After a two-year hiatus, the BiPSU Trans Pageant made its highly anticipated return on February 14, held at the university gymnasium, celebrating individuality, empowerment, and inclusivity for the trans, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming community.

This event, organized by the Federated Supreme Student Council (FSSC) and the Supreme Student Council (SSC), celebrated students who identify as gay, transgender, or non-binary, giving them a platform to be recognized while promoting inclusivity and unity across the BiPSU campuses. 

During the event, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. shared that staging the pageant is in line with the university's commitment to offer a safe space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community where they would feel safe, seen, and valued.

The president also shared that the university is moving towards implementing a gender-affirming school uniform policy, allowing trans individuals to wear clothing that aligns with their gender identity, further reinforcing the university's dedication to inclusivity.

Meanwhile, Gil A. Irinco, a third-year Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) major in Filipino student, impressed both the audience and judges with her undeniable charisma and outstanding performances, ultimately being crowned Queen of BiPSU 2025 in the fiercely competitive pageant.

In an interview following her victory, Irinco described how surreal it felt to go from dreaming of a pageant for trans individuals at the university to being crowned Queen of all Queens, expressing her honor to being a role model and source of support for the trans community.

“I am deeply honored to hold this title, and it is something I will always cherish,” she said. “I promise to not only uphold the responsibility that comes with it but also to be a source of inspiration and support for the trans community at our university.”

Additionally, she expressed gratitude to the administration for supporting the pageant and commended the FSSC and SSC for organizing the event, which gave participants a chance to be recognized at the university.

“I am at a loss for words to fully express my gratitude to the administration for supporting this pageant, but I am especially thankful to the FSSC and SSC, whose tireless efforts made this event possible, providing us with a platform to showcase our talents while making us feel celebrated, recognized, and valued, and for creating an opportunity that will forever resonate with us,” she added.

Furthermore, in addition to being crowned Queen of BiPSU 2025, Irinco also won several minor and major awards, including the brand sponsorship awards, such as Best in Production Number, Best in Evening Gown, Queen RC’s, Queen Seoul Focha, and Queen Jusa’s.

Nearly clinching the crown, Ralph Abanador secured the first runner-up title and was also named Best in Casual Attire, while following closely behind, Keith Serrano, Candidate No. 5, earned the second runner-up position.

Other notable awardees include R-jay Nartea, Candidate No. 8, who won the Queen Printfinity award, Photogenic Queen award, and Best in Advocacy Video, while Candidate No. 2, Ashlynn Garcia, took home the Social Media Most Reacted award, and Candidate No. 6, Rovic Samong, received the WeCreate Choice’s Award.

It is worth noting that BiPSU had previously conducted the Trans Pageant  but paused it in 2022, and it has made its comeback this year to further promote inclusivity on campus.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]

The first batch of BiPSU’s entrance examinations for Academic Year 2025- 2025 officially kicked off on Saturday, February 15, with more than 500 applicants gathering at the university's Student Center. 

This marks the start of the selection process for the upcoming academic year, with nearly 5,000 applicants expected for this year's admission.

Abigail Capales, Admission and Retention Office psychometrician, shared her excitement, "We are thrilled to see so many applicants taking the first step toward becoming BiPSUnistas. We encourage everyone to arrive on time and come prepared to ensure a smooth and successful exam experience," she said. 

Student applicants are reminded to stick to their designated schedules and arrive on time. The details (date, time, etc.) of the examination schedules are indicated in their Examination Slips that the office emailed. Moreover, the examination venue is stated in the same email.

Other reminders are as follows:

1. Examinees are expected to come to the venue at least 1 hour before their scheduled time of exam. 

2. Wait at the designated Validation Area in the testing venue while the examination has not yet started.

3. Please bring the following and present to the personnel assigned at the Validation Area:

1. Small-sized bag or envelope 
2. School I.D. or any Valid I.D. (for identification purposes)
3. Pencils, ballpens, erasers, and sharpeners
4. Snacks or water

4. Phones and other gadgets must be put inside their bags or envelopes at the examination venue.

5. Bringing of calculators is not allowed. 

6. Please wear casual attire or white shirt, pants, and closed shoes. 

The schedules for the undergraduate admission examinations will run every Saturday and Sunday until March 22. 

Good luck to all the future BiPSUnistas

#WoWBiPSU

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

In his address, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. outlined the university’s strategic goals for 2025 in a State of the University Address (SUA) held today, February 14, revealing a series of core and support initiatives aimed at propelling the institution forward.

