Biliran Province State University continues to emphasize the importance of leadership excellence in the university’s mandate of weaving the future of its clientele with the recent training workshop on academic leadership.

The said activity, dubbed as Empowering Academic Leaders: A Training-workshop on Instructional Leadership, Curriculum, Instruction, and Quality Assurance, is part of the BiPSU EMpowerment (educational mentoring) program of the university, which aims to capacitate faculty members through series of trainings and seminars.

The workshop, designed to build the capacity of university officials, focused on strengthening leadership in curriculum development, instruction, and quality assurance.

In his opening message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his enthusiasm for the event as an important step for the university to "stay ahead of the times" by refining leadership skills. 

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, leadership is never a finished product,” Dr. Cañezo said. “It’s something we need to continually refine and nurture…to sharpen our skills, update our knowledge, and stay current with the trends that shape our fields.”

The whole day workshop was attended by the Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan S. Bentor, school deans, chairpersons of the different programs, and directors of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Faculty Development (CIFD) and Quality Assurance and Accreditation (QAA) offices.

Dr. Remedios C. Bacus, director of the Curriculum Development and Enhancements at Cebu Normal University (CNU), was invited as the subject matter expert.

Dr. Bacus discussed curriculum development and assessment, Quality Assurance audit, orientation in crafting the continuous quality improvement per program, and orientation on curriculum development process and relevant forms.

Dr. Cañezo praised Dr. Bacus for her extensive experience, noting that her insights would provide valuable new perspectives and practical strategies for addressing the challenges of academic leadership.

One theme of the workshop was the concept of Phronetic Leadership which Dr. Cañezo described as leadership that goes beyond simply knowing the right answers. He explained that phronetic leaders must learn how to find solutions, apply them effectively, and lead with purpose. 

“This ties directly into #WoWBiPSU—Weaving of Worthiness, where we each play a role in ensuring that our leadership contributes to something greater than ourselves,” the university president said.

The event was organized by the CIFD led by Dr. Analiza B. Calles.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University marked its prominence in the international arena after recently bagging four awards at the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2024 Conference held in Seoul, South Korea on September 25.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., along with University and Board Secretary Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, School of Engineering (SOE) Dean Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, and BiPSU’s focal person for WURI Asst. Prof. Jenny Genoguin, personally received the awards.

WURI is a global ranking system that evaluates and acknowledges the innovative efforts and impact of universities worldwide, focusing on academic excellence and research output. It also emphasizes real-world contributions and the tangible impacts universities have on industry and society.

This year, WURI announced  that 1,072 universities were evaluated worldwide. Out of  this figure, BiPSU received recognition for placing 98th on the over-all ranking of the Global Top 300 Innovative Universities in the world.

BiPSU was assessed on its real contributions  to industry and society, highlighting innovative education, research, and engagement to society.

According to University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., the recent achievement of the university speaks of BiPSU’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and the practical application of knowledge to create impact in the community. 

“It shows that our university is not only contributing to academic progress but also playing a crucial role in addressing societal needs and challenges,” the university president said. “These awards are a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our faculty, students, and staff, who continuously strive to make a positive impact on both a local and global scale.”

Clinching three awards in 13 categories

Aside from the over-all ranking, BiPSU also notched three awards out of the thirteen categories of WURI ranking.

During the awarding, Dr. Cañezo presented the best practice of the university in the leadership category. BiPSU’s program titled “Transborder Leadership Approach of BiPSU: Empowering Educational Business  Resilience Amid Adversity”, ranked 32nd in the Leadership Top 100.

In their website, WURI explained that the leadership category “emphasizes whether the existing leadership relinquishes its privilege and continually adapts and innovates to remain effective and influential in the ever-changing landscape of higher education.”

Moreover, two community extension programs of the university were also recognized during the conference under the category Social Responsibility. WURI explained that this category focuses on researching and educating ethics and integrity, rather than solely concentrating on knowledge and skills for academic success.

