina City, where they will continue to expand their knowledge and network with other higher education professionals.

#WoWBiPSU

[This news article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education.]

As part of BiPSU’s Integrated Community Extension Services Program (ICESP), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Extension Office, in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) Biliran Division, successfully hosted a Training Workshop on Conceptualization and Writing Basic Action Research on March 1, at the university’s Hyflex Audio-Visual Center. 

More than 50 selected DepEd teachers from various local schools participated in the workshop, which aimed to empower educators by providing them with the skills to become reflective practitioners and active contributors to educational progress. 

This training,conducted as part of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed between BiPSU and DepEd on November 21, 2024,  emphasized the importance of research as a tool for addressing real-world classroom challenges. 

Dr. Analiza B. Calles, chair of the Doctor of Education program, noted in her welcome remarks, “This initiative is a manifestation of your eagerness to take significant efforts toward improving your skills in writing basic and action research to promote educational practices, particularly within the Division of Biliran,” she said.  

Dr. Calles also noted that this workshop allows teachers to refine their pedagogical practices, enhance curriculum implementation, and contribute to a more engaging and effective learning environment.

Meanwhile, Dr. Claire Theresa S. Bentor, SGS faculty explained that this workshop is designed to ensure that teachers can develop interventions to classroom challenges based on their own firsthand experiences. “By doing so, the solutions will be more responsive, localized, and impactful in improving the quality of education,” she added.  

The workshop began with an orientation on the DepEd Research Agenda and Niches by Dr. Junasis Cajipe, head teacher III at Caibiran National High School. Following this, the participants were guided through essential topics on action research, with Dr. Rufo A. Labarrete, faculty member at the College of Education at Leyte Normal University (LNU), leading a session on identifying basic action research problems. 

Dr. Ernil D. Sumayao, SGS faculty, then provided valuable insights on writing the introduction to action research.

During the hands-on training, participants learned how to conceptualize and write basic action research, focusing on identifying classroom issues, creating practical solutions, to enhance student learning outcomes. The workshop was seen as a crucial step in helping teachers build a stronger connection between theory and practice, promoting a culture of continuous improvement in education.

The event concluded with the presentation of outputs, where participants shared their action research drafts, reflecting their eagerness to implement their newfound knowledge in their classrooms.

Looking ahead, additional workshops will be held as part of the three-year partnership between BiPSU and DepEd, aimed at further strengthening the professional development of educators in the province. These workshops are coordinated with the School of Graduate Studies (SGS), where many of the participating teachers are pursuing their master’s and post-graduate studies.

#WoWBiPSU

[This news aligns with SDG No. 4: Quality Education.]

United Methodist Healthcare Recruitment (UMHR), a healthcare professional recruitment and staffing agency based in Chicago, Illinois, United States, visited Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) to explore a potential partnership in sending nursing graduates for employment opportunities in the US.

Ms. Rosemarie V. Policarpio, CEO of UMHR, personally introduced the agency to University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. during a courtesy visit on March 3, 2025.

Established in 2015, UMHR is a non-profit organization committed to providing quality healthcare professionals—including nurses, physical therapists, medical technologists, and caregivers—from the Philippines to the United States. The agency specializes in petitioning green cards for Filipino healthcare workers and managing the entire immigration and employment process.

Opportunity for a countryside university

CEO Policarpio emphasized that BiPSU is the only state university in the region they have visited so far, citing their interest in partnering with the university to bring its nursing graduates to the US.

“We believe that students coming from the countryside, like BiPSU, know more about taking care of themselves,” she said. “It’s important that they can take care of themselves to survive in the US and effectively care for their patients.”

She also shared that before visiting BiPSU, she conducted research on the university’s nursing program, particularly its licensure exam passing rate and employability of graduates.

Dr. Cañezo expressed pride in the university’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), emphasizing its commitment to producing competent and globally competitive healthcare professionals.

“We have a very competitive admission process in our nursing program, state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, and highly qualified faculty members,” the university president said. “This is evident in our consistently high passing rates in licensure examinations and our 100% employability rate.”

