Samar State University (SSU), in partnership with Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Region 8, officially opened the 6th International and 9th National Conference on Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development (IPOVCON) today, October 8, at the BiPSU Gym in Naval, Biliran. The conference is a vital convergence point for advocates and experts, rallying under the theme: "Technology-Driven Solutions for Poverty Alleviation and Inclusive Sustainability."

The IPOVCON aims to provide a dynamic platform for educators, researchers, and policymakers to exchange insights and best practices that will further pursue poverty reduction programs on both the global and local landscape. SSU President and conference convener, Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, highlighted this objective in his rationale, underscoring the conference's role in driving meaningful action.

𝑶𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝑴𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒔

The event commenced with a welcoming address from BiPSU President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., who framed the conference as a key step in realizing the university's institutional mantra: "Weaving BiPSU with the world and the world with BiPSU." He emphasized the attendees' shared commitment to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that progress is inclusive and that "no one is left behind."

Further solidifying the conference's importance, messages of support and inspiration were delivered by several regional leaders, including Dr. Leo D. Camposano (representing CHED Region 8 Director Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe), Hon. Jade Tiu (representing Samar Governor Hon. Sharee Ann T. Tan), and Biliran Governor Hon. Rogelio J. Espina, MD, FPOA. Their collective messages stressed the crucial role of education, innovation, and collaboration in effectively addressing current poverty challenges.

𝑲𝒆𝒚𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒆 𝑨𝒅𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔: 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

The conference officially kicked off with a series of inspiring keynote speeches that set the intellectual tone for the succeeding discussions.

Hon. Meylene C. Rosales, Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDevR08) and Co-Host of IPOVCON 2025, delivered the first keynote address titled “Aligning Technology-Driven Poverty Reduction Strategies with Regional Development Plans.” Dir. Rosales emphasized the importance of innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based policymaking in achieving inclusive and sustainable growth across the region.

The focus on technology continued with Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Region 8, who spoke on “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation to Break the Cycle of Poverty.” Dr. Ocaña underscored the transformative power of science and technology in empowering communities, driving economic progress, and creating sustainable solutions for poverty alleviation.

The exchange of ideas went global with Dr. Antonius Torang P. Siahaan, Dean of the Faculty of Business at Sampoerna University, Indonesia. In his address, “Digital Financial Literacy and Technology as Catalysts for Global Economic Inclusion,” Dr. Siahaan highlighted how digital empowerment and financial inclusion can open doors to global opportunities, transforming lives and communities through innovation.

The IPOVCON provides a vital platform for educators, researchers, and advocates to foster dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnerships essential for achieving transformative education and sustainable progress.

#WoWBiPSU #iPOVCON2025

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) recently secured a significant accreditation from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), marking a pivotal moment in the institution's commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino culture and heritage. This achievement is a testament to the university's dedication to making cultural understanding a core part of its educational mission, recognizing that a deep connection to heritage is vital for holistic community development.

The successful application was spearheaded by Willard Riveral, Director of the Center for Biliran Province Studies (CBPS), whose efforts and vision were instrumental in achieving this milestone. The accreditation underscores BiPSU's vital role in the weaving of worthiness—nurturing cultural awareness and integrating meaningful cultural initiatives across its academic community and the wider region. This phrase captures the essence of the university’s mission: to acknowledge, elevate, and celebrate the intrinsic value of local culture, thereby enriching the identity and self-esteem of its people. By securing this official recognition, BiPSU is now formally empowered to act as a significant custodian of cultural knowledge and a dynamic center for creative expression.

This NCCA accreditation is not merely a seal of approval; it is a gateway. It immediately grants BiPSU access to wider opportunities for collaboration, funding, and essential cultural development programs offered through the national body. This newfound access will significantly empower the university's mission to serve as the region’s premier hub for cultural enrichment, moving beyond the classroom to engage local communities, artists, and historians.

Furthermore, the accreditation will facilitate the staging of more high-profile cultural events, such as regional art exhibitions, traditional music and dance festivals, and workshops designed to revitalize endangered cultural practices. The CBPS, under Riveral's direction, is poised to become a more active research powerhouse, documenting Biliran's unique cultural landscape and ensuring its stories are preserved for future generations. Ultimately, this NCCA accreditation solidifies BiPSU’s position as a dynamic force not just in education, but in the crucial work of national and regional cultural development. The university is set to transform the cultural landscape of Biliran Province, making heritage an accessible and vibrant part of everyday life.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) celebrated a phenomenal showcase of academic prowess and community impact as the Researchlympics (Research, Innovation, and Extension Exhibit) 2025 concluded its proceedings on September 24, 2025. The annual event was a resounding success, highlighting the dedication, hard work, and creativity of BiPSU’s students and faculty across various disciplines.

