In line with the celebration of the 52nd Founding Anniversary, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) unveiled its new state-of-the-art Teleconferencing Center facility through a formal inauguration ceremony, which was held at the second floor of the Automotive Building today, August 29.

The conversion of the old president’s office into a state-of-the-art teleconferencing center is expected to serve a multitude of purposes, primarily supporting the university's research activities. However, its utility extends beyond research, as it will be instrumental in facilitating virtual meetings for various university events, collaborations, and engagements that require seamless communication across distances.

Moreover, this project was made possible through the collaboration of BiPSU with the Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Program (ViCARP) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) after receiving ICT equipment amounting to more than five hundred thousand (500,000) pesos from the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) in July 15, this year.

The inauguration was graced by distinguished guests, including the keynote speaker for this year’s founding celebrations, DOST Regional Director Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña. Also in attendance were Mayor Gretchen Espina of Local Government Unit (LGU) Naval, DTI Provincial Director Dr. Faustino Gayas, and key officials from BiPSU.

In his message, Dr. Ocaña emphasized the significance of the new facility, saying, "The inauguration of the newly established Teleconferencing Center is a testament to BiPSU's commitment to embracing technological advancements and providing your students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.”

The keynote speaker affirmed that this center will not only enhance BiPSU’s educational offerings but also serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration that will connect with more partners and experts not just within the region, or national, but from around the globe.

With this new facility, BiPSU aims to not only enhance its research capabilities but also to strengthen partnership with academic and research institutions both within and outside the country.

#WoWBiPSU

Centered on the university’s vision of weaving BiPSU to the world and the world with BiPSU, Biliran Province State University officially commenced its 2024 Founding celebration today, August 29 at the university gymnasium. 

The commencement this year highlights BiPSU's four key historical milestones in the university’s journey including, the  79th anniversary of High School founding on October 30, 1945, 52nd Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) founding on August 31, 1972, 15th Naval State University (NSU) conversion on October 14, 2009; and the 5th BiPSU charter on February 13, 2019.

BiPSU through the years

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., reaffirmed his commitment to building on the foundations laid by his predecessors and to continuing efforts to ensure that the university remains an excellent institution of higher education.

“Our founding celebrations remind us of the responsibility we carry—to continue building on the foundations laid by those who came before us and to ensure that BiPSU remains an excellent public institution for the generations to come.”

Dr. Cañezo also proudly announced BiPSU's impressive ranking in the 2024 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), placing 29th in Social Responsibility, 32nd in Leadership, 34th in Student Support and Engagement, and 98th in the Global Top 300 Innovative Universities, out of 1,000 universities worldwide. This achievement, the President emphasized, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire BiPSU community.

"This recognition is a validation of the real-world impact we are making," he said. "We are living our mission—to provide quality and relevant instruction, research, and extension services that empower and uplift our people."

As the university’s chief steward, Dr. Cañezo expressed his appreciation to the entire BiPSU community, highlighting the collective efforts that have brought the university to its current state. He also acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the university’s faculty, staff, and students, emphasizing that their contributions are the true foundation of BiPSU's success.

The opening

Moreover, the opening ceremony featured an inspiring parade of Intellectual Properties (IPs), a competition organized by the Research and Development Office headed by Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice-president for Research, Innovation and Extension and Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Director of RDO, and was participated by students representing the innovative research ideas of each school.This fashion showcase integration of research, culture, and the arts, and a reflection of the university's holistic approach to education.

The awarding of certificates of recognition to individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to BiPSU's intellectual property (IP) development, publications, extension programs, and World Universities Ranking Initiative (WURI), transpired. 

Notable attendees include Dr. John Glenn Ocaña, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office director; Hon. Gretchen Stephanie Espina, mayor of Naval; Mr. Ramil Uy, supervising science research specialist of DOST Region VIII; Mr. Romy Dignos, Provincial DOST director; Dr. Faustino Gayas, Provincial DTI director; Prof. Don Eliseo Lucero- Prisno, founder of the GHF- University Excellence, the members of the BiPSU Board of Regents, vice presidents and other key officials, employees and students. 

The ceremony also included the awarding of certificates of recognition to individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to BiPSU's IPs development, publications, extension programs, and World Universities Ranking Initiative (WURI) initiatives.

Support from the stakeholders

Meanwhile, this year’s founding featured  Dr. John Glenn Ocaña, regional director of the DOST Regional Office VIII and a member of BiPSU’s Board of Regents, as the keynote speaker.