SOE Dean Engr. Pelesco presented during the conference the community program of the university in Higatangan Island, Naval titled “Empowering Island Communities through Intervention of Green Energy Technology in Water Crisis Management”.

Moreover, BiPSU’s focal person on WURI Assist. Prof. Genoguin also shared at the conference the university’s “Trabaho at Negosyo Extension Project: Fostering Community Empowerment, One Opportunity at a Time” program. 

These two community projects were a ticket of BiPSU to rank on the 29th place in the category Social Responsibility Top 300.

Moreover, the “Project LEA: Knowledge and Skills Enhancement for Future Law Enforcers and Administrators” presented by Dr. Arcenal was also recognized as 34th Place in the Student Support and Engagement Top 100.

This category focuses on supporting student’s academic and career success as well as student welfare, diversity, inclusion, and participation.

Dr. Cañezo gets nomination for WURI Prize award

During the conference, Dr. Cañezo was also awarded with a certificate for being nominated for the WURI Prize for Excellence in Innovation  for Leaders award. 

The WURI Prize is a special recognition given to university leaders who have demonstrated commitment to fostering innovation in education, research, and societal contributions. The award celebrates visionary leaders who go beyond conventional methods and champion innovative practices that address global challenges, inspire progress, and make a lasting impact on both the academic community and society at large.

Dr. Cañezo, who also sits as the President of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Region VIII, shared that being nominated on an international platform highlights the global impact of his work.

“To be considered for such an esteemed recognition is already a great honor,” he said. “It reaffirms that the work we are doing at BiPSU is being noticed on a global scale.”

Meanwhile, Engr. Pelesco was also nominated for the same award in the Faculty category.

BiPSU’s consistent WURI placement

Ranking in the WURI is not new for BiPSU. In a four-year streak, BiPSU has received recognition from the international ranking body.

In 2021, BiPSU ranked 26th out of 50 global universities, becoming one of only three Philippine universities listed among the top 50 global crisis management universities. The award was given in recognition of the university's innovative response at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The following year, BiPSU improved its rank to 22nd in the same category, standing alongside six other prominent universities from the Philippines.

Last year, BiPSU climbed further, ranking 14th in global crisis management. In addition, the university secured a place once again in the Global Top Innovative Universities category, joining the 101-200 rank, making BiPSU the 7th most innovative university in the country.

Dr. Cañezo emphasized that the consistent recognitions are not just numbers or rankings; they represent the hard work and heart that the entire BiPSU community puts into everything they do.

“We continue to rise to global challenges, transforming them into opportunities for growth and impact,” Dr. Cañezo uttered. “We’ve faced challenges, yet we continue to find new ways to grow, adapt, and serve our community”

WURI now on its 5th year

WURI was organized by Institute for Policy and Strategy on National Competitiveness (IPSNC) and sponsored by four global institutions, namely: the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU), the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Taylor Institute (TI) of Franklin University Switzerland (FUS), and The Institute for Industrial Policy Studies (IPS).

WURI, now in its 5th year, stands out as a global ranking system that goes beyond traditional academic metrics like research output and faculty credentials. Instead, it assesses universities on their ability to address real-world challenges and create positive societal impacts. 

Established in 2020, it encompasses innovation targets and methods, offering a comprehensive measure of institutions’ creative contributions to societal advancement.

“The ranking aims to spotlight higher education institutions that excel in these innovative approaches, thereby inspiring advancements across the academic and societal landscape,” their website wrote.

[This aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, which focuses on inclusive and equitable education and lifelong learning. BiPSU's innovative programs and community engagement highlight its commitment to improving education quality and addressing societal needs. Additionally, its initiatives related to water crisis management connect with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.]

In line with its mandate to empower students, Biliran Province State University sent student leaders from the School of Teacher Education (STEd) to participate in the National Summit of Education Student Leaders, a landmark event held from September 20 to 22, at Benitez Hall, Teachers' Camp, Baguio City.

