Twenty-three new members of Biliran Province State University’s workforce officially took their oath of office during the Onboarding and Re-orientation Ceremony held on October 30 at the university HAVC, pledging their commitment to BiPSU’s “weaving of worthiness” efforts.

Marking their official integration into the BiPSU community, twelve newly hired non-teaching personnel, five teaching personnel, and six promoted employees were formally inducted during the activity.

The whole-day onboarding aimed to orient the new members of BiPSU’s workforce on university policies, their rights and responsibilities, as well as to familiarize them with BiPSU’s core values and strategic goals.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor Cañezo, Jr. encouraged the new staff and faculty members to stay grounded and embody the university's core values.

“Remember that our strength as a university lies in the values we live by every day,” he said. “Be the best version of yourself, not just for your own growth but for the collective success of our community.”

The university president also shared the “four Cs” that university employees should always remember: character, competence, connection, and contribution.

“Invest in your character; always strive for competence by not settling for your Bachelor's degree; always have good connections and relationships; and work to contribute to our community and make your own legacy,” he added.

The onboarding, a mandatory activity for newly hired regular employees, featured several essential discussions designed to acquaint them with Biliran Province State University’s foundational elements. 

These included an overview of BiPSU’s mission, vision, core values, and history, as well as an introduction to the university’s organizational structure and an overview of its offices, units, and schools. Topics also covered the salient features of Republic Act 6713, salary schedules, benefits, deductions, and guidelines on netiquette and social media ethics, among others.

The newly inducted members of Biliran Province State University include teaching personnel Jefry E. Aranzado, Joshua M. Ayade, John Raymund D. Calderon, Tito Amerigo V. Custodio Jr., and Hans Christian V. Molina. 

Moreover, joining the non-teaching workforce are Niña Mae D. Acedillo, Rayna A. Ameril, Maharlika D. Ampong, Aileen A. Barro, Hanna T. Bartolome, Dicklyn G. Cale, Richard P. De Leon II, Chezza D. Dilema, Leonora B. Delotavo, Jennifer P. Gonzales, Madelaine Faye B. Mahinay, Deolipe S. Matugas, Philip John C. Morillo, Meliza A. Plantar, Franz Luigi V. Sabonsolin, Maria Natividad G. Saulan, Junrey Supremo, and Dana Bae E. Kamid.

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In its mission to contribute to the educational and socio-economic development of the community, Biliran Province State University, through its School of Teacher Education (STEd), has entered into formal partnership agreements with Western Biliran High School for the Arts and Culture (WeBHSAC), Villa Consuelo Elementary School, and Libtong Daku Elementary School.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed between BiPSU and the three DepEd schools in Biliran, focus on improving literacy and numeracy education, gender and social development, journalism, research and development, and other educational services.

Ceremonial Signing

The MOU and MOA signing, spearheaded by the School of Teacher Education (STEd), aims to solidify collaboration between BiPSU's STEd and the partner schools in delivering targeted extension services.

Held on October 28 at the OP Convergence Room, the ceremonial signing was attended by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, who signed on behalf of BiPSU, along with School Heads Gretchym A. dela Peña representing Libtong Daku Elementary School,  Dr. Mario V. Jamin of WeBHSAC, and Christiane Polinar of Villa Consuelo Elementary School.

In his message, Dr. Cañezo emphasized that education shouldn’t be confined to the university walls, stressing that supporting partner schools is an investment in broader community progress. 

“This is a chance for us to roll up our sleeves and dive into real challenges together,” the university president said. “It’s a commitment to showing up, learning from each other, and sharing what we each do best.”

The event was also attended by Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Roland A. Niez; STEd Dean Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan; STEd chairpersons; STEd extension office personnel; and faculty members from both STEd and the partner schools.

MOA with Libtong Daku and Villa Consuelo Elementary Schools

According to STEd Extension Services Chairperson Miramar M. Serrion, STEd’s extension projects and activities are designed to be both research-driven and need-based, ensuring they meet the specific needs of beneficiaries and align with the goals of partner schools. “By adhering to Biliran Province State University's mission and vision, we aim to foster sustainable community development through strong, impactful partnerships,” she added.

Under the new MOA, BiPSU, Libtong Daku Elementary School, and Villa Consuelo Elementary School aim to provide students and teachers with support in literacy education, disaster risk management, technology demonstration transfers, skills development, biodiversity conservation, gender and social development, values formation, and leadership training.

