TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte—Twelve students and two advisers from Biliran Province State University Main Campus joined the Philippine Association of Campus Press Advisers (PACSA) Inc. National Midyear Convention 2025 held at Tagum City, Davao del Norte from April 2-4.

This year’s convention, themed, “LUPAD: Leading with vision, Uniting for purpose, Promoting inclusivity, Advocating for diversity, Developing future-ready leaders,” aims to empower, inspire, and equip leaders toward building a better society through different talks, featuring experts and national leaders, and team-building activities.

Meanwhile, the delegation, headed by Dr. Ralph Arvic T. Arcenal, University and Board secretary, and Dr. Miguel Supremo, Institutional Education Job Placement officer, reaped multiple awards in the different competitions of the midyear convention.

Kevin Brane, a third-year civil engineering student, clinched the first runner-up placement in the Dagliang Talumpati competition, while Melody Vijuan, a third-year communication student, notched the third runner-up podium in the Photography contest.

In addition, Chazonne Almazon and Dominic Chad Catipay, STED students, bagged the second runner-up award in the Research Presentation- Student category, while Remmie Joy Baluna and Junmark Cabalquinto, both BA Communication students, were hailed third runner-up in the same category. Notably, Almazon was also hailed as a top 5 finalist in the Mr. and Ms. PACSL 2025, where he also bagged two minor awards, namely, Best in Jeans Wear and Best in Advocacy.

Further, Gil Irinco, a third-year BSEd Filipino student, was awarded third best cultural attire and the representative of the Visayas Core Group in the Final Round of the Pagsulat ng Sanaysay competition. Additionally, Kenneth Berdal, Loida Jean Verian, Arian Jay Maala, and Jyle Sabalones were also the representatives of the Visayas for the Streetdance competition.

This year’s national midyear convention, which drew over 400 student-leaders and campus advisers across the Philippines, is anchored on the five Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely, SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 5: Gender Equality; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities; SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the goals.

As part of its plan to offer a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) major in Human Resource Management (HRM), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), led by officials and faculty from the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) conducted a benchmarking visit on April 2-4 to four top universities in Luzon known for their Level IV-accredited BSBA HRM programs. 

The BiPSU team, engaged with officials and faculty at Batangas State University (BSU), Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU), Unibersidad de Manila (UDM), and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), during the three-day duration.

Dr. Christopher Vicera, dean of SAS, led the eight-member delegation, which included Dr. Vicente Q. Solteo, chairperson of the BSBA program, and faculty members namely  Dr. Jonas Enriquez, Hans Christian Molina, Crismar Hoylar, Prince Seno, Ralyn Jaguros, and Arlou Del Rosario.

“Our goal is to equip our students with the necessary competencies to excel in the human resource field. By learning from the best practices of top universities that  we visited , we are positioning our graduates to be highly competitive in the job market,” stressed Dr. Vicera. 

Dean Vicera added that the goal of the visit was to gather insights and best practices to enhance BiPSU's program offerings in the field of business administration.

BiPSU's BSBA program recently  received Level IV re-accreditation from the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc. for the two programs —Financial Management and Marketing Management.

“Since the BSBA program has now achieved Level 4 accreditation, we aim to ensure that our program offerings align with the needs of industry partners,” said Dr. Solteo, BSBA chairperson. “If this plan will push through, our goal is for BSBA in HRM graduates to be well-equipped with the necessary competencies to excel in the field,” he added. 

Moreover, Dr. Solteo  also shared BiPSU ‘s plan to prepare its BSBA students for the Certified Human Resource Associate (CHRA) certification, which will enhance their employability and career prospects.

“This certification will not only add value to our graduates but also make them more attractive to potential employers looking for certified HR professionals,” Dr. Solteo reiterated.

BiPSU delegates were warmly welcomed by Dr. Peter P. Laurel, LPU university president, Atty. Domingo Reyes, Jr, PLM university president together with their dean of the College of Business Administration, Dr. Bernard Letrero, Dr. Gina Bonifacio, associate dean of the College of Business Administration at BSU,  and Dr. Jonathan De Jesus, dean of the College of Business Administration at UDM. 

