In preparation for the upcoming SUC Fair and PASUC Competition, Biliran Province State University, through the Cultural Affairs Development Unit (CADU), and in collaboration with BiPSU Federation of Supreme Student Council, kicks off the “Hulma Kultura: School-based Competition” with short and sweet play and radio drama competitions held at the Hyflex Audio and Visual Center (HAVC) on January 22.

Different schools across the institution showcased their skills and talents in stage play acting, voice acting, and creative storytelling.

In his message, University President Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. underscored the importance of the competitions in shaping the students’ acting and stage play skills, creativity, and storytelling abilities.

“This event, led by the Cultural Affairs Development Unit, is a great avenue for students to showcase their skills and hone them for their growth and improvement in the field of performing arts,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

Six short and sweet play pieces entitled “Pagpapatawad” by the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), “Jowa ni Intoy” by the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), “Alon ng Panahon: Mga Kwentong Sandali ng Kabataan” by the School of Engineering (SOE), “Ang Bago at Konserbatibo” by the School of Teacher Education (STEd), “Pagbalik sa Ugat” by the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and “Alon ng Pag-ibig” by the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) hyped the competition by showcasing heart-wrenching and humorous storyline and narratives.

Meanwhile, three radio drama entries entitled “Pag-ibig at Pamilya” by STCS, “The nonexistent Love” by SCJE, and “Hukom” by SAS, were also performed, displaying the students’ voice acting and storytelling prowess.

Moreover, the event ended with a feedback session with the judges to give their comments and insights on every performance, highlighting their commendations and things to improve for their respective plays.

The grand opening of the Hulma-Kultura: School-Based Competition is set for February 5 as part of the Charter Day Celebration of BiPSU from January 22 to February 14, 2025. Winners of the different competitions will represent the university in the Regional PASUC and SUC Fair, however, some competitions such as the Short and Sweet Play and Radio Drama will select only the best students and create a team to represent the institution.

Activities to look forward to for the Charter Day Celebration includes the opening of Organizations’ Day, Inter-school Basketball and Volleyball tournaments, and Literary and Musical Competitions.

[This aligns with SDG Number 4: Quality Education]

Aimed at preparing third-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) students for their research requirements, BiPSU's School of Teacher Education (STED) hosted a two-day research mentorship workshop at the BiPSU Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center, last January 22 and 23.

The two-day workshop was designed to help third-year BEED students prepare for writing a research paper as part of their Research in Education course, focusing on guiding them through the research process, from formulating research questions to analyzing data.

Additionally, the workshop aimed to equip students with the skills necessary to conduct classroom-based action research, which is a requirement for their internship, by emphasizing practical methods they can apply in real classroom settings to assess and improve teaching strategies and learning outcomes.

The research mentorship workshop began with two expert resource speakers: Dr. Alexander Rex E. Sanosa, who presented on writing the literature review, formulating the research problem, and structuring the introduction and methodology; followed by Ms. Charlene T. Parac, who led a workshop on descriptive and inferential statistics to help students analyze their research data.

In his opening remarks, Robert P. Jordan, BEED third- year adviser, explained  the significance of the seminar workshop which aimed at enhancing students' research skills, with expert speakers offering guidance.

“This seminar-workshop on research in education is conducted as part of the teaching and learning strategy for the course Research in Education, and I have invited resource speakers whom I believe possess the expertise and skills in conducting research, having served as resource speakers in my previous classes, which contributed greatly to the success of the students in producing research outputs,” he said.

Moreover, on Day 2, Dr. Ernil D. Sumayao conducted a session on action research, guiding students in conducting this type of research, while also covering the development of instructional materials (IMs) and the use of CBAR to equip students with practical research tools.

In an interview, Angela Helton, a third-year BEED student, expressed that the workshop came at the perfect time and that she was grateful for the opportunity to gain further clarity and guidance on her research.

“As a third-year student, I’m still unsure about how to begin my research, and I feel that I need further guidance from experts to fully understand the research processes,” she said. “This workshop is perfectly timed, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn and get the clarity I need.”

#WOWBiPSU

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

Biliran Province State University’s School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) conducted its Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for Criminology students on Thursday, January 23, at the university gymnasium. The seminar aimed to prepare students for their upcoming immersion and field training programs.

SCJE Dean and faculty regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton welcomed 323 Criminology students to the event, emphasizing the importance of their training and the opportunities ahead.

"This seminar is not just an introduction to your on-the-job training, but a reminder of the responsibilities you will carry as professionals, thus uphold the values that will define your success in the field," added Hon. Coton. 

The said event also featured Deputy Provincial Director for Administration, PLTCOL Leonardo C. Angcon of the Biliran Provincial Police Office. In his address, he inspired the students to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their future careers, urging them to remain committed to serving their communities with integrity and responsibility.

“This is an opportunity to apply what you’ve learned and make a real difference," said PLTCOL Angcon. "Serve well regardless of your role, and always strive to contribute to the greater good of the community."

He also highlighted the importance of mental and physical preparation for the challenges ahead. 

"You have to be prepared physically and mentally," advised PLTCOL Angcon, encouraging students to approach their training with determination.

In his message, President Victor Cañezo Jr. shared his own reflections from being a student to becoming a professional, encouraging students to approach their upcoming OJT training with passion and dedication. He emphasized the value of practical experience, recalling his own internship, "It’s inspiring to see so many of you here today, ready to take your next step towards becoming leaders in the field of Criminology," he stated.

President Cañezo also reminded criminology students about the university’s core values —Brilliance, Innovation, Progress, Service, and Unity. "These are not just words. They are the foundation of our community, and they are qualities I’ve seen in our students, the future professionals of Criminology," remarked Dr. Cañezo.

He concluded by offering advice from his own mentor: “Don’t just complete the task—make it count.” The president also encouraged students to take ownership of their roles, to deal with every challenge, and to approach their training with passion and dedication. 

“Go out there and show the world what BiPSU students are made of,” Dr. Canezo concluded. 

The said event was also attended by BSC Chairperson, Roselle Sabornido, Dr. Jane Marie Inocencio, director  of External Services and SCJE faculty and staff. 

[This article aligns with SDG No. 4: Quality Education.]

The Commision on Higher Education concluded the on-site re-evaluation of the four (4) programs of the BiPSU’s School of Engineering  for the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC),  held at the university gymnasium on January 22.

Four programs of the SOE were submitted for re- evaluation, namely the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, BS in Mechanical Engineering, BS in Electrical Engineering and BS in Computer Engineering. 

In his welcome address, University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo Jr. emphasized that the validation process is more than a formal assessment as it is also proof of the university’s collective commitment to something greater and higher.

“It invites us to pause, take stock of the progress we’ve made, and discover ways we can continue to push boundaries,” Dr. Canezo said.

The university president also shed light on the recent issue of engineering students from various State University and Colleges (SUCs) across the nation, including BiPSU being denied the chance to take the board examination due to non-COPC compliance.

As of to date, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has  approved BiPSU and other SUCs' request for an exemption from the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) requirement for its engineering programs, allowing 90 ME, EE, CE, graduates of BiPSU to proceed with licensure examination applications, until the non- extendable deadline for COPC on September 9, 2025. 

Moreover, this validation process aims to ensure that the school meets the necessary criteria for program quality and student success. The validation team comprised members from the Technical Committee and the Regional Quality Assessment Team (RQAT), including Engr. Leovegildo E. Cardenas and Dr. Gabino C. Hilvano for civil engineering; Dr. Vinyl H. Oquino and Engr. Meddy Mangaring, electrical engineering evaluators; Engr. Jameson C. Buhayang and Engr. Ritchie P. Maribojoc for mechanical engineering; and computer engineering featured Engr. Ramon Lim and Engr. Vic Angelo Impas. Also present from the CHED Regional Office are OIC Senior Education Program Specialist Dr. Catherine Iglesias, Education Supervisor Engr. Nelly L. Labrada, Education Supervisor Jane A. Latorre, and Education Supervisor Cydric B. Suyom.