The MOA specifies areas of cooperation, including beneficiary identification, tutorial activities, capacity-building training sessions, and continuous evaluation to track progress and ensure effectiveness. 

Libtong Daku Elementary School Head dela Peña expressed her gratitude to BiPSU for selecting their school as one of the beneficiaries of the extension service, pledging close collaboration with the university in implementing the projects. “As a proud recipient, our school is committed to upholding the values and principles of this partnership,” she stated.

This partnership with Libtong Daku and Villa Consuelo Elementary Schools will continue until December 2027, with provisions for renewal or termination upon mutual agreement.

Partnership with WeBHSAC

In addition, BiPSU formalized a partnership with WeBHSAC through the signing of the MOU and MOA, binding both institutions in the implementation of STEd’s project titled “PROGRAM MES-EXCEL: Mathematics, English, and Science - Extension for Community Education and Learning.”

Under this MOU, BiPSU will provide technical expertise in crafting learning resources and ensure the accuracy of data and information within these materials. 

Meanwhile, the MOA details specific partnership terms, including the identification of participants, a series of training workshops on crafting, designing, developing, and evaluating instructional learning materials, and monitoring and evaluating the activities implemented.

WeBHSAC School Head Dr. Jamin expressed honor at being “called and chosen” for BiPSU’s extension program. “For the benefit of our learners, we have to do this,” he said. “As your partner in this project, we pledge to work hand in hand with BiPSU in advancing excellence in education.”

Supported by an approved board resolution, the MOA signing allows BiPSU to enter formal agreements with the partner schools, laying the foundation for a series of educational and community-centered projects that empower teachers, support students, and promote sustainable development within these communities.

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Biliran Province State University continues to capacitate and empower its employees in publishing papers in internationally indexed journals with a recent intensive two-day research mentorship program focused on Scopus publications.

Over 40 researchers from various schools and units participated in the event. The program, held on October 24-25, commenced at the Research Conference Hall on day one and continued at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC) on day two. 

Organized by the Research and Development Office (RDO), it featured Prof. Don Eliseo Lucero Prisno, founder of GHF University Excellence, and Mr. Jericho Ogaya, a distinguished research assistant, as guest mentor.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo highlighted the program’s contribution to elevating BiPSU’s reputation on a global stage. "By equipping our researchers with the tools and knowledge to publish in prestigious international journals, we are making a significant contribution to the advancement of knowledge," Dr. Cañezo stated.

Dr. Cañezo further expressed pride in the program’s success, underscoring its transformative impact on the faculty. “This program is not merely a training initiative; it is a transformative journey that empowers our faculty to become leading voices in their respective fields," he added.

On the first day of the mentorship, participants engaged in a session focused on searching for Scopus-indexed journals for article publication, gaining essential strategies and insights critical to publishing success. The day also included a writeshop and mentoring session to further enhance participants' skills and knowledge.

On the second day, participants submitted their papers to Scopus journals, culminating in an awards and recognition ceremony to mark the program's conclusion for the second batch. It is also noteworthy that the first batch of researchers from various university schools completed a similar mentorship program on September 13-14.

The initiative to conduct a research mentorship program focused on Scopus publication aims to increase the number of internationally published research papers, furthering BiPSU’s mission to advance academic excellence on a global scale.

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Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, dean of the School of Engineering (SOE), has officially been appointed as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Vice President for Administration and Finance at Biliran Province State University, effective October 28, 2024. 

This appointment is made by virtue of Special Order No. 66, s. 2024, and is in accordance with BiPSU Governing Board Resolution No. 95, series of 2024, following the retirement of former Vice President Dr. Rossini Pitao, who concluded her service on October 25 this year.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. made the formal announcement during the flag-raising ceremony held at the BiPSU Gymnasium today, October 28, before the students and employees.

The new VP for Admin and Finance will support the University President with the formulation and implementation of institutional development projects and priorities that align with the university’s vision and legal mandates. He will also supervise the Directors of the Financial Management Office, Administrative Services, Records and Archives, and the Engineering and General Services Office, conducting regular performance appraisals to ensure operational efficiency.

Furthermore, Engr. Pelesco will assist in developing and implementing essential administrative policies, ensure compliance with sustainability requirements for the university’s infrastructure, and evaluate proposals and requests from various offices for the President's approval. He will also recommend purchases and acquisitions necessary for enhancing academic services and provide periodic reports detailing the achievements of key offices.

Moreover, said designation is subject to confirmation during the next regular Governing Board meeting.