In an official statement, Dr. Solteo disclosed, “We’re excited about the future of our HRM program. Through continuous benchmarking, we aim to not only meet but exceed the expectations of both our students and the local and global industry.”

[This news article is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.]

Biliran Province State University’ School of Criminal Justice Education welcomed back 126 new criminologists with a testimonial ceremony on April 4 at the university gymnasium.

The ceremony, a regular activity of the criminal justice school, honored the passers of the recent February 2025 Criminology Licensure Examination.

Hon. Vennie G. Coton, acting dean of SCJE and a member of BiPSU’s Board of Regents, mentioned that the activity is one way of giving recognition and appreciation to the passers for bringing honor to the university with a significant institutional passing rate in the competitive national licensure examination. “This is for you, you deserve to be given honor because of your achievements,” SCJE dean said.

BiPSU recently achieved a remarkable 71.52% passing rate among first-time takers and an overall passing rate of 69.61%, surpassing the national passing rate of 60.5%.

Meanwhile, guest speaker PCMS Elmer P. De Vera, PNP OIC of Biliran Airport Police Station, reminded the passers to be grateful of what they’ve learned at school because it will be useful in facing the true battle after the licensure exam. 

He also emphasized that reaching dreams comes with sacrifices. “Continue to sacrifice,” he said. “Do not lose hope on your dreams, lahat ng pangarap mo, ma-aachieve mo yan.”

During the testimonial, passers, including February 2025 Regional Top 2 Steven Bosete and Top 5 Cherry Lou Azur, shared their journey from studying at the university, taking the free review hosted by the university, to eventually passing the licensure examination. They also shared tips in acing the board exam.

The activity was also attended by Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Students and External Affairs; Dr. Susan Bentor, vice president for Academic Affairs; Hon. Allan Paul Tubis, Sanguniang Panlalawigan member; Roselle Sabornido, chairperson of the criminology department; faculty members, and criminology students.

Dr. Salvatierra reminded the passers to always remember where they started. 

“Remember the journey that brought you here, remember the sleepless nights and your sacrifices, remember your support system,” the vice president said. “Because all those things made you what you have become today.”

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.]

The Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers - BiPSU Student Chapter of the Department of Mechanical Engineering conducted a seminar on the proper utilization of solar energy on April 2 at the Technology Building.

The seminar, entitled “Maximizing Solar Potential: Key Considerations for the Installation of Solar PV System, aimed to educate mechanical engineering students on solar energy, enhancing their technical knowledge in renewable energy. 

Attended by mechanical engineering students and faculty members, the seminar focused on discussing the essential prerequisites for solar Photovoltaic (PV) system installation, including site evaluation and preparation; technical aspects, safety protocols, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

In his message, Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, vice president for Administration and FInance and dean of the School of Engineering, mentioned that the utilization of photovoltaic technology, though not already new, has gained wider attention and acceptance nowadays due to increasing cost of electricity.

“As mechanical engineering students and future mechanical engineers, you need to become equipped with the necessary technical knowledge and skills on how to design and install photovoltaic systems so that you will have the edge in terms of employment or if you wish to venture into business on photovoltaic technology after graduation,” Engr. Pelesco said.

He also encouraged the department to do similar activities every semester to allow students acquire additional learning aside from those being taught in their different subjects.

Meanwhile, Engr. Ramon L. Pitao, Jr., a professional mechanical engineer and the chairperson of BS in Mechanical Engineering, led the discussion on the fundamentals of Solar PV System - Sizing of Solar Setup.

Engr. Lester C. Toledo,  a faculty member of BSME, and the top-performing examinee in the August 2019 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination (MELE), also delivered a message and shared tips in acing the board exam and engineering profession.

PV technology, commonly known as solar panels, directly converts sunlight into electricity using semiconducting materials, a process known as the photovoltaic effect.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University has revealed positive results from its recent feasibility study, with 74% of respondents expressing interest in pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) degree at the university. 