In his message, Dr. Ocaña mentioned the strong partnership between BiPSU and DOST in advancing science, technology, and innovation (STI) in the region. He underscored the numerous collaborative projects undertaken by the two institutions, including the establishment of the Food Research and Development Center, the CEST project in Higatangan Island which includes the Water Purification System using Solar Power, the ECO SEP with Communal CR , the Drone for DRR Mapping, and the IT Innovation Hub.

He also praised BiPSU's dedication to community engagement, citing the university's role in providing scholarships, training, and extension services to the people of Biliran.

On the other hand, Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office VIII, also conveyed his message, expressing his gratitude for BiPSU's continued support of the CHED's programs and activities.

"As you celebrate this momentous activity, know that your achievements not only enhanced BiPSU's reputation but also advanced higher education in the region, in our country, and of course worldwide," the regional director said.

He also stated that the accomplishment of the university is a testament to BiPSU’S exceptional support system, societal impact and leadership, a reflection of the leadership of Dr. Cañezo and all other officials of the university.

Meanwhile, Hon. Gerardo Roger Espina, and Hon. Gerardo Espina Jr. the Provincial Governor and Congressman of Biliran, respectively, expressed their greetings to the BiPSU community via video message. 

Not the typical celebration

Unlike the previous years of university where cultural shows take the center-stage in the founding anniversary celebration, this year’s celebration centered on instruction, research, innovation, and extension services.

Dr. Cañezo announced that the celebrations will continue until February 13, 2025. However, to minimize disruptions to academic activities, the events will be scheduled exclusively on Wednesdays.

"One of our primary goals is to address concerns from the Educational Commission regarding the impact of unscheduled activities on the quality of our students' education," Dr. Cañezo stated. "By organizing our events in this structured and seamless manner, we can maintain our commitment to delivering quality education while also celebrating our university's proud history."

He also noted that the extended celebration period reflects the various founding anniversaries that BiPSU has to commemorate. The university president emphasized that the extended celebration is necessary because BiPSU has multiple founding anniversaries to honor.

Following the opening ceremony, BiPSU will unveil its new Teleconferencing Center, a significant investment in enhancing communication and collaboration within the university. Later this afternoon, the Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Exhibits will commence to be followed by Technology and Innovation Pitching Competition. The celebrations will continue on August 31, Saturday  with a serenade, a fun-run and energetic Zumba sessions to take place at the BiPSU Oval.

#WoWBiPSU

“Our founding celebrations remind us of the responsibility we carry—to continue building on the foundations laid by those who came before us and to ensure that BiPSU remains an excellent public institution for the generations to come.”

Thus spoke, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. in his opening address as Biliran Province State University officially commenced its 2024 Founding Celebrations at university gymnasium today, August 29. 

Addressing an audience that included the board of regents, key officials, faculty, students, and guests, Dr. Cañezo opened the celebration with a message of gratitude and pride. 

“Today, we not only honor the legacy of our institution but also reflect on the tremendous strides we’ve made together,” he added.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his appreciation to the entire BiPSU community, highlighting the collective efforts that have brought the university to its current state. Further, he acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the university’s faculty, staff, and students, emphasizing that their contributions are the true foundation of BiPSU's success. 

“Over the past three years, we have developed more than 100 utility models,” he noted, emphasizing that these achievements are not just numbers but represent tangible innovations impacting communities. 

He also mentioned the 32 research projects earmarked for commercialization and the over 200 publications that BiPSU has contributed to the global body of knowledge. 

“With nearly 400 completed research projects in just the last three years, we have demonstrated our commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation,” he added.

Another significant highlight of Dr. Cañezo’s address was BiPSU’s recent recognition in the 2024 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). 

“Out of over 1,000 universities worldwide, we ranked 29th in Social Responsibility, 32nd in Leadership, 34th in Student Support and Engagement, and 98th in the Global Top 300 Innovative Universities,” Dr. Cañezo proudly shared.

He acknowledged this as the highest ranking in Region 8 and one of the most improved universities globally since 2021. 

“Next month, I will have the honor of traveling with our team to Seoul, South Korea, to accept these awards on behalf of the entire BiPSU family,” he announced.

The president expressed his deep humility and pride emphasizing that it only reflects the university’s commitment to its vision—to be an internationally recognized university that is responsive to both local and global communities.

The Founding Celebrations commemorate key historical milestones in the university’s journey. “We celebrate key milestones in our history: the 52nd NIT Founding on August 31, 1972; the 79th anniversary of our High School Founding on October 30, 1945; the 15th NSU Conversion on October 14, 2009; and the 5th BiPSU Charter on February 13, 2019,” Dr. Cañezo recounted. 

In closing, Dr. Canezo expressed deep gratitude to BiPSU’s partners and stakeholders, including the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and local government units. Their support, he said, has been instrumental in the university’s journey toward realizing its #WoWBiPSU2.0 Development Plan.

“As we kick off our 2024 Founding Celebrations, let us do so with a spirit of joy, humility, and gratitude. Let us celebrate our achievements, not with pomp, but with pride in knowing that we are making a difference,” Dr. Cañezo concluded. 

The Founding Celebrations will continue throughout the week, with a series of events not only focusing on research, innovation and extension activities but there will also be a series of sports events for BiPSU employees. 

#WoWBiPSU

Energies soared high at the university gymnasium as 16 hopefuls vying for the relished crowns showcased their elegance and wit during the preliminary competition of Mr. and Ms. BiPSU 2024 on August 28. 

The preliminary competition featured three major exposures, including the Grand Production, School Uniform segment, and Preliminary Question and Answer (Q&A) portion. 

During the grand production, candidates swayed with poise, setting the stage for the competition. The school uniform showdown followed where candidates slew in their uniforms, flaunting defined sophistication.

Moreover, the preliminary Q&A portion tested the intellect and awareness of the contenders, with questions ranging from personal insights to recent societal issues. This segment also gave the candidates a chance to present their advocacy, adding depth to their potential as future title-holders.

Tomorrow, August 29, the grand coronation of the most anticipated pageant event in the province will take place at the same venue. 

#WoWBiPSU

Nakiisa ang Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) sa pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa 2024 na may temang "Filipino, Wikang Mapagpalaya," ngayong araw, ika-28 ng Agosto sa university gymnasium.

Sa pangunguna ng tanggapan ng Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, sa pamamagitan ni Direktor G. Jeson V. Vinas, ipinamalas ang iba't ibang pagtatanghal tulad ng mga dulang "Maling Akala," "Mga Huling Oras ni Rizal," at "Luhaang Maskara”. Sinundan ito ng pagbasa ng mga tula tulad ng mga likha ng Mga Makatang Biliranon, Balak, Siday, Garay, at Spoken Poetry. Ang mga pagtatanghal ay dinaluhan ng mga mag-aaral, kaguruan, administrador, at mga empleyado ng BiPSU.

Sa kanyang mensahe, binigyang-diin ni Dr. Victor Cañezo, Jr., pangulo ng BiPSU, ang kahalagahan ng temang "Filipino, Wikang Mapagpalaya." Ayon sa kanya, ang tema ay nakasentro sa paggamit ng Wikang Filipino bilang wikang nagpapalaya hindi lamang mula sa mga pisikal na karahasan o sigalot kundi pati na rin sa mga personal na laban tulad ng mga mapang-abusong relasyon.

“Nais kong ipaalala sa lahat na ang Buwan ng Wika ay hindi lamang isang simpleng pagdiriwang, kundi isang panawagan, paalala at pagkakataon upang maibandila ang ating identidad bilang mga Pilipino. Ang ating wika ay mahalaga at mayaman, ito ang nagbubuklod sa atin bilang isang bansa. Gamit ito ay naipahahayag natin ang ating kultura, kasaysayan, at mga tagumpay bilang isang nagkakaisang lahing Pilipino,” ani ni Dr. Cañezo.

Dinaluhan din ang pagdiriwang ng tanyag na bisita na si Dr. Christian Tan Nery Aguado, Komisyoner at Kinatawan ng mga Wika Pamayanang Kultural ng Katimugang Pilipinas mula sa Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino.

Samantala, ipinamalas naman ng mga kalahok sa Gg. at Bb. BiPSU 2024 ang kanilang husay sa pagsayaw ng kuratsa, isang tradisyonal na sayaw ng Rehiyon otso. 

Sa pagtatapos ng selebrasyon, hinikayat ang lahat na gamitin ang Wikang Filipino bilang kasangkapan sa pagtataguyod ng kapayapaan at pagkakaisa sa bansa. "Ipagpatuloy natin ang pagyakap at pagmamalaki sa wikang Filipino, na sumasalamin sa ating kultura at pagkakakilanlan," wika ng tagapagsalita.

#WoWBiPSU

To formally welcome students to the university, Biliran Province State University, through the University Guidance Office, launched its "Future Forward University Orientation 2024: General Orientation and Acquaintance Activity" at the university gymnasium on August 27.

