To formally welcome students to the university, Biliran Province State University, through the University Guidance Office, launched its "Future Forward University Orientation 2024: General Orientation and Acquaintance Activity" at the university gymnasium on August 27.

The orientation series aims to familiarize students with university services, policies, regulations, and introduce key officials. This year, the sessions were divided into three segments to accommodate all students while ensuring their comfort throughout the event.

The schools that attended the first session of the said orientation series included the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Teacher Education (STED), and School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS).

In his message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. encouraged students to embrace the challenges ahead with resilience, sharing the acronym "WOW of BiPSU," which stands for "Why, Opportunities, and Work on Whys."

“That’s what I want you to take away from this,” Dr. Cañezo said. “The road won’t be easy, but with determination, perseverance, and the support of your BiPSU community, I’m confident you’ll achieve great things.”

During the orientation, the Institutional Planning Office (IPO) Director, Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera, outlined the university’s 5-year development plan, dubbed “WoWBiPSU 2.0,” alongside the newly revised BiPSU mission, vision, and core values.

Student services, Republic Acts protecting student rights, university policies, and faculty members from each school were also introduced during the full-day event.

Meanwhile, students also actively participated in team-building activities in the afternoon where schools competed in singing and parlor games, adding fun and camaraderie in the activity.

Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Student and External Affairs (SEA), emphasized the university’s commitment to student success.

“As you start your chapter in your life with BiPSU, remember that you are part of a community that believes in you. We are here to support you every step of the way,” Dr. Salvatierra said.

The orientation session for the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) and School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) is scheduled for September 4, while the orientation for the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) and School of Engineering (SOE) will take place on September 5 at the same venue.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University is set to collaborate with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naval on research-based community extension services, following a strategic meeting held at Dasig Hall, LGU Naval, between Hon. Mayor Gretchen Stephanie Espina and BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.

Mayor Espina disclosed that Naval currently has 18 ongoing projects under her Executive Agenda, DASIG, which stands for Dynamic Leadership, Aspiring Excellence, Sustainable Life, Inclusive Services, and Good Governance. 

Among these projects, she highlighted the urgent challenges facing the municipality, particularly issues related to the water supply, which require comprehensive feasibility studies and research-driven solutions.

“There is a pressing need to partner with BiPSU to ensure that all our implementations and projects are based on solid research,” Mayor Espina emphasized.

She also noted that Naval is poised to transition from a 3rd class to a 1st class municipality by 2025, a change that will necessitate doubling efforts to address emerging problems and challenges within the community.

In response, Dr. Cañezo expressed BiPSU's strong commitment to supporting LGU Naval's initiatives. "BiPSU is more than willing to help," he assured. 

Dr. Cañezo suggested organizing a workshop that would bring together LGU officials and the BiPSU team of research enthusiasts from various schools within the university. This workshop will focus on conducting needs-based assessments and collaborative studies to identify priority areas for research, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with the community's specific needs.

The collaboration will be further strengthened through the involvement of sectoral representatives, including farmers, marginalized sectors among others, as participants in the workshop to ensure that the research and projects developed are community-based and responsive to the local context.

The mayor also mentioned Naval's ongoing partnership with the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) and  elaborated on the importance of investing in technology to support the municipality's development goals. She also highlighted the need for more programs that align with this vision, stressing the value of research in driving innovation and sustainable growth.

In a related development, BiPSU will host the proposed workshop next week, spearheaded by Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation and Extension Service, who was also present during the said meeting. Also in attendance are Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera, director of Institutional Planning Office and Apple Joy Balondo- Visitacion, director for University Media and Information Office. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Canezo extended an invitation to Mayor Espina to attend the upcoming BiPSU Founding Anniversary celebrations, which will focus on instruction, research, innovation and extension. A key highlight of the event will be the presentation of the 31 Intellectual Properties (IPs) for commercialization on August 29, some of which could potentially benefit the LGU and its ongoing projects.

#WoWBiPSU

In the prestigious search for Mr. and Ms. BiPSU 2024, the crown serves as more than just an ornament of victory—it is a symbol of brilliance, innovation, progress, service, and unity—the embodiment of the university’s core values.

