Aimed at evaluating the candidates for the Private Sector Representative (PSR) posts who will sit at the highest governing board of the university, Biliran Province State University hosted a Sectoral Public Forum on September 19 at the BiPSU HAVC with incumbent Private Sector Representatives’ Hon. Jean Clare Diu and Hon. Jamie Dianne O. Espina, seeking reappointment bids.

The event gathered university stakeholders—including students, employees, alumni, and members of the private sector—who engaged in discussions to assess the candidates' roles and plans for the university's governance.

During the said forum, incumbent PSRs, Hon. Diu and Hon. Espina, expressed their intention for their reinstatement for their positions in the Board of Regents. They also shared their mission and vision should they be reappointed.

Hon. Diu submits for reappointment

Jean Clare T. Diu was officially installed as a member of BiPSU’s Board of Regents (BOR) on September 30, 2022, representing the private sector. As her term is set to expire on September 30 this year, she has formally sought reappointment to the post.

Diu, who graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy in University of San Carlos, hails from the business sector. She currently serves as the General Manager and Accountant of Johnton’s Marketing and WAD Space Rental Services. Additionally, she is also the Corporate Secretary of the Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., the province’s largest federation of businesses and entrepreneurs.

As she seeks reappointment, Diu shared her mission during the sectoral public forum. She revealed that she wants to strengthen the university's collaboration with key industry players and expand opportunities for student success.

“My mission is to foster strong partnerships between the university and the private sector, ensuring that BiPSU’s thrusts are aligned with industry needs and to drive resource mobilization to support innovation, student development, and entrepreneurial initiatives, preparing graduates to excel in a dynamic global market and contribute to the sustainable growth of the region and beyond,” she said.

Moreover, Diu also envisions enhancing BiPSU’s role as a bridge between academia and industry.

“My vision for BiPSU is to be a state university with a strengthened connection with the private sector, ensuring that its programs align with industry needs and prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to the local and global economy,” she said. “I see the university as a hub of innovation, where academic excellence meets real-world demands through active collaboration with industry partners.”

Hon. Espina eyes second term

Like Diu, Espina was also appointed on September 30, 2022, as a PSR and is now eyeing a second term.

She graduated from STI College of Baguio with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and from the University of Eastern Philippines with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Currently, she works as the Chief Financial Officer and Secretary at 3G Construction and Development.

During the forum, Espina shared her plans should she be granted reappointment, emphasizing her commitment to fostering collaboration between the university and the private sector.

“To champion the integration of private sector expertise and innovative practices into university strategies, driving enhanced educational programs, industry partnerships, and community impact,” her mission stated.

Moreover, Espina also revealed her vision for the university with her as a member of the governing board. She shared that she envisions BiPSU as a leader in innovation and academic excellence, deeply rooted in partnerships with the private sector. “A state university that thrives through strong private sector collaboration, driving continuous innovation, academic advancement, and sustainable community growth.”

The reappoinment is a trend setter

In his message, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., the University President, emphasized the importance of the private sector's involvement in the university's development. He highlighted the collaborative spirit that the university aims to foster through partnerships with private entities.

“Through the PSR, we benefit from an external perspective that keeps us aligned with the changing needs of the industry, our communities, and the nation as a whole,” the university president said. “The PSR’s contributions are invaluable in ensuring that BiPSU continues to deliver quality education, foster innovation, and remain responsive to societal demands.”

During the forum, the Chairperson and members of the Evaluation Committee on the Private Sector Representative (ECPSR) were officially introduced to the public. The ECPSR is a search committee constituted by the Chairperson of the Board of Regents to evaluate and screen candidates from the private sector.

Hon. Atty. Ryan L. Estevez, OIC executive director of UNIFAST and the chairperson of the ECPSR, said that the university is setting the bar high in conducting the reinstatement process for incumbent PSRs. 

Moreover, Mr. Judah S. Aliposa, co-chairperson of the RDC VIII-DAC and Private Sector Representative for Disaster Resiliency and member of the ECPSR, confirmed that BiPSU is the first SUC in the region and second in the country to have PSR reappointment.

As part of the public forum, representatives from the different sectors were given the opportunity to raise questions, share feedback, and voice concerns.

The candidates also attended a closed door panel with the evaluation committee right after the forum at the OP convergence room.

Meticulous evaluation process

As incumbent PSRs, Espina and Diu expressed their intent for reappointment with a letter to the Board of Regents.

