The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has achieved a major breakthrough at its Biliran Campus, discovering highly promising Entomopathogenic Fungi (EPF) as a sustainable biological control against abaca aphids, the vector responsible for spreading the devastating Abaca Bunchy Top Virus (ABTV), a crisis that has severely threatened abaca production across the province and Eastern Visayas.

Funded by the DOST-PCAARRD, the BiPSU team successfully surveyed plantations and collected abaca aphids across Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte, leading to the laboratory isolation and study of EPF—beneficial, low-cost, and environmentally friendly microorganisms that naturally penetrate and kill insect pests, making them an excellent alternative to chemical pesticides.

The initial results are highly promising, with several fungal isolates demonstrating a strong potential to infect and kill the aphids; these isolates are now being sent for molecular identification to determine their species and local adaptability, marking the next steps toward screenhouse and field testing, with the ultimate goal of developing a practical, farmer-level application.

Beyond the core research, the project has already had a significant institutional impact, drafting two IEC materials, maintaining ten EPF isolates, mentoring two BS Agriculture students (one of whom graduated Magna Cum Laude), and establishing partnerships with Visayas State University, Southern Leyte State University–Hinunangan Campus, and the Upland Farmers and Abaca Planters Association (UFAPA).

The project’s excellence has been recognized regionally, earning 3rd Best On-going Paper (Research Category) from both EViAFRREDN and ViCARP, and achieving 3rd Place for Best Research Poster and Best Research Short Reels during the BiPSU Researchlympics 2025; furthermore, the research secured an additional ₱5 million DOST-PCAARRD grant for the Biological Control Laboratory upgrade and hosted Dr. Benildo G. de los Reyes, a Balik Scientist from Texas Tech University, USA.

This initiative is critical to the national interest because the Philippines supplies about 87% of the world's abaca fiber, and while the Bicol Region leads, Eastern Visayas—which has suffered major losses since the ABTV became widespread around 2015—stands to benefit immensely, especially since no resistant variety has yet been identified to counter the disease that continues to limit productivity.

By exploring EPF, BiPSU aims to provide abaca farmers with a natural and sustainable management option, reducing dependence on harmful chemical pesticides, minimizing environmental risks, and studying ways to produce EPF on the farm using locally available materials, ultimately strengthening the university’s role in agricultural innovation and supporting the vital revival of Biliran’s historic abaca industry.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has significantly advanced its internationalization agenda by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Software Development Centre (SDC) of The University of Danang (UD) in Vietnam. The partnership is a key initiative in "weaving BiPSU with the world and the world with BiPSU," establishing a five-year collaboration focused on faculty, staff, and student mobility and a critical hands-on immersion program.

The partnership aims to promote international exposure and professional development, particularly in fields related to digital transformation and technology.

The official signing ceremony took place on October 21, 2025.

The BiPSU delegation, present in person, was led by Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, University President, and included key academic administrators: Dr. Maribel Zipagan, Vice-President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Chona Sabinay, Dean of the School of Technology and Computer Studies; Dr. Reynold Bustillo, Program Chairperson of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science; Dr. Cheryl Ebajo, Program Chairperson of Bachelor of Science in Information System; and Dr. Reymon Santiañez, Faculty member of STCS.

Representatives from The University of Danang - Software Development Centre (SDC) virtually attended the ceremony to formalize the agreement.

The core of the agreement is the establishment of a two-week Faculty and Student Immersion Program to be conducted annually during the second semester. This program will offer participants from BiPSU hands-on industry exposure, professional development opportunities, and practical experience in Vietnam.

"This is a vital step in our commitment to internationalization and institutional development," stated Dr. Cañezo. "The immersion will not only expose our students, faculty, and staff to a world-class institution like SDC but will also facilitate valuable cultural exchanges that foster a deeper appreciation of life and technology in Vietnam. It is the practical implementation of our vision to be an internationally-recognized institution."

The program is strictly voluntary, ensuring that only those who freely and voluntarily choose to participate will join the mobility activity.

Under the MOA, The University of Danang - SDC, as the host institution, will provide transportation from Da Nang International Airport, arrange suitable accommodation, conduct a comprehensive orientation, and render assistance during emergencies. BiPSU, as the home institution, will be responsible for pre-qualifying participants, arranging for all travel necessities including airfare and meals, and providing necessary medical insurance coverage.

The immersion fee will be covered by the participating students and by BiPSU for participating faculty and staff, subject to fund availability.

The agreement is effective for a period of five (5) years, setting a long-term foundation for academic and professional exchange between BiPSU and The University of Danang - Software Development Centre (SDC). 

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Atty. Dick Guiller G. Delfin and Mr. Joedel O. Peñaranda of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) served as judges in the 5th University of Cebu–Konrad Adenauer Stiftung International Environmental Law Moot Court Competition (UC-KAS IELMCC) held from October 20 to 22, 2025, at the University of Cebu–Banilad Campus.