The summit, co-organized by the Philippine Normal University (PNU) and the Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC), brought together over 500 education student leaders and advisers from across the Philippines under the theme "Gen Z: Empowering Future Teachers for Transformative Education."

This groundbreaking event aimed to provide a platform for student leaders and future educators to share insights and experiences on pressing issues and emerging trends in the education sector. 

The six-member delegation from BiPSU was led by Robert P. Jordan, adviser of the Supreme Student Council – STEd (SSC-STEd), alongside student leaders of STEd’s student organizations, including Marianel J. Sabornido, president of SSC-STEd; Krishia Claire R. Oppus, public information officer of SSC-STEd; Christian Kert T. Atoc, president of SPLICE-STEd; Cristine D. Comendo, treasurer of SSC-STEd; and Rachel Anne N. Garcia, president of FEYC-STEd.

Jordan mentioned that the summit offered BiPSU’s education student leaders a valuable opportunity to gain insights into current trends, issues, and challenges facing the education sector in the country.

"It served as a platform for them to exchange experiences, discuss the various challenges they have encountered, and collaboratively propose potential solutions during breakout sessions with fellow student leaders from across the nation," he said. "Participants will align their future plans and programs with the topics discussed at the summit, ensuring that these initiatives are responsive to the evolving needs of the sector."

Jordan added that they will conduct re-echo sessions for other teacher education students to inform them about the key issues and challenges currently facing educators in the field.

BiPSU's participation in the summit underlines the university's commitment to its mandate of empowering students, fostering leadership, and preparing future educators to address the evolving challenges in the education sector.

#WoWBiPSU

TAGAYTAY CITY, CAVITE — The official tertiary student publication office (SPO) of Biliran Province State University, The Pillar Publication, showcased its journalistic excellence after bagging awards at the 15th National Campus Media Conference held at Angels’ Hills Retreat and Formation Center on September 18-20.

Competing against 877 student-journalists from 66 institutions nationwide, The Pillar Publication brought home ten awards from various competitions, reaffirming its commitment to high-quality journalism.

Jerrymae de Guia, the publication’s Chief Executive Editor (CEE), emerged as a standout figure, clinching the championship title in the News Story Writing-Filipino category, outshining other 37 participants.

“As the CEE of the publication I'm very much proud of the awards that we secured at the recently concluded national confab,” de Guia said. “All our efforts during our focus training really paid off, and I'm glad that beyond the recognitions, we also brought with us the invaluable experiences and learning that will help us improve more.”

Furthermore, in the i-Documento Film category, Donato Besana, Lyka Brigole, Antonio Paderanga, Jake Mangubat, and Mitchel Klaire Durango secured fifth place with their entry titled “USER: Kaaway o Kaibigan?”.

Meanwhile, the radio broadcasting teams of the SPO, both in English and Filipino categories, secured a podium finish. This year's broadcasting competition is a comeback after a seven-year hiatus. 

Christian Lloyd Pomar, Jericho Dela Cruz, Durango, Brigole, and Paderanga secured the third place in the RB English category; while the the RB Filipino team composed of Kim John Morillo, Joeliza Bonto, Cian Napalit, Aliyah Ebit, and Ryan Jake  Mangubat was hailed fourth placer.

Additionally, The Pillar Publication’s magazine titled "PASADA" earned recognition in the Best Magazine Feature Photo and Best Magazine Cover Page Design categories.

In the Pambansang Pautakang Pampahayagan, Gil Irinco, Nica Bagion, and Rogelio Cale III finished seventh place.

Irinco also received the Journalism Leadership Award as the Visayas Representative of the National Federation of Campus Journalists (NFCJ), highlighting that The Pillar Publication is fostering both skilled journalists and future leaders in the field.

With the theme “Championing Accountability Campus Journalism for a Positive Societal Impact through eXpanding and Venturing the Digital Horizon,” this year’s conference emphasized the importance of responsible journalism in the age of digital media and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The delegation consisted of 21 staffers, along with three coaches, namely Fernando Quiroz Jr., publication adviser; Jenny Genoguin, former adviser of the publication; and Vincent Justine Realino, instructor at Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

In an interview, Quiroz expressed that the recent achievements of the Pillarians at the 15th National Campus MediaCon were a significant milestone for the publication.

