To honor BiPSU Tigers delegates after sealing a historic win as the overall champion at the recently concluded 38th Eastern Visayas Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (EVR-SCUAA) Games 2024, the university organized a victory party on January 31 at the university gymnasium.

Before the celebration, BiPSU athletes marched around the streets of Naval, proudly wearing the tigers yellow and blue uniform, to further showcase their impressive accomplishments.

In her opening remarks, Engr. Carmel Sigrid Docallos, director of the Sports Development Office, emphasized that the gathering was a celebration of unity and achievement, as BiPSU, after 38 years of competing in the EVR-SCUAA Games, had finally claimed the title of overall champion.

"Tonight, we gather not just as athletes, coaches, or supporters, but as one proud BiPSU family, united in celebrating a historic triumph," she said. 

"After 38 years of competition in the Eastern Visayas SCUAA Games, the moment we've been waiting for has finally arrived. We stand here, victorious, as the overall champions in the recently concluded Regional SCUAA Games."

Moreover, during the same event, a formal presentation of awards honored the SCUAA 2024 medalists, followed by the distribution of medals and incentives which includes 2000 for gold medalists, 1500 for silver, and 1000 for bronze.

In his inspirational message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. expressed his gratitude to the athletes, coaches, trainers, and all those who contributed to the victory. He also encouraged the athletes to remain focused, uphold their strong performance, and continue to set new standards of excellence in the future.

"I want to congratulate everyone for our success, and I thank all the athletes, coaches, trainers, and everyone who brought immense pride to BiPSU. This victory is a powerful reminder that with your perseverance and teamwork, we can overcome any challenge," he said. "Let it inspire you to continue pushing forward and to reach even greater heights in the future."

In addition, the event was graced by key university officials, including Dr. Susan Bentor, vice president for Academic Affairs; Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, vice president for Student and External Affairs; Dr. Roland Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; and Hon. Aluah Kane Cabalhin, student regent. Also in attendance were Supply Officer, Mr. Joemard Calvez, Regional Sports Director, Engr. Docallos and Sports Chairperson, Henreyna Redublado. 

A total of 51 athletes will proudly represent BiPSU and Region VIII at the upcoming National SCUAA, set to take place from April 22 to 26, 2025.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]

Biliran Province State University, through its Extension Services Office, conducted a Seminar-Workshop on Radio Broadcasting at the Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center on January 31.

With the theme, “Transforming Communities through the Power of Voice,” the said workshop aims to empower Extension Services Chairpersons from the different schools across the university in producing and delivering effective and engaging broadcast tools for conducting extension services and community engagements.

In his welcome remarks, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, Dr. Roland A. Niez, highlighted the importance of Radio Broadcasting in conducting university extension services and community engagement activities.

“The role of Radio Broadcasting extends beyond mere information dissemination—it serves as a vital bridge between the university and community, and amplifies our institution’s voice, allowing us to share academic insights, research breakthroughs, and initiatives that contribute to social development,” he said.

Meanwhile, the seminar-workshop featured Mr. Michael Aguilos, owner and operations manager of Radyo-Natin FM Naval and a faculty member of the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), as the speaker of the event. He discussed the fundamentals of Radio Broadcasting and provided ways to develop effective radio content. In addition, he also trained the participants in proper voice modulation and live Radio Broadcasting.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., in an interview, highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering alternative modalities in conducting extension services to better serve the community.

“This seminar-workshop assures that the university can provide different alternative modalities in conducting its extension services to the communities,” the university president emphasized. “With this new way— Radio Broadcasting, we can reach a wider audience and help in effective knowledge-sharing and community engagement.”

The Extension Services Office targets to achieve 4,500 participants as per the set target by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) this year.

[This aligns with SDG Number 17: Partnerships for the Goals]

BiPSU Biliran Campus is gearing up for a major upgrade with the construction of a state-of-the-art Academic H-Building and Library. The P70-million project aims to provide modern learning spaces and enhanced academic resources to meet the needs of the growing student population.

The new three-storey Academic H-Building and Library will replace the aging 60-year-old structure, which has become vulnerable to earthquakes, typhoons, and flooding.

With more than 500 students expected to be accommodated with this development, the building will address the increasing demand for additional space and improved resources. It will feature 11 technologized classrooms and laboratories, a faculty room, an audio-visual room, and a spacious library.

The facility will feature 11 technologized classrooms and laboratories, faculty room, audio visual room, and a spacious library to enhance its educational offerings and provide students with a conducive learning space.

According to the university’s Engineering and Physical Development Office (EPDO), the project is expected to start in the first quarter of this year, with completion slated for December 2025.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. expressed his excitement on the new development for BiPSU’s satellite campus. 

"We are excited about the future of our Biliran Campus, and the construction of the Academic H-Building and Library is a major step forward in our commitment to providing quality education,” he said. “This new facility will provide a more resilient and innovative learning environment for our students.”

The P70-million project is fully funded through the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of Fiscal Year 2025.

