UMIO News

Atty. Leonito Bacalando, Jr., an alumnus of Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) - now Biliran Province State University - is making history abroad after being appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the Federated States of Micronesia.

In a resolution signed on September 25 this year, the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia confirmed the appointment of Atty. Bacalando. 

"Be it resolved by the Twenty-Third Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia, Fifth Regular Session, 2024, that Congress hereby confirms the nomination of Mr. Leonito M. Bacalando Jr., Esq. to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Justice of the Federated States of Micronesia," the Congressional Resolution No. 23-214 stated.

In an interview with GMA Integrated News, Atty. Bacalando shared that he feels good about the appointment because it “sends a very good message to the world in terms of what Filipinos can do.” 

“I'm proud of my family, I’m proud of the community that I represent in the Philippines, and proud of the community where I belong now as my second home,” Atty. Bacalando spoke to GMA Integrated News.

A native of Naval, Biliran, Atty. Bacalando is the first Filipino to be appointed as the head of the justice department in Micronesia. He first worked in the Attorney General’s Office of Micronesia and later served as Chief of Law and Assistant Attorney General.

The DOJ secretary graduated in NIT Laboratory High School (LHS) as the class salutatorian in 1993.

Dr. Josephine M. Casas, DepEd Biliran Education Program Supervisor of the Schools Governance Operations Division, who was also Atty. Bacalando’s high school friend and classmate, described him as a diligent and quiet student who always made a strong impression during class recitations.

“Leonito was our class salutatorian and he was really smart and a good leader,” Dr. Casas said. “In fact he was our CAT [Citizen Army Training ] Core Commander.”

Atty. Bacalando, a son of both tailor shop owners, finished his law degree at the University of San Carlos in Cebu.

Meanwhile, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed pride in Atty. Bacalando’s recent appointment noting that it is a proof that the BiPSUnistas are now making significance even in national governance abroad.

“We are so proud of Secretary Bacalando’s appointment in the Micronesian government,” the university president said.

Notably, Atty. Bacalando reached out to Dr. Cañezo last year to commend the university’s developments through the years.

Micronesia, a sovereign country in the western Pacific Ocean, comprises four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae.

Two employees from Biliran Province State University were officially hailed as the King and Queen of Naval 2024 during the coronation night held on October 4 at the Naval Gymnasium.

BiPSU’s University Media and Information Office Director, Apple Joy Balondo- Visitacion, and BiPSU Cashier Personnel, Prince Delos Santos, represented the Academe Sector, which comprised BiPSU, the Department of Education (DepEd)-Biliran, and private schools.

The King and Queen of Naval 2024 event, one of the highlights of the Naval town fiesta, featured participants from four sectors: the Academe, Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies, and Religious and Business Groups, along with Balik Naval. The winners were determined by the most number of tickets sold, with the academe sector raising more than Php 1.3 million.

In her speech during the coronation night, Apple Joy, a former DepEd employee, expressed her desire to contribute to the Naval community and support the efforts of the local government through the Fiesta Executive Committee.

"I believe that the funds raised during this event will go toward meaningful causes, and being part of that is an honor I couldn’t pass up," she said.

Meanwhile, Prince Delos Santos emphasized the crucial role of the academe in fostering community development.

"Let this serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the values of education, unity, and excellence,” Delos Santos stated. "Together, we are building a future where every dream is possible, every goal attainable, and every individual empowered to contribute meaningfully to our community."

For several years, BiPSU has been a strong partner of LGU-Naval in the celebration of the town fiesta. Notably, BiPSU candidates were also crowned in the 2022 Queen of Naval search.

University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr. highlighted that the university’s active participation in the LGU’s activities is a way of giving back and honoring the town where BiPSU is located.

"Naval is home to our beloved university," Dr. Canezo said. "And we always love our homes, ensuring that we contribute to its growth and prosperity."

The National Government Agencies' representatives were declared 1st Runner-Up, while the candidates from the Religious and Business Groups, as well as Balik Naval, were named 2nd Runner-Up. The LGU sector finished as 3rd Runner-Up.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University reaffirmed its commitment to producing highly qualified and job-ready healthcare professionals, as evidenced by Nursing Batch 2022 securing the successful placement of 15 nursing graduates in regular nurse item positions at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC), a renowned healthcare facility in Eastern Visayas. 