Jointly organized by the University of Cebu School of Law, Oceana Philippines, and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), the event brought together law students and legal professionals from across the country to argue on issues concerning environmental protection, Indigenous Peoples’ rights, and the emerging legal framework on the Rights of Nature.

Atty. Delfin, Attorney IV of BiPSU, and Mr. Peñaranda, Board Secretary V and Director of the Strategic Innovation and Knowledge Laboratories (SIKLAB), served as judges during the oral rounds of the competition. Both are also advisers of An Lantugi: BiPSU Debate Society, the university’s official debate varsity.

Following the moot court, they were invited to participate in the International Law Conference on the Protection of Indigenous Peoples, Rights of Nature, and Forest Biodiversity held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu City, from October 23 to 25, 2025.

Notably, during last year's edition of the international competition, Mr. Penaranda was named Champion and Overall Best Oralist, with Atty. Delfin serving as one of the coaches.

Their participation in these prestigious international academic events is seen as a crucial step toward the eventual establishment of BiPSU’s School of Law and Governance, particularly in shaping its proposed Environmental Law and International Law programs and course offerings.

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The School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) of the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) spearheaded the second episode of the university’s public service radio program, “WOW BiPSU Extension in Action,” on Radyo Natin 103.9 FM. The segment focused on educating the community about the vital topics of Digital Safety, Security, and Data Privacy.

The broadcast, an initiative of the BiPSU Extension Services Office, was hosted by Mr. Lorenzo R. de la Cruz, Information Officer III and Director of the BiPSU Media and Information Office. The program airs every Tuesday, 10:30-11:30 in the morning.

The episode featured STCS experts Dr. Reynold G. Bustillo, Program Chairperson for BS Computer Science and BiPSU Network Administrator, and Mr. Glenn Gumba, Research Chairperson of STCS and Head for the Knowledge Management Unit of the BiPSU Extension Services Office. Both provided detailed guidance on navigating the digital world safely.

Dr. Bustillo defined Digital Safety and Security as the comprehensive protection of personal information, devices, and online activities against threats like hacking, identity theft, malware, and cyberbullying. He clarified various forms of malicious software and explained that identity theft includes financial, criminal, medical, and synthetic types.

Mr. Glenn Gumba outlined several essential Cybersecurity Best Practices, instructing listeners to regularly update systems and applications to maintain security, utilize strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for enhanced protection, to never share passwords with anyone, and to always avoid clicking suspicious links and emails to prevent system infiltration.

Dr. Bustillo concluded the educational segment by confirming that the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10173), which established the National Privacy Commission (NPC), protects citizens’ personal information in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Ms. Jhanna Mariel Merino, Chairperson of the STCS Extension Services, thanked the linkages and partners of STCS in their extension programs and emphasized their contributions towards weaving BiPSU to the world and the world with BiPSU' and in meeting the needs of the local and global communities.

The episode served as a direct public service, concluding with the STCS experts' commitment: “We create! We Innovate! We build! #TATAKSTCS!” 

#WoWBiPSU #TatakSTCS  #WoWBiPSUExtensionInAction

The Biliran Province State University community—comprising the Governing Board, faculty, administrative staff, and students—came together on October 14, 2025, to celebrate a milestone: the Universityhood Anniversary. However, the day was also marked by a bittersweet farewell as the institution paid a heartfelt tribute to its outgoing Chairperson of the Governing Board, Hon. Commissioner Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela.

The ceremony, held amidst the vibrant energy of the anniversary, focused on honoring Commissioner Valenzuela’s transformative tenure and her deeply personal connection to the university.

In a statement that resonated with the sentiments of the entire BiPSU family, University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, encapsulated the profound impact of her leadership.

“We are truly thankful for her inspiring leadership and motherly love for the university,” President Cañezo stated. This unique reference to “motherly love” speaks volumes, suggesting a guidance style rooted not just in policy and governance but in genuine care and nurturing for the institution's growth and well-being.

Commissioner Valenzuela’s efforts went far beyond official duties; they were characterized by a spirit of shared commitment and forward-looking vision. President Cañezo emphasized that her dedicated support was instrumental in the university’s institutional development, referring to it as the "Weaving of worthiness"—a continuous, purposeful effort that elevated the standing and value of BiPSU.

The farewell wasn't simply a formality; it was an acknowledgment of the trust and support that Commissioner Valenzuela consistently extended to the university's management.

“Her guidance has strengthened our spirit to serve our beloved BiPSU,” President Cañezo added, highlighting how her support translated directly into motivation for the staff and students. In the often-complex world of academic governance, having a supportive and trusting Chairperson is invaluable. President Cañezo made sure this cornerstone was recognized: “Thank you, Commissioner Ethel, for your trust and support.” This trust enabled BiPSU to pursue its strategic goals with confidence and clarity.