Addressing faculty, students, and staff at the university gymnasium,Dr. Cañezo highlighted the institution’s continued development and the strides made under its WoW BiPSU 2.0 Development Plan, focusing on 10  key areas; instruction, research, extension, student support, linkages, resource management, infrastructure, quality assurance, human and organization capital, and ICT.

“When we first set out together, we couldn’t have imagined the challenges and successes that awaited us. And now, as we stand here, we see the fruits of our labor—each accomplishment a manifestation to our collective effort and shared commitment,” Dr. Cañezo said.

Dr. Cañezo opened his address by recalling the university's early days, acknowledging that no one could have predicted the obstacles and achievements that followed.

Among the notable items were plans for the construction of Phase 1 of the BiPSU Business Hub and Innovation Center, set to break ground this February 2025. Dr. Canezo also highlighted the development of a new Main Entrance and the WoWBiPSU Park, marking an important milestone in the university's expansion. 

“This new main entrance will not just be a physical gateway but also a symbol of the beginning of many more accomplishments we are set to achieve,” he added.

Expansion of Academic Programs

In terms of academic offerings, he mentioned that BiPSU is preparing to introduce a Masters of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Security, and a Juris Doctor program. He revealed that the university plans to conduct a feasibility study for the potential introduction of a Bachelor of Science in Midwifery and Medical Technology, and explores on the expansion of its campus network, with new sites planned for BiPSU Cabiran and BiPSU Kawayan.

“We will continuously review and refine our curriculum to ensure it remains aligned with the evolving needs of the industry. We will also strategically plan to improve the employability rates of our graduates, preparing them for success in the global job market,” the university president stated. 

Commitment to Research and Global Collaboration

Research efforts were also a focus, with BiPSU aiming to achieve 100 publications in SCOPUS-indexed journals by 2025. He added that the university plans to secure external grants and expand international research partnerships. 

“Our research will not just advance knowledge but will address real-world challenges, benefiting both current and future stakeholders,” he emphasized. 

Continued Student Support Initiatives

The visionary president reiterated the plans to strengthen its support for students, particularly Indigenous Peoples (IP) scholars, and enhance its sports, culture, and arts programs .

“We will continue to strengthen excellence in sports, culture, and the arts by supporting our students to excel in various competitions at regional and  national levels. Through these initiatives, we strive to cultivate an inclusive and empowering environment where all students are provided with equal opportunities,” remarked Dr. Cañezo.

Sustainability and Infrastructure Investments

The university president also highlighted key infrastructure developments, including a ₱66 million project for the construction of a five-storey building dedicated to the School of Management and Entrepreneurship and the University Learning Resource Center, which will serve as a shared space. Additionally, new facilities for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) and the School of Teacher Education (STED) are on- going, with a combined funding of ₱110 million. Furthermore, the BiPSU Biliran Campus will see the development of a ₱70 million Academic H-Building and Library.

Increase Smart Classrooms

Additionally, investments will be made to improve smart classrooms and integrate advanced ICT technology across the campus. 

“We are creating an environment where innovation and learning can thrive,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

Expanding BiPSU’s Global Reach

Aiming to broaden its global presence, BiPSU will offer international exchange programs and internships for both students and faculty members participating in international initiatives.

“One of our key goals is to increase the number of students and faculty members sent for international programs, providing them with opportunities for cultural exchange, academic advancement, and professional development. These experiences will broaden their perspectives and strengthen their academic and professional networks,” revealed the university president. 

Dr. Cañezo  also confirmed that the university will facilitate the overseas internship placements of the students in various countries including the United States of America (USA), France, India and Thailand.

Furthermore, BiPSU has set its sights on achieving national and international accreditation, including securing institutional recognition from AACCUP with the goal of attaining the SUC Level IV, and achieving 95-100% program CHED compliance. 

“Throughout history, the greatest leaders and innovators were not universally embraced; they were admired, respected, sometimes feared, and also criticized, rejected, or even hated—simply because they had the courage to stand for something," he shared. 

Dr. Cañezo  emphasized the importance of staying true to one's values, even in the face of opposition. He urged the university community to prioritize genuine respect over fleeting approval, stating that “genuine respect far outweighs shallow praise.” 

He concluded by urging everyone to “set your standards, defend them fiercely, and never apologize for being a person of substance.”