#WoWBiPSU

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. visited the BiPSU Biliran Campus on January 28 for a Consultative Meeting to address several key issues affecting the campus.

During the meeting, various concerns were discussed, including the renovation and repair of the 3- storey Academic H-Building and library worth 70-M, set to begin construction in February, this year.

Dr. Cañezo also announced the installation of smart interactive boards and smart TVs at the campus, which aim to make teaching and learning more interactive.

The University president also emphasized the university’s response to the growing student population at Biliran Campus. "To accommodate the increasing number of students, we are prioritizing the conversion of some offices into classrooms. This will allow us to provide adequate learning spaces for our students," he said.

The meeting also covered the development of the Fishery and Agriculture programs, which require COPC submission. Dr. Cañezo also expressed his support for the program's expansion, including the potential introduction of a Master's program in Fishery. He noted that these initiatives would align with the increasing interest in agricultural studies and the growing number of students enrolling at the Biliran campus.

In addition to academic matters, discussions were held about maintenance and repair of the campus facade, as well as the housing project partnership that aims to provide affordable accommodations for faculty members. The university president recognized that ensuring the welfare of faculty is critical to creating a stable and supportive environment for teaching and learning.

"We are not only focused on expanding our infrastructure, but also on enhancing the overall experience for both students and faculty at BiPSU. We are taking steps to address the challenges we face now while also planning for future developments," Dr. Cañezo added.

The meeting was attended by key BiPSU officials, including Administrative Officer V, Dr. Juvy Piñon, Dr. Gerleah Peñaflor, dean of the School of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr. Randy Villarin, dean of the School of Agri-Business and Forest Resource Management, Dr. Naneta M. Panit, dean of the School of Teacher Education-Biliran Campus, Jeruel Espinazo, director of the Innovation Office, other administrative personnel, faculty, and staff members.

#WoWBiPSU

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4 Quality Education.]

Aimed to leverage the university’s quality education, Biliran Province State University has recently procured 68 smart TVs and 11 interactive classrooms. Fifty-nine smart TVs were allocated for the Main Campus, while nine TV’s for Biliran Campus.

University key officials, including University President Dr. Victor C. Canezo, VP for Student and External Affairs Dr. Erwin Salvatierra, and VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan Bentor, conducted an inspection of the installed TVs and boards on January 27 to ensure its quality and functionality.

In an interview, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr. acknowledged the need for faculty training to maximize the use of these new devices.

“We are currently planning a series of training sessions to equip our teachers with necessary skills and knowledge to utilize the SMART TVs effectively in their classrooms,” Dr. Cañezo said.

According to Archt. Emman Ruel Bernil of Engineering and Physical Development Office (EPDO), the installation started on January 24 and is currently ongoing for the remaining 22 smart TVs.

Moreover, the formal turnover of these TVs to the school deans is to be conducted after the completion of the installation process.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education]

Biliran Province State University has received a P7.015 million grant from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARR), which will support two critical agricultural projects aimed at enhancing food security and sustainability in Eastern Visayas.

The first project, titled “Survey and Assessment of Entomopathogens Against the Aphid Vector Pentalonia nigronervosa of Abaca Bunchy Top Virus in Eastern Visayas,” focuses on combating abaca bunchy top disease. It aims to utilize entomopathogens to control aphid vectors, promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Meanwhile, the second project, “Upgrading of Biological Control Agents Laboratory in Biliran Province State University-Biliran Campus for Sustainable Pest Management in Biliran Province,” will upgrade BiPSU's Biological Control Agents Laboratory. This upgrade will enable the university to mass-produce biocontrol agents, providing farmers with access to effective and sustainable pest management solutions.

These projects are led by Mr. Jofil A. Mati-om and supported by a dedicated team of project staff, including Dr. Randy A. Villarin, Mr. Jeruel A. Espinazo, Ms. Rossan U. Piamonte, and Mr. Christian Ulysess G. Cagasan. Additional project staff, including Mr. Novie A. Sales, Mr. Rhelivyn M. Rosendal, and Engr. Romel G. Quinte, as well as consultants Dr. Ruben M. Gapasin and Dr. Lily Ann D. Lando, further bolster the initiative.

In his statement, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. emphasized the significance of the grant in the university’s mission to create lasting impact to the community through research. “This DOST-PCAARRD grant enables BiPSU to strengthen its agricultural research initiatives and deliver sustainable solutions to support farmers across Eastern Visayas.”

Mr. Mati-om also expressed gratitude for the university's unwavering support in advancing research and development. “On a personal note, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our university president for his endorsement and unwavering support of these projects,” he said.

It is worth noting that BiPSU BilCam is collaborating with key partners, including Visayas State University (VSU), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), the Biliran Provincial Agriculture Services Office, and the Regional Crop Protection Center-Region VIII, to ensure the successful implementation of these projects.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.]