As she steps down from her role as Chairperson, Commissioner Valenzuela leaves behind a legacy of stability, inspiration, and dedication. The emotional tribute serves as a testament to the strong, familial bond she forged with the BiPSU community.

The President concluded the tribute with a promise that transcends official titles and terms of office: “You will always be a part of the BiPSU family.”

Her contributions, characterized by both official oversight and personal care, will continue to inspire the university's stakeholders long after her departure from the Governing Board. The BiPSU family now looks forward to building on the strong foundation she helped lay, carrying her spirit of service and the legacy of the "Weaving of worthiness" into the next chapter of its development.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) celebrated a significant milestone in its commitment to gender-responsive governance as University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, announced that the institution was recognized among the top 10 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) nationwide for its budget utilization in Gender and Development (GAD).

In his welcome remarks for the four-day HIBLA: Weaving the WoWBiPSU GAD Agenda workshop, President Cañezo shared his pride that BiPSU ranked 10th among SUCs for the Highest Organization-Focused GAD Budget Expenditure in Fiscal Year 2024. He attributed this achievement to the concerted effort and "teamwork," guided by the Gender and Development Office under Director Dr. Mariane Dagayloan.

The workshop, running from October 15 to 18, 2025, at the University Hostel, Function Hall A, aims to formulate the university's strategic GAD Agenda. This agenda, which will serve as the "bible for planning, budgeting, and implementing programs that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment", is mandated by the Magna Carta of Women and Executive Order No. 273.

President Cañezo introduced the core theme of the workshop, HIBLA, which stands for Harnessing Inclusion, Building Leadership, and Advancing gender equality in Biliran Province State University.

The strategy to institutionalize gender-responsiveness at the university is built on a three-pronged framework: first, to Harness Inclusion by fostering safe and welcoming environments, incorporating gender sensitivity into policies and programs, and promoting open dialogue ; second, to Build Leadership by empowering the university community—including students, faculty, and staff—as "gender champions," offering capacity-building, and acknowledging inclusive role models, exemplified by events like the BiPSU WOW Awards ; and third, to Advance Gender Equality by ensuring alignment with national and international Gender and Development (GAD) frameworks and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while also strengthening collaboration with external entities such as government agencies, Local Government Units (LGUs), and community partners.

The President emphasized that the true essence of GAD is "about making everyone feel accepted and valued" and ensuring "no one is left behind". He stressed that crafting the agenda ensures BiPSU's GAD efforts are "systematic, evidence-based, and results-oriented" and "responsive to the real needs of our academic and local communities".

The workshop features Mr. Alvin Cloyd Dakis, President and Chief Consultant of STRIDE Solutions and a member of the Philippine Commission on Women National GAD Pool of Experts, as the resource speaker. Participants include Vice Presidents, the GAD Office Director, and GAD Secretariats from both the Naval and Biliran Campuses.

In closing, President Cañezo encouraged participants to contribute their ideas, which will collectively "bring us closer to building a more compassionate and gender-inclusive BiPSU," continuing to weave a culture of empowerment "where every BiPSUnista is seen, heard, and valued". The workshop is expected to conclude on October 18, 2025.

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In a move set to bolster regional academic growth and collaboration, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and Cebu Normal University (CNU) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 17, 2025, at the OP Convergence. This landmark five-year partnership represents a true "weaving of worthiness", uniting two State Universities in a commitment to mutual academic advancement.

CNU President Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso, Sr., representing the First Party, and BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr., representing the Second Party, affixed their signatures to the document. The agreement is explicitly founded on the spirit of friendship, reciprocity, equality, and mutual interest.

The MOA outlines a robust framework for academic and cultural exchange, aiming to enhance the quality of education and research at both institutions:

✅Mobility and Exchange: The agreement encourages the exchange of students for a given period through a recognized program and the exchange of scholars, professors, lecturers, and researchers. The host institution is responsible for organizing cultural orientation sessions for incoming students.

✅ Research and Information Sharing: Both universities will organize joint scientific research programs and other research projects in fields of mutual interests. They will also encourage the exchange of research materials, periodicals, and academic publications.

✅Innovation in Education: The partnership includes sharing experiences and best practices in innovative teaching methods, course design, and the systems and operations of their respective smart campuses.

✅ Joint Activities: The universities will organize joint symposia, workshops, and conferences and encourage joint educational programs and curriculum development.

A crucial component of the partnership is the provision for intellectual property rights. All copyrightable works produced as a result of the collaboration will be jointly owned by the parties, ensuring that fees and royalties benefit both institutions.

The MOA shall take effect immediately upon signing and will remain in full force for five (5) years from October 17, 2025. The agreement is renewable under mutually agreed-upon terms. 