Meanwhile, technical experts’ Engr. Cesar Coronado, chair, Technical Committee Electrical Engineering, along with the members’ Engr. Maria Cecilia A. Venal, Engr. Efren Dela Cruz, and Engr. Flordeliza Villasenor, and evaluators from  the  Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD) CHED Central Office Engr. Fernandita Calimlim, Engr. Dhonie Cabreos Jr., Engr. Sherwin Revezera, Mr. Jefferson Sornillo, and Ms. Clarisse Angelu Aquino participated in the validation process via Zoom. 

The evaluators reviewed the areas of compliance and non-compliance and presented their partial findings, including recommendations for the areas that still require improvement  during the exit conference.
Moreover, Engr. Coronado also requested to be permitted to access all the documents submitted until January 24. As of now, the issuance of the COPC is on hold until the university addresses the findings and demonstrates full compliance. The committee has promised to transmit their full report by January 29. 

“In light of this, our focus must now be on addressing the recommendations shared during the evaluation. This includes strategizing on how to meet the minimum requirements as soon as possible. One of our greatest challenges is improving faculty qualifications and enhancing laboratory equipment, both of which require significant time and resources—such as supporting faculty members currently pursuing master's degrees and procuring the necessary lab equipment,” said Vice-president and SOE Dean, Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco.

Dr. Canezo also assured that the university will comply with all the things subjected to compliance to acquire COPC for SOE.

“For me, the true essence of this COPC is for our students who aspire to become successful engineers,” he concluded.

Notable attendees also include VP for Academic Affair Dr. Susan S. Bentor, VP for Student and External Affairs Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, VP for Administration and Finance and SOE Engr. Pelesco, school deans, directors, unit heads, and SOE faculty and staff.

[This article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education]

In a move to ensure compliance with Republic Act 11032, an act promoting ease of doing business and efficient delivery of government services, also known as the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) or 2007, three ARTA field evaluators inspected various offices of the Biliran Province State University on January 21.

The third- party evaluation team from the RLR Research and Analysis, composed of Evelyn P. Badrina, field supervisor; Daryl D. Badrina, field interviewer; and Marisol Lanto, field researcher, assessed the university’s adherence with ARTA guidelines, aiming to streamline government services and improve efficiency.

Prior to the inspection, the evaluators paid a courtesy visit to BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr, at the  Office of the University President, together with BiPSU ARTA Focal, Dr. Concepcion M. Gayrama.

During the onsite visit, the evaluators conducted interviews with randomly selected 20 clients who availed services from university offices, including Cashier’s Office, Registrar’s Office, and the university’s Student Learning Hub and Co-Working Space, to gather feedback and evaluate the quality of services provided. The inspection focused on ensuring that BiPSU’s operations align with ARTA's objective to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and improve public service delivery.

"So far, the monitoring has been positive. It provides an opportunity for our students to share their honest feedback about our services,” Dr. Gayrama, BiPSU's ARTA focal person, said. “This kind of evaluation is crucial as it allows us to assess how effectively we are meeting the needs of our clients.”

Dr. Gayrama also reported that BiPSU has complied with key statutory requirements, including the establishment of the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk (PACD), the display of the citizen’s charter in each office, and the implementation of the Customer Satisfaction Measurement (CSM) survey. 

The university ARTA focal also revealed that the university is currently preparing to submit the CSM results for Fiscal Year 2024. 

Meanwhile, ARTA evaluators stated that the results of this survey and evaluation will be compiled and forwarded to the ARTA office for further review and action.

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

Aimed at providing comprehensive capacity-building programs tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by youth leaders in the Municipality of Kawayan, the Office of the Vice Mayor of Kawayan, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kawayan, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Biliran, and Biliran Province State University, through the School of Arts and Sciences, launched the Project SKKY (Sa Kawayan Kaya Yan) at the university gymnasium from January 19 to 21.

This project, a product of a quadripartite agreement among Hon. Jake Espina, vice-mayor of Kawayan as the project leader; the DILG-Biliran, BiPSU, and the LGU-Kawayan, aims to collaborate and enable Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) members from all barangays of Kawayan to emerge as competent, proactive, and transformative agents of change. 

