Biliran Province State University, through its Research and Development Office (RDO), participated in a three-day research mentorship program on Scopus Publication, led by Prof. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno, GHF-University Excellence founder, and Mr. Jerico Ogaya, Dr. Prisno's research assistant and a distinguished researcher.

The event, which will run from September 12-14, is held at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

The said mentorship program is aimed at enhancing research capabilities and fostering a culture of academic excellence among faculty members across Naval and Biliran campuses.

Moreover, the first day focused on equipping participants with essential knowledge and strategies to identify reputable journals indexed by Scopus, a critical platform for academic publishing. On the same day, the writeshop and mentoring proper also commenced, which continued during the second day, September 13.

The writeshop and the mentoring session, as mentioned above, saw presentations of manuscripts by the participants and the giving of input by Dr. Prisno, ensuring that the research papers met the stringent requirements for submission to Scopus-indexed journals.

In an interview, Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, RDO director, emphasized the significance of the mentorship program to the university's research landscape. “Through that workshop, the faculty members are taught how to write publishable papers and as well as to be able to submit their papers to the Scopus-indexed journals,” she added.

Dr. de Paz also shared that the first batch of participants for the workshop comprised three faculty members, along with the research chairperson, from different schools, totaling forty participants, while the second batch, employing the same number of slots, will conduct their workshop in October and November this year.

Furthermore, the submission of papers to Scopus Journals will take place tomorrow, September 14, at the same venue, which will also serve as the culmination of the entire mentorship program for Batch 1.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) takes pride in its acceptance as an Associate Member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU), as confirmed by the AAOU secretariat, September 13.  

The AAOU Secretariat officially confirmed this development, following the decision of the AAOU Executive Committee (Execom) members, who evaluated and unanimously approved BiPSU’s membership application.

This new affiliation positions BiPSU among institutions committed to promoting quality and accessible education across Asia. As part of the welcome, BiPSU is eligible for a discount on its first-year membership fee.

BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., expressed his gratitude and excitement for this achievement, stating that it marks a significant step toward expanding the university’s international reach and strengthening partnerships that enhance educational opportunities for students and faculty.

As a newly inducted member, BiPSU has been invited to the 37th AAOU Annual Conference, scheduled for October 15-17, 2024, in Islamabad, Pakistan. The university will be officially awarded its membership certificate during the said event, alongside other members of the AAOU. 

This membership opens doors for collaborative projects, research initiatives, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise, further strengthening BiPSU's role in the global academic landscape.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) welcomed Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Undersecretary Maria Francesca M. Del Rosario during her visit to the university on September 13.

Usec Del Rosario, who is in Biliran for the 2024 "Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat Fair," praised BiPSU’s infrastructure and campus development. “Parang private school yung BiPSU,” the undersecretary said.  

In a statement, Dr. Cañezo expressed his gratitude for hearing commendation from a national official. “We are honored by Usec Del Rosario's visit and grateful for her commendation of our campus development,” Dr. Cañezo said. “Her feedback highlights our dedication to maintaining a top-tier educational institution.”

The undersecretary was accompanied by DILG Biliran Local Government Operations Officer VI Carolina Ampong and DBM Regional Senior Budget and Management Specialist Solie T. Dosado.

Also present was the President of the Davao del Sur State College, Dr. Augie Estrellada Fuentes who paid a courtesy visit with President Cañezo. Dr. Fuentes was with Dr. Filomeno Alba, who led the conduct of the orientation on the electronic human resource management information Systems for BiPSU key officials.

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Biliran Province State University showcased its gender-responsive initiatives during a benchmarking session with Samar State University (SSU) at the University Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC) on September 12.

The event provided an opportunity for SSU to observe BiPSU's established practices in promoting gender equity and inclusive infrastructure.

In her welcome message, Dr. Susan S. Bentor, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized that the said benchmarking initiative facilitates a collaborative exchange of knowledge and experiences between BiPSU and SSU.

“By learning from each other’s strengths, we can identify areas for improvement and strengthen our respective gender and development programs,” said Dr. Bentor. 