Subsequently, the board constituted the evaluation committee with Atty. Estevez as the chairperson. Aside from Mr. Judah S. Aliposa, other members of the committee include Prof. Homer R. Ampong, BiPSU's Management Information System (MIS) director; and Mr. Lawrence Pentado, Federation of Supreme Student Councils (FSSC) trustee.

After a thorough evaluation based on established guidelines and criteria pursuant to the 2022 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 8292, the committee will present its findings to the Board of Regents. The board will then decide whether to approve the reappointments based on the evaluation results.

University and Board Secretary Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal stated that they are targeting to submit the results by the end of the month during the quarterly regular board meeting.

Spearheaded by the Academic Film Society (AFS) of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) proudly participated in the first-ever Film Education Convention (FilmEC), held on September 17-18 at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

The event brought together film students, educators, and industry professionals to discuss and advance film education in the country.

In his welcome address, FDCP Chairperson and CEO Dir. Jose Javier Reyes emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.

“Tandaan ninyo, ang kinabukasan ng pelikulang Pilipino ay hindi nakasalalay sa aking henerasyon, ’yon ay nasa inyong mga kamay, at handa naming tulungan kayo na maging mas magaling pa kaysa sa mga naunang henerasyon,” said Dir. Reyes.

He also highlighted that the convention served as a platform for sharing knowledge by connecting student-filmmakers and educators to inspire the next wave of filmmakers and promote a vibrant film culture in the Philippines.

Furthermore, FilmEC offered a range of activities aimed at enhancing participants’ understanding of the film industry, including plenary talks, panel discussions, and screenings of award-winning student films. The event also featured film book sales and networking opportunities, facilitating connections between aspiring filmmakers and experienced professionals.

Representing the university at the convention were Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal and Joshua Usigan, instructors from BiPSU’s Department of Communication, along with five student filmmakers: John Cyril Labtic, Nikelyn Pahayay, Justine Quidol, Stanley Jaypee Morales, and Trisha Ibanez. Over the two-day event, they participated in film-related discussions and networking opportunities, expanding their knowledge and connections in the industry.

Nikelyn Pahayahay, a 4th-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student at BiPSU, expressed that as an aspiring filmmaker, the convention was important because it offered her valuable learning opportunities, noting that living in a remote area like Biliran Province limits their access to film festivals and conventions.

“As an aspiring filmmaker, this convention is significant for me because it provides a deep learning experience. Living in a remote area like Biliran Province, I don’t often have opportunities to attend film festivals and conventions. That’s why this convention is important—it allows me to learn from experts in various fields and inspires me to create more films,” she added.

Moreover, BiPSU is a proud member of the Academic Film Society (AFS) and has partnered with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) to strengthen film production and promotion initiatives within the university.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University's School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) held the 16th Capping, Badge Investiture, and Candle Lighting Ceremonies for its second-year nursing students at the BiPSU Gymnasium on September 19.

Seventy-seven Level 2 nursing students proudly donned their caps and badges and lit the Nightingale lamps during the said ceremony.

The event is a significant milestone for students pursuing healthcare careers, as it marks the transition from theoretical learning to the practical application of nursing skills. Female student nurses received their caps, while male students officially pinned their badges.

In her message, Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Dean of SNHS, encouraged the student nurses to wear the cap and badge with pride, as they represent personal growth and resilience.

“There will be many more challenges ahead, but I am confident that you will rise and face them, just as you successfully navigated your freshman year,” she said.

Additionally, the lamp lighting ceremony took place, where the student nurses lit their lamps, symbolizing their acceptance of the challenges ahead in their nursing careers. This activity is inspired by Florence Nightingale, the "Lady of the Lamp," who was a British nurse, statistician, and social reformer, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing.

Dr. Saniel, along with the faculty members of the nursing school, lit the ceremonial candle from which the student nurses received the light for their lamps.

Meanwhile, in his congratulatory message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. reminded the student nurses that the nursing profession requires a blend of knowledge and empathy, combining science with humanity.

“As you start this new journey, always remember that nursing is not only about treating illness—it is about understanding the person behind the illness, knowing their fears, hopes, and needs,” the university president said. “It is about being there in vulnerable moments and providing not just medical care, but also emotional and psychological support.”

Mr. Jetro Varona, an emergency room nurse at Ormoc Sugarcane Planters’ Association – Farmers’ Medical Center (OSPA – FMC), also addressed the inductees, reminding them that pursuing a clinical profession is not just a job, but a calling.

“By the time you receive your badge and cap today, you are now beginning to touch the lives of your patients,” Varona said. “The care that you give, and the comfort that you provide, are what make this journey—or should I say ‘calling—worthwhile.”

The program continued with a message from one of the inductees, a solemn recitation of the Nightingale Pledge, and the Nurse’s Prayer, and the performance of the batch song.

The ceremony was attended by university key officials, representatives from partner healthcare facilities, parents of the inductees, and SNHS students and faculty members.

#WoWBiPSU

In line with the university’s mission to address local needs and empower the development of people within the province, Biliran Province State University, through the External Affairs Office and Institutional Education Job Placement Office (IE-JPO), hosted the 2024 Job Fair.

The full-day event, held on September 18 at the university gymnasium, gathered at least 24 employers from various local businesses, establishments, and national agencies.

BiPSU’s Job Placement Officer, Dr. Miguel E. Supremo, Jr., emphasized that the job fair is designed to support job seekers, particularly those in the province. “This job fair is intended for job seekers who need employment, whether locally or overseas, to help them and also contribute to addressing our local economic challenges,” Dr. Supremo said.

He also shared that the university has held job fairs annually since 2019. “This year’s event is particularly special, as it is part of the 52nd founding anniversary celebration of the institution,” he added.

A total of 246 job seekers took the opportunity to apply for positions at the fair.

In his message, Mr. Francisco A. Segovia, Jr., labor officer from the Biliran Field Office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), highlighted the purpose of the event.

“The focus of this event is to showcase each graduate through employment and business services that enhance their employability in the labor market, and foster job seekers’ success in their job search,” Mr. Segovia said.

He also challenged the employers to surpass the 39% on-the-spot hiring rate achieved during a similar event held last Friday at BiPSU’s student center, encouraging them to offer job seekers even greater chances of securing employment.

During an interview at the job fair, Mr. Angelo A. Javines, a BiPSU alumnus, emphasized the significance of the event for job seekers, particularly fresh graduates.

“This is a big help for us, especially for newly graduated students, as we may find our first job here,” he said.

The local agencies that participated in the event included Prince Superstore, MOTORTRADE — Naval, USSC Western Union Naval, CITI Hardware, DES Marketing, RIZHLE CON’S & Development Corp., Sunlife of Canada, Phil’s Inc., Villa Celestino Hotel, LBC, Mang Inasal — Naval, Polycentric Lending Corp., Rotaflex Construction and Development Corp., and GUD MOTO TRADING Inc.

Additionally, five overseas employment agencies took part, including Philippine Human Resource World Employment, Maanyag International Manpower Corp., ERRX Recruitment Consulting, Ascend International Services Inc., and 1st Northern International Placement Inc.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all.]

Biliran Province State University marked World Tourism Day 2024 with a culmination event showcasing how tourism can serve as a bridge to peace. The activity, hosted by BiPSU's School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), brought together tourism and hospitality management students and faculty members.

The celebration, focused on this year’s theme, "Tourism and Peace," was held at the university student center on September 18.

In her message, Dr. Mafel Piol, dean of SME, emphasized that tourism has the power to bring people together, breaking down barriers of prejudice and misunderstanding. She also encouraged students to embrace tourism as a means to contribute to peace in their communities, their country, and the world.

“Tourism enables people from different backgrounds to experience each other’s cultures, histories, and traditions,” she noted. “It builds bridges of mutual respect and cooperation.”

A series of activities kept the audience engaged throughout the day, including a school-wide Quiz Bee, where students demonstrated their knowledge of tourism, culture, and global affairs.

A Product Exhibit also took place, showcasing creative solutions and entrepreneurial ideas from BiPSU students. Dr. Piol highlighted that these exhibits emphasize how tourism can promote not only economic growth but also the preservation of local cultures.

Moreover, the afternoon celebration embraced Filipino heritage through *Laro ng Lahi*, traditional Filipino games, held at the university oval.

Since 1980, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has celebrated World Tourism Day annually on September 27. This date was chosen to commemorate the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes on September 27, 1970, marking a significant milestone in global tourism.

The purpose of World Tourism Day is to raise awareness about the role of tourism in the international community and to highlight its impact on social, cultural, political, and economic values worldwide.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies.]

In celebration of the 124th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary and Linggo ng Malasakit, Biliran Province State University employees and students participated in the Tree Growing for a Cause event on September 18 in Brgy. Villaconsuelo, Naval, Biliran.