The three-day seminar series began with foundational topics, starting with Hon. Rene Villaflores, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of Kawayan chair on Laws and Rules, who led a session on "Internal Rules of Procedure: The Blueprint for Effective Governance," followed by Mr. Dexter Narrido, MLGOO of LGU Naval, who presented "Mastering Parliamentary Procedure: Empowering SK Leaders for Effective Governance."

In his message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo Jr. expressed his full support for the program. He is also confident that it would help the delegates develop the skills needed to lead effectively.

"I served as an SK chairman back then in Masagongsong, and the experiences I gained have shaped skills that I still carry with me today as the president of BiPSU which is why I give this project my full support, knowing that the delegates will be equipped with the knowledge to become exceptional leaders,” he said.

As the seminar moved to Day 2, the focus shifted to more specialized topics. James V. Lambit, community affairs assistant at the LGU-Naval, covered the "CBYDP and ABYIP" and the "Budget Process," providing delegates with essential knowledge on youth development and financial management. 

Moreover, Yvonne M. Mocorro, municipal treasurer of LGU-Kawayan, led a session on the "Procurement Process," and Stephen Nee Jadulco, municipal accountant of LGU Kawayan, concluded the day with sessions on "Disbursement and Documentary Requirements for Common Government Transactions" and the "SK Full Disclosure Policy," emphasizing transparency and accountability in government transactions.

In an interview, Vice Mayor Jake Espina, project overall coordinator of the SKKY program, shared that his struggles as a new youth leader inspired the project, as he wants to provide SKs the training and opportunities he once lacked to help them unlock their full potential.

“As a new youth leader back in 2021, I was full of passion to serve but I felt I lacked the necessary skills and I felt lost,” VM Espina said. “Yet through the training and seminars I received, I found the confidence and empowerment I needed; and now I’m determined to ensure the SKs of Kawayan have the same opportunities to unlock their potential and become the leaders they’re meant to be.”

Additionally, he expressed his enthusiasm that the three-day seminar has helped the delegates develop a stronger sense of purpose in leadership.

"I hope the three-day seminar has made an impact by helping delegates unlock their full potential, refining both their skills and personal growth, and fostering self-awareness so they could better serve their fellow youths as leaders," VM Espina added.

Meanwhile, during the final day, the seminar focused on leadership ethics and communication, with Kenette Ticoy, LYDO-designate of Cabucgayan, leading a session on "Ethical Leadership and Core Values in SK Governance," followed by Atty. Dick Guiller G. Delfin, legal officer of BiPSU, who addressed "Decision-Making and Ethical Dilemmas in Leadership.”

Additionally, Dr. John Cavin M. Sabonsolin, chairperson of BA Communication, discussed "Effective Communication in Leadership" and Mr. Joedel O. Peñaranda, executive assistant to the University President of BiPSU, introduced "Futures Thinking for SK Leaders."

In an interview, Shem Dejarlo, an SK Kagawad and second-year student, expressed her gratitude for the program, noting that it provided her with knowledge that would help her become a more effective youth leader in her barangay.

“I am very grateful that our Vice Mayor, Jake Espina, was able to come up with this project because I believe I still have areas of knowledge to improve as an SK Kagawad,” she said. “Throughout the three days of learning in this program, I have gained so much valuable insight that will truly help me become a more effective youth leader in our barangay.”

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]

Biliran Province State University continues to champion transformative research as it secures a P500,000 grant from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The funding will support a timely study titled “Psychological Stress, Suicidal Ideation, and Coping Mechanisms among Students in Selected Tertiary Academic Institutions in Eastern Visayas.”

The said project, led by Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, alongside assistant project leader Dr. Willard N. Riveral and team members Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Dr. Niez, and Dr. Victor Canezo, focuses on understanding the mental health struggles faced by students in the region, identifying the prevalence of psychological stress and suicidal ideation, and uncovering effective coping mechanisms to support student well-being.

The research, funded through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) under DOST, is set to begin as soon as the funds are downloaded this month. 

Expressing his enthusiasm for the project’s potential, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo underscored the university’s commitment to addressing societal issues. 

“This project is an evidence to BiPSU’s dedication to conducting meaningful research that addresses the real-world challenges faced by students," Dr. Cañezo said. "We are earnest to contribute to solutions that improve mental health and overall student well-being.”