Further, Dr. Marianne B. Dagaylo-an, Director of Gender and Development (GAD) Office, presented the university’s best practices in gender and development. Her session offered a deep dive into BiPSU's strategies for embedding gender sensitivity into their policies and programs, emphasizing the positive impact these practices have had on both faculty and students.

In addition, Engr. Jessie Marie Cerera, Director of Institutional Planning Office (PO), highlighted the Gender-Responsive Infrastructure (GRI) initiatives at BiPSU, discussing the various infrastructural changes and upgrades implemented to ensure a more inclusive environment for all members of the academic community.

Dr. Natalie Ann Acosta, SSU Graduate School’s GAD coordinator, shared their synthesis and action plans solely focused on infrastructures and eyeing for funding in 2024.

“We will have a consultative meeting and capacity building, trace our strengths and weaknesses along infrastructures for future improvement, and submit for funding,” Dr. Acosta shared.

University key officials present in the event included Dr. Bentor, Dr. Rossini B. Pitao, vice president for Administration and Finance; Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Students and External Affairs, other key officials, and GAD personnel.

This event supported ongoing efforts of the university to enhance gender and development practices, with BiPSU leading the way in ensuring a more inclusive and supportive academic institution.

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Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has formally launched its official university gazette, The Weavers.

The Weavers takes its name from BiPSU's strategic development plan, WoWBiPSU 2.0, which stands for Weaving of Worthiness for BiPSU.

University Media and Information Office (UMIO) Director Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion explained that the "weavers" are the individuals who work tirelessly to bring the university's vision to life, intertwining knowledge, values, and progress into a woven future.

"The Weavers serves as a platform for sharing vital news, updates, and achievements of the university," the director stated. "It underscores BiPSU's commitment to transparency, community engagement, and academic excellence."

The ceremonial launch of the first-ever institutional newsletter, held on September 11 at the Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC), was attended by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., UMIO staff, officials from the University Integrated Media Center (UIMC) of Visayas State University (VSU), BiPSU's ICT personnel, and members of The Pillar, the university's official tertiary student publication.

The newsletter, which will be released quarterly, will be available in both print and electronic formats.

The first issue of the publication covers the months of July and August.

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Aiming to document the university's legacy in a tangible publication, Biliran Province State University, through its University Media and Information Office (UMIO), conducted a workshop on crafting a coffee table book on September 11 at the Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

Themed “Capturing the University Spirit: Crafting a Legacy of BiPSU’s Accomplishments (2017-Present),” the event focused on showcasing the university's significant achievements from 2017 to the present, highlighting its growth, innovation, and community impact.

The workshop aimed to equip the UMIO team, along with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) personnel and members of The Pillar Publication, BiPSU’s official tertiary student publication, with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate stories with images and designs, creating a compelling publication.

The resulting coffee table book will serve as a valuable tool for engagement, enabling alumni, students, and the wider community to connect with the university's narrative and celebrate its successes.

In his inspirational message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the importance of the coffee table book as a tangible representation of the university's identity and collective achievements.

“I want to remind everyone that this project reflects who we are and what we've built together,” Dr. Cañezo stated. “We owe it to ourselves and to future generations of BiPSU to make sure this project isn’t just good enough, but truly represents the best of us.”

He also highlighted the enduring value of the coffee table book in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing its role as a lasting legacy that celebrates BiPSU's progress and inspires future generations.

The event featured three distinguished resource speakers: Dr. Ulderico B. Alviola, Head of the Department of Development Communication, who discussed Content Development for the Coffee Table Book; Mr. Neil Bryan Fulache, who shared insights on Photography and Capturing the Best Images for the Coffee Table Book; and Mr. Paul Vincent Fornis, who spoke on Design and Layout of a Coffee Table Book.

UMIO Director Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion further emphasized that the coffee table book transcends being a mere collection of stories and images, serving as a tangible expression of the university's spirit, vision, and enduring legacy.

Moreover, during the said activity, UMIO also launched The Weavers, the university's official gazette.

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Biliran Province State University, through University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., attended the ceremonial declaration of stable internal peace and security, supporting a province free from insurgency threats.

The said activity, held at Fragoch Tourist Inn, Naval, Biliran on September 11, was organized by the Provincial Government of Biliran, in partnership with the Department of the Interior Local Government (DILG) Biliran, Philippine National Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

President Cañezo expressed his commitment to ensuring that BiPSU remains a "cradle of knowledge, not of rebellion," reaffirming that the university will not be a platform for insurgent recruitment or ideologies aimed at undermining democratic institutions. 

In his message, BiPSU President pledged that the university will continue to promote peace and educate the youth on the importance of national loyalty and the dangers of rebellion. He also commended the collective efforts of government institutions, law enforcement, and the local community in addressing the insurgency challenges that had once plagued the province.

Key government officials present during the said event include Hon. Gerard Roger M. Espina, Biliran governor; Hion. Brigido Caneja III, Biliran vice-governor; Lt. General Ernesto C. Torres Jr.; executive director and undersecretary of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC); Police Brigadier General Reynaldo H. Pawid, regional director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Office VIII; municipal mayors, and other various representatives from different sectors. 

The BiPSU president emphasized that peace is the key to unity and national progress, and ended his message by acknowledging the AFP, PNP, NTF-ELCAC, and other agencies for their tireless work in securing this victory for the province.

Sharing the same mission of empowering future educators and strengthening the foundation of quality education, Biliran Province State University signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) Biliran Division, renewing the long-standing partnership between the two institutions.

President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. represented BiPSU, while Biliran Schools Division Superintendent Ms. Lani H. Cervantes represented DepEd Biliran during the signing, which was held on September 9 at the Hyflex and Audio Visual Center (HAVC).

The MOA outlines the commitment of both parties to improve the quality of basic education in DepEd Biliran Division by focusing on the pre-service education of teachers. 

The agreement highlights several provisions, such as developing the competencies of Beginning Teachers in alignment with the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST), and applying their theoretical knowledge and pedagogical skills in real teaching-learning situations. Additionally, it aims to provide teacher interns with a comprehensive and realistic perspective of the teaching-learning process and day-to-day school activities. 

The agreement further underlines the importance of preparing interns to face the challenges of teaching in the new normal, especially with the changes brought about by recent global events.

Both parties also believe that aside from the usual teaching internship, an intensive field study is necessary to adequately prepare teacher interns for their future roles. As part of the agreement, BiPSU will coordinate with the Schools Division Superintendent and identified school heads to deploy Practice Teachers (PTs) and Field Study Students (FSSs). A maximum of two PTs will be assigned to a Cooperating Teacher (CT) per term, ensuring focused mentorship.

In his message, Dr. Cañezo reflected on the accomplishments achieved through the collaboration between BiPSU and DepEd Biliran Division, expressing his gratitude for their continued partnership in preparing future educators. 

“DepEd Biliran is truly our strong partner for many years in ensuring that our pre-service teachers are well-trained in the field before graduating,” Dr. Cañezo said. “We are very thankful to DepEd Biliran for weaving the future of our future educators with us.”

The university president also emphasized the significant role DepEd Biliran plays in contributing to BiPSU’s high passing rates and topnotchers in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), as it serves as the training ground for the university's teacher education students during their internship. 

“If we want to strengthen basic and higher education in the province, we also need to strengthen the internship program for our education students,” Dr. Cañezo added.

The ceremonial signing was witnessed by Vice-president for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan S. Bentor, School of Teacher Education (STEd) Dean Dr. Maribelle N. Zipagan, and Education Program Supervisor in Filipino Dr. Wilma S. Carreon.

Also present during the signing were Dr. Grace L. Concepcion, BSEd Program chairperson; Dr. Jinky M. Macabago, BECEd and BSNEd Programs chairperson; Dr. Joan J. Sinagpulo, BPED and BTLEd Programs chairperson; Dr. Greg O. Siat, BEED Program chairperson, STEd faculty members, student leaders, and education students.

Meanwhile, Dr. Zipagan expressed her enthusiasm about the renewal of the partnership, noting that it will open more opportunities for future educators. “Today, we not only celebrate past achievements, but also look forward to further enhancing and expanding this partnership to meet the evolving needs of education,” Dr. Zipagan said.

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After more than a year of hiatus, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Cultural Affairs Development Unit, has revived its University Chorale Group under the direction of a new choir master.

Over 150 students participated in auditions on September 6 at the University Hyflex Audio Visual Center (HAVC) with Maestro Clark Gravoso, a composer, songwriter, music teacher, and musical arranger; and Cultural Affairs Development Unit Director, Mr. Kevin Tanguihan.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. highlighted the revival of the chorale group as a key priority of his administration. He emphasized the university’s mission to nurture student talents and encourage their involvement in various organizations.

In support of this initiative, Dr. Cañezo announced that the university will provide scholarship grants ranging from P10,000 to P20,000 per academic year for chorale members. He also affirmed his commitment to supporting the group. “Rest assured that the administration is always here to support you,” Dr. Cañezo said.

To enhance its academic portfolio and address the legal education needs in the region, Biliran Province State University is making strides towards offering a Juris Doctor program. 

From September 4 to 5, a seven-member delegation from BiPSU conducted a series of benchmarking activities and consultations in law schools and institutions in Manila to gather insights and best practices in legal education. The team aimed to learn about law school administration, operational strategies, facilities management, faculty recruitment, curriculum design, and student support systems.

The delegation, led by BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., included key university officials namely, Atty. Guiller G. Delfin, legal officer; Danica A. Ybañez, records officer; Joe Bryan C. Cadiente, university librarian; Roderick A. Delda, Engineering and Physical Development officer; Paul Matthew S. Bentor, information technology officer; and Engr. Maria Jobel A. Arcabado, engineering and physical development staff. 

On September 4, the BiPSU delegation held a benchmarking visit at Arellano University in Manila, where the team was welcomed by Atty. Domingo M. Navarro, dean of the Arellano University School of Law (AUSL), Atty. Gabriel P. Dela Peña, executive director of the AUSL, and former Supreme Court Associate Justice, Hon. Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr. The entire AUSL administrative and support staff expressed their honor at BiPSU's choice of Arellano for its first benchmarking efforts. 

Meanwhile, the delegation moved to San Sebastian College-Recoletos College of Law (SSC-R Law) in the afternoon, where they were welcomed by Atty. Teodoro A. Pastrana, SSC-R Law dean; Atty. Aristotle M. Dumalo, associate dean; and Mr. Darius Vien Darunday, president of the SSC-R Law Executive Council and a BiPSU alumnus. 

Dean Pastrana, who is also the President of the Philippine Association of Law Schools, pledged to support BiPSU in its plan to establish a Juris Doctor program.

The visit to both law schools also included a tour of their facilities, including classrooms, moot courts, libraries, ICT rooms, and faculty lounges. 

During the visits, Dr. Cañezo explained BiPSU's motivation to open a law school. "This initiative is about providing opportunities for the less fortunate and deserving students of Biliran.” In addition, Dr. Cañezo also shared that “BiPSU aims to produce competent legal professionals who will serve both our province and the nation.”

After visiting AU School of Law and SSC-R College of Law, the BiPSU delegation held a consultation visit with the Legal Education Board (LEB), led by its Chair, Commissioner Jason R. Barlis, CPA, and Commissioner Voltaire G. San Pedro. The delegation sought guidance on the application process for opening a law school, including the requirements and procedures set by the LEB — a regulatory body of all the public and private law schools in the Philippines. 

In his Facebook post, Dr. Cañezo echoed that it is the advocacy of LEB to make legal education accessible to as many people as possible, reflecting LEB's support for BiPSU's initiative to apply for a JD program in the province.

The second day concluded with a meeting with Atty. Raul S. Grapilon, President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) — Biliran Chapter. The university sought the endorsement and support of the IBP Biliran Chapter, aiming to ensure the proposed law program meets the needs of the local legal community.

Moreover, it can be recalled that the Naval Institute of Technology (now BiPSU), in consortium with the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP), initially offered a Bachelor of Law (LLB) program in 2003. However, the program was discontinued in 2011. 

As shared by Dr. Cañezo, the current administration of the university is taking high leaps in offering a Juris Doctor program, that is, completely different from its set-up 13 years ago. 

Moving forward, all Biliranons and residents from nearby towns are highly encouraged to participate in an upcoming survey, which will be launched soon. The responses will be invaluable in helping BiPSU finalize its curriculum design and other academic initiatives, in line with the university's commitment to academic freedom.

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