Biliran Province State University, led by the Cultural Affairs Development Unit (CADU), officially kicked off the “Hulma Kultura: School-Based Culture and the Arts Literary and Musical Competition 2025” through a Grand Opening Ceremony held at the university gymnasium on February 5.

The grand opening ceremony started with a parade around the town of Naval, bringing together students, faculty, employees, different student organizations, and stakeholders from both Naval and Biliran campuses.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., reaffirmed the university’s commitment to nurturing a well-rounded educational experience that extends far beyond the classroom, and encouraged the students to use the event as an opportunity to grow.

“At BiPSU, we recognize that academic learning and cultural enrichment are mutually reinforcing,” Dr. Canezo stated. “Engaging in extracurricular activities—whether as active participants or as thoughtful observers—cultivates a set of skills that are indispensable in both academic pursuits and professional endeavors.”

“I encourage you to see every moment as an opportunity to grow—not only as artists but as future professionals who value creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning,” he added.

Meanwhile, BiPSU-CADU also kicked off the first-ever LGBTQIA+ Cheerdance competition, highlighting the university’s commitment to inclusivity within the institution.

Three clusters composed of the different schools across the university showcased their flawless routine execution and enthusiastic cheers and yells. In the end, Cluster 1, composed of the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and the School of Engineering (SOE) clinched the top spot; while Cluster 3, composed of the different schools of BiPSU Biliran Campus; and Cluster 2, composed of the School of Teacher Education (STED), School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), and School of Criminal Justice Education, ranked second and third, respectively.

Moreover, Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, vice-president for Student and External Affairs, Dr. Susan Bentor, vice- president for Academic Affairs, Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice- president for Research, Innovation and Extension Services, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, vice- president for Administration and Finance, Faculty regent, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, deans and directors of the different schools, also graced the grand opening ceremony.

It can be noted that the said school-based competition kicked off last January 22, featuring two competitions namely, Short and Sweet Play and Radio Drama at the Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

The event will run until February 14 and will feature various activities and competitions including the Dance Workshop, Visual Arts competition, and Literary Arts competition.

Meanwhile, awarding of the winners for this year’s Hulma Kultura will be slated on February 13 during the Student’s Organization Night at the Student Center.

[This aligns with SDG Number 4 and 5: Quality Education, Gender Equality]

Biliran Province State University-School of Criminal Justice Education (BiPSU-SCJE) officially sent off its graduates set to take the February 2025 Criminology Licensure Examination (CLE) through a virtual gathering on Tuesday, February 4.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his confidence in the examinees, highlighting their preparedness for the upcoming exam.

“I have high hopes and trust in this batch, considering that when you started your first year, you had already undergone screening,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

Moreover, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, faculty regent and acting dean of BiPSU-SCJE, commended the dedication and perseverance of the criminology students.

“We know how much hard work and dedication you have poured into your studies as you prepare for your licensure examination,” Hon. Coton said.

Adding to the send-off’s significance, Mr. Sean Supat, who ranked Top 2 in the national CLE 2022, shared valuable exam-taking strategies with the participants. His insights aimed to help the examinees navigate the three-day board exam scheduled from February 5-7.

Notably, BiPSU-SCJE is set to send approximately 50 examinees for this batch, with another group scheduled to take the CLE in August 2025.

#WoWBiPSU

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

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) is set to host the 2025 International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR), slated for September 16-19, 2025. 

The announcement was made official during the Joint Board of Directors (BOD) and Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting held at the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJR) today,  February 4. 

BiPSU and the Visayas Mindanao Consortium for Journal Publications Inc. (VMCJPI) formalized the said partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The signing ceremony  was attended by BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. and Dr. Jude A. Duarte, chair of the VMCJPI Board of Directors and president of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU). Also witnessing the event were BiPSU Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Services, Dr. Roland A. Niez and Research Development Office Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz.

In his message, Dr. Canezo expressed BiPSU's excitement to host this prestigious event on campus, highlighting that advancing research has always been a core goal of the university.