Notable attendees of this years’ State of the University address include members of the BiPSU Governing Board; Hon. John Glenn D. Ocaña, DOST regional director, Private Sector representatives’ Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina, and Hon. Jean Clare T. Diu, Faculty regent, Hon. Vennie G. Coton and Student Regent, Aluah Kane T. Cabalhin. 

Also in attendance were key external partners’ Dr. Don Eliseo L. Prison III, Dr. Carlou G. Bernaldez, acting director, Cultural Affairs from Negros Oriental State University; Vice- Governor Hon. Brigido Caneja III, Board Member Hon. Allan Paul U. Tubis and Provincial SK Federation President Hon. Verne Symonn Curso Roa; BiPSU’s vice- presidents, deans, chairpersons, directors, faculty and students. 

#WoWBiPSU

The wave of infrastructure development at Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) continues as the university officially breaks ground for a ₱15-million Business Hub and Innovation Center at its Naval Campus.

Located near the 2nd gate of the university, this project includes the WoW BiPSU Park which will serve as the main entrance for students. The whole project consists of two bays of two-storey buildings, housing the university innovation hub and a commercial space.

The Phase 1 of the project, titled “Provision of Higher Education Services,” is funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2025.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held in line with the celebration of the 6th Charter Day of BiPSU, was spearheaded by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. and members of the BiPSU’s Board of Regents, including DOST Regional Director Hon. John Glenn Ocaña, Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton, Student Regent Hon. Aluah Kane T. Cabalhin, and Private Sector Representatives Hon. Jean Clare Diu and Hon. Jamie Dianne Ortiz-Espina. 

Dr. Carlou G. Bernaldez, acting director of Cultural Affairs at Negros Oriental State University, BiPSU vice presidents, unit heads, directors, and students also attended the ceremonial groundbreaking.

In his State of the University Address (SUA) held before the groundbreaking ceremony, University President Dr. Cañezo shared that the said facility will be a trailblazer facility in the academic landscape.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited to share that in 2025, we will begin the construction of Phase 1 of the BiPSU Business Hub and Innovation Center, as well as the new Main Entrance of our university, complemented by the WoWBiPSU Park,” the university president shared. “This new main entrance will not just be a physical gateway but also a symbol of the beginning of many more accomplishments we are set to achieve.”

[This aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]

Biliran Province State University and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) officially inaugurated the HABI Space, February 14, as part of the university's 6th Charter Day celebration.

Located on the fourth floor of the BiPSU Technology Building, the HABI Space is an ICT Innovation Center under Project HABI (Harnessing Advanced Breakthrough Innovation). It is designed to foster technological advancements by providing students with opportunities to develop applications, software, and other digital solutions.

The establishment of the innovation hub is a product of the partnership between BiPSU and DOST, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on March 26, 2024, by University President Dr. Victor C. Cñezo, Jr. and DOST Provincial Director Dr. Romeo L. Dignos.

Dr. Chona Sabinay, dean of the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) and the main proponent of the facility, emphasized that the HABI Space, a DOST-funded project, will play a crucial role in coordinating and advancing ICT initiatives in the province. "This center will help bridge digital gaps in our communities through inclusive innovations," Dr. Sabinay said.

University President Dr. Cañezo explained that "habi," a Cebuano word meaning "weave," aligns with BiPSU's WoW 2.0 initiative, the Weaving of Worthiness. "This project symbolizes interconnectedness and collaboration by providing an innovation space designed to harmonize ideas and integrate creativity," he said.

The ICT Innovation Center is in line with BiPSU's commitment to technological advancement and aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Partnerships for the Goals.

"The center seeks to empower individuals, promote inclusive industrialization, nurture entrepreneurial endeavors, foster sustainable livelihoods, and drive collaborative efforts toward societal advancement," Dr. Cañezo added.

The inauguration followed Dr. Cañezo's State of the University Address (SUA) and was attended by key officials, including members of BiPSU’s Board of Regents: DOST Regional Director Hon. John Glenn Ocaña, Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton, Student Regent Hon. Aluah Kane T. Cabalhin, and Private Sector Representatives Hon. Jean Clare Diu and Hon. Jamie Dianne Ortiz-Espina. Also present were Dr. Carlou G. Bernaldez, acting director of Cultural Affairs at Negros Oriental State University, BiPSU vice presidents, unit heads, directors, STCS faculty members, and students.

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No.

#WoWBiPSU

[This aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) officially launched the Ex-Presidents and Retirees Nook through a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Andaya Building today, February 14.