“The publication’s wins are testament to the hard work, passion, and the collaborative spirit of our student journalists that drives our publication,” the publication adviser said. “We will continue to strive to ensure that our platform remains a voice of truth, a source of hope and catalyst of change for the BiPSU community.”

Furthermore, the 16th National Media Conference, to be hosted by the National University-Clark, is set for 2025 in Pampanga Province, where The Pillar Publication eyes a stronger comeback. 

#WoWBiPSU

Aimed at evaluating the candidates for the Private Sector Representative (PSR) posts who will sit at the highest governing board of the university, Biliran Province State University hosted a Sectoral Public Forum on September 19 at the BiPSU HAVC with incumbent Private Sector Representatives’ Hon. Jean Clare Diu and Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina, seeking reappointment bids.

The event gathered university stakeholders—including students, employees, alumni, and members of the private sector—who engaged in discussions to assess the candidates' roles and plans for the university's governance.

During the said forum, incumbent PSRs, Hon. Diu and Hon. Espina, expressed their intention for their reinstatement for their positions in the Board of Regents. They also shared their mission and vision should they be reappointed.

Hon. Diu submits for reappointment

Jean Clare T. Diu was officially installed as a member of BiPSU’s Board of Regents (BOR) on September 30, 2022, representing the private sector. As her term is set to expire on September 30 this year, she has formally sought reappointment to the post.

Diu, who graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy in University of San Carlos, hails from the business sector. She currently serves as the General Manager and Accountant of Johnton’s Marketing and WAD Space Rental Services. Additionally, she is also the Corporate Secretary of the Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., the province’s largest federation of businesses and entrepreneurs.

As she seeks reappointment, Diu shared her mission during the sectoral public forum. She revealed that she wants to strengthen the university's collaboration with key industry players and expand opportunities for student success.

“My mission is to foster strong partnerships between the university and the private sector, ensuring that BiPSU’s thrusts are aligned with industry needs and to drive resource mobilization to support innovation, student development, and entrepreneurial initiatives, preparing graduates to excel in a dynamic global market and contribute to the sustainable growth of the region and beyond,” she said.

Moreover, Diu also envisions enhancing BiPSU’s role as a bridge between academia and industry.

“My vision for BiPSU is to be a state university with a strengthened connection with the private sector, ensuring that its programs align with industry needs and prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to the local and global economy,” she said. “I see the university as a hub of innovation, where academic excellence meets real-world demands through active collaboration with industry partners.”

Hon. Espina eyes second term

Like Diu, Espina was also appointed on September 30, 2022, as a PSR and is now eyeing a second term.

She graduated from STI College of Baguio with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and from the University of Eastern Philippines with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Currently, she works as the Chief Financial Officer and Secretary at 3G Construction and Development.

During the forum, Espina shared her plans should she be granted reappointment, emphasizing her commitment to fostering collaboration between the university and the private sector.

“To champion the integration of private sector expertise and innovative practices into university strategies, driving enhanced educational programs, industry partnerships, and community impact,” her mission stated.

Moreover, Espina also revealed her vision for the university with her as a member of the governing board. She shared that she envisions BiPSU as a leader in innovation and academic excellence, deeply rooted in partnerships with the private sector. “A state university that thrives through strong private sector collaboration, driving continuous innovation, academic advancement, and sustainable community growth.”

The reappoinment is a trend setter

In his message, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., the University President, emphasized the importance of the private sector's involvement in the university's development. He highlighted the collaborative spirit that the university aims to foster through partnerships with private entities.

“Through the PSR, we benefit from an external perspective that keeps us aligned with the changing needs of the industry, our communities, and the nation as a whole,” the university president said. “The PSR’s contributions are invaluable in ensuring that BiPSU continues to deliver quality education, foster innovation, and remain responsive to societal demands.”