“We are honored to host this international conference and excited to bring together researchers, educators, and institutions from across the globe. We are committed to contributing to the advancement of knowledge and research methodologies, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation and global collaboration. We also believe this conference will provide valuable opportunities for learning, exchange, and development that will positively impact not only our university but the entire region and beyond.”

This year's ICMAR will provide an opportunity for researchers, scientists, educators, students, and stakeholders to share findings, promote life-changing research, and strengthen communication among institutions to address global challenges. The conference’s core objectives also include enhancing the use of advanced research methods in disucssing contemporary issues and empowering academic communities to actively engage in interdisciplinary research efforts.

Additionally, the meeting agenda includes the awarding and renewal of commitments from all member Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) of the VMCJPI.

#WoWBiPSU

Joedel O. Peñaranda, executive assistant to the President, and Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, legal officer and director of the Internationalization Affairs of Biliran Province State University, have been accepted to participate in the Harvard College Project for Asian and International Relations (HPAIR) Conference 2025, at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, this year. 

The HPAIR conference, established in 1991, is a renowned international platform that brings together students, academic professionals, and global leaders to engage in discussions on key issues related to Asian and international relations. Participants from around the world are selected for their academic and professional backgrounds.

Themed “Generational Transitions: Passing the Torch, Paving the Way,” this event serves as a venue for thought leaders from various sectors, including politics, business, and technology, to exchange insights on global challenges and opportunities. 

Moreover, HPAIR is a non-profit organization associated with the Harvard University Faculty of Arts and Sciences, and the conferences it hosts are run by Harvard University. 

In his recent post, Atty. Delfin expressed his gratitude to the university through President Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. "Many thanks to Pres. Cañezo Jr. for allowing me to grab this opportunity, you are indeed a firm believer in transborder leadership," he wrote.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo Jr. also expressed his pride in the two employees. "We are incredibly proud of Joedel and Atty. Delfin for being selected to attend such a prestigious event,” he said. “They deserved this after their hard work and commitment to their personal development. We look forward to the valuable insights they will bring back to BiPSU, which will undoubtedly help us in our goal to advance as a globally competitive institution."

Both Peñaranda and Atty. Delfin will be attending the said conference with no funds from BiPSU being used for their travel expenses. Furthermore, both employees will be utilizing their personal funds for the said event.

Congratulations EA Peñaranda and Atty. Delfin!

#WoWBiPSU

To honor BiPSU Tigers delegates after sealing a historic win as the overall champion at the recently concluded 38th Eastern Visayas Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (EVR-SCUAA) Games 2024, the university organized a victory party on January 31 at the university gymnasium.

Before the celebration, BiPSU athletes marched around the streets of Naval, proudly wearing the tigers yellow and blue uniform, to further showcase their impressive accomplishments.

In her opening remarks, Engr. Carmel Sigrid Docallos, director of the Sports Development Office, emphasized that the gathering was a celebration of unity and achievement, as BiPSU, after 38 years of competing in the EVR-SCUAA Games, had finally claimed the title of overall champion.

"Tonight, we gather not just as athletes, coaches, or supporters, but as one proud BiPSU family, united in celebrating a historic triumph," she said. 

"After 38 years of competition in the Eastern Visayas SCUAA Games, the moment we've been waiting for has finally arrived. We stand here, victorious, as the overall champions in the recently concluded Regional SCUAA Games."

Moreover, during the same event, a formal presentation of awards honored the SCUAA 2024 medalists, followed by the distribution of medals and incentives which includes 2000 for gold medalists, 1500 for silver, and 1000 for bronze.

In his inspirational message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. expressed his gratitude to the athletes, coaches, trainers, and all those who contributed to the victory. He also encouraged the athletes to remain focused, uphold their strong performance, and continue to set new standards of excellence in the future.

"I want to congratulate everyone for our success, and I thank all the athletes, coaches, trainers, and everyone who brought immense pride to BiPSU. This victory is a powerful reminder that with your perseverance and teamwork, we can overcome any challenge," he said. "Let it inspire you to continue pushing forward and to reach even greater heights in the future."