The orientation series aims to familiarize students with university services, policies, regulations, and introduce key officials. This year, the sessions were divided into three segments to accommodate all students while ensuring their comfort throughout the event.

The schools that attended the first session of the said orientation series included the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Teacher Education (STED), and School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS).

In his message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. encouraged students to embrace the challenges ahead with resilience, sharing the acronym "WOW of BiPSU," which stands for "Why, Opportunities, and Work on Whys."

“That’s what I want you to take away from this,” Dr. Cañezo said. “The road won’t be easy, but with determination, perseverance, and the support of your BiPSU community, I’m confident you’ll achieve great things.”

During the orientation, the Institutional Planning Office (IPO) Director, Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera, outlined the university’s 5-year development plan, dubbed “WoWBiPSU 2.0,” alongside the newly revised BiPSU mission, vision, and core values.

Student services, Republic Acts protecting student rights, university policies, and faculty members from each school were also introduced during the full-day event.

Meanwhile, students also actively participated in team-building activities in the afternoon where schools competed in singing and parlor games, adding fun and camaraderie in the activity.

Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Student and External Affairs (SEA), emphasized the university’s commitment to student success.

“As you start your chapter in your life with BiPSU, remember that you are part of a community that believes in you. We are here to support you every step of the way,” Dr. Salvatierra said.

The orientation session for the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) and School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) is scheduled for September 4, while the orientation for the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) and School of Engineering (SOE) will take place on September 5 at the same venue.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University is set to collaborate with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naval on research-based community extension services, following a strategic meeting held at Dasig Hall, LGU Naval, between Hon. Mayor Gretchen Stephanie Espina and BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.

Mayor Espina disclosed that Naval currently has 18 ongoing projects under her Executive Agenda, DASIG, which stands for Dynamic Leadership, Aspiring Excellence, Sustainable Life, Inclusive Services, and Good Governance. 

Among these projects, she highlighted the urgent challenges facing the municipality, particularly issues related to the water supply, which require comprehensive feasibility studies and research-driven solutions.

“There is a pressing need to partner with BiPSU to ensure that all our implementations and projects are based on solid research,” Mayor Espina emphasized.

She also noted that Naval is poised to transition from a 3rd class to a 1st class municipality by 2025, a change that will necessitate doubling efforts to address emerging problems and challenges within the community.

In response, Dr. Cañezo expressed BiPSU's strong commitment to supporting LGU Naval's initiatives. "BiPSU is more than willing to help," he assured. 

Dr. Cañezo suggested organizing a workshop that would bring together LGU officials and the BiPSU team of research enthusiasts from various schools within the university. This workshop will focus on conducting needs-based assessments and collaborative studies to identify priority areas for research, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with the community's specific needs.

The collaboration will be further strengthened through the involvement of sectoral representatives, including farmers, marginalized sectors among others, as participants in the workshop to ensure that the research and projects developed are community-based and responsive to the local context.

The mayor also mentioned Naval's ongoing partnership with the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) and  elaborated on the importance of investing in technology to support the municipality's development goals. She also highlighted the need for more programs that align with this vision, stressing the value of research in driving innovation and sustainable growth.

In a related development, BiPSU will host the proposed workshop next week, spearheaded by Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation and Extension Service, who was also present during the said meeting. Also in attendance are Engr. Jessie Mari Cerera, director of Institutional Planning Office and Apple Joy Balondo- Visitacion, director for University Media and Information Office. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Canezo extended an invitation to Mayor Espina to attend the upcoming BiPSU Founding Anniversary celebrations, which will focus on instruction, research, innovation and extension. A key highlight of the event will be the presentation of the 31 Intellectual Properties (IPs) for commercialization on August 29, some of which could potentially benefit the LGU and its ongoing projects.

#WoWBiPSU

In the prestigious search for Mr. and Ms. BiPSU 2024, the crown serves as more than just an ornament of victory—it is a symbol of brilliance, innovation, progress, service, and unity—the embodiment of the university’s core values.

This year’s edition of Mr. and Ms. BiPSU unveils two stunning new crowns, each meticulously crafted to reflect the prestige and responsibility of the titleholders.

His Highness’ Crown

The majestic blue crown emanates a sense of refinement and sophistication through its combination of blue hues and golden accents—colors that have long represented BiPSU. The sturdy base, embellished with golden gemstones, serves as a symbol of strength and steadiness, reflecting the profound character and wisdom required to don this regal headpiece. Rising majestically from the base are spikes and arches, each adorned with blue gemstones symbolizing the ambition and foresight associated with holding the title of Mr. BiPSU.

