In a significant leap towards transforming into digital learning in education, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has finally unveiled the 86-inch interactive boards in the Naval Campus, launching a total of 11 smart classrooms amounting to ₱7,756,537.60. 

The official turnover ceremony, held on December 19, at the Audio Visual Center (HAVC), followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the second floor of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences  (SNHS) was attended by the University President, Dr. Victor C. Caňezo, Jr., together with the members of the governing board– Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina, Hon. Jean Clare T. Diu, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, and Hon. Aluah Kane Cabalhin, represented by Hon. Dexter Garcia.
The event was also graced by the supplier of the interactive boards CEO of Lisa Tech Philippines, Elijah John Uy Lao and other BiPSU key officials.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Lisa Tech CEO conducted live demonstrations of the interactive boards, showing its special features. The demonstration was attended by key BiPSU officials, offering them a firsthand look at how the technology can enhance the teaching and learning experience.

Funded through the regular agency fund under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the Smart Classrooms have been deployed across various key areas of BiPSU's  Naval campus. These include the Anatomy and Physiology Lab, Microbiology and Parasitology Lab, Amphitheater and Conference Room on the second floor and ground floor of the Nursing Building. Additional installations can be found in the Speech Laboratory within the Andaya Building, as well as in Technology Rooms located on the second and fourth floors of the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) Building. Other notable locations include the Technology Room on the third floor of the School of Education Building, the COME AVR on the ground floor of the School of Criminal Justice Education (STCS) Building, and the Science and Technology classroom on the second floor of the Science and Tech Building for the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME). Additionally, an Office Room on the second floor of the Automotive Building is also equipped with one of these advanced interactive boards, for the School of Graduate Studies (SGS).

The Smart Classrooms, equipped with 86-inch interactive boards, are set to transform the learning experience at BiPSU, offering a more dynamic, interactive, and flexible teaching environment for students and faculty.

In addition, each classroom is equipped with two sensor cameras and six ceiling microphones. The sensor cameras automatically detect when a student is reciting or standing up to recite, ensuring that all students, whether in-person or remote, can be seen and heard clearly. The ceiling microphones further enhance this experience, capturing the voices of students and faculty with precision and clarity, enabling smooth interactions both in the classroom and for online learners.

These classrooms will also enable classes to be extended across multiple rooms with a single instructor, further enhancing the university's ability to deliver quality education.

“The boards are simple, easy to use, and highly effective classroom tools that support both onsite and online learning. Students can even attend classes from anywhere, while online students can seamlessly interact with those in the classroom in real time, creating an inclusive learning environment,” explained CEO Lao.

In his remarks, Dr. Caňezo proudly described the event as an early Christmas gift for BiPSU. As he emphasized, “When I arrived at this university—long before today’s event—our teaching tools were simpler and our ambitions more modest. Chalk and blackboards were the standard, and the idea of a ‘Smart Classroom’ seemed like something from a distant future. Yet here we stand, on the threshold of that future, ready to bring a new dimension of learning to Biliran Province State University."

The university president elaborated on the importance of both technology and the people who use it, “What truly makes a campus ‘smart’ is not just the new technology, but the people who use it to spark insights and understanding. We want this new space to encourage curiosity, help students explore beyond their textbooks, and inspire faculty to refine their craft."

Dr. Caňezo also thanked the various teams who worked on this project, recognizing the contributions of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), the Engineering and Physical Development Office (EPDO), and the Management and Information System (MIS) Office for their efforts in realizing this for the university.

In addition, the university president also hopes that if the implementation proves successful and receives positive feedback from the end users, BiPSU, with the support of the Board of Regents, might be able to expand by adding more smart classrooms equipped with the same technology.

BiPSU plans to conduct orientations for faculty and students in January 2025, in collaboration with Lisa Tech Philippines, to ensure they are fully equipped to maximize the use of this new technology.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BPSU) was recently honored with the Gawad Banyuhay Ugnayan Award during a ceremony held on December 8, 2024 at the Baluarte De San Diego in Intramuros, Manila.

The award, established by the Dr. Carl Balita Foundation, recognizes individuals and institutions that exemplify resilience, transformative influence, and positive societal impact.

Representing the university president, Dr. Victor C. Caňezo, Jr.,  Engr. Jessie Mari D. Cerera, director of the Institutional Planning Office, accepted the award on behalf of the institution.

The Gawad Banyuhay Ugnayan Award recognized not only the achievements of individuals but also the contributions of partner schools and organizations that have worked closely with the Carl Balita Review Center (CBRC) in advancing education in various communities.

In a statement, BiPSU President Caňezo expressed his gratitude for the said recognition,  “This award is offered to every BiPSUnistas. Because of them, we remain committed to providing an environment of transformation, and resilience, and we are proud to be part of a network of institutions that inspire change for the betterment of society.”

He also extended his heartfelt thanks to Dr. Carl Balita, “We are deeply honored by this recognition, and we thank Dr. Carl Balita and his foundation for their continuous support of education and social transformation. This award motivates us to continue working towards a brighter future for our students.”

Moreover, the word "Banyuhay" is a combination of three Filipino words: bago (new), anyo (form), and buhay (life). Together, they symbolize the inspiring journey of change, growth, and transformation that positively impacts others.

[This article aligns with SDG Goal 4: Quality Education and SDG Goal 10: Reduced Inequality.]

Biliran Province State University President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., has officially received the International Leadership Award at the 2024 Internationalization Champions of National Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards held on December 16 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City.

Dr. Cañezo  was honored as the 1st runner- up in the prestigious Internationalization Leadership Award category, the biggest recognition of the event. Notably,  he was the only Higher Education Institution (HEI) president in the whole Visayas to receive the said award.

The ICONS Awards, organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), is a prestigious event in the field of higher education that recognizes leaders who have made significant contributions to internationalization, sustainability, and global competitiveness within their institutions. 

Under Dr. Cañezo’s visionary leadership, BiPSU has elevated its global standing, achieving recognition in several esteemed international rankings, including Quacquarelli-Symonds (QS), Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), and most recently, the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2024.

Dr. Cañezo described the recognition as an acknowledgment of the shared dedication and hard work of the entire BiPSU community.

“This award is not only for me but for everyone at Biliran Province State University who has worked tirelessly to make our vision of a globally competitive institution a reality,” Dr. Cañezo said. “Our success in international rankings and sustainability initiatives reflects our strong drive to academic excellence, research innovation, and environmental stewardship,” he added.

Meanwhile, aside from Dr. Cañezo’s individual recognition, BiPSU was also honored at the ICONS Awards for the third consecutive year, acknowledging its sustained excellence in internationalization initiatives since 2022. The university’s innovative programs and strategic partnerships have set benchmarks in strengthening its global engagement and sustainability.

Accompanying Dr. Cañezo in receiving the award were Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, the director of the Internationalization Office, and Mr. Joedel Peñaranda, executive assistant to the University President.

TACLOBAN CITY–Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has been recognized by DILG and the Local Government Academy (LGA) as a regional finalist in the Nextgen Regional CapDev Accelerator in Local Governance Award for its exceptional commitment to empowering Local Government Units (LGUs), promoting innovative practices, and driving excellence in local governance.

The award, which highlights significant contributions to the advancement of local governance, was presented today, December 16, 2024, at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office VIII in Tacloban City.

Joedel Peñaranda, executive assistant to the President and director of SIKLAB (Sustaining Innovation and Knowledge for Local Advancement and Beneficiaries), received the award on behalf of the university president Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. 

Organized by the DILG through the LGA, the Nextgen Regional CapDev Accelerator in Local Governance Award serves to honor institutions and initiatives that have shown an empowering dedication to improving local governance and driving social and economic development at the grassroots level. 

Among its four categories, the NextGen CapDev Accelerator Award honors partners implementing programs of at least two years that address LGU capacity needs under full devolution, promoting innovation and empowerment.

BiPSU’s active involvement in empowering LGUs supported its mission to contribute to regional development through education, research, and community service.

