Interns from Biliran Province State University’s School of Teacher Education (STED) joined the coastal clean-up drive in Hat Yai, Thailand, on March 16, in celebration of the Global Youth Day. 

As part of their two-week International Cultural-Teaching Immersion program, the interns engaged in the environmental initiative to help preserve Thailand’s coastline. 

Said event, themed “A Community Transformed” provided the students an opportunity to give back to the global community by promoting environmental awareness among youth.

The coastal clean-up was just one of many activities designed to deepen the pre-service teachers’ cultural exchange experience in Thailand. 

"We are so proud of our interns for being actively involved in this environmental cause," said Dr. Victor Catigbe Caňezo, Jr., BiPSU president.

"This initiative not only supports Global Youth Day, but also aligns with our vision of responding to the needs of the global community through producing future educators who are aware of global issues and equipped to contribute to positive change,” he added.

In an interview, Dr. Maribel Zipagan, dean of the STED Naval Campus, also explained that Global Youth Day is an annual event organized by the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Youth worldwide to make a positive impact on communities. She expressed her gratitude to the school and local community in Thailand that welcomed BiPSU’s interns, for involving them in the coastal clean-up drive and giving them the opportunity to actively participate in such an initiative.

Associate Professor Mary Joy Gelizon, STED faculty escort from BiPSU- Biliran Campus shared her thoughts about the event, “Joining the Youth World Day Clean-Up Drive is such a fulfilling experience  in Hat Yai, Thailand because it’s amazing to be part of something bigger, where everyone comes together with the same goal of taking care of our planet.” 

“Seeing BiPSU's students and faculty step up, not just to clean up but to spread awareness about our environment, is truly inspiring. It's one of those moments that sticks with us, leaving us proud to know we are making a real difference for the future,” she added. 

One of the student interns also shared her fun experience, “As a BIPSUnista, I love how this event gave us the opportunity to respond to the global needs and even offered service globally,” said Christy Mae Jireh Roldan, BEED fourth year student. 

The two week- immersion program, which includes fifteen pre-service teachers and three faculty members from the STED Naval and Biliran campuses, is being held at Tepum Nouy Hatyai School in Songkla, Thailand, and will conclude on March 27.

[This article aligns with SDG No. 14: Life Below Water and SDG No. 4: Quality Education.]

The School of Teacher Education (STEd) of Biliran Province State University Naval Campus officially sent off its alumni who are set to take the March 2025 Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT).

A total of 119 alumni, both first-time takers and retakers from STEd’s ten programs, participated in the virtual send-off program held on March 18 via Google Meet.

The send-off program, a tradition of the teacher education school before licensure examinations, aimed to provide final reminders, examination day protocols, and best practices, while also uplifting the morale of the BLEPT takers through inspirational messages and words of encouragement.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. extended his well wishes to the takers, encouraging them to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained during their time at the university.

“The road to success is paved with perseverance and hard work,” Dr. Cañezo said. “You have prepared well for this moment, and BiPSU stands behind you. Believe in yourselves and trust in the process.”

STEd Dean Dr. Maribel Zipagan, program chairpersons, LET topnotchers, and faculty members were also present to offer their support. In her message, Dr. Zipagan advised the examinees to focus on areas where they feel less confident while also ensuring their mental and physical well-being before the rigorous exam.

“As the examination date nears, I know the pressure intensifies,” Dr. Zipagan emphasized. “But I urge you to take time to rest and condition your mind and body. A well-prepared and well-rested examinee performs better."

A prayer-over was conducted for the takers, led by Pastora Marinel L. Draga of Lifegiver-Naval Church, Pastor Bartman Barrientos of Seventh Day Adventist Church, and STEd faculty member Mark Christian R. Almazan. 

Meanwhile, BiPSU’s LET topnotchers, including Kayla O. Mercader (September 2012, Top 9), Jenny A. Genoguin (September 2015, Top 6), Sherwin C. Sarzuelo (March 2023, Top 8, Adam Lengleng (September 2023, Top 8, Joshua M. Ayade (March 2024, Top 6), and Nova Lyzza A. Ejorcadas (September 2024, Top 4), shared tips and strategies for acing the board examination.

The March 2025 BLEPT is scheduled to take place on March 23.

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

Biliran Province State University makes another move to advocate media and literary and communication in the province after formally entering into a partnership agreement with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Biliran Information Officers Network (BIONET), Provincial  Government of Biliran and the Local Government Unit of Naval (LGU-Naval).

The ceremonial signing of the quinquepartite Memorandum of Agreement, at the BiPSU held at the Hyflex Audio and Visual Center on March 17, was formalized with the presence of the Provincial Governor of Biliran Hon. Gerard Roger Espina, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Manager of PIA  Rodrigo Victoria, Chairperson of BIONET Aileen Jornales, Provincial Information Officer Atty. Edgar Igano, BiPSU Extension Director Dr. Alvin Amping and the Chairperson of the Department of Communication Dr. John Cavin Sabonsolin.

Under the banner name “OPLAN INFORMED,” which stands for Integrated Network for Fostering Optimized Resources in Media Education, the memorandum aims to empower information officers in the province of Biliran by providing vital training in digital literacy, ethics, and responsible journalism that will be spearheaded by the Department of Communication of BiPSU.

Hon. Gerard Roger Espina, in his message of support, highlighted the urgent need for this kind of program especially in the digital age where people can get news anywhere, which is more prone to misinformation and disinformation.

“As servants of the public, it is important that our information officers learn how to adapt with the changes,” the governor said. “Now with the AI age especially here in the Philippines, we really need responsible journalists and credible information officers.”

“I think with this training we can also provide the context, the quality of information that will be handed down by the respective information officers,” Hon. Espina added.

Moreover, in his message, Dr. Cañezo affirmed the university’s commitment and support in the pursuit of empowering local information officers, highlighting the pivotal role of the collaboration in fighting against misinformation and disinformation.

“BiPSU, guided by our mission of quality education, research, and service, stands ready to deliver expert training and technical guidance,” Dr. Cañezo stated. “Through this collaboration, let us remain unified in our pursuit of accurate, ethical communication, and stronger, well-informed communities.”

OPLAN INFORMED is a program comprising seven projects designed to empower local information officers such as Basic Journalism and Practical training, Teaching Media Skills, Social Media Ethics in AI World, Social Media Concept in Holistic Education Advocacies, Social Media Management, Information Design Training, and Knowledge Management training.

BIONet Chair Jornales underscored that the collaboration will advance effective communication in the province and challenged the citizens to partake in this movement to fight misinformation and disinformation.

“Let this be a reminder that our work extends beyond disseminating information— We are the key contributors to local progress,“ Journals said. “I encourage everyone to take  an active role in this initiative, learn from the experts at BiPSU, and use our platforms to amplify the impact of OPLAN INFORMED.”

Students and university officials also witnessed the signing event.

[This article aligns with the SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

In line with BiPSU’s vision, mission, and strategic development goals, the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) concluded its In-House Research Review on March 6-7 at the BiPSU Hostel Function Hall A and B. 

Themed, “Empowering Innovation and Research Excellence for a Sustainable Future,” the in-house research review serves as a platform to enhance research culture, strengthen academic collaboration, and promote innovative solutions within the academic community. 

The research review was structured into parallel sessions to accommodate multiple research presentations efficiently, allowing for a more focused discussion and providing participants with the opportunity to engage deeply within their respective fields. 

Meanwhile, faculty members presented their research proposals and completed studies in Information Technology Education (ITE), Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BindTech) and General Education to the invited research panelists and experts. 

Among the panelists were Dr. Jessie P. Paragas, program chairperson of BS Information Technology program and Master of Science in Information Technology at EVSU-Tacloban, and Prof. Mark Rembert M. Patindol, Eastern Visayas Food Innovation Center (EVFIC) operations manager and a faculty member of the College of Technology at EVSU- Main Campus.

An awarding ceremony transpired to recognize the outstanding research contributions of the faculty members. Mr. Fernando E. Quiroz, Jr. was awarded as the Best Presenter and Best Paper in ITE Category.  Taking home the second Best Paper were Dr. Reymon Santianez, Chiella Maryjoy D. Entero, Josephine C. Lomanta, Jhon Ricky P. Vero, and Harvey G. Dangel; and Angelie Bendoy, Dr. Cheryl Ebajo, and Mr. John Raymund D. Calderon.

In addition, Mr. Eric John D. Celis, John Raymund D. Calderon, and Jane Claire C. Celis; and Dr. Reynold G. Bustillo received the third Best Paper placement.

Moreover, in the BindTech and General Education category, Mr. Randy N. Galangue won Best Presenter, and Best Paper along with his co-authors Marlita Nierras, Ruthyl Marie Gadugdug, and Gleen Rom. Meanwhile, second place papers were authored by Eric John D. Celis, Roderick Delda, Jane Claire C. Celis, and John Raymond D. Calderon; Joy D. Mendoza; and Robert P. Logronio, while the third Best Paper was authored by Dr. Alvin L. Ampong and Dr. Teotima Ampong.

Notably, STCS has set clear research targets with 18 completed research projects, five published papers, and one research to be utilized by the industry or agency.

[This article aligns with the SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

To ensure that its graduate programs remain relevant to industry needs and prepare students for leadership roles in Human Resource Management, BiPSU’s School of Graduate Studies (SGS) hosted a Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting on March 15 at the university’s Hyflex Audio Visual Center. 

The meeting centered on proposed curriculum changes for the Master of Management major in Human Resource Management and the Doctor of Management major in Human Resource Management programs.

Moreover, this revisions came in response to the recommendations from the CHED Central Office-OPSD and consultations with CHEDRO VIII and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in Region VIII, ensuring that the programs meet current HR management demands and provide students with the skills required to excel in the field.

Dr. Susan S. Bentor, vice-president for Academic Affairs, explained the importance of the consultation. “This meeting is an important step in ensuring our programs remain in line with the needs of both the industry and our students,” she said. “The feedback we gather today will help refine our curriculum and ensure we continue to provide high-quality, industry-relevant education.”

MPM Chairperson Dr. Annel Ruth Celis explained  the rationale of the Masters in Management major in HRM program and discussed its structure, including the course distribution that include 9 units of foundation courses, 15 units of  major or professional courses, 6 units of cognate courses and 6 units for the thesis. She also emphasized that the program aims to prepare graduates for the global market.

Aside from anchoring the curriculum on PRIME HRM, SGS Faculty Dr. Claire Theresa Bentor also emphasized the integration of VUCAD (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity, and Digitalization) and Future’s Thinking based on curriculum comparisons with other institutions to respond to the competitive advantage.

Meanwhile, DM Chair Dr. Vicente Q. Solteo also presented the revised curriculum for the Master of Management major in HRM where he mentioned plans for the introduction of a BSBA-HRM program to serve as preparation for Master and Doctor in Management majoring in HRM. 

“The new curriculum reflects current industry trends and equips students with advanced knowledge and leadership skills critical to managing human resources,” Dr. Solteo noted. 

During the consultation, it was also proposed to include additional courses, such as a Bridging Course for non-BSBA graduates and Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) as a cognate course. 

Participants also raised important points about emerging HR trends, the integration of technology in HR management, and the need for a more global perspective in the curriculum. 

Dr. Analiza B. Calles, director of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Faculty Development (CIFD), expressed her gratitude to all participants for their active involvement.

"We are grateful for the thoughtful feedback we received today. It will guide us in fine-tuning the curriculum to meet both the needs of our students and the expectations of the industry," she said. “These discussions helped to clarify the direction of the proposed changes and provided further opportunities for collaboration.”

The consultation meeting concluded with an agreement to incorporate the feedback gathered into the final program revisions. Additionally, the revised Master of Management major in HRM and Doctor of Management major in HRM programs will be submitted for approval to the CHED, as a requirement for the issuance of the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC).

Present also during the consultation were Hon. Vennie Coton,faculty regent and SGS faculty member; School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) and SGS faculty members, representatives from the Biliran Chamber of Commerce, HR practitioners, alumni and students from the graduate school.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education.]

QUEZON CITY—In a strategic move to establish its own radio and TV stations, The Pillar Publication, the tertiary student publication office (SPO) of Biliran Province State University, conducted a benchmarking visit to the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) on March 14.

The benchmarking activity aimed to gather insights from UPD’s established media practices, particularly through its radio and TV stations, DZUP and TVUP, to strengthen the publication’s media and communication capabilities.

Representing The Pillar Publication were Ms. Florabelle Corpin, adviser, and Nato Besana, associate executive editor. Also present from BiPSU to assist with the student publication’s plan to establish its own radio and TV stations were Dr. John Cavin Sabonsolin, chairperson of the Department of Communication (DepComm); Mr. Paul Matthew Bentor, IT officer; Mr. Loudie Suliva, web administrator; Engr. Ruel Estacion, electronics communication engineer; Engr. Philip John Morillo, electrical engineer; Mr. Christler Calizo, procurement officer; Mr. Rodrigo Mahinay, faculty member from DepComm; and Mr. Mark Ronnie Mangco, information officer from the University Media and Information Office (UMIO).

The BiPSU delegation was welcomed by Assoc. Prof. Ma. Aurora Lolita Aliwag-Lomibao, OIC-Dean of the College of Media and Communication (CMC) at UPD, who gave an introduction to their college. Mr. Alex Tamayo, university researcher from the Office of Research and Publication, then provided a brief discussion on the operations of the Plaridel Journal. Following this, the BiPSU delegation toured UPD’s radio and TV facilities, observing the technical operations and content management strategies of DZUP and TVUP.

The benchmarking activity marks a significant step forward for The Pillar Publication as it prepares to expand its communication efforts through the establishment of its own radio and TV stations, providing better communication platforms for students.

[This article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals]

As part of  the Women's Month celebration, BiPSU, through the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) and the Gender and Development (GAD) office, in partnership with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), organized a free theoretical driving course training for female criminology on March 11 at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center.

The event, attended by forty criminology students, aimed to provide an opportunity for the participants to acquire a free Theoretical Driving Course (TDC).

A TDC, which gives all attendees an in-depth 15-hour seminar on the fundamentals of driving and road safety before, is crucial for aspiring drivers as it provides a foundational understanding of road rules, safety measures, and traffic regulations, ultimately contributing to safer and more responsible driving habits. This is a mandatory course for Student Permit applicants.

Furthermore, the seminar is also part of BiPSU's month-long celebration of Women's Month, offering activities that recognize and honor the achievements of women within the university while promoting gender equality and empowerment.

In an interview, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, faculty regent and the acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education highlighted the significance of teaching women road safety and expressed hope for even greater participation in future events.

“As we celebrate Women's Month, a meaningful way to honor women is by equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to drive safely, ensuring they understand the basics of road safety and mobility. Our goal is to promote their safety and independence,” he said.

Carmenia Caballes, head of LTO Naval District Office, led the discussions on road safety, traffic rules, and responsible driving.

The activity was also attended by Dr. Marriane B. Dagaylo-an, director of the Gender and Development (GAD) Office; Hon. Vennie Coton, Board of Regents (BOR) member and acting dean of SCJE; and LTO-Naval personnel.

[This aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.]

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Gender and Development (GAD) Office of Biliran Province State University organized a one-day seminar on breast and cervical cancer awareness and prevention on March 12 at the BiPSU Hyflex Audio-Visual Center.

Attended by students, faculty members, and administrative staff, the seminar aimed to provide crucial health information, focusing on early detection, prevention, and empowering women with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their well-being.

In her opening message, Dr. Marriane B. Dagaylo-an, director of the GAD Office, underscored the significance of advocating for breast and cervical cancer awareness and its implications to the women in the university. 

“We are not just marking the Women's Month celebration; we are actively investing in the health and empowerment of women and everyone within our university,” the GAD director said. “Breast and cervical cancer are significant health challenges, but they are also areas where knowledge, awareness, and proactive steps can make a life-changing difference.”

According to the National Library of Medicine, breast and cervical cancer were the two most common cancers among Filipino women in terms of incidence in 2020. Advocating for awareness and prevention is crucial, as early detection and timely access to treatment can significantly improve survival rates, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources.

Dr. Judy Dingcong-Huilar, an obstetrician-gynecologist from the Biliran Provincial Health Office, led the discussion with a talk titled “Babae, Maging Handa: Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness and Prevention.” She emphasized the importance of routine check-ups, self-examinations, and vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) to reduce cancer risks.

Meanwhile, Dr. Reggie N. Nierra, BiPSU’s supervising administrative officer for administration, shared her journey as a cancer survivor who was diagnosed with stage II-A breast cancer. “I choose to share my journey openly because I believe it is crucial for all of us to talk about cancer candidly,” she said.

She also encouraged the participants to help in fostering an environment of support and understanding. “Let us redefine what it means not just to survive but to live vibrantly and unapologetically, on our own terms,” she shared. “We can transform the narrative creating a community that thrives on support, understanding, and empowerment.”

This seminar marked the second event in BiPSU GAD Office’s month-long National Women’s Month celebration, which features a series of activities aimed at promoting gender equality and raising awareness on women’s health.

[This aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 5: Gender Equality]

A team from the School of Teacher Education (STEd) at Biliran Province State University Naval Campus is set to represent the province of Biliran in the regional fire safety quiz bee on March 21 in Tacloban City.

Composed of Mark Kevin Sambitan, Christian Lloyd Pomar, and Shebah Marcos, the team earned their spot in the regional competition after being crowned champions of the first ever Provincial Hot Shots: The Firefighter Quiz Battle held on March 12 at the BiPSU Highly Advanced Virtual Classroom (HAVC).

Coached by Sherwin Sarzuelo, the trio dominated all three rounds of the competition, scoring 60 points in the easy round, 120 in the moderate round, and 110 in the difficult round, securing a total of 290 points.

The event, held in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, was organized by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Biliran Provincial Office under the leadership of Acting Provincial Fire Marshal FSINSP Zardoz V. Abela. 

Seven schools from BiPSU Naval Campus and a delegation from BiPSU Biliran Campus participated in the collegiate-level competition, themed “Sa Pag-iwas sa Sunog, Hindi Ka Nag-iisa”.

Meanwhile, the School of Engineering and the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) claimed the first and second runner-up spots, respectively.

FO3 Cyril Rosales, chief of the Community Relations Unit of BFP Biliran, highlighted the importance of the event in promoting fire safety awareness among students. She also expressed gratitude to the BiPSU administration for its support.

"Thank you very much to Biliran Province State University, especially President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, Jr. and Vice President Dr. Susan Bentor, for assisting the BFP. We also extend our appreciation to all participants and coaches," she said. “This initiative reflects BiPSU’s commitment to educational programs that enhance fire safety awareness.”

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) officially opens the online application for graduation for the Academic Year 2024-2025. All eligible graduating students are required to complete the online registration on or before March 31, 2025.

For registration details, students may visit and register to the following link:

Naval Campus: https://tinyurl.com/5n995ccj

Biliran Campus: https://tinyurl.com/5xe698yf

However, students who are unable to access or register online may complete their application in person at the Office of the University Registrar during office hours. 

After completing the registration, students will receive a confirmation email. If the email does not appear in their inbox, they are encouraged to check their spam or junk folder.

Failure to complete the registration process on or before March 31, 2025 may result in exclusion from the official list of graduates.

Moreover, University Registrar Marilyn Ignacio has confirmed the required documents for submission to their office, which include the following:

1. SF 10 (Form 137-A)
2. PSA Live Birth (Photocopy)
3. Certificate of Grades (including School Year 2024-2025 second semester subjects)
4. Individual Checklist (Prospectus)
5. TOR with remarks: Copy for BiPSU (For Transferee Students)
6. PSA Marriage Contract (For Married Students)
7. 2 pcs 2x2 ID Pictures (white background, in Toga—one with cap and one without cap)

In compliance with data privacy regulations of the university, all personal and sensitive information submitted as part of the graduation registration process will be handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with the university's data protection policies. 

Students are assured that their data will only be used for the purpose of graduation processing and will not be shared without their consent.

Be sure to complete your registration on time to ensure your place among the graduating class!

#WoWBiPSU