The study, which surveyed 246 people, was presented by Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, the university's legal officer, during a coordination meeting with the University President Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo, Jr. and the technical working group for the proposed law program. 

The meeting, held on April 3 at the OP Convergence, was attended by various university  officials and selected faculty members. 

The survey data showed strong interest from aspiring law students, with 14.2% still undecided and 10.6% indicating that they do not plan to enroll in law school. The study also revealed a portion of the respondents are currently enrolled in other law schools within Eastern Visayas.

To help the university understand its potential students, the study also gathered important demographic information. The results recorded that 37.4% of respondents are aged 20 years or younger, while 26% are between 21-25 years old. An additional 14.6% are aged 26-30, and the remaining respondents are distributed across older age brackets.

In terms of occupation, 37.8% of respondents are full-time college students, while 30.1% are working professionals in government. Moreover, the survey also found that 74.3% of government professionals hold permanent positions. 

Of the 246 respondents, 56.2% preferred weekend classes (Saturday and Sunday), while 29.5% favored weeknight sessions. 

"Given these preferences, we may look into offering executive classes to better fit the schedules of working professionals," Dr. Cañezo said. "Considering the limited classroom space and the time constraints of our students, weekend classes would allow them to focus more, rather than attending night classes after a full workday. This will also be more convenient for our professors.”

To ensure that the application for the JD program is comprehensive and meets necessary standards, BiPSU is set to organize a training workshop with officials from Arellano University School of Law (AUSL). The said workshop will cover key areas such as financial operations, tuition and fee structures, staffing, curriculum development, and faculty guidelines. 

“This training will be crucial for meeting the requirements needed to submit the program application by June of this year,” Atty. Delfin said.

However, the university president also suggested conducting virtual consultations with other law universities in the country such as the Bulacan State University and Tarlac State University to benchmark their practices to meet the requirements for BiPSU application. 

Dr. Cañezo also directed the director of the Engineering and Physical Development Office (EPDO) to begin preparations for the required facilities and infrastructures, including the proposed classrooms, faculty room, library, and moot court. 

As part of the feedback gathered from respondents, several suggestions were made to improve the potential Juris Doctor program at  the university.

One respondent recommended that professors selected for the law school should be “trustworthy, reliable, and committed to their roles—not just teaching for compliance.” 

They further added that professors should be skilled in teaching, “able to simplify complex lessons and make them engaging and easy to understand.”

Another respondent expressed his excitement. “It would be nice to have a law school in BiPSU for those who would want to enroll and pursue law. It could boost the university's recognition and produce outstanding lawyers ready to serve the people.” Additionally, some respondents suggested that BiPSU must hire legal practitioners or fully qualified lawyers to ensure the program's effectiveness and improve student learning outcomes.

During the discussion, the president stressed that the university is committed to selecting the best and most qualified students. He emphasized that as part of the admission process, all aspiring applicants will be required to pass a qualifying exam and meet the necessary qualifications to enroll in the program.

“Let me clear this out, bisan ka pa taga BiPSU, if dili ka mupasar sa qualifying exam, you will not be considered [Let me make this clear, even if you are from BiPSU, if you do not pass the qualifying exam, you will not be considered],” Dr. Cañezo stressed. 

The university president emphasized that only those who meet the standards will be eligible for the Juris Doctor program, regardless of their affiliation with the university.

Dr. Cañezo noted the importance of a competitive admission process to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are selected, which is important to the program’s long-term success.

Meanwhile, Atty. Delfin also highlighted that the majority of the respondents, 78.2%, are willing to work in the province after completing law school which could suggest that BiPSU's JD program could have a significant impact on regional legal education and professional opportunities.

With strong demand for legal education, BiPSU is committed to developing a transformative Juris Doctor program that will benefit aspiring lawyers both in Biliran and beyond.

In an interview, the university president also shared his personal motivation behind this plan,
“Just like my own dream of pursuing law, many Biliranons are eager to study law but have not been able to due to the lack of opportunities in the province and the high costs of studying outside. I hope this program will provide an accessible and affordable path for aspiring lawyers from Biliran and beyond,” he said. 