Moreover, the university has also been recognized for its steadfast support to the DILG 8 Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRC) and its multi-stakeholder participation, and knowledge management.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]

“Kami naman!” [Our turn!]

After nearly four decades of dreams and unyielding fight, the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Tigers roared with all their might in the 38th regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Eastern Visayas Meet, held on December 8-13 at the Northwestern Samar State University (NwSSU) grounds.

With relentless waves of determination and unwavering spirit, the BiPSU Tigers etched their name in history, claiming their first SCUAA crown—a momentous achievement that crowned years of perseverance and hard work.

The Tigers’ supremacy was evident in the final and official medal tally. In total, BiPSU amassed 163 medals (69 golds, 52 silvers, and 42 bronzes), solidifying their dominance and proving their excellence in various sports disciplines.

BiPSU topped the standings with an impressive 69 gold medals, outshining their closest rival, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), who secured 67 golds. This remarkable performance underscored their position as this year’s region’s leading athletic powerhouse.

This victory is even more extraordinary when compared to BiPSU’s performance in the 37th SCUAA Eastern Visayas Meet just a year prior. During that event, BiPSU ranked a modest 8th place, earning only 17 gold medals, 51 silvers, and 49 bronzes—a far cry from this year’s commanding reign. Their dramatic leap to the top of the standings within a year is a testimony to the university’s renewed commitment to athletic excellence, rigorous preparation, and the unrelenting drive of its athletes and coaches.

Tigers’ journey to this triumph was no easy feat. Competing against seasoned teams, they faced immense pressure and doubts; yet they continued to rise, displaying resilience and teamwork that mirrored the values of their community.

At the heart of this victory is a leader who believed in his student-athletes from the very start. BiPSU President Dr. Victor Cañezo, Jr. was more than just a figurehead—he was the Tigers’ loudest cheerleader and their most steadfast supporter. From day one of the competition until the final event, Dr. Cañezo was present, his presence a constant source of encouragement and inspiration for the athletes.

“He was there every day, cheering us on, visiting us, and making sure we were okay,” shared Rica Roble, BiPSU Arnis Tigress. “Pres. Vic was the only president who went out of his way to check on us, to ask how we were feeling, and to boost our morale. That meant the world to us.”

This level of commitment set Dr. Cañezo apart as a transformative leader. His strategic focus on BiPSU sports was not limited to infrastructure and scholarship grants; it extended to building a culture of trust, unity, and mutual support. His hands-on approach empowered the institution’s 437 delegations to aim higher, train harder, and believe in the impossible.

“This victory is for every BiPSUnista who believed in our student-athletes and for those who came before us,” shared Dr. Cañezo. “It’s not just a win for the Tigers but a celebration of our university’s indomitable spirit.”

Moreover, this remarkable turnaround was made possible through the visionary directorship of Engr. Carmel Sigrid Docallos, BiPSU Sports and Athletics Services director, at an arm’s length with the burning dedication of the coaches, school deans and program chairpersons. Together, they orchestrated a meticulous plan, ensuring the athletes were well-prepared, disciplined, and ready to take on any challenge. Their expertise and commitment laid the foundation for the Tigers’ rise from underdogs to champions.

The support staff, often working behind the scenes, likewise played a vital role in securing that every student-athlete’s needs were met. From managing logistics to providing medical support and keeping the team’s morale high, their efforts were integral to the Tigers’ success.

This championship was more than a medal count. BiPSU’s rise is a story of redemption and persistence. It’s a tale that rolls with the entire institution, proving that dreams, when pursued with tireless tenacity, can become reality.

For the BiPSU Tigers, it was an opportunity to demonstrate their grit and toughness, not just on the field but as a community united in spirit and purpose.

The 38th SCUAA VIII Meet brought together athletes from state universities and colleges across the region, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship. This includes the Visayas State University (VSU), Leyte Normal University (LNU), University of Eastern Philippines (UEP), Palompon Institute of Technology (PIT), Eastern Samar State University (ESSU), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), Samar State University (SSU), Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), University of the Philippines Tacloban College (UP Tacloban), Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) and our very dear BiPSU.