The group of nurses from batch 2022 includes Via D. Vicera, Eydcel Ann Delda, Jonel Anchovas, LJ Matalcero, Ivy Jane Nierves, Jeanfer S. Caparro, Joann B. Atok, Jeah Macatumpag, Catherine Pecajas, Belinda Antoya, Christine Joy Mondido, Aliah Marie Javines, Louren Rose Antipasado, Jemmuel Medios, and Dynalyn Verutiao. 

In an interview, Jonel Q. Anchovas, one of the newly promoted nurses, emphasized the importance of the training he received at BiPSU. "In terms of skills, I'm deeply honored to be trained by our clinical instructors, who are experts in their fields. With those skills and nursing procedures they have taught us, we have easily blended into the demands of a real clinical setting and provided quality nursing care that helps our patients regain their optimum level of wellness.”

Anchovas emphasized that they embody the core values of their alma mater, vowing to provide quality nursing care to the best of their abilities. He added that through skills enhancement and development training at BiPSU, they aim to become globally competitive individuals, committed to both brilliance and service.

Meanwhile, Christine Joy Mondido, another newly appointed nurse, expressed her gratitude to the university. "BiPSU equipped us not only with knowledge but also with the skills and confidence to excel in the real world. Securing a regular position at EVMC is a huge milestone for all of us, and we owe a lot to our professors and the training we received," she shared.

Eydcel Ann Delda shared the challenging experience they all went through. "The program was rigorous, but looking back, it prepared us for the demands of the profession. I am proud to say that BiPSU truly prepares its students for employment," she stated.

Via D. Vicera advised current BiPSU nursing students to prioritize choosing an institution that supports their mental and social well-being, emphasizing the importance of being in an environment that values them like BiPSU. She also highlighted the significance of working with colleagues who contribute positively to their mental health.

In addition, Jeanfer S. Caparro also shared the impact of the BiPSU nursing program on his career. "I personally salute the BiPSU Nursing program because it is competitive enough. They make sure that every student has the confidence to stand on their own."

In an interview with the dean of the School of Nursing and Health Science, Dr. Juvy Dia Saniel expressed the whole nursing school's pride upon learning that a total of 20 BiPSU nursing graduates from the classes of 2021 and 2022 were gradually awarded plantilla positions as Nurse 1.

"This is another milestone for our graduates and for BiPSU," she claimed, adding that they were humbled by the graduates' accomplishments, especially the commendations received from their supervisors for exemplary work performance.

The employability of BiPSU students, particularly in healthcare, has seen a steady rise over the years. The university’s commitment to continuous improvement in its curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and focus on professional development has produced graduates well-equipped to meet the demands of their respective fields.

Joann B. Atok, who also secured a regular item at EVMC, mentioned that being hired in EVMC is a dream come true. “It’s an honor to serve the community and make a difference in people’s lives."

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Canezo Jr. emphasized employability as a core mission of the university. “At BiPSU, our focus extends beyond education—we are dedicated to ensuring our students are prepared for the workforce. The success of our nursing graduates at EVMC highlights our commitment to equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world experience they need to thrive. It’s an honor to witness them making a difference in the community," Canezo remarked.

BiPSU's approach to education has consistently provided students with opportunities for success. The university’s commitment to high-quality instruction, industry partnerships, and hands-on training has made its graduates highly sought after by employers.

The nursing program, in particular, blends classroom instruction with practical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of healthcare professions. Partnerships with hospitals and clinics allow students to gain valuable experience through internships and placements, while career services and workshops equip them with the tools needed to excel in the job market.

The success of Batch 2022 only shows BiPSU's dedication to producing graduates who are not only academically prepared but also ready to make a positive impact in their respective fields. It is also noteworthy that BiPSU has consistently achieved a 100% passing rate in the Nursing Licensure Examination since May 2023.

#WoWBiPSU

At just 11 years old, Julie Ann Lianza's voice was discovered by her fifth-grade adviser. Little did she know that this was the start of a journey that would eventually lead her to the national stage, representing Biliran Province State University on the country's most renowned television singing competition, "Tawag Ng Tanghalan: The School Showdown," on ABS-CBN’s noontime flagship program, It’s Showtime.

Belting out “Rain” by Donna Cruz, Julie Ann successfully gained the hurados' favor, being declared today's daily winner.

Millions of viewers across the Philippines may have witnessed her singing prowess, but her story is not just one of talent—it’s also about her faith, courage, and persistence.