The consultation meeting concluded with the finalization of the committees assigned to various areas including financial operations, institutional administration and academic policies, permits, licenses and facilities, dean and faculty and curriculum delivery, law program management and library. The team is also scheduled to invite law practitioners from other universities the following week to gather insights and best practices from law schools across the Philippines.

#WoWBiPSU

Amid rising cases of HIV and teenage pregnancy in the province, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) of Biliran Province State University, in partnership with the university’s Medical and Dental Clinic, conducted an HIV and Teenage Pregnancy Awareness Seminar on April 2 at the BiPSU Gymnasium.

The seminar aimed to educate BiPSU students, particularly high school attendees, about the dangers of HIV and the challenges associated with teenage pregnancy. It focussed in shedding light on the transmission, prevention, and available support services for HIV and addressing the causes, consequences, and preventive measures of teenage pregnancy to help students make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting white blood cells, which weakens the body’s defenses against infections such as tuberculosis and certain cancers. Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) defines teenage pregnancy as pregnancy occurring in individuals aged 10 to 19, a period classified as adolescence by the WHO.

Eduardo A. Estroso, a registered nurse and Biliran’s provincial HIV coordinator, led the discussion on HIV awareness, focusing on dispelling myths, explaining facts about HIV and AIDS, and highlighting prevention and testing services. 

Meanwhile, Hon. Aluah Kane T. Calbahin, a nursing student and member of BiPSU’s Board of Regents, tackled teenage pregnancy, discussing its causes, effects, prevention strategies, and the importance of support systems and counseling.

In her message, Dr. Ana Maria N. Jaguros, the university physician, mentioned the importance of proactive education in addressing these pressing health concerns.

“Lack of awareness and proper education can lead to increased risk, especially unwanted pregnancy and HIV,” Dr. Jaguros said. “These issues affected past generations, affect us today, and will affect future generations if we don’t break the cycle.”

The seminar was organized in response to recent alarming data from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naval and the DOH regarding the increasing number of HIV and teenage pregnancy cases in the province. 

On March 25, LGU Naval reported a significant rise in teenage pregnancies, with cases among 15- to 19-year-olds increasing from 60 in January to 68 in February, an increase of eight in just one month.

Additionally, the DOH reported that as of December 2024, Biliran had recorded 124 HIV cases, with Naval accounting for the highest number at 53 cases. These statistics emphasize the urgent need for awareness campaigns and preventive measures to address these public health concerns effectively.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 5: Gender Equality.]

The School of Teacher Education (STEd) of Biliran Province State University - Naval Campus formally concluded Project Training and Nurturing Student Government Leaders with Acumen and Will (Project TANGLAW) on April 2 at West Biliran High School for Arts and Culture (WeBHSAC), Brgy. Tamarindo, Almeria.

Formally launched on December 5, 2023, at WeBHSAC, Project TANGLAW was developed in response to findings from a collaborative study conducted by STEd faculty and Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) Social Studies students. 

The study, titled “Examining Student Leaders’ Leadership Competence and Challenges from Selected Schools of a Rural School District: Basis for a Leadership Training Program,” identified key challenges faced by student leaders, including difficulty in managing priorities, lack of social skills, insufficient support and resources, and inadequate paperwork proficiency.

With long-term sustainability consideration, Project TANGLAW was designed to enhance leadership competencies, such as critical thinking and reasoning, self-awareness and personal development, interpersonal interaction, group dynamics, civic responsibility, personal behavior, strategic planning, and effective communication.

Over the four-month implementation, student beneficiaries participated in a series of modules and training sessions, facilitated by English, Social Studies, and Social Science educators from BiPSU’s various schools.

The culminating activity was attended by Program Leaders, including Dr. Grace L. Concepcion, chairperson of the Department of Secondary Education; Dr. Gregg O. Siat, chairperson of the Department of Elementary Education; and Kevin T. Lagat.