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The School of Teacher Education (STEd) Extension Services of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) is ramping up its community engagement efforts by consulting with and presenting the Project INSPIRE proposal to two elementary schools in Naval.

On October 16, 2025, the STEd Extension Services conducted its initial consultation meeting and proposal presentation for Project INSPIRE at Villa Consuelo Elementary School (ES).

Led by Project Leader Dr. Robert Jordan, the team—which included Chairperson Ms. Miramar Serrion and Facilitator Mr. Greggo Legaspi—met with Principal Mrs. Christiane Polinar and the dedicated faculty of Villa Consuelo ES.

This strategic initiative aims to address the target needs of teachers, aligning all activities to enhance their capabilities and ultimately benefit the students. With Project INSPIRE, the partnership between the STEd Extension Team and Villa Consuelo Elementary School is poised to make a meaningful impact in the education sector.

Following up on their efforts, the STEd Extension Services held another consultation meeting and proposal presentation for Project INSPIRE today, October 17, 2025.

The meeting with Mrs. Gretchym Dela Peña, Principal of Libtong Daku Elementary School, took place at the STEd Faculty Room, BiPSU Naval Campus.

The session was led by Ms. Miramar M. Serrion, STEd Extension Chairperson, together with her dedicated team members: Ms. Jamaica Casas, Ms. Jenny Genoguin, Mr. Sherwin Sarzuelo, Mr. Johnny Sumbise, and Ms. Jergen Casenio.

This collaborative session aimed to present the proposed activities and objectives of Project INSPIRE, which is designed to address the specific needs of teachers and strengthen their professional growth. Through this partnership, the STEd Extension Team and Libtong Daku Elementary School seek to foster a shared commitment to educational excellence and community empowerment.

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Biliran Province State University - Biliran Campus researchers have presented significant progress in developing a sustainable biological control method against the aphid that transmits the devastating Abaca Bunchy Top Virus (ABTV).

The project, titled "Survey and Assessment of Entomopathogens Against the Aphid Vector, Pentalonia nigronervosa of Abaca Bunchy Top Virus in Eastern Visayas," was recently reviewed by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).

The BiPSU team showcased their work on the collection and laboratory evaluation of Entomopathogenic Fungi (EPF)—fungi that kill insects—gathered from Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte.

The initial results are highly promising, indicating that these collected fungi have strong potential as biological control agents against the Pentalonia nigronervosa aphid. This tiny pest is the primary vector responsible for spreading the crippling ABTV disease throughout abaca farms.

Evaluators from the DOST-PCAARRD Crop Research Division (CRD) praised the research team's substantial progress, emphasizing that the findings could offer a crucial, environmentally-friendly solution for managing destructive aphid infestations in the regional abaca industry.

Following the successful program review, which included S&T Consultant Dr. Virginia C. Cuevas from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, the BiPSU team is moving forward with the next phase.

The identified promising EPF isolates will undergo testing under screenhouse conditions before proceeding to comprehensive field trials. These rigorous steps are necessary to confirm the fungi's effectiveness and safety, paving the way for eventual deployment to abaca farmers in Biliran Province and the wider region.

The review meeting was attended by project teams from both BiPSU and Visayas State University (VSU), alongside DOST-PCAARRD representatives led by CRD Director Leilani D. Pelegrina and Industry Strategic S&T Program Manager for Abaca Kristine Joy P. de Guzman.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Office of the Legal Counsel, recently hosted a high-level Dialogue and Focus Group Discussion titled “Security Risks and Safety on the Bench and Bar.” The timely event, held on October 15 at the HyFlex Audio-Visual Conference, convened key figures from the legal and law enforcement communities to address the critical issues of security and safety within the justice system.

The attendance reflected a unified commitment to the issue, bringing together all judges from the Regional Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts in Biliran. The judiciary was led by Executive Judge Hon. Luz P. Navarrete of RTC Naval, Branch 16.

Also present were public prosecutors, led by Chief Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Edna P. Honor; lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO); and officers and members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines–Biliran Chapter, headed by its president, Atty. Redentor C. Villordon. Crucially, the security sector was fully represented by Chiefs of Police from all eight municipal police stations, alongside the Biliran Provincial Chief, PCol. Erwin I. Portillo.

The intensive discussion centered on proactive security measures, including the identification of current threats and incidents involving members of the bench and bar, establishing enhanced security protocols for court proceedings, and ensuring coordinated action during emergencies. Participants also developed proposals for vital joint security initiatives and long-term partnerships.

The University proudly affirmed its role as the host, with BiPSU’s Office of the Legal Counsel, led by Atty. Guiller Delfin, co-organizing the activity with the Office of the Executive Judge pursuant to the mandate of the Supreme Court. The successful dialogue underscores BiPSU's commitment to supporting its stakeholders in the legal profession and the judiciary, recognizing these institutions as vital partners in the enduring pursuit of peace and security. 

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