Growing up in Lemon, a small barangay in Leyte, Julie Ann’s childhood was simple but filled with music. Her father, a farmer, on-call carpenter, and former band member, introduced her to music early on.

By 13, she was already competing in amateur singing contests around their barangay, her father coaching her every step of the way. “Papa was really my first trainer. He has always believed in me,” Julie Ann shared, recalling how music became a family affair—her siblings all shared a love for singing.

Sometimes, she would compete alongside her older sister, taking turns placing first or second. “Whenever both of us win, we’re sure to bring home a considerable amount of money,” she said with a laugh.

Julie Ann's journey has been anything but smooth. After excelling in local contests, including being a finalist in the Leyte Idol 2023 and Ormoc Music Pop 2022 competitions, she faced significant financial challenges. After finishing junior high school at Don Mariano Salvacion Memorial National High School, she was granted a scholarship by the local vice mayor to attend ACLC for senior high. However, that support lasted only a year, forcing her to put her studies on hold.

"I had to stop because of financial constraints," she recalled. At 17, Julie Ann left her hometown for Manila to work in a pharmacy warehouse in Cavite. It was a difficult time, but the thought of pursuing her dream never left her. "I had dreams, but times were really hard," she explained. After a year of working, she returned to Leyte, and after graduating senior high in Lemon, she enrolled at Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) Ormoc. Yet again, financial struggles forced her to leave after just one year.

Despite these setbacks, Julie Ann’s resolve to succeed remained unshaken. She moved to Cubao, Manila, and worked in a call center, later requesting a work-from-home setup to return to her family in Leyte. In 2022, she began working as an admin aide in the local government unit’s accounting office while pursuing a part-time job as a virtual assistant to help support her aging parents.

She enrolled at Biliran Province State University and took a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT). Now a second-year student, Julie Ann wants to graduate and land a stable job.

But her dream to be a professional singer never wavered. "I still continued to pursue my dream of becoming a professional singer, to become famous," she said. "I knew that one day, I would still reach my dreams."

That "one day" came when Julie Ann auditioned for "Tawag Ng Tanghalan" at Robinsons North Tacloban. Unlike her previous attempts on other TV singing contests, like "The Voice of the Philippines" and "Pilipinas Got Talent," this time, she qualified for the next round. “I didn’t tell anyone about the audition,” she admitted with a smile, “I didn’t want to disappoint anyone if I didn’t make it again.”

But the call came. "When I received the message from Gerard De Castro of ABS-CBN, I couldn’t believe it. Then they called again to confirm. I was shocked, of course."

After learning of her participation, she began intensive training. In fact, she revealed that she mastered 20 songs, one of which was chosen as her winning piece, Rain by Donna Cruz.

In bringing the name of BiPSU to the national consciousness, the university has shown its support by granting her an affirmative action scholarship, knowing that both her parents are senior citizens and that she is self-supporting.

But Julie Ann’s story is not just about chasing dreams—it’s also about family. She revealed that her parents have always been her biggest supporters.

During the interview with the Showtime hosts after her performance, Julie Ann couldn’t contain her emotions when asked about her message for her mother and father. “Ma, Pa, I know that you're watching right now. I hope I made you proud,” she said.

With her first win, Julie Ann will advance to the weekly competition on Saturday, which will be streamed through YouTube Live and television channels such as Kapamilya Channel, GMA, GTV, and A2Z.

#WoWBiPSU

Being true to its commitment to serving the local community, Biliran Province State University and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the establishment of a new voting center at the university's main campus in Brgy. P.I. Garcia, Naval during the May 2025 National and Local Elections.

The ceremonial signing, held at the BiPSU Office of the President on October 2, was attended by Assistant Regional Election Director, Atty. Maria Corazon S. Montallana, and Naval Election Supervisor III, Atty. Hassile Joy C. Entatano. Representing BiPSU were University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., and Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra. 

The agreement, a collaboration between BiPSU's Office of the Legal Counsel and the COMELEC Naval Office, aims to mitigate voter congestion at the current voting center in Naval SPED Elementary School.

Atty. Entatano explained that the Naval SPED Elementary School voting center, which serves both Barangay P.I. Garcia and Barangay Sto. Rosario, has faced increasing challenges in accommodating voters, hosting 4,149 registered voters during the last two elections—2,680 from P.I. Garcia and 1,469 from Sto. Rosario. 