This year’s edition of Mr. and Ms. BiPSU unveils two stunning new crowns, each meticulously crafted to reflect the prestige and responsibility of the titleholders.

His Highness’ Crown

The majestic blue crown emanates a sense of refinement and sophistication through its combination of blue hues and golden accents—colors that have long represented BiPSU. The sturdy base, embellished with golden gemstones, serves as a symbol of strength and steadiness, reflecting the profound character and wisdom required to don this regal headpiece. Rising majestically from the base are spikes and arches, each adorned with blue gemstones symbolizing the ambition and foresight associated with holding the title of Mr. BiPSU.

A distinct feature of the crown is the display of the BiPSU emblem at its core, signifying the wearer’s role as an ambassador of the university's core values. The gold filigree work, complemented by blue stones, creates a captivating contrast that exudes nobility and accountability. This crown embodies a blend of power and elegance, distinguishing its wearer as a source of pride and purpose within the BiPSU community.

Her Majesty's Tiara

This resplendent golden tiara emanates an aura of magnificence through its design and vibrant colors. The base is adorned with alternating amber gemstones, establishing a foundation that represents resilience and strength essential for leadership. Interspersed among these gems are delicate pearls, symbolizing purity and wisdom, reminding the wearer of the grace and knowledge that come with true authority.

Ascending gracefully from the base are crafted spikes and arches in gold, each crowned with radiant jewel-like stones symbolizing the wearer’s ascent to greatness.

At the heart of the tiara features the emblem of the university, symbolically linking the crown to the core values and essence of the institution. Encircling the emblem are detailed craftsmanship intertwined with amber-colored gemstones, producing an elegant aura. The rich colors and craftsmanship embody leadership, success, and a commitment to uphold the university's standards, making this tiara a true symbol of honor and distinction.

Winning the crown is not just a moment of personal triumph; it symbolizes a commitment to lead, inspire, and uphold the integrity of Biliran Province State University.

For Mr. and Ms. BiPSU, the crown is a symbol of responsibility and a legacy to carry forward.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) was recognized as one of the Top Ten Big Load Prompt Payers in 2023 by the Biliran Electric Cooperative (BILECO) Inc. during the 36th Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) on Saturday, August 24, held at the BiPSU gymnasium.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. proudly received the plaque of recognition on behalf of BiPSU, which was presented by BILECO General Manager Engr. Gerardo N. Oledan and Governing Board President Engr. Cesar D. Cordeta.

The award was presented to public and private institutions that consistently made timely payments, contributing to the improved operations and efficiency of the electric cooperative.

Other notable awardees include Jollibee, Citi Hardware, J and F Naval, Jelo’s Place, Prince Hypermart, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Rodson Dry Goods, Mr. DIY, and Fragoch Tourist Inn.

#WoWBiPSU

As part of Biliran Province State University’s 52nd founding anniversary celebration, the university hosted a two-day Virtual Seminar-Workshop on Research Pitching via Google Meet and Zoom on August 22-23.

The said seminar-workshop, participated by faculty and student-researchers qualifiers from the different schools across the university, aimed to strengthen the research, innovation, and extension services in promoting a culture of research and innovation excellence within the institution. 

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. shared that the university is eyeing potential faculty and student-researchers who could represent BiPSU in regional, national, and international research pitching competitions.

“I look forward to launching a regional competition next year in the SUC fair, that’s why we aim to equip you with necessary skills to excel and represent BiPSU for future competitive endeavors,” Dr. Canezo said.

Moreover, seasoned expert, Dr. Reynaldo B. Garnace, a Special Education (SPEd) Generalist at the New York City Department of Education, Brooklyn, New York, USA, shared valuable insights on the art of presenting research ideas, highlighting the elements of a concept paper and a goal for the perfect pitch in his plenary “How To Pitch Your Innovation Start-Up in 3 Minutes”.

“Think about the goal of your pitch, and then it should cover the four structures that you have: the problem, your proposed solution, the benefits to the people, and the action in doing that,” Dr. Garnace emphasized.

