CLARK, Pampanga — Biliran Province State University was recognized as the Leader of the Season among 22 participating State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) under the chairpersonship of Commissioner Michelle Ong, during the 2nd Presidents’ Roundtable Meeting for Unified Strategic Growth Midyear Session held on July 8, 2026, at Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.

The award cited BiPSU’s visionary leadership and commitment to innovation, particularly through its successful advocacy of the One-Hardbound Thesis and Dissertation Policy, which promoted sustainable and student-centered academic practices among SUCs.

During the said event, Commissioner Ong also announced that BiPSU will be granted a dashboard to help ensure the continued implementation of the Green Knowledge and Stewardship Policy across universities. The dashboard will monitor the annual number of trees saved through the policy, supporting data-driven reporting and sustainability efforts among SUCs. 

BiPSU also received the “Kumpleto Rekados Digital Version” award, commending the university’s complete and organized digital submission of documents for Board Meetings. The recognition particularly highlighted the efforts of the Office of the University and Board Secretary under the leadership of the former Board Secretary Dr. Ralph Arvic T. Arcenal, for ensuring the complete staff work during Board proceedings.

Prior to the awarding ceremony, the first day of the event featured discussions on key initiatives and programs aimed at strengthening institutional development among SUCs.

Among the notable topics discussed were the Commission’s initiatives on Project PAG-IBIG, capacitation activities for GAD officers, the RankReady Dashboard, partnership opportunities, and the capacitation of Career and Placement Officers.

The roundtable also tackled future academic and student-centered initiatives, including local internship and exchange programs, Project TULAY, I-CARE Program, the Elevated Discussion initiative for graduate education, ISLA Grant, Library Congress, and a masterclass for Board Secretaries.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) presented its internationalization initiatives during the 2026 International Relations Officers (IRO) Visayas Congress held at the Siquijor State College (SSC) Convention Center from June 30 to July 1.

Office of Internationalization Affairs Director Ms. Chiejheaca Jehanna G. Yu represented the University at the two-day gathering of international relations officers and higher education leaders from across the Visayas. She was one of two presenters selected from Region VIII, alongside the Office of International Affairs Director of Southern Leyte State University.

With the theme, "Advancing Inclusive and Impact-Driven Internationalization for Future-Ready Philippine HEIs," the congress provided a venue for participating institutions to share internationalization initiatives, strengthen institutional partnerships, promote research collaboration, and expand student and faculty mobility.

During her presentation, Ms. Yu highlighted BiPSU's internationalization best practices and the strategic framework that supports the University's student and faculty mobility programs. She also discussed the University's Strategic Internationalization Plan for 2024–2027 and its alignment with the Commission on Higher Education's A.C.H.I.E.V.E. Agenda, particularly on expanded and impact-driven internationalization.

The congress also served as a platform for higher education institutions in the Visayas to exchange experiences and explore opportunities for collaboration in advancing internationalization initiatives.

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Biliran Province State University’s (BiPSU) School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), in collaboration with the Research and Knowledge Management Office, conducted its 2026 In-House Research Review via Zoom on July 6. 

The activity brought together SCJE faculty members to present their completed research studies for evaluation by external experts. It aimed to assess the quality of the research outputs and provide recommendations for further improvement and publication.

Serving as panelists were Dr. Angelyn L. Noble of Visayas State University–Tolosa and Dr. Richard N. Verdeflor of Northwest Samar State University. They evaluated the presented studies and provided comments and recommendations to strengthen the quality and rigor of each research output.

The studies covered various topics in criminal justice education and community development, covering issues relevant to the discipline and the communities they serve. 

The in-house research review is one of BiPSU’s regular research activities aimed at promoting scholarly work and supporting the continuous professional development of faculty researchers. 

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Three personnel of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) have secured international scholarships that will enable them to pursue postgraduate studies in Japan and the United States beginning August 2026. 

Engr. Jessie Mari D. Cerera, Planning Officer III, was selected as a final successful candidate under the Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS Project), a grant-aid program of the Government of Japan. He will pursue a Master of Environmental Studies/Engineering at Nagoya University from August 16, 2026, to October 31, 2028.

Meanwhile, Jofil A. Mati-om, Assistant Professor I, and Christian Ulysses G. Cagasan, Instructor I, were selected as final successful candidates under the PhilDOST–Texas Tech University Doctoral Research and Mentoring Program. As PhD student scholars, they will pursue Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech University in the United States from August 2026 to July 2030.

The postgraduate studies are expected to further strengthen Engr. Cerera's expertise in institutional planning, policy development, strategic management, and development programming, while the doctoral training and international research exposure of Mr. Mati-om and Mr. Cagasan are expected to enhance the University's research capability, expand international academic collaborations, strengthen graduate education, and support the continued development of its faculty.

The selection of the three BiPSUnistas underscores the University's continued investment in faculty and staff development.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) participated in the inaugural United Startups and Startup Enablers for Wealth-Creation, Acceleration, and Growth (USWAG) Regional Conference: Startup Eastern Visayas on July 6 at Summit Hotel in Tacloban City. The conference brought together startup founders, government agencies, higher education institutions, and innovation stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and advance innovation-driven development in Eastern Visayas.

Representing the University was Mr. Glenn Gumba, Director of the Office of Institutional Innovation and Technology Development (OIITD), who served as a panelist in the session, “USWAG Forward: Bridging Stakeholder Initiatives to Help Eastern Visayas Startups Start, Survive, and Scale.”

During the panel discussion, Mr. Gumba emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration among academia, industry, government, and innovation enablers in building a sustainable startup ecosystem. He said these partnerships provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to transform innovative ideas into viable ventures.

The conference also served as a venue for participants to exchange insights, establish partnerships, and explore initiatives that support the growth of startups across Eastern Visayas.

Through its participation in the inaugural USWAG Regional Conference, BiPSU reaffirmed its commitment to promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven development in support of a stronger and more inclusive startup ecosystem in the region.

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Photos courtesy of DOST Eastern Visayas.

A delegation from Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) successfully completed a two-week International Cultural–Work Immersion Program and Networking in the Republic of Korea, giving students, alumni, and faculty members valuable international exposure and opportunities to strengthen their professional and cultural competencies.

Held from June 7 to 22, 2026, the program was conducted at Green Kindergarten and Eden Adventist Hospital, where participants took part in workplace immersion and cultural exchange activities designed to enhance their global perspective and practical learning.

The BiPSU delegation was led by Vice President for Students, Internationalization, and Strategic Partnerships Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan and School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) Dean Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel.

Joining the delegation were Student Regent Hon. Prince Carl Palconit, six students from SNHS and the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and four alumni—two from SNHS and two from the School of Teacher Education (STEd).

Throughout the two-week program, participants were assigned to learning and work environments aligned with their respective fields, allowing them to gain firsthand experience in international workplace practices while developing cross-cultural understanding and professional skills.

Among the participants was Althea C. Tumanda, a graduate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino, who was exposed to both education and healthcare settings. At Green Kindergarten, she observed classroom management and participated in play-based learning activities, while at Eden Adventist Hospital, she assisted in welcoming patients and supporting daily operations.

"Representing BiPSU was something I will always be proud of. I wanted to show that BiPSU students are hardworking, respectful, and capable of succeeding in an international environment," Tumanda said.

The International Cultural–Work Immersion Program is part of BiPSU's continuing internationalization efforts to provide students, alumni, and faculty members with meaningful global learning experiences while strengthening linkages and partnerships with international institutions.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK) Director Jeson V. Viñas presented a research paper titled Pagtikang: a Rice Harvesting Ritual in Leyte, Philippines during the Echoes of the Earth Conference 2026: Cultural Education for the Environment in the Visayas held on June 18–20 at Rigney Hall, University of San Carlos (USC) Talamban Campus in Cebu City.

The conference was jointly organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and InOtherWords Incorporated, in partnership with the USC Cebuano Studies Center, Mamugnaong Anak sa Dagang, and the USC Department of Communication, Linguistics and Literature.

The paper, co-authored with Gay M. Sulla, May Ann D. Dagasdas, and Ernil D. Sumayao, examined Pagtikang as a living cultural heritage practice that embodies indigenous knowledge systems, communal values, spiritual beliefs, and traditional agricultural practices passed down across generations.

Using a mini-ethnographic approach, the researchers documented the ritual’s origins, participants, temporal context, stages, and material tools, as well as its cultural meanings and significance to local farming communities in Leyte. The findings showed that Pagtikang serves as an intergenerational knowledge system that reinforces collective identity, preserves local traditions, and strengthens communal cooperation among farmers.

The study also underscored the ritual’s connection to lunar cycles, tidal patterns, and indigenous ecological knowledge that guide the timing of harvest activities. Beyond its agricultural function, Pagtikang was found to carry symbolic meanings related to prosperity, gratitude, and spiritual protection.

Viñas’ presentation reflects BiPSU’s continuing efforts to strengthen research on local history, culture and traditions, while contributing to the documentation and preservation of indigenous knowledge and heritage in the region. 

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) received an unmodified opinion from the Commission on Audit (COA) on its financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, based on the Annual Audit Report transmitted by COA Regional Office No. VIII.

In a letter addressed to University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., COA stated that the auditor rendered an unmodified opinion on the fairness of the presentation of the university’s financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, as indicated in the Independent Auditor’s Report.

An unmodified opinion is the highest audit opinion issued by COA and signifies that the financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with applicable financial reporting standards.

The audit was conducted in accordance with the International Standards of Supreme Audit Institutions (ISSAIs) to assess the reliability of financial statements, determine compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations, identify opportunities for improvement, and evaluate the implementation of prior years’ audit recommendations.

The recognition reflects BiPSU’s continued commitment to effective financial management, accountability, and transparency in the use of public funds.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) conducted a virtual orientation on lifelong learning, microcredentials, open and distance eLearning (ODeL), and the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) on June 24 via Zoom.

The orientation was attended by university officials and academic leaders, including University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs and Lifelong Learning Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, deans and chairpersons from the Naval and Biliran campuses, directors of concerned offices, the executive assistant and special assistants to the President.

Serving as resource speaker was Ms. Cristina E. Rotairo, Supervising Education Program Specialist of the Non-Conventional Higher Education Division under the Office of Programs and Standards Development of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

During the activity, Ms. Rotairo discussed policies, standards, procedures, and implementation requirements related to lifelong learning, microcredentials, ODeL, and ETEEAP. Moreover, she highlighted the role of these initiatives in supporting academic program development, alternative learning pathways, and the recognition of prior learning.

Participants were also briefed on the requirements and processes involved in implementing these initiatives within higher education institutions as part of efforts to expand access to quality and flexible learning opportunities.

The orientation was part of the university’s continuing preparations for programs and initiatives that promote lifelong learning and align with evolving higher education policies and frameworks.

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In the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has continued its climb on the global sustainability stage after securing an overall rating of 801-1000 out of 1,603 institutions globally—a recognition that reflects the university’s growing contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Published online by THE on June 24, the global ranking included the University, which marks its third consecutive year in the said sustainability assessment.

This year, BiPSU posted a broader and more balanced sustainability profile, with stronger placements across 15 out of 17 goal areas.

Its highest ranking came from SDG 1: No Poverty, where it landed in the 201–300 bracket out of 931 global institutions, underlining the university’s continuing relevance in social inclusion and poverty reduction.

Moreover, it registered notable seats in 401–600 range in eight SDGs, including SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, which demonstrates BiPSU’s multifarious efforts in addressing sustainability gaps.

The university likewise expanded its footprint in SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, both placed in the 601+, while achieving 601–800 range for SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Meanwhile, out of 1,254 institutions, BiPSU remained globally competitive in 1001+ rank for SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing.

These results show that the university is no longer being recognized for a few isolated strengths, but for a more comprehensive sustainability performance across teaching, outreach, governance, and community engagement.

“We started by responding to the needs of our communities and today, those same efforts are once again being recognized internationally,” University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed. “This achievement inspires us to continue pursuing excellence while ensuring that no sector of society is left behind in our journey toward sustainable development.”

It can be recalled that in 2025, BiPSU placed 1501+ overall in THE Impact Rankings and recorded only 10 development goals.

THE describes the Sustainability Impact Ratings as a global performance table that measures universities’ performance across research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching in relation to the world SDGs.

For BiPSU, the latest recognition is more than a ranking milestone; it reflects a university that has steadily woven sustainability into its academic and operational culture, one that continues to translate local action into global relevance.

According to Prof. Cañezo, a university's true success is measured not only by the degrees it grants, but by the lives it transforms and the future it helps build. This recognition strengthens our resolve to remain a state university that serves people, protects the planet, and advances prosperity for generations to come.

From its debut in THE’s sustainability rankings in 2024, BiPSU’s performance reinforces its role of not only growing in stature but also deepening its commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development.

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