Congratulations newly appointed OIC- Vice President Pelesco!

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Biliran Province State University has been officially granted the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for its Bachelor in Industrial Technology (BIndTech) program. Awarded by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Director, Dr. Maximo Aljibe, the COPC was personally received by BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. at the CHEDRO8, Tacloban City, on October 21.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cañezo, alongside Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton and Vice Presidents Dr. Susan S. Bentor, Dr. Roland Niez, Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, and OIC VP for Admin and Finance Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, awarded the COPC to the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) through Dean Dr. Chona Sabinay, chairpersons, and faculty during the Flag Ceremony held today, October 28, at the BiPSU Gymnasium.

The BIndTech program at BiPSU offers several specializations, including Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, Electronic Technology, Apparel and Fashion Technology, Architectural Drafting Technology, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) Technology, and Culinary Technology.

Dr. Chona Sabinay, dean of the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), noted in a statement that the program was revised from a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology (BSIT) to Bachelor in Industrial Technology (BIndTech) by CHED Memorandum Order No. 13, series of 2023.

Dr. Sabinay also shared that STCS is currently in the process of having a consultative meeting with their revised curricula of BSIT specializations, eyeing an implementation of the new curricula by School Year (SY) 2025-2026. 

“We are currently in the process of consulting on our revised BSIT curricula because we need experts in the field to critique our revisions,” she said.

“After that, we will consult with our stakeholders, including students and the community, and eventually present it to the board. We aim to implement the new revised curriculum in the first semester of 2025-2026,” she added.

The COPC certification follows a recent validation visit conducted on October 11 by the CHED Regional Office 8 (CHEDRO-8) team led by Supervising Education Program Specialist Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias, included Education Supervisors Cydric B. Suyom, Narciso S. Candiza, Jane A. Latorre, and Erlita Piñero.

In an interview, Dr. Canezo expressed optimism for the university’s continued progress, stating, “We are now awaiting the result of the COPC for our engineering programs. Once granted, BiPSU will achieve 100% COPC compliance for all undergraduate programs.”

“This achievement is a result of the hard work and dedication of the BiPSU team. I would like to congratulate and acknowledge the efforts of the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) dean, chairperson and faculty, our Vice President for Academic Affairs, our Quality Assurance and Accreditation teams, and all other key officials. Their commitment to ensuring BiPSU maintains its high standards of excellence has brought us closer to our goal of 100% COPC compliance across all programs, ” he added. 

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Biliran Province State University made strides toward its goal of achieving 100% Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for all its academic offerings by submitting eight School of Graduate Studies (SGS) programs for on-site validation on October 23-24. After a thorough two-day evaluation, the validation team shared their findings and offered “doable” recommendations.

The programs under evaluation included the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Management and Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) with specializations in Educational Management, Elementary Teaching, English, Filipino, Mathematics, Science, and Technology and Livelihood Education.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the university's commitment to providing high-quality education that not only meets but strives to exceed Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards. 

“Let's embrace today's validation process as a collaborative journey,” Dr. Cañezo encouraged. “Together, we can identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, all with the goal of enriching our students' learning experiences.”

Despite the impending threat of Typhoon Kristine, the nine-member validation team, comprising representatives from CHED's Central and Regional Offices, traveled to Biliran as scheduled. The team included members of the Technical Panel for Teacher Education: Dr. Allen U. Bautista, Dr. Filomena T. Dayagbil, and Dr. Larry A. Gabao. Accompanying them were Dr. Norla Grace A. Betarmos, Dr. Jenifer A. Gorumba, and Ms. Maria Kripper Valmonte from CHED Regional Office VIII, along with Ms. Ana Cristina T. Biglete, Ms. Maria Katrina Cosico from CHED's Office of Programs and Standards Development, and Education Supervisor II, Jane Arguelles-Latorre.

During the validation process, the team assessed BiPSU’s compliance with CHED Memorandum Order No. 15 s. 2019, which outlines the standards and guidelines for graduate programs in Philippine higher education. The memorandum emphasizes program administration, learning center infrastructure, partnerships, and student advising, all aimed at ensuring quality assurance and institutional alignment. 

Dr. Dayagbil, the validation team leader, affirmed CHED’s role as a developmental partner, committed to supporting BiPSU’s quality education journey. “One of the very beautiful things about quality assurance mechanisms is the fact that we have the ability to journey together,” she remarked.