During the forum, the Chairperson and members of the Evaluation Committee on the Private Sector Representative (ECPSR) were officially introduced to the public. The ECPSR is a search committee constituted by the Chairperson of the Board of Regents to evaluate and screen candidates from the private sector.

Hon. Atty. Ryan L. Estevez, OIC executive director of UNIFAST and the chairperson of the ECPSR, said that the university is setting the bar high in conducting the reinstatement process for incumbent PSRs. 

Moreover, Mr. Judah S. Aliposa, co-chairperson of the RDC VIII-DAC and Private Sector Representative for Disaster Resiliency and member of the ECPSR, confirmed that BiPSU is the first SUC in the region and second in the country to have PSR reappointment.

As part of the public forum, representatives from the different sectors were given the opportunity to raise questions, share feedback, and voice concerns.

The candidates also attended a closed door panel with the evaluation committee right after the forum at the OP convergence room.

Meticulous evaluation process

As incumbent PSRs, Espina and Diu expressed their intent for reappointment with a letter to the Board of Regents.

Subsequently, the board constituted the evaluation committee with Atty. Estevez as the chairperson. Aside from Mr. Judah S. Aliposa, other members of the committee include Prof. Homer R. Ampong, BiPSU's Management Information System (MIS) director; and Mr. Lawrence Pentado, Federation of Supreme Student Councils (FSSC) trustee.

After a thorough evaluation based on established guidelines and criteria pursuant to the 2022 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 8292, the committee will present its findings to the Board of Regents. The board will then decide whether to approve the reappointments based on the evaluation results.

University and Board Secretary Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal stated that they are targeting to submit the results by the end of the month during the quarterly regular board meeting.

Spearheaded by the Academic Film Society (AFS) of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) proudly participated in the first-ever Film Education Convention (FilmEC), held on September 17-18 at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

The event brought together film students, educators, and industry professionals to discuss and advance film education in the country.

In his welcome address, FDCP Chairperson and CEO Dir. Jose Javier Reyes emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.

“Tandaan ninyo, ang kinabukasan ng pelikulang Pilipino ay hindi nakasalalay sa aking henerasyon, ’yon ay nasa inyong mga kamay, at handa naming tulungan kayo na maging mas magaling pa kaysa sa mga naunang henerasyon,” said Dir. Reyes.

He also highlighted that the convention served as a platform for sharing knowledge by connecting student-filmmakers and educators to inspire the next wave of filmmakers and promote a vibrant film culture in the Philippines.

Furthermore, FilmEC offered a range of activities aimed at enhancing participants’ understanding of the film industry, including plenary talks, panel discussions, and screenings of award-winning student films. The event also featured film book sales and networking opportunities, facilitating connections between aspiring filmmakers and experienced professionals.

Representing the university at the convention were Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal and Joshua Usigan, instructors from BiPSU’s Department of Communication, along with five student filmmakers: John Cyril Labtic, Nikelyn Pahayay, Justine Quidol, Stanley Jaypee Morales, and Trisha Ibanez. Over the two-day event, they participated in film-related discussions and networking opportunities, expanding their knowledge and connections in the industry.

Nikelyn Pahayahay, a 4th-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student at BiPSU, expressed that as an aspiring filmmaker, the convention was important because it offered her valuable learning opportunities, noting that living in a remote area like Biliran Province limits their access to film festivals and conventions.

“As an aspiring filmmaker, this convention is significant for me because it provides a deep learning experience. Living in a remote area like Biliran Province, I don’t often have opportunities to attend film festivals and conventions. That’s why this convention is important—it allows me to learn from experts in various fields and inspires me to create more films,” she added.

Moreover, BiPSU is a proud member of the Academic Film Society (AFS) and has partnered with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) to strengthen film production and promotion initiatives within the university.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University's School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) held the 16th Capping, Badge Investiture, and Candle Lighting Ceremonies for its second-year nursing students at the BiPSU Gymnasium on September 19.

Seventy-seven Level 2 nursing students proudly donned their caps and badges and lit the Nightingale lamps during the said ceremony.

The event is a significant milestone for students pursuing healthcare careers, as it marks the transition from theoretical learning to the practical application of nursing skills. Female student nurses received their caps, while male students officially pinned their badges.

In her message, Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Dean of SNHS, encouraged the student nurses to wear the cap and badge with pride, as they represent personal growth and resilience.

“There will be many more challenges ahead, but I am confident that you will rise and face them, just as you successfully navigated your freshman year,” she said.

Additionally, the lamp lighting ceremony took place, where the student nurses lit their lamps, symbolizing their acceptance of the challenges ahead in their nursing careers. This activity is inspired by Florence Nightingale, the "Lady of the Lamp," who was a British nurse, statistician, and social reformer, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing.

Dr. Saniel, along with the faculty members of the nursing school, lit the ceremonial candle from which the student nurses received the light for their lamps.

Meanwhile, in his congratulatory message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. reminded the student nurses that the nursing profession requires a blend of knowledge and empathy, combining science with humanity.

“As you start this new journey, always remember that nursing is not only about treating illness—it is about understanding the person behind the illness, knowing their fears, hopes, and needs,” the university president said. “It is about being there in vulnerable moments and providing not just medical care, but also emotional and psychological support.”

Mr. Jetro Varona, an emergency room nurse at Ormoc Sugarcane Planters’ Association – Farmers’ Medical Center (OSPA – FMC), also addressed the inductees, reminding them that pursuing a clinical profession is not just a job, but a calling.

“By the time you receive your badge and cap today, you are now beginning to touch the lives of your patients,” Varona said. “The care that you give, and the comfort that you provide, are what make this journey—or should I say ‘calling—worthwhile.”

The program continued with a message from one of the inductees, a solemn recitation of the Nightingale Pledge, and the Nurse’s Prayer, and the performance of the batch song.

The ceremony was attended by university key officials, representatives from partner healthcare facilities, parents of the inductees, and SNHS students and faculty members.

#WoWBiPSU

In line with the university’s mission to address local needs and empower the development of people within the province, Biliran Province State University, through the External Affairs Office and Institutional Education Job Placement Office (IE-JPO), hosted the 2024 Job Fair.

The full-day event, held on September 18 at the university gymnasium, gathered at least 24 employers from various local businesses, establishments, and national agencies.

BiPSU’s Job Placement Officer, Dr. Miguel E. Supremo, Jr., emphasized that the job fair is designed to support job seekers, particularly those in the province. “This job fair is intended for job seekers who need employment, whether locally or overseas, to help them and also contribute to addressing our local economic challenges,” Dr. Supremo said.

He also shared that the university has held job fairs annually since 2019. “This year’s event is particularly special, as it is part of the 52nd founding anniversary celebration of the institution,” he added.

A total of 246 job seekers took the opportunity to apply for positions at the fair.

In his message, Mr. Francisco A. Segovia, Jr., labor officer from the Biliran Field Office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), highlighted the purpose of the event.

“The focus of this event is to showcase each graduate through employment and business services that enhance their employability in the labor market, and foster job seekers’ success in their job search,” Mr. Segovia said.

He also challenged the employers to surpass the 39% on-the-spot hiring rate achieved during a similar event held last Friday at BiPSU’s student center, encouraging them to offer job seekers even greater chances of securing employment.

During an interview at the job fair, Mr. Angelo A. Javines, a BiPSU alumnus, emphasized the significance of the event for job seekers, particularly fresh graduates.

“This is a big help for us, especially for newly graduated students, as we may find our first job here,” he said.