The nook, located at the ground floor of the Andaya Building, will serve as a place where retirees, former university presidents, and OIC presidents  may opt to stay during their visit to BiPSU.

The ribbon-cutting was attended by University President Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.; Hon. John Glenn Ocaña, DOST regional director and member of BiPSU Board of Regents; Hon. Dr. Edita Genson, former NSU president; Dr. Rossini B. Romero, former vice president for Administration and Finance; BiPSU Vice-presidents, retirees, and employees.

In an interview with the university president, Dr. Cañezo shared the purpose behind this initiative of the university and expressed his gratitude to the administrators who have come before him and made contributions to the success of the university today.

“This initiative by the university is our commitment to pay tribute and honor to the dedication and contributions of the past administrators of our university because they have helped the university to what it is now,” Dr. Cañezo said. “I sincerely give gratitude to them because BiPSU would not be BiPSU today if it were not for them.”

Moreover, the nook featured photos of all retirees, ex-presidents, and OIC presidents, serving as a tribute to their invaluable dedication and contribution to the progress of the university.

[This aligns with SDG Number 17: Partnerships for the Goals]

Four faculty members of Biliran Province State University participated in the Training Course on Course Design for Open and Distance e-Learning (CD4ODeL) from February 3-12.

The BiPSU delegation included Dr. Estelito R. Salut, faculty member from the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME); Roselle G. Sabornido, chairperson of the Bachelor of Science in Criminology program; Ma. Grace Saňosa- Docallos, faculty member from the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS); and Chiejheaca Jehanna G. Yu, faculty member from the Biliran Campus School of Teacher Education (STEd).

The training, which aimed to enhance faculty competencies in designing and implementing open and distance e-learning (ODeL) courses, was conducted in a blended mode. Participants engaged in an online course from February 3-9, followed by onsite sessions from February 10-12 at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna.

CD4ODeL is a specialized course that focuses on the principles and best practices of designing effective learning materials and activities for online, open, and distance learning environments, where students primarily access education remotely. The training was spearheaded by the Center for Open and Digital Teaching and Learning (CODTL) of UPOU and brought together educators from higher education institutions across the country, including De La Salle University, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, and Benguet State University, among others.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the importance of equipping faculty members with the pedagogical underpinnings and theories that guide the practice of ODeL, especially after BiPSU institutionalized its implementation.

“We first implemented ODeL last school year, fully integrating it into our class system,” Dr. Cañezo explained. “I believe that in order to ensure quality education in this new learning modality, our faculty members must be well-prepared in course design, digital instruction, and assessment strategies.”

First introduced in July 2024, BiPSU's ODeL program reduced in-classroom learning hours to four or five hours daily, allowing students and teachers additional time for research, academic tasks, and extracurricular activities.

Meanwhile, during the online sessions, participants engaged in discussions on various topics, including frameworks for online teaching and learning, designing online courses, selecting digital learning resources, and assessing online learning activities. The face-to-face sessions further trained them in developing course guides, learning activity guides, and assignment guides to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Several seasoned speakers led the discussions, including UPOU Chancellor Dr. Melinda Bandalaria, Professor Emeritus Dr. Alexander Flor, and Associate Professor Dr. Juliet Aleta Villanueva, who also serves as the deputy director of CODTL.

Aside from the training sessions, participants visited UPOU’s facilities, including the Information and Communication Technology Development Office (ICTDO), the Educational Media Production (EMP) Studio, and the UPOU Library, where they explored various resources for digital learning.

Estelito Salut expressed his appreciation to be part of the pioneering batch at UPOU for the eight-day training course on ODeL. “This training has been an enlightening experience, especially for us four representative participants, as ODeL remains a relatively new approach in the early stages of BiPSU-wide implementation,” Dr. Salut said.

Moreover, he also shared that throughout the program, it became evident that four key components must be addressed to ensure the successful integration of ODeL: software accessibility and usability, faculty readiness, student orientation and support, institutional policy framework.

“By addressing these critical areas, BiPSU can facilitate a seamless transition to ODeL and further enhance the quality of education through this innovative approach,” he added.

The participation of BiPSU faculty members in this national training aligns with the university’s EMpowerment program, which stands for Educational Mentoring for Faculty. This initiative aims to continuously enhance the teaching competencies of faculty members, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovative and student-centered learning strategies.

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

In its commitment to promoting a research-driven academic institution, Biliran Province State University held a two-day writeshop program focused on Varied Article Type in Medical and Health Science for Scopus Publication.