UMHR’s Scholarship and Job Opportunities for BiPSU Nursing Graduates

During an orientation with BiPSU nursing students on March 3 at the university HAVC, CEO Policarpio outlined the benefits of the UMHR program, which include financial assistance for the local nursing licensure examination, free exam application and review for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), a standardized test required for nursing licensure in the US and Canada; and free processing fees for Visa filing, legal services, airfare, and two months of housing in the US.

She explained that UMHR has partnerships with 70 healthcare institutions across 20 US states. Nurses under the program may be deployed to high-paying locations such as Washington, New York, and Massachusetts.

“You will work a minimum of 40 hours per week and will be compensated $35 to $42 per hour [P2,027 to P2,433 per hour],” she shared.

Policarpio also highlighted that UMHR prioritizes fresh graduates, as the processing time for deployment takes around three years. During this period, applicants are encouraged to gain experience by working in local healthcare facilities.

Meanwhile, to formalize the collaboration between BiPSU and UMHR, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) will soon be signed, ensuring that BiPSU nursing graduates have a direct pathway to employment opportunities in the US.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being.]

To formally recognize the success of the newly Licensed Professional Teachers (LPTs) in the 2023 and 2024 Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT), BiPSU hosted a testimonial dinner on February 28 at the university gymnasium. 

This event, led by the School of Teacher Education (STEd) through its Supreme Student Council (SSC), provided newly licensed teachers with an opportunity to share their experiences and celebrate their achievements in the presence of their friends, mentors, and former colleagues.

 In addition, the event aimed to provide fourth-year students preparing for the board exam with inspiration by sharing firsthand accounts from recent graduates, helping them gain insight and motivation.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan, dean of the School of Teacher Education, expressed how proud she was of the passers, sharing her joy that they had finally achieved the license they had all dreamed of.

"I am so proud of each and every one of you for finally earning the license you’ve all dreamed of; your hard work and perseverance have really paid off, and this moment reflects the effort you’ve put into the entire journey you've gone through," she said.

In her testimony, Ms. Nova Lyzza A. Ejorcadas, a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECEd) graduate who ranked 4th in the September 2024 BLEPT, expressed that the true satisfaction of passing the licensure exam and ranking among the top-notchers came from seeing the happiness of her supporters, who were even more excited than she was.

“The most rewarding part of passing the licensure exam and being one of the top-notchers was to see that everyone who supported and believed in me was  happier than I was,” she said.

Following her testimonial speech, a ceremonial awarding of incentives was held in honor of Ms. Ejorcadas for being one of the newly added top-notchers at the university, during which she was presented with a Php 100,000 cheque and a secured teaching item at the university.

 It should be noted that all top-notchers at the university are rewarded with a Php 100,000 cheque to honor their achievements, including Mr. Sherwin C. Sarzuelo, a Science major student who ranked 8th in the March 2023 exam, and Mr. Joshua M. Ayade, a Mathematics major who ranked 6th in the March 2024 exam, both of whom have already received their respective incentives.

During the ceremony, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. commended the newly licensed teachers for their success and praised the faculty members for their hard work in producing top-notchers at the university. 

"I want to congratulate our newly licensed teachers for their outstanding achievements, which are the result of their hard work, and I also want to express my gratitude to our faculty for their commitment in guiding and supporting them, helping to produce top-notchers in the university," he said.

Notably, from 2023 to 2024, the university produced three top-notchers and consistently outperformed national averages, achieving impressive passing rates across both elementary and secondary levels in the March and September LET exams.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

Aimed at retooling and upgrading the skills of guidance coordinators, BiPSU, through its Guidance and Counseling Services Office (GCSO), conducted a three-day capability training from February 26–29 at the university hostel.

With the theme, "Retooling of Guidance Coordinators for Psychosocial Support Services and Basic Career Coaching," the  event focused on upgrading the skills of guidance coordinators to provide better psychosocial support and career guidance while helping students make informed decisions about their career paths and courses to reduce confusion and prevent burnout or course changes.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Jocelyn Caing, GCSO chairperson, highlighted the importance of the training and its relevance to their role in the university.

"As guidance coordinators, you have an important role in helping students make informed career choices, especially with all the challenges they face today, so I really encourage you to take this training seriously—it’s key to the work you do here," she said.

The event kicked off with Dr. Mae V. Cañal led the first session, addressing the psychosocial needs of students, focusing on adolescent development, stress, anxiety, and peer pressure, followed by a second session where she discussed building resilience through techniques such as counseling methods, active listening, and empathy.  The first day of the training ended with a workshop where participants, guided by Dr. Cañal, designed psychosocial support programs aimed at different student populations, such as at-risk youth and students with trauma.

Shifting to Day 2, the theme focused on career guidance, where Dr. Cherie Guy B. Giray led a session on career development stages, lifelong learning, and employability skills, followed by a demonstration led by Zyra Niña C. Cabugayan, RPm, who provided practice in interpreting results from tools like the Holland Code, Strengths Finder, and Work Values Inventory; and a workshop on conducting career coaching sessions with senior high and college students.

On the final day, the focus shifted on integrating psychosocial support with career coaching, with participants engaging in group discussions and action planning to develop school-based implementation plans.  Said event concluded with schools presenting their plans, sharing strategies for creating comprehensive guidance programs that would benefit their students.

In an interview, Jenny Genoguin, a faculty and guidance coordinator of STED, mentioned that the event helped her gain new skills to better assist students, which will ultimately create a more supportive environment for both the students and the institution.

"The event has given me the skills to better guide students in their personal and career development, which will not only help them succeed but also contribute to a more supportive and successful environment for the entire institution,” she said

 “I am also very thankful to the Guidance and Counseling Services Office for conducting this and to the administration for supporting this kind of event," added Genoguin. 

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

Reinforcing its commitment to research-driven education and pursuit of academic excellence, the School of Teacher Education-Biliran Campus (STED-BilCam) successfully concluded its first In-House Research Review at the Academic and Research Building on February 26-27.

The two-day event, attended by the faculty members and staff of the teacher education school in Biliran Campus, served as a platform to present their completed research studies and proposals to the invited research experts.

Among the set of evaluators, who gave their professional feedback and suggestions for improvements of the presented research papers and proposals, were Dr. Gerry B. de Cadiz, professor at Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), and Dr. Eduardo Edu C. Cornillez, Jr., research coordinator of the Education Department of EVSU Tanauan Campus and Campus Intellectual Property coordinator.

Moreover, the event concluded with an awarding ceremony for outstanding research papers and proposals. Mr. Arnel L. Gamez was awarded the Best Paper and Best Presenter awards with his research titled, “Exploring the Potential of Carabao Grass (Paspalum conjugatum) for Kraft Paper Production.”

Additionally, Mrs. Lanie P. Plecerda, Dr. Naneta M. Panit, Mrs. Remeca Sereno, and Mr. Arnel L. Gamez were hailed the second Best Research Paper with their research, while Ms. Mae V. Ceblano and Dr. Ian Phil Canlas was awarded the third place distinction.

The in-house research review was also graced by Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, and Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, director of the Research and Development Office.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor Catigbe Canezo, Jr. expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the faculty members of STED BilCam for their unwavering effort and support for the attainment of the university’s mission and vision.

“I want to thank our faculty members from the School of Teacher Education in Biliran Campus for hosting their first in-house research review, which really aligns with the university’s commitment to being a research-driven institution,” he said.

[This article aligns with the SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Demonstrating a commitment to research excellence, the School of Agriculture and Fishery (SAF) and the School of Agri-business and Forest Resource Management (SAbFoRM) of Biliran Province State University Biliran Campus (BiPSU-BilCam) successfully held the 2nd Joint SAF and SABFoRM In-House Review and Concept Proposal Hearing 2025 on February 26.

Held at the Research and Academic Building, the event provided an avenue for faculty members to present 30 completed research studies, which included eight papers from Agriculture and Food Sciences, three in Fisheries, and 19 in Forestry, alongside nine concept proposals in Agriculture. 

Moreover, three esteemed evaluators provided expert assessments, including Dr. Angelica P. Baldos, head of the Department of Forest Science at Visayas State University (VSU), who reviewed the papers in Forestry; Dr. Ian A. Navarrete, head of Research, Innovation, and Extension Services at Southern Leyte State University-Hinunangan (SLSU-Hinunangan), who conducted the evaluation for Agriculture papers; and Asst. Prof. Rizalyn G. Gonzales, dean of the Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Science at VSU-Tolosa Campus, who reviewed the submission in Fishery. 

The event featured awards including “Best Paper” and “Best Presenter” in various categories. In Forestry, Dr. Ruffy O. Rodrigo was recognized for his work titled, “Past Disturbances Shaped Stage-Age Distribution in Temperate Primary European Mountain Forests”. Meanwhile, Dr. Marlon S. Alejos received the awards with his study “Continuous Illumination Accelerates the Metamorphosis of the Late Larval Stage of Snubnose Pompano, Trachinotus blochii Lacepède 1801” for the Fishery category. 

For the Agriculture and Food Sciences category, Ms. Judife N. Magallanes won Best Paper for her paper “Production and Sensory Acceptability of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) and Chayote (Sechium edule) Biscotti”, while Mr. Jeruel A. Espinazo was recognized with the Best Presenter award with his paper titled, “Mapping the Landscape of Rice-Based Food Products in Biliran: An In-Depth Inventory and Profiling.” 

Among the concept proposals presented, one notable study set for submission is the “Community-Based Agriculture for Cacao Advancement and Optimization (CACAO) Project in Biliran Island, Philippines,” led by Mr. Rhelivyn M. Rosendal.

Notably, this year’s in-house review saw a significant increase in completed research studies, surpassing last year’s total of 14—marking a strong progression in BiPSU’s research initiatives.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article falls under SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]

Fostering collaboration between university and other stakeholders, Biliran Province State University conducted a Sectoral and Civil Society Organization (CSO) Consultation Meeting and Budget Partnership Agreement, February 27, at the university Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

The consultation meeting was attended by eight Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including Lico Agrarian Reform (LAARCOOP), represented by Rebecca V. Payos; the Naval Municipal Employees’ Association (NAMEA), represented by Jerome Pitao; and Alumni Association represented by Jerome T. Arcenal. Additionally, Rhodel Ruben from Samahang Agpangi, Talustusan, Tricycle Operator Driver Association (SATTODA) also participated, Danilo Delda represented the San Pablo Water System & Sanitation Association (SANWASSA) and San Pablo Farmers’ Association (SPFA), along with Tito Amerigo Custodio representing the Biliran Bisexual and Gay Society (BBGS), and members of the BiPSU LHS SSG.

The said consultation aimed to refine the proposed programs, projects, and activities for the FY 2026 Capital Outlay Budget, ensuring that every peso is allocated to meaningful improvements and upgrades such as laboratory enhancements, classroom expansions, and initiatives to make the campus more inclusive and gender-responsive.

University President Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo Jr., emphasized that the proposed budget is more than just a collection of figures—it directly impacts the quality of education, infrastructure development, and the opportunities available to students and other stakeholders. He also highlighted the importance of the consultation in thoroughly reviewing and improving BiPSU's capital outlay proposals.

“The budget we propose is not just a document with numbers; it determines the quality of education we provide, the facilities we build, and the opportunities we create,” the university president. “In other words po, itong konsultation na ito ay importante para makatulong na busisihin at i-improve pa ang capital outlay proposals ng BiPSU.”

Moreover, Dr. Cañezo added that BiPSU’s partnership with Civil Society Organizations has been key to securing funding for essential projects. He noted that past successes were shaped by stakeholder insights, demonstrating participatory governance in action.

“Our collaboration with Civil Society Organizations has strengthened BiPSU’s capacity to secure funding for much-needed projects,” Dr. Cañezo added. “The success of our previous Capital Outlay Proposals would not have been possible without these discussions. Your insights and recommendations have shaped decisions that directly benefit our students and our academic community. This is participatory governance in action.”

Meanwhile, Ms. Jessica Myka B. Quijano, project development officer from the Institutional Planning Office (IPO), presented the BiPSU’s Capital Outlays, shedding light on budget allocations and development plans. After which, an open forum transpired that allowed the participants to discuss concerns and recommendations, creating a way for a more inclusive decision-making process. 

Further, taking the highlights of the event, a Budget Partnership Agreement Drafting which is the critical part of the event transpired, where internal and external stakeholders collaborated to ensure participatory budgeting.