Throughout the process, each evaluator focused on specific program areas, interviewing program focal persons and reviewing documents. Dr. Gabao oversaw the MAEd-Math and MAEd-Science programs, Dr. Bautista evaluated the MAEd-Filipino, MAEd-Industrial Arts, and MAEd-Elementary Education, while Dr. Dayagbil examined EdD-Educational Management, MAEd-Educational Management, and MAEd-English.

In the exit conference held on October 24, Dr. Dayagbil shared that the recommendations provided by the validation team are "doable" and addressed minor improvements in library resources, research and creative outputs, policy documentation, curriculum structure, and faculty credentials. Education Supervisor Latorre further informed the university that it has one month to fulfill these recommendations, with an option to request an extension if needed.

Expressing optimism, Dr. Cañezo urged the SGS officials and faculty to work collaboratively to meet the compliance requirements by the deadline. “In the past COPC validations, we were victorious, and this is no different,” he said. “I believe we will secure the COPC for our eight graduate programs.”

With seven new COPCs recently awarded to BiPSU's industrial technology programs, the attainment of COPCs for the graduate studies programs will bring the university closer to its goal of near-total COPC compliance for all curricular offerings, officially certifying them as aligned with CHED’s academic standards.

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Edenia Mae B. Verunque, a third year student from the Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAComm), brought honor and pride to Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) after winning second place in the regional category of the COMMunity Campus Caravan Spoken Word Poetry Contest, October 25.

The competition, which was held at the Heritage Hotel, Pasay, Manila, is a national event sponsored by the Presidential Communications Office. It featured various forms of literary and visual arts, which included Spoken Word Poetry, Painting, and Songwriting, attracting participation from universities across the country.

Further, Ms. Verunque was handed down gift cheques worth 75,000 pesos, alongside a plaque and certificate of achievement as recognition for her remarkable victory.

In his message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the university’s commitment to equipping students with the right skills and talents to succeed.

“BiPSU is committed to continually equipping our students with the skills and talents they need to excel, not only academically but also in various competitions such as this,” Dr. Cañezo said.

In an interview, Dr. John Cavin M. Sabonsolin, chairperson of BAComm, expressed pride in Ms. Verunque's recent accomplishment, highlighting it as a notable achievement for the department.

“What Edenia achieved is another achievement for the department to be proud of,” Dr. Sabonsolin stated. “It adds to the testament that Communication students can compete in different competitions as what manifested before.”

“The achievement of our students is also our achievement, as well,” he added. 

Furthermore, Ms. Verunque was accompanied by Ms. Beth Aura S. Napala, an instructor from the Department of Communication, and her parent, Ms. Alicia B. Verunque.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has been recognized as a Local Governance Champion by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office VIII during the Rayhak 2024 awards ceremony held on October 25 at the People’s Center and Library in Tacloban City.

The award, presented by DILG Regional Director Arnel Agabe and Assistant Regional Director Atty. Darwin Bibar, was accepted on behalf of the university by Joedel Peñaranda, BiPSU’s Executive Assistant to the President.

With the theme “Celebrating Good Local Governance,” the event acknowledged the outstanding contributions of local government units and stakeholders in fostering peace and order, combating drug abuse, advancing child welfare, and promoting effective local governance.

BiPSU was honored for its initiatives in community development, capacity building, and strengthening partnerships that enhance local government responsiveness and resilience.

“We are honored to support the DILG’s mission of building resilient and inclusive communities, and we look forward to expanding our efforts to create a more meaningful impact across the region,” said University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.

“This recognition affirms BiPSU’s commitment to serving as a catalyst for positive change, empowering communities through education and innovation.”

The DILG lauded BiPSU for its commitment to strengthening resilient and inclusive communities, advancing knowledge-sharing, supporting capacity development initiatives, and promoting good governance and futures-thinking.

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In a thrilling showcase of wit and athleticism, Mr. Emmanuel V. Sadoguio and Ms. Johanna C. Camarines were officially crowned Mr. and Ms. Laboratory High School (LHS) Intramurals 2024 during the coronation night held on October 21 at the University Gymnasium.

Sadoguio of Mondstadt and Camarines of Sumeru captivated both the audience and judges with their charisma and outstanding performances, ultimately securing these coveted titles for their teams and besting 14 other candidates.

This year’s pageant introduced a fresh approach with a range of categories—including production number, school uniform, sportswear, and team jersey attire—marking a departure from previous years when the event was known as Mr. and Ms. BiPSU-LHS.