The local agencies that participated in the event included Prince Superstore, MOTORTRADE — Naval, USSC Western Union Naval, CITI Hardware, DES Marketing, RIZHLE CON’S & Development Corp., Sunlife of Canada, Phil’s Inc., Villa Celestino Hotel, LBC, Mang Inasal — Naval, Polycentric Lending Corp., Rotaflex Construction and Development Corp., and GUD MOTO TRADING Inc.

Additionally, five overseas employment agencies took part, including Philippine Human Resource World Employment, Maanyag International Manpower Corp., ERRX Recruitment Consulting, Ascend International Services Inc., and 1st Northern International Placement Inc.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all.]

Biliran Province State University marked World Tourism Day 2024 with a culmination event showcasing how tourism can serve as a bridge to peace. The activity, hosted by BiPSU's School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), brought together tourism and hospitality management students and faculty members.

The celebration, focused on this year’s theme, "Tourism and Peace," was held at the university student center on September 18.

In her message, Dr. Mafel Piol, dean of SME, emphasized that tourism has the power to bring people together, breaking down barriers of prejudice and misunderstanding. She also encouraged students to embrace tourism as a means to contribute to peace in their communities, their country, and the world.

“Tourism enables people from different backgrounds to experience each other’s cultures, histories, and traditions,” she noted. “It builds bridges of mutual respect and cooperation.”

A series of activities kept the audience engaged throughout the day, including a school-wide Quiz Bee, where students demonstrated their knowledge of tourism, culture, and global affairs.

A Product Exhibit also took place, showcasing creative solutions and entrepreneurial ideas from BiPSU students. Dr. Piol highlighted that these exhibits emphasize how tourism can promote not only economic growth but also the preservation of local cultures.

Moreover, the afternoon celebration embraced Filipino heritage through *Laro ng Lahi*, traditional Filipino games, held at the university oval.

Since 1980, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has celebrated World Tourism Day annually on September 27. This date was chosen to commemorate the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes on September 27, 1970, marking a significant milestone in global tourism.

The purpose of World Tourism Day is to raise awareness about the role of tourism in the international community and to highlight its impact on social, cultural, political, and economic values worldwide.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies.]

In celebration of the 124th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary and Linggo ng Malasakit, Biliran Province State University employees and students participated in the Tree Growing for a Cause event on September 18 in Brgy. Villaconsuelo, Naval, Biliran.

Themed "Malasakit sa Kalikasan, Malasakit sa Lingkod Bayan," the initiative, led by the Civil Service Commission Biliran Provincial Office in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), emphasized environmental care and public service — key values upheld by the university.

At least 100 participants from BiPSU attended the said event composed of 42 employees and 58 students from the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA). Among the attendees were Dr. Vennie G. Coton, faculty regent and acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education, and Aramae Bernal, the university's HRMO.

Engr. Valire Jess D. Abar, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources officer (PENRO) provided instructions on the proper handling and planting of seedlings. Engr. Abar also emphasized the importance of proper spacing, depth, and soil preparation to ensure the healthy growth of the trees. 

In his message, CSC Supervising Human Resource Specialist,  Atty. Benjie M. Gelizon thanked BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. for sending the highest number of participants. “The Php250.00 registration fee will go to the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani program of the Civil Service Commission.” 

He explained that the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani program recognizes public servants who died during the performance of their respective functions, duties, and responsibilities as government employees. 

Other government agencies also joined the event, including the Provincial Government Office, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Naval Water District, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Local Government Unit of Naval.

“Participating in activities like this, we are not only contributing to the protection of our environment but also sharing the spirit of unity and shared responsibility especially that BiPSU is committed to environmental stewardship,” said HRMO Bernal in an interview. 

Said tree-growing activity was part of the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability, showing its dedication to integrating social responsibility into public service. The early morning event also highlighted the importance of  promoting both nature conservation and civic engagement.

(This article aligns with SDG 13 on Climate Action and SDG 15 on Life on Land. The tree planting initiative contributes to climate action by strengthening environmental sustainability and combating climate change through reforestation. It also supports life on land by promoting the restoration and conservation of terrestrial ecosystems.)