The findings from this study are expected to inform the development of mental health policies and programs, providing institutions across Eastern Visayas with tools to create more supportive and inclusive environments for students.

#WoWBiPSU

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

Biliran Province State University, through the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), in partnership with Outbound Education and Internships (OBEI), conducted an orientation with parents and students for international On-the-Job Training (OJT) on January 20 at the university HAVC.

Themed, “Empowering Future Young Tourism and Hospitality Professionals for a Global Center”, the event, held at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC), aimed to prepare and guide students and parents for the internship programs in Thailand, United States of America, and France.

Moreover, according to Dr. Mafel A. Piol, SME dean, the opportunity to have an international internship will pave the way for professional growth. “This program will not only refine your skills and enhance your expertise, but will also shape you into globally competitive professionals ready to take on the world,” Dr. Piol stated. 

OBEI Managing Director Mary Grace Batocabe led the orientation, highlighting the essence of Student Internship Abroad Programs (SIAP). 

Notably, the university is eyeing to send 14 student-interns to Thailand, eight to the United States of America (USA), and four to France.

#WoWBiPSU

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

To showcase the students’ E-Sports prowess, Biliran Province State University held its first-ever inter-school Mobile Legends: Bang Bang tournament at the university gymnasium, January 17.

The said event convened 80 players from the different schools across the university featuring men and women’s division.

In the men’s division, School of Engineering (SOE) were hailed as champion bannered by Carlo Joseph Papilleras, Kurt Christian Adobo, Sean Japsin Basil, Shawn Michael Baylon, Giancarlo Biagcong, and Joshua Villaflores.

School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) secured the second place spot, while the School of Management and Entrepreneurship finished the game as third placer.

Meanwhile, School of Teacher Education (STEd) emerged victorious clinching the championship title for women’s division. The team composed of Femmie Joy Cabia, Hazel Gonzales, Sweetheart Quimbo, Julie Ann Santuele, and Francine Joy Satorre.

School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) and the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) won the second and third place, respectively.

Moreover, the chosen top six best players for both men and women will represent BiPSU in the first-ever Eastern Visayas Regional State Colleges and University Athletic Association (EVRSCUAA) E-Games 2025.

The men’s division consisting Papilleras, Adobo, Villaflores, Lennart Chong, Dennis Hillboy, and Rey Joseph Daprosa.

Meanwhile, women’s division best players featuring Gonzales, Cabia, Santuele, Satorre, Blessie Rose Sidaya, and Kristina Cassandra Disor.

In an interview, Chong shared that it was an unexpected moment when his name was called as one of the qualifiers for the regional E-Games. “Overwhelming and at the same time unexpected siya since mga kusog among mga kalaban,” he said.

The schedule and location for the EVRSCUAA E-Games 2025 is not yet announced.

[This article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education]

As a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, BiPSU through the office of the Vice President for Student and External Affairs (VP-SEA), released the first semester academic scholarship to 663 scholars for the A.Y ’24-25 at the university student center, January 17.

A total of 663 scholars from all schools of BiPSU-Naval Campus availed of the said grant. 151 of this received P5,500 under the university scholarship while 512 received P4,500 under the college scholarship. P3.1 million has been disbursed in total.

Students with a general weighted average of 1.0 to 1.29 are classified as university scholars, while those with an average of 1.3 to 1.5 are recognized as college scholars.

Ma. Ellen Apura, a second-year Business Administration student, shared in an interview on how the academic scholarship grant from the university helps in her pursuit in education.

“As a student who struggled financially, it is really a big help pang dugang sa allowance and maka motivate siya sa student na mag excel pa academically,” she said.

Mrs. Maricel Saulan, academic scholarship coordinator, clarified that the second-semester grades from the previous academic year are required for the current release, which corresponds to the first semester of the A.Y. 2024-2025, aligning with the application period.

“Ang requirement na second semester grades last academic year is para to sa karon na release which is for first semester for the academic year 2024-2025, same semester kung when sila nag apply,” Mrs. Saulan stated.

Moreover, the initial schedule of application for the second semester is set to transpire in February.

#WoWBiPSU