A distinct feature of the crown is the display of the BiPSU emblem at its core, signifying the wearer’s role as an ambassador of the university's core values. The gold filigree work, complemented by blue stones, creates a captivating contrast that exudes nobility and accountability. This crown embodies a blend of power and elegance, distinguishing its wearer as a source of pride and purpose within the BiPSU community.

Her Majesty's Tiara

This resplendent golden tiara emanates an aura of magnificence through its design and vibrant colors. The base is adorned with alternating amber gemstones, establishing a foundation that represents resilience and strength essential for leadership. Interspersed among these gems are delicate pearls, symbolizing purity and wisdom, reminding the wearer of the grace and knowledge that come with true authority.

Ascending gracefully from the base are crafted spikes and arches in gold, each crowned with radiant jewel-like stones symbolizing the wearer’s ascent to greatness.

At the heart of the tiara features the emblem of the university, symbolically linking the crown to the core values and essence of the institution. Encircling the emblem are detailed craftsmanship intertwined with amber-colored gemstones, producing an elegant aura. The rich colors and craftsmanship embody leadership, success, and a commitment to uphold the university's standards, making this tiara a true symbol of honor and distinction.

Winning the crown is not just a moment of personal triumph; it symbolizes a commitment to lead, inspire, and uphold the integrity of Biliran Province State University.

For Mr. and Ms. BiPSU, the crown is a symbol of responsibility and a legacy to carry forward.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) was recognized as one of the Top Ten Big Load Prompt Payers in 2023 by the Biliran Electric Cooperative (BILECO) Inc. during the 36th Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) on Saturday, August 24, held at the BiPSU gymnasium.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. proudly received the plaque of recognition on behalf of BiPSU, which was presented by BILECO General Manager Engr. Gerardo N. Oledan and Governing Board President Engr. Cesar D. Cordeta.

The award was presented to public and private institutions that consistently made timely payments, contributing to the improved operations and efficiency of the electric cooperative.

Other notable awardees include Jollibee, Citi Hardware, J and F Naval, Jelo’s Place, Prince Hypermart, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Rodson Dry Goods, Mr. DIY, and Fragoch Tourist Inn.

#WoWBiPSU

As part of Biliran Province State University’s 52nd founding anniversary celebration, the university hosted a two-day Virtual Seminar-Workshop on Research Pitching via Google Meet and Zoom on August 22-23.

The said seminar-workshop, participated by faculty and student-researchers qualifiers from the different schools across the university, aimed to strengthen the research, innovation, and extension services in promoting a culture of research and innovation excellence within the institution. 

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. shared that the university is eyeing potential faculty and student-researchers who could represent BiPSU in regional, national, and international research pitching competitions.

“I look forward to launching a regional competition next year in the SUC fair, that’s why we aim to equip you with necessary skills to excel and represent BiPSU for future competitive endeavors,” Dr. Canezo said.

Moreover, seasoned expert, Dr. Reynaldo B. Garnace, a Special Education (SPEd) Generalist at the New York City Department of Education, Brooklyn, New York, USA, shared valuable insights on the art of presenting research ideas, highlighting the elements of a concept paper and a goal for the perfect pitch in his plenary “How To Pitch Your Innovation Start-Up in 3 Minutes”.

“Think about the goal of your pitch, and then it should cover the four structures that you have: the problem, your proposed solution, the benefits to the people, and the action in doing that,” Dr. Garnace emphasized.

Further, Dr. Roland E. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES), emphasized that the goal of the event goes beyond not just to teach about the mechanics of a good pitch but to help the participants tap their unique strengths, refine their message, and build confidence to deliver their pitch with clarity and impact.

“We look forward to seeing your ideas come to life and watching you take the first step toward your start-up dream into reality,” said Dr. Niez.

Meanwhile, the second day of the said event highlighted the breakout sessions, allowing faculty and students to present their research and practice their pitches, mentoring sessions, and critiquing of scripts and PowerPoint presentations with the speaker.

Notable attendees include Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, director of the Research and Development Office; Dr. Willard N. Riveral, director of the Center for Biliran Province Studies; Mr. Marclin A. Aguilar, director of the Food Research and Development Center; Mr. Jeruel Espinazo, director of the Innovation Office, and chairpersons from the different schools of the university.

Moreover, the Research Pitching competition is set to transpire on August 29 at the university Student Center.

#WoWBiPSU