Biliran Province State University, through its Guidance and Counseling Services Office (GCSO) and in collaboration with second-year Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) students, hosted the “APT: A Positive Turn Symposium” on November 22.

With the theme “Breaking Free from the Shackles of Teenage Pregnancy,” the symposium aimed to address concerns about early pregnancy by promoting community-wide discussions on the importance of education, access to reproductive health services, and empowering young women.

The event, which was attended by Grade 12 students from BiPSU Laboratory High School (BiPSU LHS), was held at the University Student Center.

In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Jocelyn Caing, head of GCSO, emphasized that the symposium was anchored in the university’s mission of empowering students to make informed career and life choices. “You will be empowered with the knowledge and strategies to enlighten you on what decisions to make that would give you a better future,” she said.

The main session, titled “Teenage Pregnancy Behavior,” was delivered by Ms. Maria Lovella B. Ang, who underscored the need to raise awareness among the youth about teenage pregnancy and to combat the stigma surrounding it.

Following the discussion, an open forum allowed students to ask questions related to teenage pregnancy, followed by a sharing session where participants expressed their thoughts on how to help raise awareness about its prevention.

Furthermore, the event marked the final activity in GCSO’s series designed to promote personal growth, awareness, and well-being among students, reinforcing the university’s commitment to cultivating an informed and empowered academic community.

#WoWBiPSU

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

As #WeExtendtoEmpower the community and the Biliranons, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Teacher Education (STEd), officially launched Project KASANAYAN, a livelihood skills development program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval.

KASANAYAN, which stands for Kaalaman at Abilidad na Sentro at Angkop sa Napapanahong Aksyon – Yaman at Negosyo, aims to empower PDLs with practical skills in crocheting and handicrafts, promoting economic self-sufficiency and supporting their reintegration into society through sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Ms. Miramar Serrion, activity leader and STEd extension chairperson, explained that the program was anchored on the findings of a community needs assessment conducted by her 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 added that the evidence-based approach ensures the project effectively addresses the specific challenges faced by PDLs.

The KASANAYAN launching, held on November 22, was attended by BiPSU Extension Office Director Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, STEd Dean Dr. Maribel Zipagan, STEd program chairpersons and faculty members, PDLs, and BJMP personnel, headed by Acting Warden JSINSP Elizer B. Bacog.

The launching marked the official start of the months-long engagement between STEd faculty members and the PDLs, which will run until February 2025.

In his message, JSINSP Bacog expressed his gratitude to the university for selecting the BJMP as the project's beneficiary. “Isang napakagandang programa po nito para sa ating mga kapatid dito dahil napagtitibay po ang adbokasiya natin na matulungan ang ating mga PDL [This is a very good program for our brothers and sisters here because it strengthens our advocacy to help our PDLs],” he said.

The warden also expressed his optimism for more impactful collaborations between the BJMP and BiPSU, emphasizing the importance of partnerships among agencies in championing different causes.

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

During the launching program, one of the PDL beneficiaries shared his excitement about the extension program, as a fresh start and an opportunity to focus on developing his skills while inside the facility.

“Usa ni nga inspiration sa amoa nga maningkamot hangtod sa muabot ang panahon nga ihatag sa amo ang among kalayaan [This is an inspiration for us to work hard until the time comes when we are granted our freedom],” he said.

Meanwhile, in his message, Extension Director Dr. Ampong highlighted that although the project is scheduled to run until February 2025, its impact on the lives of the PDLs will extend far beyond its duration. He emphasized that the skills and knowledge gained through the program will continue to benefit the participants, supporting their reintegration into society and contributing to their long-term empowerment and self-sufficiency.

“Dako ni nga tabang so that pag-gawas nato dire, duna na kita’y magamit nga mahimo nga pakabuhian [This is a big help so that when we go out, we have something we can use to make a living],” he added.

[This aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.]

Biliran Province State University, through its Guidance and Counseling and Services Office and the second-year students of the Department of Communication, conducted a seminar on Self Awareness and Stress Management on November 21 at the student center.

Participated by BiPSU-Laboratory High School (LHS) Grade 11 students, the said session emphasized practical tools for recognizing and managing stress, as well as for gaining a deeper understanding of oneself.

During the activity, Ms. Abigail Sañosa Capales, university psychometrician, delivered a lecture on Self-Awareness and Stress Management, helping students gain a better understanding of themselves. She also discussed how to address and understand stress triggers, and learn coping mechanisms.

Meanwhile, in her discussion about mental issues, Ms. Julianne Kate Cañega, CAG president, hoped that the seminar had served its purpose: to give students insightful knowledge on dealing with stress and have self-awareness 

“I hope this seminar has served its purpose which is to give you knowledge on managing stress especially in today’s situation where students are vulnerable to academic stress” 

Moreover, an open forum was also held, during which participants asked questions and sought advice on managing stress and self-awareness in a student setting.