In addition, the event was graced by key university officials, including Dr. Susan Bentor, vice president for Academic Affairs; Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, vice president for Student and External Affairs; Dr. Roland Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; and Hon. Aluah Kane Cabalhin, student regent. Also in attendance were Supply Officer, Mr. Joemard Calvez, Regional Sports Director, Engr. Docallos and Sports Chairperson, Henreyna Redublado. 

A total of 51 athletes will proudly represent BiPSU and Region VIII at the upcoming National SCUAA, set to take place from April 22 to 26, 2025.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Biliran Province State University, through its Extension Services Office, conducted a Seminar-Workshop on Radio Broadcasting at the Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center on January 31.

With the theme, “Transforming Communities through the Power of Voice,” the said workshop aims to empower Extension Services Chairpersons from the different schools across the university in producing and delivering effective and engaging broadcast tools for conducting extension services and community engagements.

In his welcome remarks, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, Dr. Roland A. Niez, highlighted the importance of Radio Broadcasting in conducting university extension services and community engagement activities.

“The role of Radio Broadcasting extends beyond mere information dissemination—it serves as a vital bridge between the university and community, and amplifies our institution’s voice, allowing us to share academic insights, research breakthroughs, and initiatives that contribute to social development,” he said.

Meanwhile, the seminar-workshop featured Mr. Michael Aguilos, owner and operations manager of Radyo-Natin FM Naval and a faculty member of the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), as the speaker of the event. He discussed the fundamentals of Radio Broadcasting and provided ways to develop effective radio content. In addition, he also trained the participants in proper voice modulation and live Radio Broadcasting.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., in an interview, highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering alternative modalities in conducting extension services to better serve the community.

“This seminar-workshop assures that the university can provide different alternative modalities in conducting its extension services to the communities,” the university president emphasized. “With this new way— Radio Broadcasting, we can reach a wider audience and help in effective knowledge-sharing and community engagement.”

The Extension Services Office targets to achieve 4,500 participants as per the set target by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) this year.

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

BiPSU Biliran Campus is gearing up for a major upgrade with the construction of a state-of-the-art Academic H-Building and Library. The P70-million project aims to provide modern learning spaces and enhanced academic resources to meet the needs of the growing student population.

The new three-storey Academic H-Building and Library will replace the aging 60-year-old structure, which has become vulnerable to earthquakes, typhoons, and flooding.

With more than 500 students expected to be accommodated with this development, the building will address the increasing demand for additional space and improved resources. It will feature 11 technologized classrooms and laboratories, a faculty room, an audio-visual room, and a spacious library.

The facility will feature 11 technologized classrooms and laboratories, faculty room, audio visual room, and a spacious library to enhance its educational offerings and provide students with a conducive learning space.

According to the university’s Engineering and Physical Development Office (EPDO), the project is expected to start in the first quarter of this year, with completion slated for December 2025.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his excitement on the new development for BiPSU’s satellite campus. 

"We are excited about the future of our Biliran Campus, and the construction of the Academic H-Building and Library is a major step forward in our commitment to providing quality education,” he said. “This new facility will provide a more resilient and innovative learning environment for our students.”

The P70-million project is fully funded through the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of Fiscal Year 2025.

#WoWBiPSU

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. visited the BiPSU Biliran Campus on January 28 for a Consultative Meeting to address several key issues affecting the campus.

During the meeting, various concerns were discussed, including the renovation and repair of the 3- storey Academic H-Building and library worth 70-M, set to begin construction in February, this year.

Dr. Cañezo also announced the installation of smart interactive boards and smart TVs at the campus, which aim to make teaching and learning more interactive.

The University president also emphasized the university’s response to the growing student population at Biliran Campus. "To accommodate the increasing number of students, we are prioritizing the conversion of some offices into classrooms. This will allow us to provide adequate learning spaces for our students," he said.