This year's competition was described as a true weaving of worthiness, powerfully showcasing the incredible talent and commitment to innovation embedded within the university. The groundbreaking projects and impressive presentations on display promise a bright future for research in the province.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐬: 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬

𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑷𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

The Research Poster Competition was a great display of scholarly work. The top spots were earned by:

1st Place: School of Technology and Computer Studies

2nd Place: School of Engineering

3rd Place: School of Agri-Fishery

𝑳𝒐𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝑭𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝑰𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

This competition celebrated creativity in cuisine and product development. The winning teams showed us how local ingredients can be transformed into new, exciting creations.

1st Place: School of Nursing and Health Sciences

2nd Place: School of Arts and Sciences

3rd Place: School of Technology and Computer Studies

𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑬𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓

This award recognizes the teams that made the biggest impact in the community through their projects.

1st Place: School of Engineering

2nd Place: STED (Biliran Campus)

3rd Place: STED (Naval Campus)

𝑹𝑰𝑬𝑺 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝑬𝒙𝒉𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒕 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

The booth exhibits were a visual feast, offering a great way to engage with the public. The teams that created the most informative and captivating displays were:

1st Place: School of Technology and Computer Studies

2nd Place: School of Management and Entrepreneurship

3rd Place: School of Engineering

𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑷𝒊𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

The Research Pitching Competition gave participants a chance to present their projects in a dynamic and engaging way. The winners are:

Category A: Non-Technology

1st Place: School of Nursing and Health Sciences

2nd Place: School of Arts and Sciences

3rd Place: School of Management and Entrepreneurship

Category B: Technology

1st Place: School of Teacher Education (Naval Campus)

2nd Place: School of Engineering

3rd Place: School of Technology and Computer Studies

𝑺𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝑹𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

In this modern challenge, participants created engaging short videos to communicate their research.

1st Place: School of Agri-Fishery

2nd Place: School of Nursing and Health Sciences

3rd Place: School of Teacher Education (Naval Campus)

Congratulations to all the winners and participants. Your contributions not only enriched the BiPSU community but also showcased the bright future of research and innovation in the province. The success of the Researchlympics 2025 is a testament to the dedication of every student and faculty member involved.

#WoWBiPSU

On the morning of October 1, the commitment of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) to community well-being shone brightly as its officials spearheaded a crucial relief mission for the typhoon-battered residents of Sitio Palayan, Barangay Caucab, Almeria. University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. personally joined a high-level delegation that included Biliran Governor Rogelio J. Espina, MD, FPOA, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Sofronio Dacillo Jr., and Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Regional Office 8 Regional Director Lord Byron P. Torrecarion.

The destination, Sitio Palayan, holds particular significance as it is home to the Mamanua indigenous peoples—a community often among the most vulnerable during natural disasters. The force of Typhoon Opong had rendered the main roads leading to the barangay impassable, underscoring the severity of the damage and the isolation of the residents. Overcoming this logistical challenge, the officials traveled by helicopter to ensure the timely delivery of essential aid.

The primary relief items delivered were hygiene kits, thoughtfully provided by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). While the kits address immediate practical needs, the act of personally delivering them via air speaks volumes about the collective resolve of the provincial leadership and participating agencies to reach every citizen, regardless of geographical barriers. This effort embodies the spirit of genuine Service, a core value of BiPSU which states: "We help change lives."

𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

For BiPSU, this mission is far more than a simple act of charity; it’s a living demonstration of the institutional tagline: “weaving of worthiness.” The University's presence alongside key government partners serves to weave together the threads of institutional responsibility, inter-agency cooperation, and profound empathy. By actively participating in disaster response, BiPSU reaffirms that its commitment extends beyond the lecture halls and into the real-world challenges faced by the community it serves.

This seamless cooperation between the academic sector (BiPSU), the Provincial Government, and national disaster agencies like the OCD is the cornerstone of resilience. It sends a clear message to the residents of Sitio Palayan and beyond that they are valued and supported in their journey toward recovery. Each hygiene kit and every difficult mile traveled by the officials helps to "change lives" by restoring dignity, providing security, and ensuring that no community, especially indigenous groups, is left behind.

The successful relief mission highlights BiPSU’s active role in disaster preparedness and response, strengthening the social fabric of Biliran Province and demonstrating that when institutions collaborate, they create a safety net capable of withstanding the fiercest storms. This is the ultimate fulfillment of the #WoWBiPSU spirit.

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) President, Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, addressed future engineers last September 30, 2025 at the School of Engineering (SOE) Student Onboarding 2025, where he delivered a powerful message emphasizing that integrity, not just technical skill, will ultimately define their careers and contributions to the nation.

In his key address, President Cañezo challenged the engineering students to aspire to be more than just builders of structures. "I would like to remind our future engineers that more than skills, it is integrity that will define the kind of builders they will become," he stated.

The President highlighted the critical need for ethical professionals given the current state of the country. "We need not only engineers of structures, but engineers of trust," he asserted. The statement underscored a foundational principle: "After all, without integrity, no plan is sound and no foundation can last." This sentiment positions honesty and ethical practice as the most crucial element in any engineering endeavor.

The SOE Student Onboarding 2025 event is a key initiative of the BiPSU administration, through the School of Engineering, designed to ensure students are fully prepared for university life. President Cañezo noted that the program’s goal is to "guide students on university policies, as well as their rights and privileges, making sure they are informed, supported, and empowered as members of the BiPSU community."

The onboarding serves as a comprehensive introduction to the institution's standards and culture.

Closing his message, President Cañezo issued a final challenge to the students, encouraging them to embody the core values of the institution. "To our future BiPSUnista engineers, may you carry integrity in every blueprint, every design, and every project you will one day build for our communities—because that is a value every true #WoWBiPSUnista should possess."

[𝘗𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘒𝘳𝘩𝘺𝘴 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘦 𝘗𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴, 𝘒𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘕𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘢, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘘𝘶𝘦𝘪𝘱𝘰 | 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯]

The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has issued a definitive declaration of safety following the magnitude earthquake that struck near Cebu on September 30, 2025, and was strongly felt across Biliran province. The university's prompt assessment, completed on October 1, 2025, confirmed that all its facilities remain structurally sound and safe for occupation, clearing the path for an immediate and complete resumption of normal operations.

University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, made the reassuring announcement early on October 1st, underscoring the effectiveness of the university’s emergency protocols. "The BiPSU Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Security Unit reported to my office that no damage was found in any of our buildings after the magnitude earthquake that hit Cebu and was felt here in Biliran," President Cañezo stated. "Per DRRM’s assessment, all buildings are safe for occupancy. We are thankful for the swift action of our personnel."

This rapid and comprehensive confirmation of structural integrity, taking less than a day after the event, is crucial, not only for ensuring the physical safety of students and staff but also for maintaining the continuity of academic life. It allows the university to swiftly move past the disruption, demonstrating an agile and prepared response to natural phenomena common in the region. The immediate return to classes and administrative duties minimizes academic loss and reinforces a culture of preparedness.

Beyond the logistical confirmation of safety, President Cañezo leveraged the moment to deliver an inspirational call for unity and sustained effort, aimed at strengthening the community's collective spirit. His message resonated with the characteristic resilience of the BiPSU community: "Tuloy po ang trabaho, BiPSUnistas! Stay safe and let’s continue to look out for one another."

This swift return to work highlights the deep-seated resilience of the academic community. It reinforces the core values that contribute to the weaving of worthiness at BiPSU—the collective effort and unwavering commitment to excellence and service, even when faced with natural disruption. The shared experience of weathering the quake on September 30th and immediately uniting to resume the mission of education solidifies the bond between faculty, staff, and students, proving that the university's strength is built on more than just concrete and steel. It is rooted in the shared responsibility and mutual support that defines the BiPSU spirit. The university continues to monitor the situation while focusing on its core mandate of fostering a secure and conducive environment for learning and development.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) demonstrated its unwavering commitment to its students' welfare as University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., accompanied by a dedicated team of university officials, faculty, and staff, personally visited students deeply affected by the devastating Typhoon Opong on September 29, 2025. The outreach focused specifically on Barangay Bilwang, Kawayan, Biliran, identified as one of the areas hit hardest, where the typhoon's fury resulted in numerous totally damaged houses.