Further, Dr. Roland E. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES), emphasized that the goal of the event goes beyond not just to teach about the mechanics of a good pitch but to help the participants tap their unique strengths, refine their message, and build confidence to deliver their pitch with clarity and impact.

“We look forward to seeing your ideas come to life and watching you take the first step toward your start-up dream into reality,” said Dr. Niez.

Meanwhile, the second day of the said event highlighted the breakout sessions, allowing faculty and students to present their research and practice their pitches, mentoring sessions, and critiquing of scripts and PowerPoint presentations with the speaker.

Notable attendees include Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, director of the Research and Development Office; Dr. Willard N. Riveral, director of the Center for Biliran Province Studies; Mr. Marclin A. Aguilar, director of the Food Research and Development Center; Mr. Jeruel Espinazo, director of the Innovation Office, and chairpersons from the different schools of the university.

Moreover, the Research Pitching competition is set to transpire on August 29 at the university Student Center.

#WoWBiPSU

As part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), officials from UPLB’s College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS) conducted an expert visit to BiPSU from August 21-23.

The seven-member delegation, led by UPLB CAFS Dean Prof. Elpidio M. Agbisit, Jr., assisted in the assessment and monitoring of the agriculture program at BiPSU-Biliran Campus.

On the first day of the visit, BiPSU-Biliran Campus hosted a conference where Prof. Agbisit shared UPLB-CAFS’ best practices, highlighting their innovative programs, research, and commitment to advancing agricultural education.

Assoc. Prof. Adeliza A. Dorado, CAFS' Associate Dean for Instruction, discussed possible faculty and student exchange opportunities between BiPSU and UPLB, while Prof. Eureka Teresa M. Ocampo, Director of UPLB's Institute of Crop Science, explored potential collaborations for research between the two institutions.

The UPLB delegation also included Prof. Amado Angeles, Director of the Institute of Animal Science; Assoc. Prof. Niña Gracel B. Dimaano, Instruction Coordinator for BS Agricultural Biotechnology, major in Crop Protection Biotechnology; Prof. Dennis Marvin O. Santiago, Director of Food Science and Technology; Prof. Eureka Teresa M. Ocampo, Director of the Institute of Crop Science; and Ms. Maria Teofil P. Lantayan, University Researcher.

Students from BiPSU’s School of Agriculture and Fisheries, as well as faculty members, attended the conference.

Future Collaborations

This visit is a direct outcome of the MOU signed between BiPSU and UPLB in May 2024, which aims to strengthen collaboration and promote knowledge exchange in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

During a UPLB’s courtesy visit to BiPSU University President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. revealed that he had invited CAFS officials to help BiPSU assess its Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) program.

“For me, UPLB is one of the best schools to partner with in terms of agri-fisheries because we all know that UPLB is one of the leading institutions in the country,” Dr. Cañezo said.

Dr. Cañezo also emphasized that BSA is the flagship program of BiPSU-Biliran Campus. However, he noted that enrollment and passing rates have been consistently low in recent years.

“Perhaps it’s because BSA is a challenging program, and students often see it as a second-choice option,” he added.

In response, Dean Agbisit offered assistance in improving the program. "Maybe we’ll have to redesign and rebrand the programs so that students will be more attracted to agriculture and fishery courses," he suggested.

Prof. Agbisit also mentioned the possibility of faculty members from BiPSU’s School of Agriculture and Fisheries visiting UPLB for benchmarking activities.

Plans to Offer Food Science Program

After the courtesy visit, Dr. Cañezo gave the UPLB delegation a tour of BiPSU’s Food Research and Development Center and Microbiology Laboratory.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his enthusiasm about offering a food science program. “We are actually planning to offer a program related to food science,” he said. “We have some facilities, and we recently hired a faculty member who graduated in food science, so maybe we could launch this program.”

Prof. Dennis Marvin O. Santiago, Director of UPLB's Institute of Food Science and Technology, affirmed that BiPSU could be capable of offering a Bachelor of Food Science and Technology (BFST) program.