The meeting also covered the development of the Fishery and Agriculture programs, which require COPC submission. Dr. Cañezo also expressed his support for the program's expansion, including the potential introduction of a Master's program in Fishery. He noted that these initiatives would align with the increasing interest in agricultural studies and the growing number of students enrolling at the Biliran campus.

In addition to academic matters, discussions were held about maintenance and repair of the campus facade, as well as the housing project partnership that aims to provide affordable accommodations for faculty members. The university president recognized that ensuring the welfare of faculty is critical to creating a stable and supportive environment for teaching and learning.

"We are not only focused on expanding our infrastructure, but also on enhancing the overall experience for both students and faculty at BiPSU. We are taking steps to address the challenges we face now while also planning for future developments," Dr. Cañezo added.

The meeting was attended by key BiPSU officials, including Administrative Officer V, Dr. Juvy Piñon, Dr. Gerleah Peñaflor, dean of the School of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr. Randy Villarin, dean of the School of Agri-Business and Forest Resource Management, Dr. Naneta M. Panit, dean of the School of Teacher Education-Biliran Campus, Jeruel Espinazo, director of the Innovation Office, other administrative personnel, faculty, and staff members.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4 Quality Education.]

Aimed to leverage the university’s quality education, Biliran Province State University has recently procured 68 smart TVs and 11 interactive classrooms. Fifty-nine smart TVs were allocated for the Main Campus, while nine TV’s for Biliran Campus.

University key officials, including University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, VP for Student and External Affairs Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, and VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan Bentor, conducted an inspection of the installed TVs and boards on January 27 to ensure its quality and functionality.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. acknowledged the need for faculty training to maximize the use of these new devices.

“We are currently planning a series of training sessions to equip our teachers with necessary skills and knowledge to utilize the SMART TVs effectively in their classrooms,” Dr. Cañezo said.

According to Archt. Emman Ruel Bernil of Engineering and Physical Development Office (EPDO), the installation started on January 24 and is currently ongoing for the remaining 22 smart TVs.

Moreover, the formal turnover of these TVs to the school deans is to be conducted after the completion of the installation process.

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

Biliran Province State University has received a P7.015 million grant from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARR), which will support two critical agricultural projects aimed at enhancing food security and sustainability in Eastern Visayas.

The first project, titled “Survey and Assessment of Entomopathogens Against the Aphid Vector Pentalonia nigronervosa of Abaca Bunchy Top Virus in Eastern Visayas,” focuses on combating abaca bunchy top disease. It aims to utilize entomopathogens to control aphid vectors, promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Meanwhile, the second project, “Upgrading of Biological Control Agents Laboratory in Biliran Province State University-Biliran Campus for Sustainable Pest Management in Biliran Province,” will upgrade BiPSU's Biological Control Agents Laboratory. This upgrade will enable the university to mass-produce biocontrol agents, providing farmers with access to effective and sustainable pest management solutions.

These projects are led by Mr. Jofil A. Mati-om and supported by a dedicated team of project staff, including Dr. Randy A. Villarin, Mr. Jeruel A. Espinazo, Ms. Rossan U. Piamonte, and Mr. Christian Ulysess G. Cagasan. Additional project staff, including Mr. Novie A. Sales, Mr. Rhelivyn M. Rosendal, and Engr. Romel G. Quinte, as well as consultants Dr. Ruben M. Gapasin and Dr. Lily Ann D. Lando, further bolster the initiative.

In his statement, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the significance of the grant in the university’s mission to create lasting impact to the community through research. “This DOST-PCAARRD grant enables BiPSU to strengthen its agricultural research initiatives and deliver sustainable solutions to support farmers across Eastern Visayas.”

Mr. Mati-om also expressed gratitude for the university's unwavering support in advancing research and development. “On a personal note, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our university president for his endorsement and unwavering support of these projects,” he said.

It is worth noting that BiPSU BilCam is collaborating with key partners, including Visayas State University (VSU), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), the Biliran Provincial Agriculture Services Office, and the Regional Crop Protection Center-Region VIII, to ensure the successful implementation of these projects.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.]