As the final whistle blew, the BiPSU Tigers had not only claimed their first SCUAA championship but had also ignited a wave of celebration and inspiration. The 38-year wait was finally over, and with Dr. Cañezo at the helm, this triumph became a testament to what can be achieved when leaders and their communities stand together.

The roar of the Tigers now echoes as a symbol of unity, perseverance, and the promise of even greater victories to come. BiPSU has arrived, and this is only the beginning of their legacy.

In the recently concluded September 2024 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) for the Elementary Level, Nova Lyzza Ejorcadas, a proud graduate of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), with a degree of Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, ranked 4th nationwide with an impressive rating of 93.40%.

As a member of the Batch 2024, Nova's achievement is a proof of her hard work and the solid foundation provided by BiPSU’s educational program. She joins the ranks of seven other topnotchers from BiPSU, making her the fifth topnotcher from the School of Teacher Education (STED).

A Surprising Victory

When asked how she felt upon discovering her ranking, Nova shared her initial disbelief. “To be honest, I was really surprised since I had been bracing myself for the worst for the past months. It’s like everything was so surreal,” she admitted.

Despite the uncertainty that troubled her during the lead-up to the exam, Nova expressed her gratitude to God for answering her prayers.

Though her path to achieving this was filled with challenges, Nova maintained her focus and expressed gratitude for the entire journey.

Recalling her review experience, Nova recounted how she learned to be independent and devoted herself entirely to studying and praying. She embraced the opportunity to build new friendships and leaned on her faith, trusting in God’s plan.

“Learning to be independent in the city, devoting my whole time to studying and praying, getting to befriend and know a lot of people, and having to trust everything to God were my unforgettable moments during the review,” she shared.

Like many students preparing for such an important exam, Nova faced some hurdles. However, she counted herself fortunate that the challenges were minimal.

"I just had a bit of a problem with finding a place to stay the night before the exam, but everything worked out in the end," she recalled. She also narrated that during the exam, she struggled with a cough, which made concentrating even harder. Yet, Nova remained resilient, and despite the discomfort, she felt the exam went well overall.

In Choosing her career path 

Nova shared that when she first graduated from Senior High School at Almeria National High School, she had no idea about the Early Childhood Education program. "To be honest, I didn’t know about this program when I graduated from SHS. It wasn’t even on my mind because I was undecided about what I wanted. It was during the pandemic, and my mother encouraged me to take a program at BiPSU because it was safer than going far. That’s when I decided to take Early Childhood Education, hoping my mother, who’s an elementary public school teacher, could guide me, and I was also curious about what it felt like to handle kindergarten learners," she recalled.

Motivated by her mother’s suggestion and a curiosity about handling kindergarten learners, Nova decided to pursue Early Childhood Education.

Over time, she came to love the program and realized that it was where she was meant to be. Nova expressed that she truly believed she was placed in the BECED program for a reason, as she grew more passionate about it and discovered her true calling along the way.

When asked about her plans of entering the university , Nova is still praying for guidance on her next steps. She shared that she is feeling uncertain about whether to pursue further studies at the university or to explore and apply what she has learned in a real classroom with children. "I will also consult with my family to help me with my decisions," she added.

A Humble Expectation

Did Nova expect to top the exam? The answer was a resounding no. “Not at all,” she said. For Nova, the goal was always to do her best for  those who supported her. Her success is not just about the top ranking; it’s about honoring the sacrifices made by others and accepting the path she was meant to follow.

Nova’s gratitude extended to her alma mater, BiPSU, and its administration, especially Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr whose leadership she greatly admired. 

"Thank you so much, BiPSU! I can't be more grateful for all the experiences and knowledge that the BiPSU administration headed by Dr. Cañezo has provided me with. Truly, BiPSU is a university worthy of much praise. Hail, Biliran’s pride!” she exclaimed.