“May food center kayo, kaya dapat may program rin kayo na in food science [You have a food center, so you should also have a program in food science],” Prof. Santiago said. “Sa nakikita namin ngayon, you actually have the resources to offer BFST, siguro i-assist namin kayo ["From what we see now, you actually have the resources to offer BFST, maybe we can assist you].”

Dr. Cañezo expressed his gratitude for UPLB’s technical assistance and hoped that this expert visit would be just the beginning of more collaborations and engagement between the two universities.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) continues to uphold its reputation for excellence, producing 68 new licensed criminologists with a remarkable 78.08% passing rate among first-time takers in the recent Criminologist Licensure Examination (CLE). 

Meanwhile BiPSU achieved an overall passing rate of 58.12%, significantly above the national average of 49.34%. 

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced the results of the July-August 2024 CLE on Thursday, August 22. Nationwide, 11,121 out of 22,539 examinees (49.34%) passed the exam, which covered a comprehensive range of topics essential for criminology professionals.

Full list of passers to follow.

Following a successful benchmarking activity in the Caraga Region, key officials of Biliran Province State University conducted a comprehensive Mid-Year Performance Review at the Caraga State University (CSU) Hyflex Hall on Wednesday, August 21. 

Said event provided an opportunity for  the university's progress by setting strategic directions for the remainder of the year, aligned with the newly established Performance Governance System (PGS) Core Team.

In his opening remarks, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. emphasized the dual objectives of the event, which included both the benchmarking activity and the performance review. 

He also provided a rationale for conducting the mid-year assessment, highlighting its role in ensuring that BiPSU stays on track to meet its objectives for the year.

"We are achieving two objectives simultaneously by conducting both our benchmarking and this mid-year performance review in a new environment," stated Dr. Cañezo. “I hope that this setting inspires us to develop stronger plans and innovative ideas, ensuring that all our deliverables align with our development goals. This is crucial for achieving our vision of delivering quality education and weaving worthiness into everything we do.”

The president underscored the importance of the event in guiding the university's leadership toward achieving its strategic goals. The review was attended by the core team members of the PGS, including vice presidents, deans from both the Naval and Biliran campuses, directors from selected offices, and the presidential management team.

Key activities during the review included the establishment of the Multi-Sector Governance Council, the extensive dissemination of the university's development plan to students, faculty, and stakeholders, and discussions on various strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the university's performance.

Meanwhile, Institutional Planning Officer Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera presented key points regarding the PGS, including the composition of the core team responsible for driving the university's initiatives. He outlined the upcoming activities aligned with the PGS, designed to ensure that BiPSU meets its targets and continues to deliver on its commitment to quality education and institutional excellence.

Additionally, Engr. Ronn Lenard Napala presented the accomplishments and target deliverables for the fiscal year 2024. 

His presentation provided a detailed overview of the university's achievements thus far and the goals set for the remainder of the fiscal year, ensuring that the university remains on track to fulfill its strategic objectives.

#WoWBiPSU

As part of its continuous efforts to enhance educational quality and institutional practices, Biliran Province State University conducted a benchmarking visit at Caraga State University (CSU) on August 20-21, 2024. This marks BiPSU’s second benchmarking activity this quarter, following a visit to Sorsogon State University on August 8-9, 2024.

The benchmarking session centered on seven strategic areas, including office resource generation and management systems, technology transfer and intellectual property, industry linkages and internationalization, research and extension, laboratory facilities and procurement, hiring and faculty development, and curriculum revisions with an emphasis on faculty loading for the Graduate School.

Members of the benchmarking team included University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Vice Presidents Dr. Susan S. Bentor, Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, Dr. Rossini Pitao, and Dr. Roland Niez; Dr. Concepcion Gayrama, Chief Administrative Officer- Administration; Atty. Pahmi Hadji Ampaso, CAO- Finance; all deans, directors, and the presidential management team.

Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil, CSU president, welcomed the BiPSU delegation. He proudly shared their university’s accomplishments as he provided an introduction to their university’s programs and initiatives.

“It is with great honor to share with you that we (CSU) have set sail to achieve our vision of being a world- class digital, innovative and entrepreneurial university,” he acknowledged.

CSU is among the only five State Universities in Mindanao classified as SUC Level 4 and one of the only 20 Level IV SUCs in the Philippines during the SUC Leveling conducted by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Dr. Daguil took pride on this and revealed that CSU’s accomplishments are anchored by their LIKHA agenda, which stands for Launchpad of global talents and innovators, Interdependence, and High Impact Coalition, Knowledge Co- Creation and Commercialization, hub for academic excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship and Accelerated administrative system and digital transformation.

Meanwhile, Eng. Jeffrey T. Dellosa, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension (VPRIE) of CSU discussed the university’s LIKHA Agenda, focusing on three components such  printing, product development, and product marketing. "Our practices have traditionally been documented in papers, but we are now transitioning to bring all our services online," Prof. Vergara explained. The agenda also emphasizes infrastructure development through long-term leases, which he described as "public-private partnerships that go beyond”.

CSU’s research agenda and extension programs were also  highlighted, showcasing the university’s ranking as No. 46 in the country and its top position in the Caraga region for research. "We are proud of our achievements, including our QS ranking of two stars in research as of 2021," Dr. Dellosa added.

Discussions also included CSU’s ongoing curriculum revisions and faculty development programs. "Our strategy is to encourage new faculty to join research teams, enhancing our academic offerings and faculty expertise," said Dr. Fernando T. Herrera, CSU’s VP for Academic Affairs. CSU’s efforts in faculty hiring and development, including its Level 2 PRIME HRM accreditation by the Civil Service Commission, were also highlighted.

The visit featured an open forum where participants discussed topics such as faculty incentives, auditing processes, and strategies for encouraging new faculty to join research teams.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Dr. Canezo shared his aspirations. "I hope that my team, while we are here, will also envision how we can make BiPSU as exemplary as Caraga State University," he said.

Hon. Vennie Coton, BiPSU Faculty Regent and the Acting Dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education (SME), praised CSU’s welcoming environment. "CSU is now part of the BiPSU’s 'Weaving of Worthiness,' a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and collaboration," he said.

The benchmarking activity concluded with the awarding of a plaque of appreciation to CSU. Dr. Cañezo expressed his appreciation for CSU’s hospitality. "The insights we gained here will be invaluable as we continue to develop and improve BiPSU’s programs," the University President said.

In addition to the benchmarking discussions, the BiPSU delegation had the opportunity to visit CSU’s HERO Learning Commons, the largest and most innovative state university library in Mindanao. The HERO Learning Commons is designed to cater to the needs of diverse learners, with each floor offering unique services and spaces. It is the first library in the Philippines to feature library locator maps, an automated book drop system, nap pads, and a decision theater. The library also includes an auditorium, exhibit area, coffee shop, museum, and activity center, among other modern spaces.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Student Development and Services Office (SDSO), hosted a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with key officials from Samar State University (SSU) on August 14 at the university hostel.

The activity is part of a project funded by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) titled “Empowering Equity Target Students: Enhancing Access and Success in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in Region VIII.”

SSU was appointed by CHED to lead this project, which aims to enhance the target students’ access and success in higher education across Region VIII and highlighting the university’s enrollment process.

Notably, BiPSU is the first university to host a visit from SSU. This visit will be followed by similar activities across the region, marking a significant step towards regional collaboration.

Attendees of the event included Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Vice President for Student and External Affairs (VP SEA) and the designated University Focal Person for the project; Dr. Norma M. Duallo, SDSO Main Campus Director and the designated Campus Focal Person; and Mr. Perly Cortes, SDSO Biliran Campus Chairperson and the appointed facilitator. Students and parents from both BiPSU Main and Biliran campuses also participated.

In addition, BiPSU signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with other State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the region, including Leyte Normal University (LNU), Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), Palompon Institute of Technology (PIT), Eastern Samar State University (ESSU), Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), and University of Eastern Philippines (UEP).

In an interview, Dr. Duallo emphasized the potential benefits of this partnership, noting that it will enhance the quality of service in terms of admission, retention, and graduation processes.

“It is beneficial because it will improve the delivery and quality of service in terms of admission, retention, and graduation,” she stated.

#WoWBiPSU