Biliran Province State University earned another research achievement after its study on abaca pest management was recognized as the Best Research Paper (Completed Category) during the Cluster 1 Inter-Agency Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Review (Level 2) held on July 30–31 at the ATI Function Hall of Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay City.

The award-winning study, titled “Entomopathogenic Fungi Against the Abaca Aphid (Pentalonia nigronervosa), the Vector of Abaca Bunchy Top Virus in Selected Provinces of Eastern Visayas, Philippines,” emerged as the top paper in the completed research category. It was selected from among eight completed research papers and 17 research and development papers presented across different categories.

Mr. Jofil Mati-om, project leader, presented the study during the review. The research is funded by the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST–PCAARRD) and is being implemented by BiPSU.

The annual RDE Review, organized by the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office VIII, aims to strengthen research and development initiatives by evaluating the implementation, results, and outputs of RDE projects. This year's Cluster 1 Level 2 Review gathered 19 Consortium Member Institutions, including national government agencies, provincial governments, city local government units, and six state universities and colleges.

The award qualifies the study for the Level 3 RDE Review, where it will represent BiPSU and compete with the winning research papers from Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs) across Eastern Visayas.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) formally opened its Institutional Accreditation through an opening program held today, July 28, at the BiPSU Gymnasium, officially commencing the three-day evaluation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).

The program gathered key BiPSU officials, faculty members, staff, students, and stakeholders to welcome the AACCUP accreditation team. It was also graced by Hon. Roselyn Espina-Paras, vice governor of Biliran, representing Governor Hon. Rogelio J. Espina, and Ms. Jean Clare Diu, private sector representative and member of the BiPSU Board of Regents.

In his opening message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. welcomed the accreditors and underscored the University’s commitment to strengthening its systems and processes.

“Today, we present BiPSU as one that is proud of how far it has come, at the same time determined to move forward,” said Dr. Cañezo. “For and on behalf of all the weavers, we open our University to this process with confidence and hope. May this accreditation affirm our strengths and bring us closer to the kind of university our students, our communities, and our people in the province and beyond truly deserve.” 

Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho, AACCUP executive director and team coordinator/consultant, delivered the Statement of Purpose and presented the institutional accreditation team. In her message, she emphasized the University’s role in preparing its graduates for greater opportunities.

“You are now out of darkness. You are now in a bright community with better opportunities, and you are ready to take the world because BiPSU has made you, carved you, and shaped you to do what you are doing now,” said Dr. Ho.

The institutional accreditation team is composed of Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, team leader and lead accreditor for Area I – Governance and Management; Dr. Alona M. Belarga, lead accreditor for Area II – Teaching, Learning and Evaluation and Area III – Faculty and Staff; Dr. Cecilio L. Manarpaac, lead accreditor for Area IV – Research and Area V – Extension, Consultancy and Linkages; Dr. Lovenel D. Gako, lead accreditor for Area VI – Support to Students and Area VII – Library; and Dr. Pia Rhoda P. Lucero, lead accreditor for Area VIII – Infrastructure and Other Learning Resources and Area IX – Quality Assurance Culture. They are also joined by Ms. Merelyn G. Dela Cruz, AACCUP executive assistant, and Mr. Jimson L. Lamarroza, AACCUP IT staff.

The institutional accreditation will continue until July 30, covering BiPSU's systems and processes across key areas in support of its commitment to quality assurance, continuous improvement, and institutional excellence.

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Vision turned into reality, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) officially opened the doors of its Juris Doctor (JD) program, welcoming its pioneering batch of law students and professors during the launching and orientation program held on July 25 at the university Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAV-C).

This event marked the commencement of BiPSU’s newest academic offering under the School of Law and Governance (SoLGov), reflecting BiPSU's continued commitment to expanding access to quality higher education, strengthening public service, and contributing to regional development by producing future legal professionals.