The said  seminar aimed to establish positive mental habits, promoting students’ ability to make conscious decisions and navigate life’s challenges.

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

Four hundred  twenty-nine Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) grantees and 870 Tulong Dunong Program - Tertiary Education Subsidy (TDP-TES) scholars have already received their stipend for the School Year 2023-2024.

A total of  14-million allocated fund was disbursed to the said number of scholars.

The release of stipends occurred over three days beginning on November 18. Scholars under TES 3B Batch 2022, New TDP 5.1, Ongoing TES, New TES 12.1, TES 3B Batch 2023, and New TDP 4.1 were scheduled in the morning, while the release of ongoing TDP 5.1 stipends was held in the afternoon.

On November 19, stipends for the 860 ongoing TDP grantees were released; while on November 20, stipends for New TES Listahanan 12 grantees were distributed.

According to BiPSU’s UniFAST office, as of today, 45 percent of the confirmed grantees have not received their stipend.

Ms. Shiela Day Salentes, BiPSU-UniFAST focal person, explained that the funds for the remaining 1,104 TDP-TES and TES scholars are yet to be disbursed, which will depend on CHED's download process.

Meanwhile, in an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo conveyed his sincere appreciation to CHED for their continued financial backing of the grants and encouraged students to allocate the money wisely, ensuring that it directly benefits their academic progress and personal development.

"I am deeply grateful to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for their support and for consistently providing funding for the scholarship grants," he said.  “Additionally, I strongly urge our students to be mindful of how they utilise these funds—ensuring that every cent is spent purposefully and in ways that contribute to their educational growth and overall development.”

TDP-TES and TES programs, initiated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), are  financial support initiatives designed to help deserving Filipino students alleviate the costs of pursuing a college degree. TDP grantees receive ₱7,500 per semester, while TES old and new grantees receive ₱20,000 and ₱10,000, respectively.

In an interview, Trixie Nicole Serrano, a second-year student, and a TES grantee, expressed her gratitude for the scholarship, noting that it came at the perfect time with finals and numerous projects approaching.

"I’m so grateful for this grant, as I plan to use the money to help cover the costs associated with my studies,” she said. “It eases the pressure, and I’m truly thankful for this support."

Furthermore, BiPSU-UniFAST announced 117 additional grantees under the Tulong-Dunong Program - Tertiary Education Subsidy (TDP-TES) Batch 6.1 and encouraged them to prepare the required documents ahead of the scheduled release in December.

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

In a collaborative effort to improve the research capabilities of local educators in the province, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Office of Biliran have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to launch a Training-Workshop on Conceptualization and Writing Basic and Action Research for basic education teachers in the Division of Biliran.

The MOA signing event, held today, November 21, at the university’s Hyflex Audio Visual Center, was spearheaded by BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr. and DepEd Biliran OIC-SDS Dr. Roberto N. Mangaliman. The event was witnessed by key officials from both institutions, including DepEd SGOD Chief Dr. Josephine M. Casas, and BiPSU’s Vice Presidents: Dr. Susan Bentor, Dr. Roland A. Niez, and Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra. Also present were Dr. Matias Bentor, dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Dr. Alvin Ampong, director of the Extension Office, along with Faculty Regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton, SGS Extension Chairperson Dr. Ruth Sabonsolin, other department chairpersons, and SGS faculty members.

In his message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr. emphasized the importance of collaboration between the university and DepEd in advancing the quality of education in Biliran.

"This partnership is part of the values and essential roles of higher education institutions like BiPSU in serving our students and our communities. We believe that empowering teachers with research skills will help us improve education across the province," said Dr. Canezo.

Highlighting BiPSU’s role in serving students and communities, the university president urged teachers and participants to design and conduct research and innovations based on evidence.

DepEd SDS Dr. Mangaliman expressed his full support for the initiative. "I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to BiPSU for being a key partner in promoting quality education in our province. This partnership is crucial for us at DepEd, especially since our teachers are pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees at BiPSU," he said.

The newly installed OIC-SDS Mangaliman also addressed the challenges in research output, noting that only two research studies have been approved, with a concerning ratio of just two research projects for every 2,300 teachers.

“This partnership will significantly enhance the skills and capabilities of our teachers and school heads. It is important to recognize that action research is not time-consuming to prepare, and it should always be rooted in data-driven decisions,” he emphasized.

The training-workshop, which will run for three years with 12 sessions, targets participants from the SGS faculty and students, DepEd Biliran Division secondary and elementary school heads, as well as public secondary and elementary school teachers.

Following the MOA signing, the discussion turned to concrete actions and ways forward. Both parties agreed that the partnership would not only aim to increase the number of research studies within DepEd Biliran but also ensure that these studies are actively utilized.