Also present were Project Leaders, including Hon. Vennie Coton, acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education; Bonifacio Jumtilco, Jr.; Vic Marie Bornillo; Jeremy Balondo, Extension Services Office personnel; and Miramar Serrion, STEd Extension chairperson, alongside facilitators and ESS students.

During the event, Mr. Kevin Lagat, Program Leader of TANGLAW, emphasized the project's commitment to nurturing young leaders equipped with the necessary skills, values, and vision to navigate the complexities of student leadership.

“We are honored to have been part of your journey as student leaders here at WEBHSAC, and we sincerely hope that our sessions over the past week have provided valuable insights, knowledge, and skills that will help you in your leadership roles,” the project leader said.

The activity was also attended by Dr. Elaine Joy S. Mejia, WeBHSAC’s HTV school head; faculty members; and the student beneficiaries.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte—Students from Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Naval campus advanced to the final round of the competitions of the Philippine Association of Campus Student Advisers (PACSA) Inc. National Midyear Convention 2025, April 2.

Following a comprehensive screening of candidates in Visayas Core Group, the following are the BiPSUnistas advancing to the final rounds of their respective category:

Pagsulat ng Sanaysay: Gil Irinco

Dagliang Talumpati: Kevin Brane

Research Presentation (2 papers): 

Presenter 1: Remmie Joy Baluna and Junmark Cabalquinto 

Presenter 2: Chazonne Almazon and Dominic Chad Catipay

Streetdance Competition: Kenneth Berdal, Loida Jean Verian, Arian Jay Maala, and Kyle Sabalones

Mr. PACSL 2025: Chazonne Almazon

Photography: Melody Vijuan

According to the contest mechanics, each core group will select three representatives for individual categories, and two representatives for group competitions.

Moreover, the finalists will compete against the representatives from the National Capital Region, Luzon, and Mindanao core groups, tomorrow, April 3. 

The delegation was coached by Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, University and Board secretary, and Dr. Miguel Supremo, Institutional Job Placement officer.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University received the “highest commendation” for its President’s Report during the first Board of Regents (BoR) meeting with newly appointed CHED Commissioner Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela on March 26. 

Marking the first session between BiPSU and the new CHED Commissioner, the said meeting not only reported the university’s accomplishments in the first three months of the fiscal year 2025 but also addressed key financial, academic, and legal matters, aimed at ensuring sustainable growth while tackling emerging challenges in the university. 

BiPSU’s governing board, chaired by Dr. Valenzuela, unanimously passed a resolution recognizing BiPSU’s accomplishments with highest commendations during the first quarter.  

In his report, BiPSU president outlined the university’s ongoing initiatives and progress in various areas, including instruction, research, extension services, ICT and infrastructure development, resource management, human and organization capital, student support services, and linkages, with particular emphasis on internationalization efforts.

Commissioner Valenzuela commended the leadership of BiPSU president and the members of board for their vision, which has been instrumental in enhancing the university’s global presence. 

In a social media post, the commissioner expressed her admiration. “My first quarter board meeting with BiPSU was both productive and inspiring. Dr. Cañezo and the Board of Regents clearly have a strong vision for BiPSU, and their commitment to excellence is evident in the university’s impressive achievements in international rankings,” she wrote.

The CHED Commissioner praised BiPSU’s progress in strategic internationalization and sustainability efforts, which have contributed to the university’s growing international presence.

In response, Dr. Cañezo expressed his gratitude. “With the leadership of our new chair designate of the BiPSU Governing Board, we continue to improve our programs, expand our global partnerships, and promote sustainable practices to achieve the ‘Weaving of Worthiness (WOW)’ for BiPSU,” the university president said.

The Board meeting, held at the CHED Central Office in Quezon City, was conducted in a hybrid format, allowing both onsite and virtual participation. Onsite key attendees included Dr. Cañezo, Hon. Vennie Coton, faculty regent; Hon. Aluah Kane Cabalhin, student regent; Hon. Gerardo J. Espina Jr., Lone District of Biliran representative and BiPSU BoR representative of the House Committee on Higher & Technical Education (CHTE), represented by Hon. Liberty M. Bardinas; Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, university and board secretary; Joedel Penaranda, executive assistant to the President; Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, legal officer III; and Hannah B. Peñaflor, board secretary I. 