The visit went beyond a mere formality. President Cañezo and his team took the time to speak with the students and their families, genuinely checking on their condition and assessing the immediate impact of the disaster on their lives. This face-to-face interaction underscored the university's concern and provided crucial on-the-ground information about the specific needs of the affected community members.

In a tangible gesture of immediate support, the university team extended a small amount of financial assistance to each of the students. While this emergency aid provided crucial help for immediate necessities, BiPSU is looking toward a more long-term, comprehensive solution to ensure these students can rebuild their lives without sacrificing their education.

This commitment to the students' future is encapsulated in the university’s proactive plan to enroll them in the Affirmative Action Scholarship Program. This initiative aims to significantly ease their financial burden moving forward, recognizing that recovering from a calamity of this scale often means diverting funds away from educational expenses. By securing scholarship slots, the university seeks to ensure the continuity of their studies, a vital step in helping them regain a sense of normalcy and stability following the catastrophic event.

This scholarship plan, however, is subject to the final approval of the Board of Regents. The university administration remains optimistic, emphasizing the necessity of supporting students who have faced such tremendous adversity. The initiative reflects the university’s role not just as an educational institution, but as a responsive and caring anchor for the Biliran community during times of crisis. BiPSU's actions send a clear message: the university stands firmly behind its students, helping them navigate tragedy and secure their academic dreams.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has officially entered into a Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) with the BiPSU Faculty Association (BiPSUFA), marking a significant milestone for the welfare and empowerment of the university's teaching personnel.

The formal signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place today, October 2, at the OP Convergence.

In a statement, University President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, expressed his strong support for the initiative. "Today, October 2, at the OP Convergence, we officially signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) of our dear faculty members here at BiPSU," he stated.

President Cañezo commended the efforts of the faculty leaders who spearheaded the agreement, extending his congratulations to the BiPSUFA officers, led by their President, Engr. Jude D. Banico, "for successfully making this possible." He also gave "special thanks as well to our very active Faculty Regent, Hon. Vennie Coton, for his guidance and invaluable support to our faculty."

The President underscored the importance of the newly signed agreement, describing it as a "formal recognition of the rights and welfare of our BiPSU faculty and a manifestation that we are really working hard for the continuous improvement of our university."

He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the positive impact of the CNA, calling it "another WoW for the empowerment of our faculty!" The agreement is anticipated to enhance the working conditions, benefits, and overall morale of the BiPSU faculty members.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has been recognized as a top-performing agency in the implementation of the Gender and Development (GAD) Budget Policy, receiving a prestigious award from the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).

The university was honored for its exceptional commitment and remarkable performance in allocating and using its 2024 GAD Budget to advance gender equality and women's empowerment. The recognition ceremony for the 2024 Top-Performing Agencies in the GAD Budget was held at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria in Quezon City.

BiPSU President, Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP, accepted the award on behalf of the university. He was joined by Gender and Development Director Marianne Dagayloan and Mr. Edison Ralar. This commendation highlights BiPSU's exemplary practices in promoting gender-responsive programs and projects.

"This award is a testament to the collective dedication of the entire BiPSU community to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment," stated Prof. Cañezo. "Through the weaving of worthiness into our policies and programs, we aim to empower every individual and ensure that gender equality is not just a goal, but a lived reality. We are deeply honored by this recognition from the Philippine Commission on Women and remain committed to continuously strengthening our GAD initiatives."

According to the PCW, BiPSU achieved a remarkable milestone by ranking 10th among all State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) with the highest GAD Budget Expenditure. This recognition serves as a testament to the university's leadership and unwavering dedication to gender-responsive governance.

The PCW expressed its confidence that this achievement will motivate BiPSU to continue its excellence in upcoming assessment periods. The university's consistent efforts have positioned it as a model for advancing gender equality commitments and inclusive governance across the country.

#WoWBiPSU

Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has officially launched a call for suppliers and contractors to take part in a Market Scoping Activity for the Procurement of Academic Digital Innovation and ICT Systems, which will be held on October 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at the OP Convergence Room. The project, which is worth Php 56,615,000.00, is part of BiPSU’s ongoing initiatives to improve its ICT systems and embrace digitalization across academic and administrative services.