“It has become a concern in terms of crowd and security management considering that the two barangays share the same poll worker and police manpower,” Atty. Entatano said. 

With the 2025 National Elections approaching, the growing populations of these barangays—located in the province's capital town—make separating their voting centers a pressing need. 

Atty. Entatano also emphasized that schools are politically neutral facilities free from possible electoral interference. “BiPSU is also the only government facility located at Brgy. PI Garcia which is equipped to host the five clustered precinct requirements (5 voting rooms, 5 holding rooms), and the 2680 registered voter influx on election day.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Cañezo reaffirmed the university’s commitment in ensuring the peaceful, transparent, and secured elections. 

“BiPSU is honored to serve as a partner in this democratic process,” the university president said. “We will make every effort to provide a safe and neutral space for voters to ensure that the principles of fairness and integrity are upheld throughout the election.”

#WoWBiPSU

Hon. Aluah Kane T. Calbahin has been officially sworn in as the new student regent of Biliran Province State University, alongside the reappointment of Hon. Vennie G. Coton as the university’s faculty regent. The formal oath-taking ceremony was conducted by CHED Commissioner Ronald Adamat, Chairperson of the BiPSU Board of Regents, during the university’s 3rd Quarter Regular Governing Board Meeting held at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Office in Diliman, Quezon City.

Hon. Coton’s reappointment highlights his sustained dedication to advocating for the faculty’s interests, ensuring their voice is heard in key university decisions. Meanwhile, Hon. Calbahin steps into his role representing the student body, aiming to bridge the gap between students and the university administration.

In an interview, both regents expressed their gratitude for the trust placed in them. "I am deeply honored to continue representing the faculty of BiPSU," Hon. Coton said. "I remain committed to ensuring that our voices are heard and that the welfare of our faculty is always prioritized," he added.

Hon. Calbahin echoed similar sentiments. "Being voted to power as a student regent is an extraordinary honor. I'm humbled by the responsibility that comes with it," he shared. "I love what I am doing—that's the secret to achieving greater heights in everything I do. I am deeply inspired by my passion to lead and serve, which drives me to do more and enjoy this journey."

"As I take on the role of student regent, I am fueled by the strength that my vision gives me. My vision for this term is to create an environment where most, if not all, BiPSUnistas actively engage and take on leadership roles,”  he added.

Student regent Calbahin stated that he plans to propose a scholarship program for student leaders to serve as compensation for their dedication and efforts, expressing hope that this vision will be realized by the end of his term.

#WoWBiPSU

The highest governing board of Biliran Province State University has approved the reappointment of two incumbent Private Sector Representatives (PSRs), Hon. Jean Clare Diu and Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina, who recently expressed their reappointment bids.

The Board of Regents (BOR) unanimously approved their reappointment during the 3rd Quarter Regular Governing Board Meeting on September 30 at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Office. The two were formally sworn into office by CHED Commissioner and BiPSU BOR Chairperson, Commissioner Ronald L. Adamat.

With this decision, Diu and Espina will continue serving as private sector representatives to the BiPSU's BOR for another two-year term, effective October 1, 2024.

Prior to their reinstallation, both PSRs underwent a month-long evaluation process by the Evaluation Committee on Private Sector Representatives (ECPSR), led by Atty. Ryan L. Estevez, CHED-UniFAST OIC executive director.. 

As part of the evaluation, Diu and Espina participated in a sectoral public forum on September 20, where they publicly expressed their intentions for reappointment and shared their future plans for the university.

At the forum, Diu and Espina stressed the importance of enhancing BiPSU’s collaboration with the private sector to align its academic programs with industry demands and promote innovation that benefits students and the wider community.

Diu currently serves as the General Manager of Johnton’s Marketing and Corporate Secretary of the Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., while Espina is the Chief Financial Officer and Secretary at 3G Construction and Development.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University continues to emphasize the importance of leadership excellence in the university’s mandate of weaving the future of its clientele with the recent training workshop on academic leadership.

The said activity, dubbed as Empowering Academic Leaders: A Training-workshop on Instructional Leadership, Curriculum, Instruction, and Quality Assurance, is part of the BiPSU EMpowerment (educational mentoring) program of the university, which aims to capacitate faculty members through series of trainings and seminars.

The workshop, designed to build the capacity of university officials, focused on strengthening leadership in curriculum development, instruction, and quality assurance.

In his opening message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his enthusiasm for the event as an important step for the university to "stay ahead of the times" by refining leadership skills. 

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, leadership is never a finished product,” Dr. Cañezo said. “It’s something we need to continually refine and nurture…to sharpen our skills, update our knowledge, and stay current with the trends that shape our fields.”

The whole day workshop was attended by the Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan S. Bentor, school deans, chairpersons of the different programs, and directors of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Faculty Development (CIFD) and Quality Assurance and Accreditation (QAA) offices.

Dr. Remedios C. Bacus, director of the Curriculum Development and Enhancements at Cebu Normal University (CNU), was invited as the subject matter expert.

Dr. Bacus discussed curriculum development and assessment, Quality Assurance audit, orientation in crafting the continuous quality improvement per program, and orientation on curriculum development process and relevant forms.

Dr. Cañezo praised Dr. Bacus for her extensive experience, noting that her insights would provide valuable new perspectives and practical strategies for addressing the challenges of academic leadership.

One theme of the workshop was the concept of Phronetic Leadership which Dr. Cañezo described as leadership that goes beyond simply knowing the right answers. He explained that phronetic leaders must learn how to find solutions, apply them effectively, and lead with purpose. 

“This ties directly into #WoWBiPSU—Weaving of Worthiness, where we each play a role in ensuring that our leadership contributes to something greater than ourselves,” the university president said.

The event was organized by the CIFD led by Dr. Analiza B. Calles.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University marked its prominence in the international arena after recently bagging four awards at the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2024 Conference held in Seoul, South Korea on September 25.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., along with University and Board Secretary Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal, School of Engineering (SOE) Dean Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, and BiPSU’s focal person for WURI Asst. Prof. Jenny Genoguin, personally received the awards.

WURI is a global ranking system that evaluates and acknowledges the innovative efforts and impact of universities worldwide, focusing on academic excellence and research output. It also emphasizes real-world contributions and the tangible impacts universities have on industry and society.

This year, WURI announced  that 1,072 universities were evaluated worldwide. Out of  this figure, BiPSU received recognition for placing 98th on the over-all ranking of the Global Top 300 Innovative Universities in the world.

BiPSU was assessed on its real contributions  to industry and society, highlighting innovative education, research, and engagement to society.

According to University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., the recent achievement of the university speaks of BiPSU’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and the practical application of knowledge to create impact in the community. 

“It shows that our university is not only contributing to academic progress but also playing a crucial role in addressing societal needs and challenges,” the university president said. “These awards are a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our faculty, students, and staff, who continuously strive to make a positive impact on both a local and global scale.”

Clinching three awards in 13 categories

Aside from the over-all ranking, BiPSU also notched three awards out of the thirteen categories of WURI ranking.

During the awarding, Dr. Cañezo presented the best practice of the university in the leadership category. BiPSU’s program titled “Transborder Leadership Approach of BiPSU: Empowering Educational Business  Resilience Amid Adversity”, ranked 32nd in the Leadership Top 100.

In their website, WURI explained that the leadership category “emphasizes whether the existing leadership relinquishes its privilege and continually adapts and innovates to remain effective and influential in the ever-changing landscape of higher education.”

Moreover, two community extension programs of the university were also recognized during the conference under the category Social Responsibility. WURI explained that this category focuses on researching and educating ethics and integrity, rather than solely concentrating on knowledge and skills for academic success.

SOE Dean Engr. Pelesco presented during the conference the community program of the university in Higatangan Island, Naval titled “Empowering Island Communities through Intervention of Green Energy Technology in Water Crisis Management”.

Moreover, BiPSU’s focal person on WURI Assist. Prof. Genoguin also shared at the conference the university’s “Trabaho at Negosyo Extension Project: Fostering Community Empowerment, One Opportunity at a Time” program. 

These two community projects were a ticket of BiPSU to rank on the 29th place in the category Social Responsibility Top 300.

Moreover, the “Project LEA: Knowledge and Skills Enhancement for Future Law Enforcers and Administrators” presented by Dr. Arcenal was also recognized as 34th Place in the Student Support and Engagement Top 100.

This category focuses on supporting student’s academic and career success as well as student welfare, diversity, inclusion, and participation.

Dr. Cañezo gets nomination for WURI Prize award

During the conference, Dr. Cañezo was also awarded with a certificate for being nominated for the WURI Prize for Excellence in Innovation  for Leaders award. 

The WURI Prize is a special recognition given to university leaders who have demonstrated commitment to fostering innovation in education, research, and societal contributions. The award celebrates visionary leaders who go beyond conventional methods and champion innovative practices that address global challenges, inspire progress, and make a lasting impact on both the academic community and society at large.

Dr. Cañezo, who also sits as the President of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Region VIII, shared that being nominated on an international platform highlights the global impact of his work.

“To be considered for such an esteemed recognition is already a great honor,” he said. “It reaffirms that the work we are doing at BiPSU is being noticed on a global scale.”

Meanwhile, Engr. Pelesco was also nominated for the same award in the Faculty category.

BiPSU’s consistent WURI placement

Ranking in the WURI is not new for BiPSU. In a four-year streak, BiPSU has received recognition from the international ranking body.

In 2021, BiPSU ranked 26th out of 50 global universities, becoming one of only three Philippine universities listed among the top 50 global crisis management universities. The award was given in recognition of the university's innovative response at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The following year, BiPSU improved its rank to 22nd in the same category, standing alongside six other prominent universities from the Philippines.

Last year, BiPSU climbed further, ranking 14th in global crisis management. In addition, the university secured a place once again in the Global Top Innovative Universities category, joining the 101-200 rank, making BiPSU the 7th most innovative university in the country.

Dr. Cañezo emphasized that the consistent recognitions are not just numbers or rankings; they represent the hard work and heart that the entire BiPSU community puts into everything they do.

“We continue to rise to global challenges, transforming them into opportunities for growth and impact,” Dr. Cañezo uttered. “We’ve faced challenges, yet we continue to find new ways to grow, adapt, and serve our community”

WURI now on its 5th year

WURI was organized by Institute for Policy and Strategy on National Competitiveness (IPSNC) and sponsored by four global institutions, namely: the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU), the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Taylor Institute (TI) of Franklin University Switzerland (FUS), and The Institute for Industrial Policy Studies (IPS).

WURI, now in its 5th year, stands out as a global ranking system that goes beyond traditional academic metrics like research output and faculty credentials. Instead, it assesses universities on their ability to address real-world challenges and create positive societal impacts. 

Established in 2020, it encompasses innovation targets and methods, offering a comprehensive measure of institutions’ creative contributions to societal advancement.

“The ranking aims to spotlight higher education institutions that excel in these innovative approaches, thereby inspiring advancements across the academic and societal landscape,” their website wrote.

[This aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, which focuses on inclusive and equitable education and lifelong learning. BiPSU's innovative programs and community engagement highlight its commitment to improving education quality and addressing societal needs. Additionally, its initiatives related to water crisis management connect with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.]

In line with its mandate to empower students, Biliran Province State University sent student leaders from the School of Teacher Education (STEd) to participate in the National Summit of Education Student Leaders, a landmark event held from September 20 to 22, at Benitez Hall, Teachers' Camp, Baguio City.

The summit, co-organized by the Philippine Normal University (PNU) and the Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC), brought together over 500 education student leaders and advisers from across the Philippines under the theme "Gen Z: Empowering Future Teachers for Transformative Education."

This groundbreaking event aimed to provide a platform for student leaders and future educators to share insights and experiences on pressing issues and emerging trends in the education sector. 

The six-member delegation from BiPSU was led by Robert P. Jordan, adviser of the Supreme Student Council – STEd (SSC-STEd), alongside student leaders of STEd’s student organizations, including Marianel J. Sabornido, president of SSC-STEd; Krishia Claire R. Oppus, public information officer of SSC-STEd; Christian Kert T. Atoc, president of SPLICE-STEd; Cristine D. Comendo, treasurer of SSC-STEd; and Rachel Anne N. Garcia, president of FEYC-STEd.

Jordan mentioned that the summit offered BiPSU’s education student leaders a valuable opportunity to gain insights into current trends, issues, and challenges facing the education sector in the country.

"It served as a platform for them to exchange experiences, discuss the various challenges they have encountered, and collaboratively propose potential solutions during breakout sessions with fellow student leaders from across the nation," he said. "Participants will align their future plans and programs with the topics discussed at the summit, ensuring that these initiatives are responsive to the evolving needs of the sector."

Jordan added that they will conduct re-echo sessions for other teacher education students to inform them about the key issues and challenges currently facing educators in the field.

BiPSU's participation in the summit underlines the university's commitment to its mandate of empowering students, fostering leadership, and preparing future educators to address the evolving challenges in the education sector.

#WoWBiPSU

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