Gathering the first cohort of JD students, the activity formally introduced them to the distinguished members of the legal profession who will serve as faculty members, including Judge Thea Gicela Nueve-Zamora, Atty. Judiel Pareja, Atty. Edison Oyag, Atty. Charmaine Lynn Tan-Calzado, Atty. Lois Philippe Pelito, and Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin.

A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the law professors also highlighted the occasion, signifying the university's partnership with experienced legal practitioners in delivering quality legal education.

A dream 15 years in the making

The launch of the Juris Doctor program represents the fulfillment of a vision that traces its roots a decade and half back.

BiPSU, then known as the Naval Institute of Technology (NIT), previously offered a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program in 2003 through a consortium with the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP). This, however, was discontinued in 2011.

Now, after fifteen years, the university has revived legal education—not through a consortium—but by offering its own Juris Doctor program, a milestone that showcases the institution's academic growth and readiness to nurture the next generation of lawyers.

University President Dr. Victor Cañezo, Jr. shared that the establishment of the JD program is anchored on the university's commitment to providing accessible and affordable legal education for aspiring lawyers from Biliran and neighboring provinces.

More importantly, he emphasized that the initiative is about creating opportunities for deserving but less privileged students while producing competent legal professionals who will eventually serve both the province and the nation.

A brave new world of law

Addressing the pioneering batch, Dr. Cañezo welcomed the 25 admitted students from 48 applicants, reminding them that entering law school is not merely about earning a degree but embracing a lifelong commitment to justice, discipline, and public service.

"You are my newest weavers of worthiness," he told the students. Dr. Cañezo encouraged them to become instruments of change within their communities and challenged them to leave no opportunity unexplored.

The president also introduced his WoW principle as a guide throughout their legal education. W stands for discovering one's Why—the deeper purpose behind pursuing law, O reminds students to recognize the Opportunities before them, and the final W encourages them to Work on their why every day, allowing purpose to become the driving force behind perseverance.

He likewise underscored BiPSU's commitment to academic excellence, sharing that the university deliberately recruited competent law professors from Biliran and metro cities to ensure that students receive caliber legal education.

Building future lawyers

Dean of the SoLGov Atty. Delfin introduced his CASE framework as a guide to succeeding in law school.

He urged the students to: Calibrate themselves to the demands of legal education; Anchor themselves on integrity and discipline; Systematize their learning through organized study habits; and Execute what they have learned effectively through legal writing and practice.

In addition, Atty. Delfin prompted the pioneering class that success in law school requires consistency, resilience, and unwavering commitment to lifelong learning.

Law beyond the books

Delivering an inspirational message, Atty. Redentor Villordon, President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Biliran Chapter, shared reflections on both national and international legal issues, illustrating the complexity and evolving nature of the legal profession.

"The law can be very near to us or far, and in all of these, not everything is as it seems,” he remarked. “There is always more to it," encouraging students to cultivate critical thinking and appreciate the deeper dimensions of the law beyond what is written in statutes.

Meanwhile, Biliran Provincial Prosecutor Edna Pitao-Honor stressed the growing demand for legal professionals in the province.

"Biliran is growing, the number of cases continues to increase every day, and our courtrooms are expanding—we need more lawyers because the community is watching," she said, emphasizing the vital role future lawyers will play in reinforcing the administration of justice.

Preparing for the journey ahead

As part of the orientation, students were introduced to the official BiPSU School of Law and Governance website and communication platforms, ensuring that they remain connected to academic updates and institutional announcements throughout their studies.

Likewise, they were oriented on the university library's resources, policies, and services designed to support legal research and scholarly work.

Atty. Sheena Estrella Bentor, Chairperson of the JD program, discussed the salient provisions of the Law Academic Manual and Student’s Manual, familiarizing the students with academic standards, institutional policies, and expectations that will aid them throughout their law school journey.

Said event was also attended by Vice President for Academic Affairs and Lifelong Learning Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Societal Impact Dr. Roland Niez, and some members of the IBP-Biliran, who expressed their support for this endeavor.

As BiPSU officially embarks on this new chapter in legal education, the university affirms its mission of producing lawyers grounded not only in legal competence but also in integrity, compassion, and service—professionals prepared to uphold justice and become catalysts for positive transformation in Biliran and beyond.

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First for the institution, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) formally welcomed its teaching workforce for the Academic Year 2026–2027 through its Faculty Commissioning Rites and Dedication Ceremony, gathering faculty members from the Naval and Biliran campuses in a symbolic reinforcement of their commitment to quality education, ethical leadership, and public service.

Held on July 22 at the BiPSU Gymnasium, the ceremony marked a new tradition in the university's opening activities, emphasizing the noble calling of educators and their shared responsibility in advancing BiPSU's vision of academic excellence and nation-building.

Anchored on the theme, "Strengthening Teachers' Profound Moral Convictions in Navigating a Safer, Resilient, and Sustainable Learning Environment," the event served as a venue for faculty members to renew their dedication to professional integrity, learner-centered education, institutional resilience, and the university's strategic directions.

“We inaugurated and have gathered for this rites because we believe that every academic year should begin with a clear recognition of the responsibilities entrusted to every member of our teaching force,” University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. stated.

He highlighted the significance of commissioning its educators as BiPSU, the premier state university of Biliran province, plays an important role in developing competent professionals, responsible citizens, and future leaders—eminent that teaching remains one of society's most transformative professions.

Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Lifelong Learning, led the presentation of the faculty from various academic units.

Commissioned faculty included the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), with 29 instructors headed by Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal; the School of Business and Management (SBM), with 53 instructors headed by Dr. Claire Theresa Bentor; the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), with 24 instructors headed by Dr. Archie Ramirez; the School of Engineering (SoE), with 39 instructors headed by Dr. Carmel Sigrid Docallos; the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), with 15 instructors headed by Dr. Jovy Dia Saniel; the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM), with 76 instructors headed by Dr. Estelito Salut Jr.; the School of Teacher Education–Naval Campus (STEd–Naval), with 85 instructors headed by Dr. Jason Ang; the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), with 65 instructors headed by Dr. Jinky Macabago; the School of Law and Governance (SoLGov), with six instructors headed by Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin; the School of Agri-Industries and Natural Resource Management (SAINaRM), with 36 instructors headed by Dr. Randy Villarin; the School of Teacher Education–Biliran Campus (STEd–Biliran), with 26 instructors headed by Dr. Naneta Panit; and the School of Graduate Studies (SGS), with 13 instructors headed by Dr. Analiza Calles.

A solemn candle-lighting ceremony followed, with faculty members lighting their candles as a collective acceptance and expression of their dedication to illuminate minds, uphold academic brilliance, and faithfully fulfill their vocation as educators.

Providing inspiration to this milestone was Atty. James Lee Cundangan, Assistant Solicitor General of the Office of the Solicitor General, who challenged the attendees to become educators who leave lasting impact beyond the classroom.

Drawing from his experiences in public service, ASG. Cundangan encouraged them to manage classrooms with both authority and empathy, reminding that every decision inside the classroom contributes to the character formation of future professionals and responsible citizens.

Furthermore, ASG. Cundangan urged the faculty to rise above mediocrity, to be unordinary by continuously pursuing excellence and embracing innovation. He likewise prompted them to cultivate gratitude, recognizing that the opportunity to educate others is both a privilege and a profound responsibility.

Through this commissioning rite, the university has progressed its weave of transformative education where BiPSU teachers are committed not only to imparting knowledge, but also to shaping character, nurturing hope, and creating meaningful change in the lives of their students and the communities they serve.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting quality teaching, professional integrity, and learner-centered education, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) through its emphasis on ethical leadership, accountability, and public service in higher education.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) was recognized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office VIII as the Provincial Winner for its outstanding support and active collaboration under the DOST-Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program during the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) held on July 15–17 at Robinsons North, Tacloban City.

The award recognized BiPSU’s implementation of the Impact Study on the Development of the Potable Water Purification System in Higatangan Island, Naval, Biliran. The project addressed the community's long-standing need for safe and clean drinking water through the installation of a solar-powered potable water purification facility.

Led by Engr. Bryan C. Bernil, the project demonstrated how research and extension initiatives can provide practical solutions to community concerns. The water purification system has improved access to safe drinking water and contributed to the well-being of the residents of the island.

Dr. Pearl Irish V. De Paz, Director of the Office of Research and Knowledge Management, and Engr. Bernil received the Plaque of Recognition on behalf of the University during the awarding ceremony.

The recognition affirms BiPSU’s commitment to developing research-based initiatives and extension programs that provide solutions to community needs.

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[This article supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) participated in the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation (RSTW) Week at Robinsons North Tacloban, joining government agencies, higher education institutions, local government units, and other stakeholders in showcasing research, technologies, and innovations that support regional development.

Representing BiPSU was the Office of Research and Knowledge Management, led by Director Dr. Pearl Irish V. De Paz, together with Mr. Jeremy Balondo, Chairperson of the Food Processing Research and Development Center (FRDC), Mr. Mark Wilson C. Sulla, Mr. Neil Denzel Queipo, and Ms. Ma. Shiela Torregoza.

Featured during the exhibit was the university's IoT-Based Multi-Alarm System for Fire Detection and Notification, a fire detection system designed to monitor environmental conditions in real time using Internet of Things (IoT) technology. When gas concentration reaches 500 parts per million (ppm) or the temperature reaches 50°C, the system automatically activates a GSM module that sends text message alerts to homeowners and fire responders, allowing for a quicker emergency response and helping reduce fire-related damage.

Biliran Governor Hon. Rogelio J. Espina also visited the BiPSU exhibit and viewed the university's innovation. During his visit, he expressed interest in the project's potential application to strengthen public safety and disaster preparedness initiatives across the province.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibits, which run from July 15–17, and learn about the research, technologies, and innovations presented by participating agencies and institutions throughout the three-day event.

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Biliran Province State University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. led the university's delegation to the 2026 Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Annual Convention and General Assembly, held on July 13–15 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Pasay City.

The convention, anchored on the theme, "Transformative Leadership and Strategic Governance: Empowering SUCs for Sustainable and Inclusive Futures," commemorated the 59th Founding Anniversary of PASUC and served as a venue for strengthening collaboration among SUCs and national government agencies.

Joining him were Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Academic Affairs and Lifelong Learning; Engr. Paul Mathew S. Bentor, chairperson of the Management Information Systems Office, and Engr. Joshua Gibson Fuentes, executive assistant to the President.

The three-day gathering brought together presidents, administrators, policymakers, researchers, and higher education leaders from state universities and colleges (SUCs) across the country to discuss emerging trends, governance reforms, innovation, digital transformation, internationalization, research commercialization, and institutional resilience. 

Throughout the convention, the BiPSU delegation participated in plenary sessions, high-level dialogues, and strategic discussions covering governance and accountability, innovation and partnerships, instruction and student success, digital transformation, human capital development, and research commercialization.

During the election of PASUC national and regional officers on the first day, incumbent Batangas State University President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo was reelected PASUC President for another two-year term.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cañezo was unanimously reelected as Chairperson of PASUC Region VIII by the regional association’s members present during the assembly.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its National Service Training Program (NSTP) Director Dr. Reynold G. Bustillo, participated in the Regional NSTP Forum and Capacity Building for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Region VIII held on July 14 at the Graduate School Function Hall of Eastern Visayas State University in Tacloban City.

The activity was organized by the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office VIII (CHEDRO VIII) under the leadership of Regional Director Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe. In his message, Dr. Aljibe emphasized the role of NSTP in developing students into responsible citizens through values formation, discipline, civic consciousness, volunteerism, and patriotism.

The forum gathered NSTP implementers from HEIs across Eastern Visayas to discuss program updates, implementation concerns, and existing policies. It also provided an opportunity for participants to raise concerns, seek clarifications, share experiences and good practices, and strengthen coordination with CHEDRO VIII.

During the activity, Mr. Bustillo met with Ms. Norina T. Espocia, Education Program Specialist II and CHEDRO VIII NSTP Focal Person, to express the University's appreciation for her assistance in facilitating BiPSU's requests for NSTP serial numbers and for her continued support in the implementation of the program.

BiPSU's participation in the forum reflects the University's commitment to strengthening the implementation of the National Service Training Program through continuous coordination with CHED and collaboration with higher education institutions in the region.

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The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Search Committee for Private Sector Representatives (SCPSR), constituted pursuant to Biliran Province State University Board of Regents Resolution No. 45, series of 2026, formally convened its inaugural meeting on July 13 at the Convergence Room of the Office of the University President.

The committee is chaired by Dr. Jinky M. Macabago, Acting Dean of the School of Technology and Computer Studies and President of the BiPSU Faculty Association (BiPSUFA). Its members are Mr. Alex Solamo, Private Sector Representative, and Mr. Chazonne Kim N. Almazon, Student Representative. The committee is also supported by  Secretariats composed of Engr. Joshua Ken Policarpio, representative of the Office of CHED Commissioner Michelle Aguilar-Ong; Ms. Apple Joy Balondo Visitacion, University and Board Secretary; and Dr. Vic Marie Bornillo, BiPSU faculty member.

During the meeting, the committee discussed the drafting of the search process guidelines, the proposed timeline of activities, and other related matters. It also deliberated on the endorsement of the proposed guidelines and recommendations to the BiPSU Board of Regents for approval.

“We will immediately be posting in public the guidelines for the search process after the approval of the referendum. We are hoping for the participation of the private sector representatives who wish to serve BiPSU as members of the Governing Board,” said Board Secretary Ms. Apple Joy Visitacion in an interview.  

The inaugural meeting marked the formal commencement of the search process for the University’s two Private Sector Representatives to the BiPSU Board of Regents.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) was announced as the 2nd Place winner in the Visayas-Mindanao Consortium for Journal Publication, Inc. (VMCJPI) Research Cup 2026: The Scopus Publication Challenge for Global Impact (A Bibliometric Competition) on July 10 through the research of faculty members Jefry E. Aransado and Jeson V. Viñas, Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) major in Mathematics student Christian Jay C. Castil, and collaborator Neil Aldrin T. Olvina of De La Salle Santiago Zobel School.

Their entry, "Circular Economy Initiatives in Higher Education: A Retrospective Bibliometric Analysis (1945–2025)," was among the top-performing submissions in the consortium-wide competition, which challenged participants to demonstrate their competence in bibliometric analysis, scientific mapping, research evaluation, and data-driven research planning.

The study examined the global research landscape of circular economy initiatives in higher education through a retrospective bibliometric analysis of Scopus-indexed publications from 1945 to 2025. Using Bibliometrix (R) and VOSviewer, the researchers analyzed publication trends, citation impact, collaboration networks, influential authors and institutions, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic developments to determine the growth and direction of research in the field.

The researchers found a significant increase in research output after 2019, reflecting the growing global interest in circular economy initiatives in higher education. Their analysis also identified sustainability, life cycle assessment, and higher education as the dominant research themes, while artificial intelligence, Industry 5.0, entrepreneurship education, and educational innovation emerged as developing areas of study.

The VMCJPI Research Cup recognizes outstanding bibliometric research and scientific mapping conducted by faculty and staff from member institutions. BiPSU's second-place finish was among the top recognitions conferred during this year's competition.

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