Themed "Malasakit sa Kalikasan, Malasakit sa Lingkod Bayan," the initiative, led by the Civil Service Commission Biliran Provincial Office in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), emphasized environmental care and public service — key values upheld by the university.

At least 100 participants from BiPSU attended the said event composed of 42 employees and 58 students from the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA). Among the attendees were Dr. Vennie G. Coton, faculty regent and acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education, and Aramae Bernal, the university's HRMO.

Engr. Valire Jess D. Abar, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources officer (PENRO) provided instructions on the proper handling and planting of seedlings. Engr. Abar also emphasized the importance of proper spacing, depth, and soil preparation to ensure the healthy growth of the trees. 

In his message, CSC Supervising Human Resource Specialist,  Atty. Benjie M. Gelizon thanked BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. for sending the highest number of participants. “The Php250.00 registration fee will go to the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani program of the Civil Service Commission.” 

He explained that the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani program recognizes public servants who died during the performance of their respective functions, duties, and responsibilities as government employees. 

Other government agencies also joined the event, including the Provincial Government Office, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Naval Water District, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Local Government Unit of Naval.

“Participating in activities like this, we are not only contributing to the protection of our environment but also sharing the spirit of unity and shared responsibility especially that BiPSU is committed to environmental stewardship,” said HRMO Bernal in an interview. 

Said tree-growing activity was part of the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability, showing its dedication to integrating social responsibility into public service. The early morning event also highlighted the importance of  promoting both nature conservation and civic engagement.

(This article aligns with SDG 13 on Climate Action and SDG 15 on Life on Land. The tree planting initiative contributes to climate action by strengthening environmental sustainability and combating climate change through reforestation. It also supports life on land by promoting the restoration and conservation of terrestrial ecosystems.)

The paper co-authored by BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. and Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES), Dr. Roland A. Niez, has been officially published in the Scopus Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health (JPMPH).

The study on "Predictors and Prevalence of Alcohol and Cannabis Co-use Among Filipino Adolescents," explored the prevalence and predictors of alcohol and cannabis co-use among 9,263 Filipino adolescents, utilizing data from the 2019 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS).

This research, conducted in collaboration with various international educational institutions, provides insights for the development of targeted public health interventions and policies aimed at reducing substance abuse and promoting healthier behaviors among Filipino adolescents.

The publication of the study, co-authored by Dr. Cañezo and Dr. Niez, in an international journal underscores urgent public health concerns among Filipino youth, contributing to both national and global discussions on adolescent health.

The Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health (JPMPH), a peer-reviewed journal published bimonthly by the Korean Society for Preventive Medicine, aims to advance research, policy, education, and practice in the field of preventive medicine and public health by publishing papers of high scientific quality. The journal covers disciplines such as epidemiology, health policy, and environmental and occupational health.

According to the JPMPH website, the journal "encourages submission of papers on the determinants of health, health promotion, disease prevention, community health interventions, health services research, health systems, environmental risks, and workplace safety," providing a forum for sharing timely knowledge on improving population health worldwide.

The collaborative paper was also co-authored by educators from both international and local institutions, including the University of Glasgow and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (UK), as well as Filipino institutions like Far Eastern University, University of Makati, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University, St. Paul University Iloilo, Southern Leyte State University, and University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center.

#WoWBiPSU

 The paper co-authored by BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. and Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES), Dr. Roland A. Niez, has been officially published in the Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health (JPMPH).

In line with its commitment to community development, Biliran Province State University, in collaboration with the Land Bank of the Philippines Countryside Development Foundation, Inc. (LCDFI), successfully conducted a series of Financial Literacy Trainings from September 4 to 18. The initiative catered to 2,000 farmers and fisherfolk, aiming to enhance their financial management skills and improve their overall livelihoods.

This project is part of BiPSU’s extension services which aligns with the advocacies of LANDBANK through its corporate foundation, LCDFI. The foundation aims to uplift the socio-economic conditions of farmers and fisherfolk by strengthening their financial management capacity, improving financial resiliency, and  contributing to sustainable development in rural areas.

Said event was participated by 19 barangays under the Local Government of Kawayan, with over 100 to 150 beneficiaries attending from each barangay. The comprehensive program was designed to equip participants with essential financial skills, ensuring they are better prepared to manage their finances.

