Biliran Province State University, through the Department of Agribusiness Management of the School of Agribusiness and Forest Resource Management (SAbFoRM), presented a groundbreaking study on the current landscape of rice-based food products in Biliran Province.

BiPSU Innovation Office Director and Department of Agri-Business Management Chair, Associate Professor Jeruel A. Espinazo led the presentation of the results of their study titled “Mapping the Landscape of Rice-Based Food Products in Biliran Province: An In-depth Inventory and Profiling” during the MAs, AEWs, and Corn Stakeholders Meeting at Biliran Provincial Capitol Compound, Naval, Biliran on February 25. The said meeting was attended by provincial government officials, agricultural sector representatives, and other key stakeholders.

The study, conducted in partnership with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), aimed to document, analyze, and provide a comprehensive overview of rice-based food products in the province. It highlighted the vital role of this industry in local food security, economic development, and cultural heritage.

Alarming findings on production decline and economic impact

During his presentation, Assoc. Prof. Espinazo, the study leader, revealed that out of 405 producers surveyed, 40% had already ceased production, and of the 332 still operating, a significant portion are aged 56 to 83. This aging demographic signals a potential decline in the industry within the next decade. 

According to Assoc. Prof. Espinazo, the study cautioned that if the decline in production persists, it could reduce economic activity in the province, impacting livelihoods and local businesses dependent on the industry. The aging workforce could lead to an estimated loss of ₱37 million in circulating revenue in the coming years if the trend is not reversed.

“Right now, these producers collectively generate P37-million in revenue,” he said. “If production continues to decline, Biliran will lose that amount from circulation – a massive blow to our local economy.”

The study also emphasized that the disappearance of specific rice varieties used in producing traditional food products could further aggravate the situation. Assoc. Prof. Espinazo emphasized that these varieties are essential not only for local livelihoods but also for preserving Biliran's cultural heritage, as some products are unique to the province.

Preserving rice varieties and heritage

In his presentation, the study leader outlined three strategic measures to address the challenges identified in the study. 

According to him, there is a need to identify and conserve essential rice varieties. “We must work with local farmers and producers of rice-based food products to pinpoint which specific rice varieties are being used for these rice-based food products,” he said. “Once we have a clear list, we can take steps to protect and sustain their production.”

Assoc. Prof. Espinazo also proposed establishing seed banks and community-managed seed production programs. He noted that preventing scarcity from threatening production may start by ensuring that identified rice varieties are readily available to farmers.

Moreover, the study leader also suggested incentivizing farmers to keep growing the identified rice varieties. “Many farmers shift to commercial rice varieties for higher yields, but if we provide incentives, subsidies, or technical support, we can encourage them to maintain the traditional varieties essential for rice-based food products,” he said.

A call to action

Assoc. Prof. Jeruel Espinazo urged government officials and stakeholders to take decisive steps in addressing the challenges faced by the rice-based food production industry in Biliran Province. He emphasized the importance of immediate intervention to prevent further decline in production, which could lead to significant economic losses and the erosion of cultural heritage.  

“Imagine a future where these traditional rice varieties are not just preserved – but thrive,” he mentioned. “Where our local rice-based food products are not only sustained but become a key part of our province’s identity and economy.”

Members of the research team including Christian Ulysses G. Cagasan. Constantino II P. Lazona, Dianne M. Dalin-as. Novie A. Sales, Divina L. Villaber, Judife N. Magallanes were also present 

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production]

Three first-year students of Biliran Province State University brought home awards during the recently concluded 35th Provincial Civil Registration Quiz-College Category at Zero Place, Atipolo, Naval Biliran on February 24.

John Cefas G. Cruz, a Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) student from the School of Teacher Education (STEd) Biliran Campus was hailed champion.

Meanwhile, Jemieca R. Talaña, a mechanical engineering student from the School of Engineering (SOE) and Christopher Flores, a Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Mathematics (BSEd-Math) student from the STEd Main Campus, earned the second and third place, respectively.

Winners received plaques, tokens, and Certificate of Recognition, while none-winners received tokens and Certificate of Participation.

Said quiz bee is an annual event organized by the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA) of Biliran’s Provincial Statistical Office.

Congratulations, BiPSUnistas!

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) no. 4: Quality Education]

Biliran Province State University has entered into a strategic partnership with Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) to enhance its human resource management operations.  

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was formally signed on February 21 at DSSC in Davao del Sur, with BiPSU President Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo, Jr. and DSSC President Dr. Augie E. Fuentes leading the ceremony.  

Representing BiPSU were Dr. Concepcion M. Gayrama, chief administrative officer; Paul Matthew S. Bentor, information and communication technology officer; Dr. Reynold G. Bustillo, chair of the BS in Computer Science; and Aramae Bernal, human resource management officer. 

Meanwhile, DSSC was represented by Dr. Luciano D. Nasibog, Jr., vice president for Administration and Finance, and ICT Center Director, Dr. Felomino Alba.  

This partnership marks a significant step in BiPSU’s commitment to modernizing its HR practices. 

In his message, Dr. Cañezo expressed his optimism of what the partnership would bring to the university. "This collaboration signifies our continuous pursuit of excellence in human resource management,” the university president said. “By working closely with DSSC, we aim to elevate our HR operations and set new standards for administrative efficiency."  

In addition to the signing ceremony, Dr. Cañezo also served as one of the guests of honor at the DSSC Founding Anniversary celebration, held on the same day.

#WoWBiPSU

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]

The Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education (BTLEd) major in Home Economics program made another step towards elevating its AACCUP Level status after undergoing an online accreditation survey visit by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) from February 17 to 21.

Currently holding a Level I accreditation, the BTLEd program aims to achieve Level II reaccredited status, which will enhance its educational quality and pave the way for higher accreditation levels.

AACCUP is a national accreditation body that evaluates the quality of academic programs offered by State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). Its accreditation process ensures that higher education institutions meet established standards in curriculum, faculty qualifications, research, facilities, and student services.

The AACCUP accreditation team for the BTLEd program was led by Dr. Nel Bryan C. Tugelida from Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, with Dr. Rizza S. Gumbao from Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Prof. Roberto Rodel R. Gonzalez from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology serving as team members.

During the exit conference held on February 21 via Zoom, Quality Assurance and Accreditation (QAA) Director Dr. Carlito Cabas, Jr. highlighted that the accreditation process not only aims to enhance the BTLEd program but also contributes to the overall improvement of the university’s systems and educational standards.

He explained that the BTLEd program’s accreditation is crucial in ensuring that the Master of Education (MAEd) major in TLE remains compliant with the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) requirements set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Without achieving the required accreditation level, the MAEd-TLE program may face temporary shelving, putting its implementation on hold.

“The accreditation results of the BTLEd program will greatly impact the eligibility requirements for our MAEd-TLE COPC,” Dr. Cabas said. “We aim to achieve Level II reaccredited status, enabling us to promptly submit the program for Level III accreditation within the 3rd or 4th quarter of this year to meet CHED's reglementary period for the MAEd-TLE.”

Meanwhile, Team Leader Dr. Tugelida shared their observations from the week-long accreditation, particularly in the areas of faculty qualifications, student support, library resources, research initiatives, and extension services. He noted that the evaluation involved document assessment, classroom observation, interviews, and a virtual tour of facilities.

“We witnessed the passion and effort you invested in ensuring the excellence of your program,” Dr. Tugelida said. “Your positive response to our requests demonstrates your strong potential for success in future evaluations.”

BiPSU is now awaiting the accreditation results, which will be released by the AACCUP central office.

Meanwhile, in his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized that accreditation is not merely procedural but a reaffirmation of BiPSU’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and community service. “Moving forward, I am committed to transforming the feedback and findings from this visit into concrete actions that will benefit our students, our programs, and our shared futures,” Dr. Cañezo said.

According to the QAA Office, as of 2024, BiPSU has attained 100% AACCUP accreditation, with 33 academic programs from both the Naval and Biliran campuses undergoing rigorous evaluation. Of these, 13 programs have achieved Level III status, 14 are under Level II, and six programs, including the BTLEd, currently hold Level I status.

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

As part of the university’s continuous efforts to advance research as a core pillar of academic excellence, Biliran Province State University, through its Research and Development Office (RDO), conducted an in-house research review for the faculty members of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) on February 13 at the Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES) Office.

The review aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of ten participating nursing faculty members while gathering insights and suggestions to improve the quality and direction of their research endeavors.

Sheilomay Apacible Majait, Research Chairperson of SNHS, underscored the importance of in-house reviews, particularly in the field of medical and health sciences. “Reviewing research proposals through in-house evaluations is a crucial step in ensuring that studies are well-structured, valid, and ethically sound,” she explained. “This is especially important since many of our respondents are patients, whether in hospitals or rural health units (RHUs).”

The session featured two panelists: Dr. Don Eliseo Prisno III, founder of Global Health Focus (GHF) University Excellence, and Jerico Bautista Ogaya, GHF Program Manager. The SNHS faculty members presented their research proposals, receiving constructive feedback and expert recommendations.

Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, dean of SNHS, emphasized the significance of in-house reviews in assessing the reliability and validity of research studies. “This activity enhances the learning and skills of our faculty as research advisers and educators by providing essential insights based on the expert panelists’ feedback,” Dr. Saniel stated.

The event was also attended by university officials, including Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, and Dr. Pearl Irish V. De Paz, director of the Research and Development Office.

#WoWBiPSU

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4: Quality Education and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) was awarded the Best PEIS User Award 2024 by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 8, recognizing its outstanding performance in utilizing the Public Employment Information System (PEIS). 

PEIS, a system designed to provide labor market information, job opportunities, and other employment-related services, plays a crucial role in helping job seekers and employers connect more efficiently.

 BiPSU's effective use of this system has greatly contributed to increasing the employability of its students and improving their transition into the workforce.

The award was presented to Dr. Miguel Supremo, head of the Job Placement Office (JPO), during the Public Employment Service Office (PESO)  Year-End Performance Assessment Regional Congress held at Fans Hotel, Pawing, Palo, Leyte on February 20. 

In his statement, Dr. Supremo dedicated the recognition to all BiPSUnistas, "This award is a result of our collective efforts. We are committed to supporting both our students and the local labor market, and this honor motivates us more to continue improving our services and strengthening our partnerships with industries."

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. also expressed his pride in the achievement, noting, "This award highlights the university's ongoing commitment to enhancing the employability rate of our students. We are extremely proud of our Job Placement Office for providing students with the support, and opportunities to secure careers."

"By strengthening our connection with industry partners and continually improving our career services, we are actively boosting the employability of our students and contributing to both the local and national labor markets," added Dr. Cañezo.

Notably, this marks the third time BiPSU has received the Best PEIS User Award from DOLE since 2022.

#WoWBiPSU

In an effort to enhance the university's research productivity and influence, BiPSU, through its Research and Development Office (RDO), conducted an In-House Review for the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) faculty on February 19 at the University Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

The session, attended by SAS faculty members, aimed to evaluate the current state of research within the school, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and develop strategies to elevate BiPSU’s research reputation both locally and internationally.

Additionally, the review provided an opportunity to assess the adequacy of research facilities, funding, and support systems, while discussing opportunities for enhancing research skills and interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring alignment with national and international standards.

In her rationale of the event, Ma. Grace Sañosa-Docallos, research chairperson of School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), highlighted the importance of the in-house research review in shaping the future of BiPSU’s research program.

“This in-house research review is not just an optional add-on, but an essential cornerstone of responsible and effective research,” she said. 

Meanwhile, the session featured two distinguished external panelists: Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana, president of Abuyog Community College, and Dr. Ariel B. Lunzaga, faculty regent at Leyte Normal University.

Following their insights, the event proceeded with the presentation of papers from faculty members  of BA Economics, BA Communication, and BS Business Administration which was followed by the presentation of proposals from the same programs. 

During the event, Dr. Christopher R. Vicera, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, noted that the gathering provides a chance to assess work and collaborate on progress.

“In this gathering, we have the chance to evaluate our work, collaborate on important progress, and I would like to sincerely thank the experts for sharing their knowledge and insights with us.” he said. 

Moreover, the in-house research review will continue until March, with sessions scheduled for the remaining schools across the university to further assess and enhance their research efforts.

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

Dotting the month-long Hulma Kultura: School-based Culture and the Arts activities, BiPSU, through the Cultural Affairs Development Unit (CADU), headed by the Office Director Kevin Tanguihan, organized a Dance Competition at the university gymnasium on February 19.

Said event served as a preparation for the upcoming Regional Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Culture and the Arts Festival on September 16-19, at the Palompon Institute of Technology Main Campus, Palompon Leyte.

In his welcome message, University President Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo, Jr., explained the significance of venturing out on such activities.

“If we excel in sports, we can also be championed in Regional PASUC Culture and the Arts Festival,” Dr. Cañezo.

The event featured performances in Folk Dance, Indigenous Dance, Street Dance/Hip-Hop, and Contemporary Dance. 

In the Folk Dance category, the School of Teacher Education (STEd) emerged as the champion. The School of Technology and Sciences (STCS) secured second place, while the School of Management and Economics (SME) took third.

Meanwhile, the Indigenous Dance category saw STCS rise to the top and hailed as champion, while STEd followed closely behind, earning second place, and the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) clinched third.