The event, participated in by the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), was held on February 11-12 at the university Hyflex Audio Visual Center (HAVC).

In collaboration with the Research and Development Office (RDO), the activity featured Prof. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno III, founder of GHF University Excellence, and Jericho S. Ogaya, GHF Program Manager and Senior Researcher, as resource speakers.

In his message, Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation and Extension Services, underscored the importance of the activity in equipping researchers with the necessary skills to successfully publish in Scopus-indexed journals, noting that understanding different article types is crucial for disseminating valuable findings.

“Through this writeshop, we aim to equip our researchers with the necessary skills to navigate the intricacies of publishing Scopus-indexed journals,” he said. “Whether it be original research, systematic reviews, case reports or commentaries, understanding the nuances of different article types is crucial in successfully disseminating valuable findings to the scientific community.”

He also encouraged the participants to remain committed in producing research that not only meets academic rigor but gives positive impact in the field of medical and health sciences.

“As we embark on this scholarly journey together, let us remain committed to producing research that not only meets academic rigor but also serves as a catalyst for positive change in the medical and health sciences field,” he added.

At the commencement of the writeshop, participants engaged in a discussion tackling various article types in Medical and Health Sciences which provide participants with an overview of the different types of articles in Medical and Health Sciences that they may explore, helping them understand the appropriate structures, purpose and publication requirements.

To further enhance the knowledge and skills of the nursing students in writing publishable articles, a writeshop proper was conducted on the second day.

This initiative to conduct a writeshop program is in line with the university’s aim to increase the number of internationally published research papers on Scopus Journals, strengthening the university’s goal of striving for excellence in scholarly publication.

Moreover, the two-day writeshop was also attended by Dr. Pearl Irish V. De Paz, director of the Research and Development Office.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4: Quality Education.]

Fourth-year students from the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS), Kenny  Charles Tabon  and Hazel Delda, secured 3rd place in the International Student Design Competition held at Shih Chien University, Taipei, Taiwan, February 10-13. 

Conducted in an online setting, said competition was part of the International Symposium on Innovation in Information Technology and Application (ISIITA) 2025.

The students bested seven other contestants from the different international universities across the globe with their research paper titled “SKINSENSE: A Mobile Application to Detect Skin Type and Skincare Ingredients Recommendations,” a study that aims to develop a mobile application that can detect facial skin type and recommend appropriate skincare ingredients for the user.

“We are truly raising the bar, as our students now start to compete on the international stage. I am proud of our students’ Kenny and Hazel for this achievement. A special thanks also goes to their coach, Mr. Quiroz, and our dedicated STCS faculty headed by Dean Chona Sabinay, for without their commitment to delivering quality education, this would not have  been possible,” said BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.

The team was coached by Mr. Fernando E. Quiroz, Jr., a faculty from the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS). They received certificates of recognition and a cash prize of 100 dollars  during the awarding held today, February 11.

#WoWBiPSU

[This aligns with SDG Number 4: Quality Education]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU)  President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr, was among the 26 out of the 114 university presidents in the Philippines invited to the Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting Philippines, 2025, at Grand Hyatt Hotel Bonifacio Global, Taguig City.

The event gathered high-level government decision-makers, civil society leaders, and policymakers, from both members and non-members of the Open Government Partnership (OGP), as well as global and regional partners including SUC presidents, “to exchange experiences, best practices, and progress on open government initiatives and implementation on key issues.”

Among the dignitaries who attended the said event were President Ferdinand Marcos, DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, Department of Budget Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F.  Pangandaman, DBM VIII Regional Director Imelda Laceras, and other SUC Presidents.

In his keynote address, President Bongbong Marcos, emphasized the institutionalization of the Freedom of Information (FOI) and highlighted the administration’s ongoing commitment to good governance.

On the second day of the event, participants engaged in plenary sessions, roundtable discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. These sessions aimed to strengthen partnerships, promote participatory and resilient democracies, and renew public trust through government innovation.

Dr. Canezo shared, in a recent post, that the activity will be beneficial to the university’s weaving of worthiness.

“The event highlights participatory governance-openness, inclusivity and collaboration with emphasis on transparency as our norm, accountability as our commitment, and civil society participation as our right,” he wrote. “We will surely have these in our weaving of worthiness at BiPSU.”

The university president also expressed his gratitude to the Philippine government, particularly DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, for the opportunity to be part of such a significant event. 

#WoWBiPSU

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No.  16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]