The training featured two teams of resource speakers composed of faculty from both Naval and Biliran Campus, with the first team namely Novie Sales, Allan Bacalla, Norman Andales. The second team included Jeruel Espinazo, Jeremy Balondo, Christian Ulysses Cagasan, Glenn Gumba and Candelito Belocura, Head of Continuing Education. Both teams delivered key discussions on topics such as sound financial and income management, responsible credit handling, and an in-depth understanding of the agricultural product value chain. Additionally, the training highlighted essential entrepreneurial skills specifically tailored for farmers and fisherfolk, emphasizing strategies for managing agricultural risks. 

In a statement, Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, director of BiPSU’s Extension Office, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved for the successful implementation of the training sessions. 

"This event would not have been possible without the all-out support of the BiPSU team, who have been with us from the start,” Dr. Ampong said. “I would like to especially thank our University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. for giving us the opportunity to bring this initiative to life and for his continued commitment to community empowerment."

Dr. Ampong further emphasized the significance of financial literacy for farmers and fisherfolk. "By improving their financial management capacity, we are not only empowering them individually but also contributing to the overall economic growth of our rural communities. This training serves as a crucial step in helping them achieve financial independence and improve their quality of life."

Additionally, the Extension Office Director thanked Mayor Atty. Manolo Rubi and the LGU of Kawayan. “We are honored to partner with the Local Government of Kawayan and look forward to continuing our collaboration to advance the socio-economic development of your community.”

For the beneficiaries, the Financial Literacy Training represents a valuable opportunity to enhance their financial well-being and strengthen their livelihoods. Through programs like these, BiPSU, LCDFI, and the LGU of Kawayan reaffirm their dedication to advancing the socio-economic conditions of farmers and fisherfolk in Biliran.

Also present during the said event were the facilitators namely, Dr. Teotima A. Ampong, Julie Anne A. Arnejo, Daryl Carl M. Balondo, Jhanna Mariel A. Merino, Melvie Joy M. Palahang and Edcel Mae Corrong. 

(This article aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: Goal 1: No Poverty - By enhancing the financial management skills of farmers and fisherfolk, the training helps to improve their economic situation and reduce poverty;  Goal 2: Zero Hunger - The training supports agricultural practices and economic resilience, contributing to food security and better livelihoods for those involved in agriculture and fishing; Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth - By equipping participants with financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills, the initiative strengthens economic growth and promotes productive employment opportunities in rural areas; and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities - The program aims to uplift marginalized communities by providing them with tools and knowledge to improve their financial stability and economic opportunities.)

In a move to intensify academic growth and cultural understanding, Biliran Province State University and Adamson University (AdU) have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking the beginning of the official partnership between the two higher education institutions. 

This agreement sets the stage for collaborative educational exchange and cooperation in the engineering education discipline, reflecting the shared vision of both institutions to broaden horizons for their faculty, students, and researchers.

Signed at the OP Conference Room of AdU on September 16, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. represented BiPSU, while Adamson University was represented by its President, Fr. Daniel Franklin E. Pilario.

The MOU, centered on goodwill and academic development, aims to enrich the learning experiences of students and faculty members alike through various exchange programs, particularly in engineering programs. These include faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects, cultural exchanges, and collaborative academic activities such as seminars and workshops.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his optimism about the potential for growth in instructional and research activities.

“We are so glad to have formally forged an official partnership with Adamson University,” Dr. Cañezo said, emphasizing the benefits of the linkage to both institutions. “This partnership represents an opportunity to broaden our faculty’s and students’ experiences, deepening their knowledge while building bridges with fellow educators and students from other regions.”

During the signing ceremony, plans were explored including tapping faculty members of the Adamson to be hired as part-time teachers in BiPSU, and offering graduate programs in engineering with BiPSU as the host university.

The agreement also underscored the importance of intellectual property rights, ensuring that any research or innovations resulting from this partnership will be jointly owned by both universities, in accordance with their respective academic policies. This ensures that both institutions benefit equally from the fruits of their collaboration.

One of the highlights of the MOU is the flexibility it offers both institutions. Each activity or exchange will be negotiated separately, allowing for tailored programs that best suit the needs and goals of both universities. Additionally, both BiPSU and AdU have committed to providing accommodations and support for visiting faculty and students, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience for all participants.

The signing was witnessed by Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, dean of BiPSU’s School of Engineering, and Dr. Merlinda A. Palencia, dean of AdU’s College of Engineering.

Adamson University, a private Catholic university operated by the Congregation of the Mission located in Manila, Philippines, is one of Metro Manila’s top universities. It ranked 88th in Asian University Rankings - South Eastern Asia recently this year.

#WoWBiPSU