For the high-energy Street Dance/HipHop category, STCS once again claimed the championship title, after demonstrating their mastery of modern dance styles. SME and the School of Engineering (SOE) earned second and third place, respectively.

Further, Contemporary Dance, showcased the fluidity and artistry of STED, who took home their second championship of the day. SME delivered another strong performance, placing second, and STCS securing third place.

Notably, the university held a four-day dance workshop convening 170 dancers across the schools of the university at the same venue on February 15-18.

Negros Oriental State University (NorSU) Cultural Affairs Director Dr. Carlou G.Bernaldez, who served as a resource speaker of the said workshop and chair of the board of judges, expressed his satisfaction after the performances. He proudly confirmed that the workshop’s goals had been successfully met.

“The objective is to produce more choreographers from BiPSU and indeed, it was achieved,” Dr. Bernaldez said. 

The Cultural director of NorSU also shared that their team will be back at BiPSU to prepare the delegation for all dance genres and to select dancers based on the standard criteria through audition and screenings.

Notable attendees include University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., VP for Student and External Affairs Dr. Erwin S. Salvatierra, VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan S. Bentor, Faculty Regent Dr. Vennie Coton, school deans, faculty members, and students.

[This article aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) no. 4: Quality Education]

The newly elected officers of the Biliran Province State University Employee Association paid a courtesy call to the University President today, February 18. 

Ten officers, led by its president Hannah  Bartolome-Peñaflor, personally engaged in a dialogue with University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. for the association’s plans and initiatives for the university’s non-teaching employees.

The election of the new officers took place last February 5 held at the university hostel, with administrative personnel actively participating in the electoral process.

Along with Bartolome are Apple Joy B. Visitacion, vice president; Maharlika Ampong, secretary; Mary Grace Bohol, treasurer; Lysther Abad, public information officer; Mary Christine Saclolo, auditor; and Board of Director members Jehanna Era Ebajo, Mary Ann Roldan, Iban Espina, Radeline dela Cruz, Franz Luigi Sabonsolin, and Mark Ronnie Mangco.

Moreover, Mr. Floro Romea, former president of the organization, also joined the courtesy visit. He expressed his support for the new leadership and encouraged continuity in the programs and advocacies that have benefited university employees in the past years. 

During the courtesy visit, Dr. Cañezo warmly welcomed the new set of officers and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting the organization. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the administration and the employee association in fostering a productive and harmonious work environment.

The university president also posed a challenge for the new officers to craft the Development Plan of the organization. 

“We need to have a clear direction for the organization,” Dr. Cañezo emphasized. “And the development plan should be anchored on three things: welfare of our people, welfare of the organization, and welfare of the society.”

The new leadership of the BiPSU Employee Association, which will serve a two-year term, is expected to continue advocating for the needs and concerns of university personnel, focusing on initiatives such as employee benefits, professional growth opportunities, and workplace improvements.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]

In an effort to improve public safety and peace, BiPSU, through the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), in partnership with the Municipality of Naval and the Biliran Provincial Police Office (BPPO), successfully held a seminar-workshop on February 12 at Barangay Imelda, Naval, Biliran.

This initiative, entitled “Empowering the Frontline: Enhancing the Capabilities of Barangay Police for Effective Peace and Order Maintenance,” focused on providing local barangay officials, barangay police officers, tanods, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATS), and selected residents with the knowledge and skills to improve crime prevention efforts, maintain peace, and enhance community safety, emphasizing the shared responsibility for public order.

Additionally, the workshop covered important topics such as crime prevention, citizen's arrest, blotter preparation, and crime scene preservation, equipping them with practical tools to effectively handle crime-related situations.

In an interview, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, faculty regent and the acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education, explained that the project in Barangay Imelda was driven by the LGU's request to address the area's training needs, particularly to help new leaders develop the necessary skills to maintain peace and order.

“The motivation behind conducting this program in Barangay Imelda is due to the recognition of a critical need for training in this remote area, as requested by the LGU, where access to such opportunities is limited," he said.  

"Plus, many of the participants are new leaders in their roles, and this training serves as an important opportunity to enhance their skills, especially in maintaining peace and order."

Moreover, beyond improving public safety, the seminar also encouraged participants to become responsible voters and active community leaders, working together to enhance the safety and well-being of their neighborhoods.

Notably, this event is part of BiPSU’s ongoing efforts to empower local leaders and promote peace and order throughout Biliran through continued community outreach initiatives.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]