A Heartfelt Message to Her Teachers

Nova’s journey would not have been possible without the guidance of her teachers, particularly those from the School of Teacher Education and Development (STED) headed by the current dean, Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan. She expressed her gratitude with a heartfelt message: 

“Thank you so much for all of your passion and love for teaching. All your hard work has helped achieve not just mine but everyone’s dreams too. To the STED faculty, our achievements are also yours. Thank you!,” she added.

Words of Wisdom for Future LET Takers

To those preparing to take the LET in the future, Nova offered valuable advice: “Set your goal and focus on it. Before you start your review, know yourself and create a schedule that you will adhere to no matter what. Believe in yourselves, stay humble, and most importantly, keep praying for God’s guidance and grace before, during, and after the review and examination. Never lose sight of everyone who sacrificed and supported you since day one. Laban, future LPTs!,” she exclaimed.

Nova’s success story is one of dedication, faith, and gratitude—a true inspiration for future educators. Congratulations Nova, for bringing pride and honor to Biliran Province State University!

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University adds another feather to its cap after marking its debut in UI Greenmetric World University Rankings 2024, ranking 19th in the Philippines and 633rd in the world among the 1,477 participating universities from 95 countries.

Though  invited to the onsite awarding ceremonies at the University of São Paulo in Brazil, the university decided to attend the International Seminar and Award Ceremony via online today, December 12. 

In this year’s world rankings, BiPSU recorded a total score of 6,240. In the six criteria, the University earned 1,130 in setting and infrastructure, 1,075 in energy and climate change, 750 in waste, 310 in water, 1,450 in transportation, and 1,525 in education and research.

Initiated by the Universitas Indonesia in 2010, the world university rankings, later known as UI Greenmetric World University Rankings measures the campus sustainability efforts, intended to create an online survey to portray sustainability policies and programs for universities around the world. 

Meanwhile, it analyzes numerical data submitted by participating universities to generate scores that reflect the extent to which institutions are actively implementing environmentally friendly and sustainable programs.

A total of 64 Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) , with De Lasalle University- Dasmarinas ranking 1st, made it into this world ranking this year. Globally, a total of 1,477 HEIs  participated in the rigorous assessment process. 

With this year's theme, "Instituting UI GreenMetric: The Way Forward," the event focused on universities’ efforts to continue their sustainability programs and policies to become sustainable universities based on UI GreenMetric and SDGs.

BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed immense pride in the university's debut in the UI Greenmetric World University Rankings 2024, noting it as a result of the institution's continuous commitment to sustainability.

He also recognized the hard work of the UI Greenmetric application team, which he chaired, alongside co-chairs Joedel Peñaranda, executive assistant to the President, and Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin, director of BiPSU's Internationalization Affairs, and its members, for their collaborative effort in securing the university's place in this world ranking.

“This is just the beginning, we will continue the weaving of worthiness and strengthen our sustainability programs, aligning them with global standards, as we strive to become more  responsive to the needs of both local and global communities," he proudly stated. 

[This article aligns with Sustainability Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education  and SDG Goal No. 13: Climate Action.]

CALBAYOG CITY—The BiPSU Tigers demonstrated their dominance at the 38th SCUAA Games swimming events held on December 10-11, securing an impressive 51 medals—an outstanding improvement from last year’s performance.

This year, the Tigers clinched 25 golds, 17 silvers, and 9 bronzes across 42 swimming events. This marks a significant leap from their previous SCUAA Games haul of 10 golds, 14 silvers, and 10 bronzes.

Not only did BiPSU excel in medal count, but they also earned a top placement in the overall swimming rankings among 11 participating State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). BiPSU proudly ranked second, behind Leyte Normal University (LNU), with a total of 4.75 points.

The Tigers’ women’s swimming team outperformed the competition, securing first place among all SUCs with 4.13 points. Meanwhile, the men's team earned third place with a total of 0.62 points.

Coach Crislyn Paghubasan, in an interview, attributed the team’s remarkable improvement to the athletes’ determination and the strong support from the university administration.