Online attendees also included Hon. Meylene C. Rosales, regional director of NEDA RO8; Private Sector Representatives Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina and Hon. Jean Clare T. Diu; and Alumni Regent Hon. Felix G. Gervacio Jr.

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education.]

Biliran Province State University Naval Campus’ School of Teacher Education (STEd) formally culminated their four-month old extension program at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Naval District Jail in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval on April 2.

The Project Kaalaman at Abilidad na Sentro at Angkop sa Napapanahong Aksyon - Yaman at Negosyo (Project KASANAYAN), a livelihood skills development program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the BJMP Naval District Jail was formally launched on November 22 last year.

KASANAYAN aimed to empower PDLs with practical skills in crocheting and handicrafts, promoting economic self-sufficiency and supporting their reintegration into society through sustainable livelihood opportunities. 

The program was anchored on the findings of a community needs assessment conducted by Miramar M. Serrion, activity leader and STEd extension chairperson; and Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and BTLEd and BPEd chairperson, entitled “Needs-Based Assessment of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) for Community Empowerment and Rehabilitation.”

The study identified the critical needs of PDLs in areas such as literacy, health, social development, and technology and livelihood skills. Serrion said that the evidence-based approach ensures the project effectively addresses the specific challenges faced by PDLs.

Under the project, PDLs underwent weekly training sessions in crocheting and handicrafts, focusing on skills that are viable for income generation. These sessions were conducted throughout the project duration, with STEd faculty members who are experts in livelihood education personally facilitating the training.

The culminating activity was conducted after more than four months of the project’s implementation. The program was attended by Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and technology and livelihood education and physical education department chairperson; Glenn Gomba, head of Research Office’s Knowledge and Information Management Unit; Miramar M. Serrion, project facilitators, and extension office personnel. 

JSINSP Elizer B. Bacog, acting warden of BJMP Naval District Jail, also attended the activity along with the BJMP personnel and PDL beneficiaries.

In his message, Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, director of Extension Services Office, represented by Glenn Gumba, said that the program has been a journey of empowerment, resilience, and transformation, providing the PDL participants with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience to help them build a better future. 

“Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to rehabilitation, skills development, and reintegration, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society,” Dr. Ampong said.

Meanwhile, in his message, JSINSP Bacog expressed the bureau’s gratitude for BiPSU’s extension service and highlighted the project's importance in providing hope for the PDLs.

“Thank you for showing them [PDLs] that learning doesn’t stop even within confined facility,” the BJMP warden said. “Hindi lang ito paghahabi ng sinulid, ito ay paghahabi ng pag-asa [This is not just mere weaving of threads, but also a weaving of hope].”

PDLs also shared their experience and the impact of the extension service. One female PDL expressed her gratitude for the project which she described as a stepping stone to having new life once they are reintegrated to the outside community.

“Daghang salamat kay may mga tawo nga sama ninyo nga nakahinumdom sa amo dire [Thank you so much for having people like you who remember us here],” the PDL said. “Pinaagi sa inyong tabang sa amo, wala diay mi ning-anhi para mapreso lamang, kundi para mabag-o ang kinabuhi ["With your help, we are not here just to be confined, but to change our lives].”

Another young PDL also shared that his appreciation to the university for the extension program. “Nakaka-appreciate na kahit nandito kami sa aming komunidad, meron pa palang mga taong handang tumulong sa amin at nagpakita sa amin kung paano namin pwedeng gawing makabuluhan ang stay namin dito [It is appreciating that even though we are here in our community, there are still people willing to help us and show us how we can make our stay here meaningful],” he said.

Moreover, handicrafts such as crocheted bags, apparel, coin purse, vase, and bayongs were also exhibited during the culminating activity.

Certificates of Completion, which the beneficiaries may use once reintegrated to the community, were also provided.

[This aligns with SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions]