Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), in collaboration with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Biliran Provincial Office, hosted a successful benchmarking event on the university’s Strategic Innovations and Knowledge Laboratory (SIKLAB) through a Local Governance Resource Center (LGRC) Knowledge Exchange on Friday, July 26, at BiPSU’s Hyflex Audio Visual Center (HAVC).

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. welcomed around 60 participants, including key officials from DILG Ormoc City, representatives from the City Government of Ormoc, and students from the City College of Ormoc. He was joined by BiPSU Vice-Presidents Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, Dr. Susan S. Bentor, and Dr. Rossini B. Pitao.

Dr. Cañezo emphasized the university’s dedication to innovation and strategic foresight through the establishment of SIKLAB, headed by its Director, Executive Assistant Joedel Peñaranda.

“SIKLAB catapults us to the forefront of research and development, contributing not only to academia but also to the betterment of our society, with the greater goal of nurturing Matino, Mahusay, at Maaasahan na mamamayan,” remarked Dr. Cañezo.

The university president also highlighted that this pioneering project, in partnership with the Philippine Futures Thinking Society and the DILG, aims to build capacities for anticipatory-driven strategic innovations and knowledge creation.

In his message, Mr. Jean Redi T. Brioness, the City Local Government Operations Officer of DILG Ormoc, praised the university president for his remarkable efforts. Despite facing limited funding for state universities, BiPSU has successfully developed and enhanced its facilities, as evidenced by the current state of its campus.

Meanwhile, Ms. Danica Ybañez, the Special Assistant to the President for Administration and Finance, led a presentation showcasing the university’s initiatives, highlighting the numerous activities and accomplishments of SIKLAB, which is committed to achieving future thinking and enhancing the ability to apply strategic foresight in innovation, knowledge creation, and management.

“SIKLAB not only focuses on capacity-building but also serves as a platform for exploring ambitious projects—referred to as ‘moonshots'—that tackle complex challenges and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By integrating futures thinking with strategic foresight, SIKLAB strives to create opportunities and drive impactful innovations,” explained Ms. Ybañez.

Attending officials from the DILG Provincial Office Biliran included Provincial Director Jesus P. Naquila, Ms. Carolina Ampong, OIC Cluster Head, Ms. Blessie P. De Leon, LGOO VI, and Ms. Danielle May P. Abella, LGOO II.

The visiting officials also participated in a brief campus tour organized by the Office of the Vice President for Student and External Affairs, led by Dr. Erwin Salvatierra.

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