Following her victory, Ms. Camarines expressed her surprise and gratitude. “I wasn’t aiming to win the crown, to be honest, since it was my first time participating in a pageant, so I didn’t expect too much,” she shared. “What mattered most was enjoying the journey and creating memories while preparing for the LHS Intramurals.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Sadoguio, who also took home awards for Best in School Uniform, Mr. Curacha, and Mr. RCA’s award, highlighted the importance of teamwork and support from his peers.

“Winning these titles means so much to me, but it’s really about the collective spirit we fostered as a team,” he said. “Together we supported each other every step of the way, and I’m grateful to have shared this journey with such talented individuals.”

Meanwhile, Nick Adriane T. Arcabado from Sumeru and Ysania Mackenzei B. Duterte of Inazuma claimed the 1st runner-up titles. Mr. Arcabado was awarded Best in Team Jersey Attire, Best in Production, and the Mr. Nails and Beauty Lounge award, while Ms. Duterte received awards for Best in Team Jersey Attire, Best in Production Number, and Ms. RCA’s minor awards.

Coming in as 2nd runners-up were Khen Lester M. Daños from Team Liyue and Krisha Mae S. Culaway from Team Mondstadt. Mr. Daños earned the titles of Best in Sports Attire and Mr. Photogenic, while Ms. Culaway was recognized with awards for Best in School Uniform, Ms. Curacha, Ms. Photogenic, Ms. Nails and Beauty Lounge, and Ms. Printfinity.

Moreover, Jhon Gebriel C. Baco and Mary Venice A. Caneja, both from Team Mondstadt, rounded out the top ranks as 3rd runners-up. Mr. Baco received the Mr. Printfinity award, and Ms. Caneja was honored with the Ms. Jusas award.

Additional awardees included Ms. Xyrell Javines from Team Liyue, who received Best in Sportswear, and Mr. Frank Eurri Garrido of Sumeru, who was awarded Mr. Jusas.

In this year’s intramurals, LHS students and faculty members were grouped into four teams: Mondstadt, Sumeru, Liyue, and Inazuma.

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In another stride toward expanding its internationalization goals, Biliran Province State University recently hosted Dr. Robert Kemerait, an expert in Plant Pathology and Agricultural Extension from the University of Georgia (UGA). 

Dr. Kemarait visited BiPSU from October 21-24, engaging with university officials, faculty, students, and local farmers to explore potential collaborations aimed at enhancing educational and academic exchanges between the two institutions.

The visit marked the first formal engagement between UGA and BiPSU. Dr. Kemerait's expertise in agricultural studies opened avenues for BiPSU's School of Agri-Fisheries to tap into international networks for its programs.

During a courtesy call to BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, which outlined the foundation for a possible academic partnership between the two universities. Dr. Kemarait will bring the signed MOA back to UGA, where he will present the case for collaboration and discuss the mutual benefits for both institutions.

With the MOU, both parties will make reasonable efforts to encourage direct contact and research cooperation between their faculty members, department, and research and extension institutes. Specifically, the partnership would enable both universities to conduct joint conferences, extension, and research activities; exchange of academic materials and academic publications, faculty members, and students; and capacity building programs.

In his message, Dr. Cañezo underscored the significance of the potential collaboration, emphasizing that it aligns with the university’s goal of providing students with a world-class education.

“We are constantly seeking ways to improve our programs and offer our students exposure to international expertise,” Dr. Cañezo said. “This partnership will open doors not just for academic growth, but also for future research and exchange opportunities.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Kemerait praised BiPSU’s leadership under Dr. Cañezo and commended the university for its forward-thinking approach, specifically in tapping other institutions to partner for the improvement of its services. 

“I’m grateful for your leadership and for this opportunity and I think it reflects extremely well in your faculty,” the UGA professor said. “If you have the faculty who facilitate and have the vision for potential collaboration, it makes all the difference.”

He highlighted the mutual benefits of the shared research, faculty exchanges, and joint projects that could emerge from a formal partnership.

Dr. Kemerait also revealed that if the partnership will push through, BiPSU will be the fourth institution in the country to have collaboration with the AGU, along with three universities in Northern Luzon.

The University of Georgia, founded in 1785, is a public research university and the state's flagship institution. Located in Athens, Georgia, UGA offers over 170 degree programs through its 18 schools and colleges. UGA is ranked among the top 20 public universities in the US and is known for strong programs in business, engineering, veterinary medicine, and public health.

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[The article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No: 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).]