“This achievement is the result of countless hours of training and the solid support system that fuels our athletes’ drive to succeed,” Paghubasan said. “We wouldn’t have achieved this without the leadership of our university president, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., whose support has been crucial from the start of training.”

The team’s formal training began in September, with weekend schedules designed to accommodate the athletes’ academic commitments.

Meanwhile, seven out of the 14 BiPSU swimmers ranked among the Top 15 in the individual standings.

In the women’s category, Janine Rotairo stood out with a remarkable six golds, one silver, and one bronze, earning her the second-best female swimmer title. Her sister, Joyce Rotairo, placed fourth, securing 3 golds, 3 silvers, and 2 bronzes. Kriendy Bacarizas also ranked sixth with four golds and two bronzes.

In the men’s category, Noel Angelou Gaviola ranked sixth with one gold, five silvers, and one bronze. Michael Camillion and Emil Arrevado both tied for eighth—Camillion with two golds and two silvers, and Arrevado with one gold and one silver. Ronald Sallave completed the men’s individual rankings at tenth place with one gold, three silvers, and two bronzes.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo expressed pride in the Tigers’ swimming team, commending their hard work and dedication.

“This victory reflects our athletes’ discipline and commitment,” said Dr. Cañezo. “They have brought immense pride to our university and have set a new standard of excellence for all BiPSU Tigers athletes.”

The BiPSU Tigers swimming team’s success at this year’s SCUAA Games is attributed to the guidance of the coaches Jerahlyn Ambe, Jose Sidaya Jr., Crislyn Paghabusan, and Raful Sandigan.

#WoWBiPSU

To signify its commitment to meeting global standards of academic excellence and quality assurance, the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) subjected to three-day Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) Level IV Phase 2 online accreditation survey visit on December 9-11 via zoom.

Four schools of the main campus, namely School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Teacher Education (STEd), School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), and School of Graduate Studies (SGS) passed through rigorous evaluations for its programs Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA), Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd), Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS), Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) - Educational Management and Master in Public Management (MPM), respectively, in hopes to achieve the highest level of recognition a higher education institution can achieve in the country—the Level 4 Phase 2 accreditation grant.

Headed by Dr. Jaime M. Forbes, AACCUP coordinator and campus director of Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), panel of the accreditors bring together Dr. Sisenando C. Masangcap Jr. of BPSU and Dr. Jerome D. Soriano of Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) for the SAS inspection; Prof. Karen P. Andres, president of Ramon Magsaysay State University, and Prof. Normita M. Lugtu of BPSU for the STEd survey; Dr. Enrico R. Rivano of Laguna State Polytechnic University and Dr. Julius A. Sareno of the Technological University of the Philippines for the STCS assessment; Dr. Lourdes S. Santos and Dr. Glenda D. Abad of BPSU, Dr. Erlie Totaan of TAU, and Dr. Erwin G. Malabuyoc of Polytechnic University of the Philippines for the SGS critique.

During the announcement of general impressions and comments, Dr. Forbes delivered the evaluation results summarizing the salient points of the team.

“Allow me to use the mnemonic BIPSU to represent our analysis. B for breakthrough research, I for international linkages and partnerships, P for performance of the graduates, S for strategic community service, and U for unique planning process,” he stated.

According to Dr. Forbes, the five academic programs mentioned above have well-established research agenda aligned with community needs which not only provide practical applications but also contribute to scholarly work that enhances the institution’s academic standing, addressing educational challenges. Moreover, he noted that the university has established strong international linkages that enhance global collaboration and exchange programs, which makes its international efforts commendable.

Further, he commended the excellent licensure examination results and employment rate of graduates which highlights BiPSU’s success in preparing competent leaders. Community extension programs, meanwhile, are integrated into the college's operations, and the schools actively implement a wide range of extension services aimed at enhancing the overall welfare and quality of life within the community, promoting sustainable development and empowering individuals.

Additionally, he lauded the university’s well-structured planning framework that ensures continuous quality improvement and sustainable program development. Driven by data and aligned with institutional goals and global education standards, BiPSU’s excellence is reflected in its International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification and recognition by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI).

In his acknowledgement and statement of commitment, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo reaffirmed BiPSU's promise to hold on to the core strengths and values that define who they are as an academic community, and pledged to engage actively with all identified areas for enhancement.

“Where there is room to improve, we will lean in with an open mind, willingness to adapt, and the courage to do what must be done to advance our institution. Excellence is never a static achievement; it’s a continuous journey toward becoming more responsive, more effective, and more impactful in our mission,” he said.

This agrees with what Dir. Carlito C. Cabas Jr., BiPSU Quality Assurance and Accreditation director, said. “The transformation of a system is not a linear process, but a series of up and down trajectories that lead anticipation and foresight to make it successful.”

The accreditors’ report will be reviewed and validated by the AACCUP and approved by the National Network of Quality Assurance Agencies’ (NNQAA) board of directors.

Crucial results of this accreditation will be released soon by the act of the secretariat.

#WoWBiPSU

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

Biliran Province State University student leaders participated in the 62nd National Rizal Youth Leadership Institute held at Teachers’ Camp, Baguio City on December 5-9, 2025.

Anchored on the theme “Rizalian Leadershift”, the said event is inspired by the legacy of Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal, country’s national hero, and how the late Rizal’s philosophy, ideals, and principles can bring proactive and change in the communities.

Nine students including the officers of the Federation of Supreme Student Council (FSSC) namely Student Regent Hon. Aluah Kane T. Cabalhin, Lawrence Jay Pentado, Chona MaryFlor V. Sanjojo, Remmie Joy Baluna, Dexter S. Garcia, Xyryl Heart Siat, and Arnold Sadoguio attended the institute. Joining them were Junmark C. Cabalquinto, a staff writer from The Pillar, and Joshua P. Abanes. The group was also accompanied by the SSC Adviser, Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion.

At least 800 participants, majority are selected student leaders from various higher education institutions, high school students of the Department of Education and community leaders such as sangguniang kabataan officials coming from LuzViMin areas, attended the said event.

The Rizal Youth Leadership Institute, which started on November 12, 1961, was organized by the Knights of Rizal, and was supported by the Commision on Higher Education. 

This year, various competitions were held such as Rizal Quiz Bee, Oratory and Extemporaneous Speech, Poster Making contest, Journalism, Essay writing, and Makabanyang Sayawitan.

Moreover the event also featured prominent speakers which include Dr. Nestor Catro, professor from UP Diliman Department of Anthropology with discussion centered on understanding the shift in Philippine Culture and Society, Ian Christopher B. Alfonso of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and Paul John Hernadez or known as the ‘traveling salakot’ who both discussed Integrating history, heritage, memory and identity in the SHIFT Agenda. Other speakers include Kenneth Isaiah I. Abante, president, WeSolve Foundation, Kristine Jane S. Atienza of Space Generation Advisory Council, Dr. Norby Salonga, Major Ron JR. T. Villarosa, chief, Civil Affairs Division, and Kim Robert C. De Leon, secretary- general, Boy Scout of the Philippines. 

In his keynote address, Dr. Francisco Navaro, President of the Philippine Historical Association and Commissioner of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), shared three timeless lessons from Rizal’s life: the importance of vision and hope, courage and integrity, and empowering others. He emphasized the need to uphold our dignity until the very end and, above all, to prioritize service over self-interest.

“True freedom is only achieved when Filipinos are empowered,” Dr. Navaro concluded.

Meanwhile, Junmark C. Cabalquinto, a second-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student and staff member of The Pillar, the university’s student publication earned third place in the Feature Writing category with his article titled “The Rizalian Way: The Role of Rizal’s Legacy in Shaping Youth Leadership and Character to Meet Global Changes.”

Cabalquinto was awarded by the Knights of Rizal with a medal, certificate, and a cash prize during the awarding ceremony held on December 8.

The event concluded with a floral and candle offering at the BTC Rizal Monument, commemorating the enduring legacy of the national hero.

The university continues to make its mark, demonstrating the leadership and excellence of its students on national platforms. 

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]