“The research outcomes should not simply be archived but should be applied to help the local community improve its educational practices,” Dr. Canezo added.

Additionally, it was agreed that BiPSU would host in-house research reviews for all teachers who have graduated from or are currently enrolled in BiPSU’s graduate programs. This step will ensure that the research conducted by these teachers is of high quality and can directly contribute to the enhancement of teaching and learning in the province.

Dr. Ernil Sumayao, a faculty member from SGS, presented the series of activities to be implemented as part of the workshop agreement.

To achieve immediate results, the groups also discussed creating a separate schedule to categorize teachers based on their level of research experience, ensuring that the training workshops meet the varied needs of participants and produce impactful outcomes.

[This article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education]

Aiming to educate students, promote healthy choices, and enhance campus safety, Biliran Province State University conducted a symposium on the substance abuse and crime prevention for youth on November 20 at the university gymnasium.

Spearheaded by the university’s Guidance and Counseling Services Office and the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) headed by Faculty Regent and Acting Dean, Hon. Vennie G. Coton,  the whole day activity was attended  by 1st  year to 4th year students  from the different schools.

Anchored on the theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” the symposium provided an avenue to promote personal growth, awareness, and well-being among the students of the university.

In his message, Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Student and External Affairs, highlighted that the symposium is a call to build a future where every young person in Biliran has the opportunity to thrive, free from the shackles of substance abuse and crime.

“We know that prevention is not just about saying no, it's about empowering ourselves with knowledge, building resilience, and creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and safe,” Dr. Salvatierra stressed.

The said program was divided into two sessions: students from the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), School of Teacher Education (STed), School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) attended the morning session, while students from the School of Engineering (SOE), School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) took part in the afternoon forum.

Meanwhile, Ms. Jocelyn Caing, BiPSU guidance counselor, emphasized that the alarming prevalence of abuse and crime continue to pose significant threats to individual well-being, community safety, and personal goals.

“You don’t have to do great things, you don’t have to make it big, start with your own self just say no to drugs, say no to alcohol and say no to cigarette smoking,” Ms. Caing expressed.

Furthermore, Mr. Kenn Ivan Manait Leses, president of the Community Against Illegal Drugs Coalition of Angono, led the discussions. “By educating our youth, we can empower them to make informed decisions and foster a crime and drug-free environment,” he stated.

A panel discussion and open forum were also held after every session.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions]

Taking another step in advancing faculty development, particularly in research, Biliran Province State University held the Regression Analysis Seminar Workshop on November 19-20 at the university's HAVC.  

Organized by the School of Engineering (SOE) in collaboration with the Research Office, the two-day event aimed to equip participants with practical skills in regression analysis, enabling them to extract meaningful insights from data.  

Regression analysis is a fundamental statistical tool in research that enables the exploration and quantification of relationships between variables. Faculty members from various schools in both BiPSU Naval and Biliran campuses joined the seminar workshop to deepen their understanding of this analytical technique in response to the university’s call to intensify efforts in producing impactful research outputs.  

Meanwhile, in his opening remarks, Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, SOE Dean and OIC Vice President for Administration and Finance, noted that the seminar was originally tailored for SOE faculty. However, under the initiative of the Research and Development Office, led by Dr. Roland Niez, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, and Dr. Pearl Irish De Paz, Research Director, the program was expanded to include faculty members from the entire institution.  

“This just shows the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of research excellence across all disciplines,” Engr. Pelesco said.  

Throughout the sessions, faculty members from all schools of both BiPSU Naval and Biliran campuses delved into the fundamentals and applications of regression analysis, its critical role in data-driven decision-making, and the various models that can be employed to address diverse research challenges.  

Dr. Norberto Milla, a renowned expert in statistical analysis in the region, led the discussions, workshops, and critiques of the participants’ outputs.  

This seminar was part of the university's Educational Mentoring (EMpowerment) program, designed to enhance the skills of faculty members.  

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

Being committed to its mandate of providing opportunities for its students to develop their skills, Biliran Province State University’s School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) joined the Youth for Tourism and Hospitality International Conference last November 16 at University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, Quezon City.

Eighteen selected students from both the Hospitality Management and Tourism Management departments of SME and six faculty members participated in the said conference.

Themed “Tourism for Peace, Cross-cultural Understanding, and Social Change”, the annual conference, organized by the UP Asian InstitutiT Association of Alumni, Inc. (UPAAA), aimed to discover how travel and tourism can transform lives, empower communities, and drive global change.

In an interview, SME Dean Dr. Mafel Piol expressed her joy at being able to send student delegates to the said event. “I am really happy to finally send our students to an international conference,” Dr. Piol said. “I hope this will be the start for more opportunities for our students to make waves in the global arena.”

Dr. Piol, who first revealed that this is BiPSU’s first time joining an international tourism-related competition, also mentioned that attending conferences is one way for the university to catch-up with the trends.

Meanwhile, BiPSU Mx. Turismo Lloyd Francis Diaz, a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) student, expressed gratitude to the university for allowing them to join the international conference.

“I am so grateful to the Biliran Province State University for trusting and believing in me to take on this challenge”, he quoted. “Thank you for allowing me to carry our university’s name and represent our community with pride.”

In a statement,  BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C.Canezo, Jr. expressed his pride in the university’s participation. “Our students’ involvement in this international conference is a testament to our commitment of providing our students with global exposure and learning opportunities. I hope that such experience inspire them to continue to contribute to the development of the tourism industry, both locally and internationally.”

Before flying for the conference, SME has submitted entries for the various competitions as part of this year’s edition of the conference, including Research Infographics Poster Presentations, Destination Marketing Plan Competition, Tourism Start-Up Competition, Travel Brochure Making Competition, Travel-Vlog Competition, and Mx. Turismo.

BiPSU Mx. Turismo participant Diaz secured a spot in the top 15 finalists and competed during the event.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University, through the BiPSU-UniFAST, is officially releasing the list of 117 additional grantees under the Tulong-Dunong Program - Tertiary Education Subsidy (TDP-TES) Batch 6.1. These new grantees are now eligible to receive their stipend for the 1st Semester of AY 2023-2024.

LIST OF GRANTEES:

Important Reminders:

New grantees are encouraged to prepare the following requirements ahead of the scheduled release on December 6.

For the Grantee:

Clear and updated University ID

Report of Grades for the 1st Semester of AY 2023-2024

For Authorized Representatives:

Special Power of Attorney (SPA) (for friends, relatives, or classmates)

Authorization Letter (for parents)

Valid ID of the authorized representative

[Data Privacy Notice: The release of grantee names is necessary to inform the public and program beneficiaries. Only the student names will be disclosed; other personal data such as contact details or academic records will not be shared. BiPSU ensures that all personal data is protected in accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012. The disclosed data will be retained only for as long as required by law and will be securely disposed of afterward.]

Biliran Province State University, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Biliran, held a project pitching activity for the BiPSU Intellectual Property Office (IPO)-registered technologies and a business matching with potential adopters.

The event, held on November 18 at the university gymnasium, aimed to connect BiPSU's innovative utility models (UMs) with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and industry producers for potential adoption and commercialization.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. explained the event is not just an opportunity to showcase the innovations BiPSU has developed and registered under the IPO, but also a proof to the shared dedication of the university and partners to upholding and advancing the university’s vision, mission, and core values.

“Events like this align perfectly with that aspiration as we present BiPSU’s innovative technologies designed to address challenges and create opportunities for sustainable development,” he said.

The morning session featured the presentation of 15 utility models (UMs) developed by BiPSU researchers across three innovation clusters: cosmetics, fragrance, and personal care; processed food and processed fruits and nuts; and technology development, textile and materials, and wearable and homestyle products.

Over 40 MSMEs, representatives from Alto Peak Chocolates, and members of the Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry participated, with each UM introduced by its respective proponent to showcase its potential in enhancing industry practices and addressing local market demands. 

Meanwhile, the afternoon session was dedicated to business matching, where MSMEs and industry stakeholders explored collaborations for technology adoption. This activity aligns with DTI’s Shared Service Facilities (SSF) program, which seeks to improve MSME competitiveness by providing access to advanced technology and innovation.

According to DTI-Biliran Provincial Director Dr. Faustino V. Gayas, Jr., by connecting BiPSUs’ intellectual property outputs with business partners, BiPSU and DTI are creating pathways for commercialization, technology adoption, and entrepreneurial growth, and economic development.

“I am confident that we will witness a convergence of ideas, where potential adaptors can explore opportunities to enhance their enterprises while contributing to the wider economic landscape of the Province and [Eastern VIsayas],” Dr. Gayas said.

The trade and industry provincial director also encouraged both the proponents and possible adopters to work together to ensure that the innovations do not remain as concepts but are fully utilized for community development, job creation, and sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, Mr. Noel Barquera, proprietor of the Alto Peak Chocolates, also shared his entrepreneurial journey from starting a small cacao-to-chocolate enterprise in 2019 to establishing Leyte’s first bean-to-bar chocolate factory.

Other attendees of the activity also include Dr. Romeo Dignos, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) provincial director; Mr. Romeo Padulla from the Intellectual Property Rights of the Philippines (IPOPHIL); Mr. Ritchie Curso, president of Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Dr. Roland Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, director of Research Office; Associate Professor Jeruel Espinazo, director of Innovation and Production Office; and Mr. Marclin Aguilar, director of Food Research and Development Center.

The activity, spearheaded by the Research and Innovation Office, aligns with BiPSU’s vision to be an internationally recognized university responsive to the needs of local and global communities.  

#WoWBiPSU

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure]