he Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) delegation has brought home a string of medals and accolades from the prestigious Philippine Summerball International Dance Festival 2025, held at the Boracay New Coast Convention Center on June 29. The university's dancers showcased exceptional talent and grace, earning recognition in multiple categories.

The BiPSU team, led by Delegation Head Kevin C. Tanguihan, demonstrated their prowess on the dance floor under the expert guidance of Coach Laarni C. Velez and trainers Ivan Kent Taboada and Julie Anne Mercado.

Standard Category 

The standout pair, Alexis Adrienne Agner and Crysthal Shaira Calvez, garnered significant honors in the Standard category with the following achievements:

Grade E Waltz: Bronze Medalist

Grade E Tango: Silver Medalist

Grade E Quickstep: Gold Medalist

Novice Standard: 5th Placer (Finalist)

Pre-Amateur Standard: 6th Placer (Finalist)

University Open Standard: 7th Placer (Finalist)

Teacher-Student Category

Alexis Adrienne Agner, partnering with Julie Anne M. Mercado, achieved remarkable success in the Teacher-Student categories:

Teacher Student 1D Standard: Silver Medalist

Teacher Student 1C Standard: Gold Medalist

Teacher Student 1A Standard: Silver Medalist

Amateur Standard: 6th Placer (Finalist)

Latin Category

The partnership of Ronie Abad and Samantha Blythe Alcala made their mark in the Latin categories with the following results:

Grade E Cha-cha-cha: 6th Placer

Grade E Rumba: 5th Placer

Grade E Jive: 4th Placer

University Open Latin: Semi-Finalist

Novice Latin: Semi-Finalist

Pre-Amateur Latin: Semi-Finalist

The outstanding achievements of the #WoWBiPSU delegation at this international event weave a tapestry of excellence in arts and culture, bringing honor to the province of Bili ran on a national stage.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 3: Good Health and Well-being and No. 4: Quality Education.[

In a strategic move to align with civil service regulations and elevate its human resource management, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) conducted a dynamic Training Workshop on Competency-Based Recruitment, Selection, and Placement (CBHRSP) with Omnibus Rules on Appointments and Other Human Resource Actions (ORA-OHRA) on June 25-26 at the Hyflex Audio-Visual Center.

The workshop brought together key university officials from Naval and Biliran campuses, including University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., Vice President for Administration and Finance Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, Chief Administrative Officer for Administration Dr. Concepcion M. Gayrama, Supervising Administrative Officer for Administration Dr. Reggie N. Nierra, HRMO III Ms. Arrah Mae B. Tambis and several unit heads, the two-day seminar aims to enhance the workforce’s understanding of the integration between competency-based practices and regulatory frameworks in recruitment and HR management.

Framing the sessions is Dir. Michael M. Dela Cruz, Director of Civil Service Commission (CSC) Biliran Field Office, with discussions on aligning human resource practices with national standards.

A workplace like a garden, BiPSU is not just making sure the plants survive, but is helping them thrive. It ensures not just sustenance but the flourishing of its workforce, rooting development in compliance and innovation.

Prof. Cañezo emphasized the urgency and relevance of strengthening the university’s human resource systems. “This training workshop comes at a time when BiPSU is facing both opportunity and responsibility,” he delivered in a message. “Our enrollment is rising, our research output is growing, our public image is stronger than ever, but with growth comes greater scrutiny.”

At the outset, participants were introduced to CBHRSP and the Omnibus Rules on Appointments, imparting insights into competency-based approaches and their advantages for effective recruitment and selection.

Moreover, a panel discussion on best practices and compliance strategies were conducted, offering practical insights into the implementation of competency-based HR systems within the higher education sector.

To guide the university’s HR transformation, President Cañezo invoked the START framework—Situation, Task, Action, Result, Transfer—as a roadmap for improving recruitment systems.

“Every appointment we make now has long-term effects on instruction, research, extension, and even institutional reputation,” he added.

During the second day, participants gained insights on structuring competency-based interviews in line with regulatory requirements, using aligned tools and techniques in assessing candidates, which they have applied in a group exercise on developing job descriptions and selection criteria. 

The session also allowed participants to raise real-world concerns and challenges related to HR compliance.

Dir. Dela Cruz provided participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical tools to enhance BiPSU’s recruitment and selection processes. 

BiPSU’s proactive approach to human resource management has earned it notable accolades, including the Civil Service Commission’s PRIME-HRM Maturity Level II award in all four core HR systems. This recognition underscores the university’s dedication to creating an enabling environment where faculty and staff can thrive.

Through initiatives like this, BiPSU continues to cultivate a professional, dynamic, and regulation-aligned human resource culture, reinforcing its identity as a beacon of growth for learners and leaders alike.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals SDG No. 4: Quality Education and No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.] 

The Barangay Development Plan QUAT Extension Project Phase 2, led by the BA Economics Department of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) - School of Arts and Sciences, under the leadership of Department Chairperson Dr. Annel Ruth D. Celis and in partnership with BiPSU Gender and Development (GAD) Director Dr. Marianne Dagaylo-an, in collaboration with the BiPSU GAD Office, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Biliran, successfully concluded its activities from June 16 to 18, 2025, at the Nasunugan Lounge in Biliran, Biliran.

This initiative aimed to integrate Gender and Development (GAD) principles into the planning and budgeting processes of the municipality and its 11 barangays, fostering inclusive and equitable governance.

The extension activity brought together key officials, including Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) office heads, Punong Barangays, Secretaries, and Treasurers. Participants engaged in comprehensive orientations designed to build capacity in gender-responsive governance. The sessions covered foundational GAD concepts, Gender Analysis (GA) tools, Gender Equality and Responsive Leadership (GERL), and the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG). These topics equipped attendees with the knowledge and skills to identify gender gaps, address inequalities, and incorporate gender perspectives into local development plans and budgets.

A highlight of the program was the presentation of GAD plans for 2026 by both municipal and barangay LGUs. These plans demonstrated a strong commitment to embedding gender-responsive strategies into local governance, ensuring that programs, projects, and activities address the specific needs of diverse community members, including women, men, and marginalized groups. The plans reflected practical applications of the training, showcasing how gender analysis can shape policies that promote inclusivity and equity.

The event was graced by Mayor Myra G. Cabrales of the Municipality of Biliran, who delivered an inspiring message, urging officials to act as "weavers" of gender-responsive initiatives. She emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in creating programs that uplift all community members, fostering sustainable and inclusive development. Her call to action resonated with participants, highlighting the importance of their roles in driving meaningful change.

This initiative marks a pivotal step toward promoting gender equality and empowering local communities in Biliran. By equipping local leaders with the tools to integrate GAD principles, the project lays the foundation for more equitable governance. The collaboration between BiPSU, DILG, and the LGU underscores a shared commitment to fostering inclusive development, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. SDG 5: Gender Equality, No.16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals. ]

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) continues to make significant strides on the global stage, achieving notable recognition in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025 and participating in the prestigious THE Global Sustainable Development Congress held from June 16 to 19 at the Istanbul Congress Centre in Turkey.

Sustained Excellence in THE Impact Rankings 2025

Returning to the international ranking for the second consecutive year, BiPSU has secured its position in the THE Impact Rankings, placing at 1501+ among global institutions from 115 countries. 

This 2025, the university was evaluated across 10 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating significant progress in several key areas of transforming the world’s future.

BiPSU has woven a significant debut in six new SDGs, including SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (401–600th), SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (401–600th), SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (801–1000th), SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities (1001+), SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (1001+), and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being (1001–1500th).

Moreover, rising from 801–1000th last year, the university steps into 401–600th in terms of SDG 1: No Poverty. Further, it earned spots in SDG 5: Gender Equality (801–1000th), SDG 4: Quality Education (1001–1500th), and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (1501+).

University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the significance of these achievements, stating, “𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒌 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒘𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒆.”

Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the BiPSUnistas—students, faculty, staff, and partners—for their collective efforts.

Global Stage at THE Sustainable Development Congress

BiPSU elevated its global presence by joining 40 Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) at the 2025 THE Global Sustainable Development Congress in Turkey. As part of the Philippine delegation led by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Executive Director Cinderella Benitez-Jaro, BiPSU showcased its SDG-focused initiatives at the Philippine pavilion. The congress brought together global leaders, policymakers, and changemakers to promote partnerships and accelerate progress toward sustainability.

During the event, BiPSU engaged in dialogues with international counterparts to promote collaborative leadership and systems innovation. The university’s participation also aimed to enhance its international outlook and research collaboration, addressing areas for improvement in global ranking metrics.

On June 16, Prof. Cañezo made a courtesy visit to the Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines in Istanbul, receiving a warm welcome from Consul Rochelle Orence.

“𝑰𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒍𝒐𝒃𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒘𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑩𝒊𝑷𝑺𝑼 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅—𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝑩𝒊𝑷𝑺𝑼,” Prof. Cañezo expressed with pride in BiPSU’s global engagement.

A Catalyst for Sustainable Development

BiPSU’s consistent recognition in the THE Impact Rankings and its active participation in the Global Sustainable Development Congress highlight its role as a catalyst for sustainable development, both locally and globally. 

BiPSUnistas are encouraged to continue this trajectory of excellence and impact, weaving a tapestry of worthiness that solidifies the university’s position as a global leader in sustainable development.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 1: No Poverty, No. 3: Good Health and Well-being, No. 4: Quality Education, No. 5: Gender Equality, No. 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, No. 10: Reduced Inequalities, No. 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, No. 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

To strengthen its ongoing preparations for the 2025 International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), in collaboration with the Visayas–Mindanao Consortium for Journal Publications, Inc. (VMCJPI), held a key coordination meeting on June 13 at the Office of the President (OP) Convergence Room.

Set for September 16-19, the groundwork for the upcoming research conference brought together members of the working committees in a meeting led by University President Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. aimed to provide updates and implement key modifications to ensure the successful staging of the event. 

Themed "Innovative Pathways: Advancing SDGs through Transformative Research Methods," the conference will collaborate with the VMCJPI to address global issues like climate change, poverty, inequality, and health crises.

This year’s presentation welcomes researchers on methodological advances in research under the following strands: social sustainability, inclusive development, sustainable economic development, and environmental sustainability.

Research on social sustainability will center on pressing global concerns such as no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, and clean water and sanitation. Inclusive development papers will explore themes of quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities.

Meanwhile, sustainable economic development studies are expected to highlight areas such as affordable and clean energy; industry, innovation, and infrastructure; sustainable cities and communities; responsible consumption and production; decent work and economic growth; and peace, justice, and strong institutions. Whereas, research under the environmental sustainability strand should focus on climate action, life below water, and life on land.

In a statement, Dr. Cañezo remarked, "As we gear up for this activity in three months to come, I am pleased to share that preparations are now underway!" He added, "I look forward to welcoming scholars, researchers, and thought leaders as we explore methodologies that empower local and global communities and promote inclusive progress."

All interested participants are reminded of the important dates, which include the abstract submission deadline on July 28, notification of abstract acceptance from July 29 to August 3, and the deadline of full paper submission set on August 4.

In addition, manuscripts should be submitted by filling out this Google form: https://forms.gle/nYcbX2qhd9obxKpJA.

By fostering scholarly exchange and collaboration, the university continues to demonstrate its research culture that drives innovation, uplifts communities, and addresses the evolving challenges of sustainable development.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education, No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

In its firm commitment to sustainable development, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Extension Services Office (ESO), carried out an active involvement in writeshop and partnership initiatives in May and June 2025, focusing on environmental conservation and community empowerment in Biliran.

Led by Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, Director for ESO, the University has joined the Consultative Meeting and Writeshop for the Integrated Watershed Management Plan (IWMP) for the Amambahag River Watershed at the Culaba Training Center, Culaba, Biliran on May 27–28.

The collaborative writeshop aimed to develop a science-based, inclusive IWMP that balances ecological preservation, social equity, and economic development.

Organized by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Biliran, the lead agency of the Amambahag River Watershed Management Planning Team (ARWMPT), the event brought together representatives from local government units, civil society organizations, and key stakeholders.

In the said meeting, the Amambahag River Watershed, vital for irrigation and livelihoods in Culaba, was thoroughly assessed through its biophysical and socio-economic characterization, laying the groundwork for strategic interventions and policies to ensure its long-term sustainability.

BiPSU-ESO contributed to crafting a plan aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting clean water and sanitation, climate action, and life on land. This initiative underlines BiPSU’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being through inclusive planning and shared responsibility.

Moreover, on June 11, BiPSU-ESO held a Consultative Meeting and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Presentation with the Community Forestry Program – Beneficiaries Association (CFP-BA) at the Barangay Hall of Villa Vicenta, Caibiran, Biliran.

Said activity, led by Dr. Ampong and CFP-BA President Mr. Martin C. Rosete, formalized a partnership to implement priority programs under BiPSU’s Integrated Community Extension Services Program (ICESP).

To support sustainable agriculture, improve water access, and promote climate-resilient development in upland communities, the MOA focuses on establishing and managing a Small Water Impounding System (SWIS) at Sitio Kapatagan, Brgy. Kalipayan, Culaba. 

The meeting facilitated transparent dialogue and role clarification, with active participation from CFP-BA members, reinforcing community commitment to the partnership.

Through these key initiatives, the university demonstrates its strong commitment to addressing environmental challenges and enhancing community livelihoods. By advancing strategic collaborations with local stakeholders, #WoWBiPSU continues to drive sustainable, inclusive development, aligning with its vision to meet the evolving needs of local and global communities.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, No. 13: Climate Action, No. 15: Life on Land, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals].

In support of the government’s “ease of doing business” initiative and to strengthen the implementation of its student internship programs, Biliran Province State University convened university officials on June 10 at the University HAVC to discuss strategies in aligning current practices with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) directives.

Presided over by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., the meeting was attended by officials and representatives from academic and administrative units, including vice presidents, deans, legal counsel, and internship coordinators. 

The agenda focused on aligning BiPSU’s internship practices with CHED Memorandum Orders No. 23, s. 2009, No. 104, s. 2017 (SIPP), and No. 10, s. 2023 (SIAP), while also reviewing institutional responsibilities and enhancing monitoring and documentation protocols.

Dr. Cañezo reiterated the university’s strong commitment to full compliance with CHED policies and to eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that often delay internship processing. “Let’s stick with the CMO so that we will not be questioned later on about the delay in OJT processing,” he said. “We need to streamline documentation and implementation flows.”

University Legal Officer Atty. Dick Guiller Delfin presented the updated process flow for internship deployment and reiterated the importance of maintaining a single Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) per Host Training Establishment (HTE), as mandated by CHED. He also emphasized the role of Program OJT Coordinators in ensuring compliance at the student level through the execution of Student Internship Training Agreements.

Addressing concerns raised by deans and coordinators, the university president clarified that the Office of External Affairs will no longer be the main clearinghouse for internship-related documentation.

“The respective colleges or schools, under the supervision of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Vice President for Student and External Affairs, will take direct responsibility for organizing Pre-Deployment Orientation Seminars (PDOS), preparing endorsement letters, and verifying student compliance,” Dr. Cañezo added.

Internship preparation timelines were also streamlined. Required documents for second-semester interns are now expected to be completed during the first semester, and vice versa—allowing for smoother transitions and minimizing delays. 

Dr. Canezo also committed to personally attending PDOS sessions and signing necessary documents on-site to avoid bottlenecks. “Para dili na sila magpila sa President’s Office,” he said.

Meanwhile, in line with BiPSU’s move toward a leaner and more student-centered system, Dr. Canezo discouraged the imposition of unnecessary requirements not stipulated by CHED or institutional policy. 

He particularly emphasized that while student-made OJT journals remain required, the use of pre-printed OJT manuals should not be mandatory, promoting instead reflective and flexible formats for student documentation.

To reinforce supervision, it was also confirmed that each student section undergoing internship must have a designated faculty member with appropriate teaching load credit. “In this way, we can ensure direct monitoring and mentorship,” the university president said.

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

In line with its dedicated mission to prepare students for professional success beyond the classroom, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through its Job Placement Office (JPO), successfully conducted an orientation program of labor standards for college students and a local recruitment activity on June 10 and 11, respectively, at the Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC).

This dual initiative reflects the university’s proactive approach to student employability, aimed at equipping future graduates with essential knowledge of labor regulations while weaving immediate opportunities for local and global careers into their academic journey.

Featuring Mr. Gelo Catilogo, speaking on behalf of Mr. Francisco Segovia, Jr., OIC-Head of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Biliran Field Office, the orientation program brought together students from various academic disciplines to engage in a comprehensive discussion on crucial labor laws and standard workplace practices, empowering learners with the foundational know-hows essential for navigating the complexities of the modern workplace.

“Understanding your labor rights and obligations is the core of a dignified and productive career,” Catilogo stated. “As you transition from students to professionals, this awareness empowers you to advocate for fair working conditions and to contribute meaningfully to our nation's economic growth."

In his inspirational message, Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, Vice President for Students and External Affairs, encouraged students to view the future as a blank canvas awaiting their unique creation.

“Remember that success isn’t solely about the paycheck; it’s about the journey, the growth, and the impact you make,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, the local recruitment activity transformed the HAV-C into a nexus for career opportunities, specifically for those aspiring to join the global teaching community.

In partnership with QQ English Philippines, one of the country's premier English language institutions, the university welcomed Ms. Teodora M. Gimenez, Branch Manager, who led the on-site job fair.

Targeting aspiring educators, particularly in the field of English as a Second Language (ESL), the event offered qualified BiPSU graduates a direct avenue to employment in a dynamic and globally connected industry.

Successful candidates stand to benefit from paid training, accommodation and travel assistance, and performance-based incentives.

“This two-day activity is designed not just to inform, but to promote ethical employment practices and long-term sustainability across all sectors,” said Dr. Miguel Supremo, Jr., Head of the JPO. “We envision BiPSUnistas not only as job seekers but as future leaders, innovators, and advocates for decent and dignified work.”

With these initiatives, BiPSU reaffirms its commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also ethically conscious, legally informed, and career-ready to contribute significantly to the economic landscape of Biliran Province and beyond.

By integrating essential workforce readiness components with direct career opportunities, the university is not merely educating; it is actively shaping a future-ready workforce, resilient, informed, and poised for impactful service to society.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, No. 4: Quality Education, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

In a heartfelt effort to weave science into the fabric of local life, Balik Scientist Dr. Benildo de los Reyes has teamed up with Biliran Province State University’s School of Agribusiness and Forest Resource Management (BiPSU-SABFoRM) for a series of field visits across Biliran from June 4 to 13.

As part of his month-long engagement with BiPSU, Dr. de los Reyes is leading efforts to uncover R&D opportunities tailored to the unique context of Biliran, while also enhancing the university’s academic programs in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry.

“This is a strategic action towards our becoming of an internationally recognized university responsive to the needs of the local and global communities,” University President Prof. Victor Catigbe Cañezo, Jr. stated.

The journey kicked off on June 3 with an abaca planting activity at the BiPSU Biliran Campus held with a partner institution, followed by discussions between the Balik Scientist and program chairs of BS Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry. 

On June 4, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) conducted an orientation on the Balik Scientist program, and a roundtable discussion for BiPSU faculty focused on research proposal submissions.

Field visits and validations occurred in the Municipalities of Almeria and Caibiran to identify researchable agricultural issues, including a visit to the Office of the Provincial Agricultural Services Office of Biliran.

Moreover, the Balik Scientist team also met with the Caucab Forest Savers Association to plan biodiversity conservation and visited the Mamanwa Tribe to assess community needs. The group, led by Dr. Randy Villarin, Dean of the SABFoRM, evaluated poultry and livestock operations at Canaan Hill Farms for potential research and development opportunities.

On Monday, June 9, the said program team conducted a site visit in Barangay Sanggalang, Biliran, Biliran where they examined a mangrove plantation managed by a local People’s Organization—one of the university’s community extension partners under the Department of Forest Science.

Discussions during the said visit focused on environmental research and sustainable livelihood initiatives for the local community.

Also, the team assessed the mangrove ecosystem at the BiPSU Biliran Lower Campus, identifying promising research areas related to mangrove and biodiversity conservation.

Another key stop was at the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Biliran, where the group discussed integrating cacao and coffee production into agroforestry systems under the Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) framework. These initiatives align with the priority crops identified by the DOST-PCAARRD.

The site visits likewise included the Tilapia Hatchery in Naval, Biliran, overseen by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), wherein the group explored potential research collaborations focused on inland aquatic resource development, another key area under DOST-PCAARRD’s agenda.

“I thank DOST and Dr. de los Reyes for this rare opportunity entrusted to BiPSU Biliran Campus,” shared Dr. Villarin.

Moving forward, Dr. de los Reyes and BiPSU will continue to pursue strategies to align the university and the province with national and global research standards.

Upcoming initiatives include participation in the Regional Abaca Coalition Meeting, a curriculum review, and a workshop on research proposal development and packaging, all aimed at strengthening BiPSU’s R&D capacity.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal sNo. 15: Life on Land, No. 14: Life Below Water, No. 2: Zero Hunger, No. 4: Quality Education, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Biliran Province State University’s (BiPSU) An Lantugi Debate Society (ALDS) clinched the Novice Championship at the Northern Luzon Intervarsity (NLIV), held online via zoom and discord from May 31 to June 1, after facing off against an Indian university team in the grand final round.

The competition, organized by Saint Louis University, featured universities from across the Philippines and other countries, debating socially relevant motions in the Asian Parliamentary format over multiple rounds.

Representing BiPSU were John Jedidia Maas, a second-year BS Civil Engineering student; Crystel Demate, a first-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student; and Chazonne Almazon, a second-year Bachelor of Secondary Education student majoring in Social Studies.

During the first and second preliminary rounds, the BiPSU team, taking the government side, debated the motions “This House would allow commercial surrogacy” and “This House believes that government benefits should be proportional to the taxes individuals pay”; however, they were unable to secure wins in these rounds.

Nevertheless, the team made a strong comeback in the third and fourth rounds as the opposition, winning both debates on the motions “This House believes that award-giving bodies should recognize male and female talents under a singular award category” and “Assuming feasibility, this House would adopt a uniform global carbon pricing scheme.”

In the grand final round, BiPSU went head-to-head with an Indian university team as the opposition on the motion, “This House believes that failing economies should prioritize the subsidization of existing start-ups over bailing out corporations.”

After the round, BiPSU Team ultimately secured the championship by a unanimous decision, with John Jedidia Maas earning the distinction of Novice Grand Finals Best Speaker.

In an interview, Crystel Mae Demate, one of the debaters, said that their recent win marks an important part of their preparation for bigger tournaments and reflects their dedication to making the university's support count.

"This victory is just one of the few steps that we believe is essential to prepare us for our upcoming tournament in UP Diliman because we want to make sure that every penny spent on us is worth it, especially since we are funded through the university’s income,” she said.

“I’m also very thankful to the administration for the support all throughout the competition and for giving us the opportunity to compete and bring the name of BiPSU with us,” added Demate.

The team was coached and mentored by Joedel Peñaranda, Atty. Guiller Delfin, Dr. John Cavin Sabonsolin, and Edwardo Almazan.

Moreover, the same team, with Dominic Chad Catipay from BSED-English serving as adjudicator, is planning to compete in the Santiago Ortega Cup from June 6 to 8, and will compete face-to-face in Philippine Intercollegiate Debating Championship (PIDC) at the University of the Philippines Diliman from June 12 to 18.

#WoWBiPSU

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