UMIO News

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU)-Biliran Campus has forged a groundbreaking partnership with EMIR Mineral Resources Corporation (EMRC) to advance sustainable forestry, responsible mining, and student success. This collaboration, weaving academic excellence with industry innovation, is a significant step toward producing globally competent graduates and fostering community-driven sustainable development.

On May 22, 2025, five BS Forestry students—Dianne Christel Aradillos, Marvin P. Calarion, Mariale E. Malinao, Lovely A. Martinito, and Rose Ann J. Sillar—embarked on a 22-day (176-hour) On-the-Job Training (OJT) program at EMRC’s operations in Homonhon Island, Eastern Samar. Concluding on June 16, 2025, the program adhered to CHED Memorandum Order No. 104, s. 2017, offering intensive, hands-on exposure to mining operations, including weekends and holidays to mirror real-world industry demands.

Formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), this partnership reflects BiPSU’s mission, led by University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, to drive transformative learning and regional progress. Key contributors from BiPSU included Dr. Randy A. Villarin (Dean of SABFORM), For. Melanie P. Moncada (Chairperson), Dr. Mario C. Nierra (External Affairs OJT Coordinator), For. Florante T. Sabejon (OJT Program Coordinator), and faculty members Dr. Ruffy Rodrigo, For. Apple Cyrriel R. Labides, Biologist Ofelia M. Moreno, Engr. Rommel Quinte, For. Neña Rose A. Corpin, and Agriculturist Neo Kenneth P. Moncada. Their efforts ensured robust support for the student-interns.

EMRC’s team, led by Engr. Eduardo R. Garcia, Jr. (OIC Resident Manager), included Engr. Angelito V. Gomez (Project Manager), For. Erika Loren C. Dulfo (Pollution Control Officer), For. Jing Omoso (Company Forester), Engr. Edward L. Padulaga (Safety Engineer), Gerlie O. Binabise (Community Relations Officer), and John Vic C. Tagoc (Head, Assay Laboratory). Together, they provided practical training in field operations, site rehabilitation, and biodiversity conservation.

A Strategic Alliance for Learning and Impact

Beyond fulfilling academic requirements, this partnership aligns with the Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) and sustainability goals of EMRC, as mandated by the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942). Students gained critical insights into responsible mining, environmental monitoring, and community engagement. The collaboration also extends to research, with student theses focusing on tree growth in rehabilitated mine sites and biodiversity monitoring, contributing to ecological restoration and community development.

A Vision for a Sustainable Future

BiPSU extends heartfelt gratitude to EMRC for their support and dedication. This collaboration highlights the critical role of foresters in conserving biodiversity, restoring ecosystems, and advancing responsible mining practices, paving the way for a greener, brighter future.  #WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 15: Life on Land.]

Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, President of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), expressed profound gratitude and inspiration after attending the National Network of Quality Assurance Agencies (NNQAA) Gala Night and Thanksgiving Dinner. The event held on July 08, 2025, celebrated Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), for her unwavering dedication to quality and inclusive education.

In a heartfelt statement, Prof. Cañezo shared, “Truly honored to have joined the NNQAA Gala Night and Thanksgiving Dinner in celebration of our very own CHED Chairperson, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis — a woman I deeply admire for her passion and commitment to quality and inclusive education.” He highlighted the significance of being surrounded by fellow university presidents, educators, and respected colleagues, noting that the evening reinforced their collective mission to serve with excellence and integrity while transforming education.

The gala provided a platform for meaningful conversations and warm reunions, fostering a sense of unity among education leaders. Prof. Cañezo described the event as “definitely one for the books,” underscoring its impact on his commitment to advancing BiPSU’s role in weaving transformative education.

The NNQAA Gala Night not only honored Dr. Agrupis’ contributions but also served as a reminder of the shared vision among Philippine higher education institutions to uphold quality and accessibility in education.

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) President, Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, recently visited the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Office in Quezon City, weaving strategic initiatives to advance the university's growth and progress.

President Cañezo's visit, which took place on July 8, 2025, focused on following up on BiPSU's Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) applications for the Graduate School Programs and the four (4) remaining undergraduate degree programs. This crucial step ensures that these academic programs meet national standards, further solidifying the university's commitment to quality education across all levels. 

In addition to the COPC follow-up, the President explored potential opportunities under the Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF). The HEDF is a key government initiative aimed at supporting the development and improvement of higher education institutions in the Philippines. Accessing these funds could significantly enhance BiPSU's facilities, programs, and research capabilities.

President Cañezo was accompanied by Executive Assistant Mr. Joedel Peñaranda and Director for the Institutional Planning Office, Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera. Their presence underscores a unified effort from the BiPSU administration to champion the university's advancement.

In a statement following the visit, President Cañezo emphasized, "Every move is for a stronger, more progressive BiPSU!" He concluded with an enthusiastic shout-out, "Para sa #WoWBiPSU!" This sentiment reflects the university's dedication to continuous improvement and its vision for becoming a leading educational institution in the region.

The proactive engagement of BiPSU's leadership with national education bodies like CHED is a testament to the university's commitment to providing excellent academic programs and securing resources for future development.

#WoWBiPSU

 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education, and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

As the new academic year approaches, the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) University Learning Resource Center is abuzz with excitement, announcing a significant update to its collection. A fresh batch of newly acquired journals and magazines, alongside valuable publications from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is now available, promising to enrich the learning and research experience for students, faculty, and researchers alike. These resources are crucial for weaving together new insights and fostering a vibrant academic environment.

The new arrivals cover a broad spectrum of disciplines, from legal and educational insights to advancements in science, technology, and engineering. Highlights of the recent acquisitions include:

  • Ateneo Law Journal (Volume 67, Number 4, May 2023): This issue delves into critical topics such as legal ethics, professional responsibility, democratic processes, social justice, and the Mental Health Act.
  • HPAC Engineering (January/February 2024): Readers can explore highlights from the AHR EXPO 2025, along with the latest innovations in HVAC, piping, and heating technologies.
  • American Journal of Education: Several recent volumes have been added, including:
    • Vol. 130 No. 2 (February 2024), which discusses racial activism in STEM, student discipline, and teacher unions.
    • Vol. 130 No. 3 (May 2024), focusing on hiring diversity, pandemic-era teaching, and school leadership.
    • Vol. 130 No. 4 (August 2024), covering science education, leadership models, and support for immigrant students.
    • Vol. 131 No. 1 (November 2024), exploring youth involvement in school decisions, dual language programs, and STEM outcomes.
  • American Scientist (May–June 2024): This edition features articles on satellite tracking, generative AI, environmental inequality, and the urinary microbiome.
  • Popular Mechanics: New issues include:
    • Nov/Dec 2024, with topics on hidden treasure and mysterious codes.
    • Jan/Feb 2025, exploring rethinking volcanoes.
    • Mar/Apr 2025, posing questions about ancient Greek "supercomputers."
  • EC&M (Electrical Construction & Maintenance) (March 2025): This issue offers practical advice on multimeter tips, voltage troubleshooting, safety training, and NEC guidelines.

In a significant boost to its resources, the BiPSU University Learning Resource Center also received a generous donation of journals and publications from the DOST, specifically from the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD). These valuable additions include:

  • The PCAARRD Monitor, Vol. 9 No. 1 (January–June 2024): This issue focuses on cultivating an empowered R&D network through capability building initiatives.
  • The PCAARRD CorPlan 2023–2028: Outlining strategic plans for the coming years.
  • 2023 PCAARRD Annual Report: Titled "Honoring People and Partnerships in AANR Innovations," it highlights achievements and collaborations.
  • The PCAARRD Monitor, Vol. 8 No. 2 (July–December 2023): Also focused on honoring people and partnerships in AANR innovation.

The BiPSU University Learning Resource Center expressed sincere gratitude to DOST and PCAARRD for their continued support, which significantly enriches the center’s collection and directly benefits the academic community's learning and research endeavors.

Students, faculty, and researchers are encouraged to visit the BiPSU University Learning Resource Center to explore these exciting new resources as the new academic year commences. #WoWBiPSU

 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 4: Quality Education, No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) School of Teacher Education recently wrapped up a three-day training program focused on improving the integration of global and national themes into the programs and curricula of STED. The event, titled "Gender-Responsive and Development-Oriented Training on Global and National Cross-Cutting Themes, Enhanced K-12 Curriculum, and Cooperating Teacher Roles," took place on July 1, 3, and 4, 2025.

This training is an important part of the university's Faculty EMpowerment (Educational Mentoring) Program. It aims to prepare educators for the upcoming Academic Year 2025 to 2026. Faculty members with college-level teaching loads and Laboratory High School Instructors participated in the training.

The final day, held on July 4th at the Hyflex Audio Visual Center (HAVC), included several insightful sessions.

A key part of the morning was the in-depth training on "Integrating Global and National Cross-Cutting Themes into the Programs and Curricula of the School of Teacher Education." This session was led by Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, College President of the City College of Cagayan de Oro and a regular member of the Teacher Education Council appointed by the President of the Philippines. He offered educators useful frameworks and strategies to improve their teaching methods.

In the afternoon, a seminar called "Gender-Sensitive Roles of LHS Faculty as Cooperating Teachers" took place. Dr. Elizabeth M. Quimbo, a former LNU-ILS Supervisor, led this important discussion. She focused on the critical roles educators play in creating a gender-sensitive learning environment for future teachers.

The event highlighted #WoWBiPSU's commitment to ongoing professional development and its dedication to meeting national standards and global best practices. This ensures that faculty members continue to foster innovative and inclusive education to guide the next generation of educators. By empowering these weavers of knowledge, #WoWBiPSU strengthens its mission to provide quality and relevant instruction.

 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 4: Quality Education, No. 5: Gender Equality, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) successfully hosted its "Opening-of-Service Activities and Campus Convergence Forum" for Academic Year 2025-2026 on July 7, 2025, at the BiPSU Gymnasium. The event served as a unifying platform for the entire BiPSU community, bringing together faculty, staff, and administrators to set the tone for the new academic year.

The day commenced with a robust set of preliminaries designed to foster camaraderie and shared purpose. The core of the event, the "Convergence Proper," facilitated an open dialogue and strategic alignment across various university units. This segment began with introductions of respective schools and administrative units, complete with their unique taglines and enthusiastic yells. A formal determination of quorum ensured full participation.

A key highlight was the "3 As" session, focusing on Awareness, Accomplishments, and Actions. This involved presentations and discussions from the University Vice Presidents.

The forum also provided a platform for employees' concerns, with dedicated segments for the Faculty Association and the Administrative Personnel Association to voice their insights and suggestions.

Following these comprehensive discussions, an "Open Forum" allowed for broader participation and the addressing of general concerns. The event concluded with the  "President's Hour," where University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. shared vision and direction for the upcoming year.

The "Opening-of-Service Activities and Campus Convergence Forum" successfully laid the groundwork for a productive and collaborative Academic Year 2025-2026 at Biliran Province State University, reinforcing the institution's commitment to weaving together quality education, research, and community service.

#WoWBiPSU

 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 4: Quality Education, and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) is ushering in the new semester with a firm directive: "Day 1 is Lesson 1." This core component of Memorandum Order No. 91, s. 2025, signed by President Victor C. Cáñezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, ensures that formal instruction begins immediately on the very first day of classes, starting July 14, 2025.

The protocol, applicable across all BiPSU campuses, emphasizes a focused and streamlined academic start. It explicitly states that every instructor must initiate formal teaching during their inaugural class meeting. This foundational lesson is not to be a mere introduction but a substantive session, directly anchoring the course content to BiPSU’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values.

To ensure compliance and integrate the university’s ethos into the academic experience from the outset, this initial lesson must be clearly documented within the course syllabus. This requirement aims to seamlessly weave BiPSU's guiding principles into the fabric of daily instruction.

The "Day 1 is Lesson 1" policy is part of a broader set of academic protocols for the first two weeks of the semester, which are exclusively reserved for classroom instruction. During this critical period, no faculty travel will be permitted, and student activities or other non-instructional events are prohibited from interrupting class hours, with limited exceptions for essential engagements on Wednesdays with prior clearance.

Deans are tasked with the crucial role of monitoring adherence to these new directives and are required to submit a consolidated compliance report to the Office of the University President shortly after the two-week period concludes.

This strict adherence to the "Day 1 is Lesson 1" principle underscores BiPSU's commitment to maintaining an academically focused environment and setting a strong foundation for the upcoming semester.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) - Naval Campus will introduce a new clustered class schedule for the first semester of the Academic Year 2025–2026, commencing on July 14, 2025. The move, mandated by Memorandum Order No. 89, s. 2025, aims to optimize the use of campus resources, improve facility utilization, and enhance the overall learning experience for students.

Under the scheme, several schools will be grouped into morning and afternoon academic sessions.

The morning shift will be dedicated to the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), and the School of Engineering (SOE). According to the announcement, this schedule is intended to "create an optimal learning environment, leveraging the earlier part of the day when students are typically more alert and engaged."

Meanwhile, the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), the School of Teacher Education (STEd), and the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) will hold their classes during the afternoon shift. This arrangement is expected to ensure the efficient use of campus facilities throughout the day.

An exception to this schedule is the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS). Due to the nature of its specialized curriculum and the need for extensive practical training, the SNHS will maintain a full on-site class setup.

The university administration advises all students to monitor announcements from their respective schools for detailed class schedules and any further instructions related to the new system.

#WoWBiPSU

 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education.]

he Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) delegation has brought home a string of medals and accolades from the prestigious Philippine Summerball International Dance Festival 2025, held at the Boracay New Coast Convention Center on June 29. The university's dancers showcased exceptional talent and grace, earning recognition in multiple categories.