In his message, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, vice president for Finance and Administration, emphasized that the 2026 capital outlay projects would prioritize gender responsiveness, inclusivity, transparency, and empowerment, assuring that all recommendations and feedback in the consultation meeting were carefully considered in the planning and implementation process.

“Through this consultation we ensure that our capital outlay projects for 2026 initiatives reflect gender responsiveness, inclusivity, transparency and empowerment. Rest assured that the recommendation and comments shared are well taken and considered in our planning and implementation,” Engr. Pelesco said.

Moreover, key officials who attended the consultation meeting include Dr. Susan S. Bentor, vice president for Academic Affairs; Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra,  vice president for Student and External Affairs; Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton, and other unit heads and BiPSU officials.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

After the successful global engagement last year, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Teacher Education (STEd), is set to conduct another International Cultural-Teaching Immersion Program in Thailand from March 7 to 23 this year.

Fifteen pre-service teachers and three faculty members from STEd Naval and Biliran campuses will participate in the internship program at Tepum Nouy Hatyai School in Songkla, Thailand, where they will engage with Thai students and educators.

This immersion program, aligned with BiPSU’s mission to empower students through global exposure, aims to provide participants with hands-on teaching experience in a different cultural context. It seeks to enhance their cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills while expanding their global network of contacts.

During a courtesy visit by the participating students, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his enthusiasm about how global exposure will equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly interconnected educational landscape.

“Competition in the academic field is rapidly evolving, and we need to prepare our students to adapt to these changes,” Dr. Cañezo said. “One way to do this is by exposing them to the international market.”

Dr. Cañezo also announced that the university would provide P10,000  financial support to each participating student.

The two-week immersion program will allow participants to experience the Thai education system and culture firsthand. They will engage in direct teaching and share their knowledge in various subjects, including music, science, math, arts and crafts, food, Philippine traditional games, and cultural exchange activities.

The participants from BiPSU Naval campus include students from various programs.
Four Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECEd) students will participate: Francisca Mae Bernales, Dutches Lhoren E. Majait, Irra L. Vermug, and Rose Abigail S. Bastida.

Four Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) students are also joining the immersion: Jesfer P. Ligutan, Kirby A. Asubar, Niña Grace S. Gutierrez, and Joebert A. Reyes.

Moreover, three Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) students will participate, namely  Mary Rose H. Navarosa, Allana Janine De la Rosa Nartea, and Christy Mae Jireh P. Roldan; while two Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) students, Joshua P. Abanes and Lora Mae C. Gervacio, will also join the program.

Meanwhile, from BiPSU Biliran campus, two Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education (BTLEd) students, Jonel E. Delantar and Rowena G. Jimenez, will participate in the cultural-teaching immersion.

Accompanying them are three faculty members; Dr. Grace L. Concepcion, Mary Joy Gelizon, and Cyril V. Padar, who will supervise the international travel.

According to STEd Naval Campus Dean Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan, the international internship program, which began last year, is now an annual activity of the school. Dr. Zipagan also revealed plans for a future teaching and cultural immersion in South Korea.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

Students from the BiPSU Laboratory High School participated in a health symposium titled “Kalinga sa BATAN-ON: HIV/Teenage Pregnancy awareness” at the university sports center, February 26.

The said activity, initiated by the Local Government Unit of Naval through its Municipal Health Office, aimed to provide evidence-based information, counseling services, and support systems to empower the youth in making informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

Presentations detailed the transmission, prevention, and treatment of HIV, emphasizing the importance of safe sexual practices and regular testing. It also dispelled common myths and reduced the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.

Further, sessions also covered the risks and consequences of early pregnancy, highlighting the importance of responsible decision-making and access to reproductive health services.

Moreover, it also tackled solid waste management, exploring the impact of improper waste disposal on public health and the environment.

The said symposium is part of the Munisipyo sa Baranggay School-Based Program initiative of Naval Mayor Hon. Gretchen Stephanie Espina.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his gratitude  to the LGU-Naval for extending their services for the BiPSU students. “We are thankful to the Local Government Unit of Naval for their continuous support and commitment to the welfare of our students,” the university president said. “This symposium is an opportunity for our students to gain essential knowledge that will guide them in making responsible choices for their health and future,” he said.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)  no. 3: Good health and Well-being and no. 4: Quality Education]