The BiPSU team, led by Delegation Head Kevin C. Tanguihan, demonstrated their prowess on the dance floor under the expert guidance of Coach Laarni C. Velez and trainers Ivan Kent Taboada and Julie Anne Mercado.

Standard Category 

The standout pair, Alexis Adrienne Agner and Crysthal Shaira Calvez, garnered significant honors in the Standard category with the following achievements:

Grade E Waltz: Bronze Medalist

Grade E Tango: Silver Medalist

Grade E Quickstep: Gold Medalist

Novice Standard: 5th Placer (Finalist)

Pre-Amateur Standard: 6th Placer (Finalist)

University Open Standard: 7th Placer (Finalist)

 

Teacher-Student Category

Alexis Adrienne Agner, partnering with Julie Anne M. Mercado, achieved remarkable success in the Teacher-Student categories:

Teacher Student 1D Standard: Silver Medalist

Teacher Student 1C Standard: Gold Medalist

Teacher Student 1A Standard: Silver Medalist

Amateur Standard: 6th Placer (Finalist)

 

Latin Category

The partnership of Ronie Abad and Samantha Blythe Alcala made their mark in the Latin categories with the following results:

Grade E Cha-cha-cha: 6th Placer

Grade E Rumba: 5th Placer

Grade E Jive: 4th Placer

University Open Latin: Semi-Finalist

Novice Latin: Semi-Finalist

Pre-Amateur Latin: Semi-Finalist

 

The outstanding achievements of the #WoWBiPSU delegation at this international event weave a tapestry of excellence in arts and culture, bringing honor to the province of Bili ran on a national stage.

 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 3: Good Health and Well-being and No. 4: Quality Education.[

 

In a strategic move to align with civil service regulations and elevate its human resource management, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) conducted a dynamic Training Workshop on Competency-Based Recruitment, Selection, and Placement (CBHRSP) with Omnibus Rules on Appointments and Other Human Resource Actions (ORA-OHRA) on June 25-26 at the Hyflex Audio-Visual Center.

The workshop brought together key university officials from Naval and Biliran campuses, including University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Vice President for Administration and Finance Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, Chief Administrative Officer for Administration Dr. Concepcion M. Gayrama, Supervising Administrative Officer for Administration Dr. Reggie N. Nierra, HRMO III Ms. Arrah Mae B. Tambis and several unit heads, the two-day seminar aims to enhance the workforce’s understanding of the integration between competency-based practices and regulatory frameworks in recruitment and HR management.

Framing the sessions is Dir. Michael M. Dela Cruz, Director of Civil Service Commission (CSC) Biliran Field Office, with discussions on aligning human resource practices with national standards.

A workplace like a garden, BiPSU is not just making sure the plants survive, but is helping them thrive. It ensures not just sustenance but the flourishing of its workforce, rooting development in compliance and innovation.

Prof. Cañezo emphasized the urgency and relevance of strengthening the university’s human resource systems. “This training workshop comes at a time when BiPSU is facing both opportunity and responsibility,” he delivered in a message. “Our enrollment is rising, our research output is growing, our public image is stronger than ever, but with growth comes greater scrutiny.”

At the outset, participants were introduced to CBHRSP and the Omnibus Rules on Appointments, imparting insights into competency-based approaches and their advantages for effective recruitment and selection.

Moreover, a panel discussion on best practices and compliance strategies were conducted, offering practical insights into the implementation of competency-based HR systems within the higher education sector.

To guide the university’s HR transformation, President Cañezo invoked the START framework—Situation, Task, Action, Result, Transfer—as a roadmap for improving recruitment systems.

“Every appointment we make now has long-term effects on instruction, research, extension, and even institutional reputation,” he added.

During the second day, participants gained insights on structuring competency-based interviews in line with regulatory requirements, using aligned tools and techniques in assessing candidates, which they have applied in a group exercise on developing job descriptions and selection criteria. 

The session also allowed participants to raise real-world concerns and challenges related to HR compliance.

Dir. Dela Cruz provided participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical tools to enhance BiPSU’s recruitment and selection processes. 

BiPSU’s proactive approach to human resource management has earned it notable accolades, including the Civil Service Commission’s PRIME-HRM Maturity Level II award in all four core HR systems. This recognition underscores the university’s dedication to creating an enabling environment where faculty and staff can thrive.

Through initiatives like this, BiPSU continues to cultivate a professional, dynamic, and regulation-aligned human resource culture, reinforcing its identity as a beacon of growth for learners and leaders alike.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals SDG No. 4: Quality Education and No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.] 

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