To effectively prepare and uphold the university’s commitment of excellence in education, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Teacher Education (STED), organized a coaching session for Pre-Service Teachers (PSTs) and alumni from both Naval and Biliran campuses at the university gymnasium, January 24.

The review session led by Dr. Kathleen F. Hijosa and Dr. Theresa F. Misola, owners of Falculan Twins’ Review Center (FTRC), aimed to equip the examinees with basic knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the March 2025 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

In his message, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., president of the university, called on BiPSUnistas to actively support the government’s efforts in advancing quality education. 

“We need more dedicated educators who can truly make a big difference and help shape an education system that will transform our nation,” he emphasized. 

Dr. Cañezo, who was once the dean of the College of Education—now STED—reminisced about his early dreams of improving licensure passing rates. One of his primary goals when he accepted the role of OIC President in 2017 was to raise the bar and improve passing rates, not only for STED but for all programs requiring licensure exams across both the Naval and Biliran campuses.

He also shared that this vision was one of the driving forces behind the implementation of the university's first Admission and Extension Policy. 

“We believe that if we want quality output, we must ensure quality inputs,” he stated. “We want to help students and their families, but we don’t want to give them false hope. That’s why we do not encourage open admissions; instead, we offer opportunities to those who truly demonstrate the potential to succeed in the program,” he added.

Moreover, in her remarks Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, STED’s OJT Coordinator emphasized that the coaching session is designed for the PSTs to be equipped with valuable knowledge and gain practical tips as they prepare for the LET.

The review session is scheduled to resume on April 21-25, following the return of the pre-service teachers (PSTs) from their deployment.

The session was also attended by Dr. Maribel Zipagan, dean of the School of Teacher Education; Dr. Gregg O. Siat, chairperson of the Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) program; as well as faculty and staff from STED.

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

In preparation for the upcoming SUC Fair and PASUC Competition, Biliran Province State University, through the Cultural Affairs Development Unit (CADU), and in collaboration with BiPSU Federation of Supreme Student Council, kicks off the “Hulma Kultura: School-based Competition” with short and sweet play and radio drama competitions held at the Hyflex Audio and Visual Center (HAVC) on January 22.

Different schools across the institution showcased their skills and talents in stage play acting, voice acting, and creative storytelling.

In his message, University President Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. underscored the importance of the competitions in shaping the students’ acting and stage play skills, creativity, and storytelling abilities.

“This event, led by the Cultural Affairs Development Unit, is a great avenue for students to showcase their skills and hone them for their growth and improvement in the field of performing arts,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

Six short and sweet play pieces entitled “Pagpapatawad” by the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), “Jowa ni Intoy” by the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), “Alon ng Panahon: Mga Kwentong Sandali ng Kabataan” by the School of Engineering (SOE), “Ang Bago at Konserbatibo” by the School of Teacher Education (STEd), “Pagbalik sa Ugat” by the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and “Alon ng Pag-ibig” by the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) hyped the competition by showcasing heart-wrenching and humorous storyline and narratives.

Meanwhile, three radio drama entries entitled “Pag-ibig at Pamilya” by STCS, “The nonexistent Love” by SCJE, and “Hukom” by SAS, were also performed, displaying the students’ voice acting and storytelling prowess.

Moreover, the event ended with a feedback session with the judges to give their comments and insights on every performance, highlighting their commendations and things to improve for their respective plays.

The grand opening of the Hulma-Kultura: School-Based Competition is set for February 5 as part of the Charter Day Celebration of BiPSU from January 22 to February 14, 2025. Winners of the different competitions will represent the university in the Regional PASUC and SUC Fair, however, some competitions such as the Short and Sweet Play and Radio Drama will select only the best students and create a team to represent the institution.

Activities to look forward to for the Charter Day Celebration includes the opening of Organizations’ Day, Inter-school Basketball and Volleyball tournaments, and Literary and Musical Competitions.

[This aligns with SDG Number 4: Quality Education]

Aimed at preparing third-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) students for their research requirements, BiPSU's School of Teacher Education (STED) hosted a two-day research mentorship workshop at the BiPSU Hyflex and Audio-Visual Center, last January 22 and 23.

The two-day workshop was designed to help third-year BEED students prepare for writing a research paper as part of their Research in Education course, focusing on guiding them through the research process, from formulating research questions to analyzing data.

Additionally, the workshop aimed to equip students with the skills necessary to conduct classroom-based action research, which is a requirement for their internship, by emphasizing practical methods they can apply in real classroom settings to assess and improve teaching strategies and learning outcomes.

The research mentorship workshop began with two expert resource speakers: Dr. Alexander Rex E. Sanosa, who presented on writing the literature review, formulating the research problem, and structuring the introduction and methodology; followed by Ms. Charlene T. Parac, who led a workshop on descriptive and inferential statistics to help students analyze their research data.

In his opening remarks, Robert P. Jordan, BEED third- year adviser, explained  the significance of the seminar workshop which aimed at enhancing students' research skills, with expert speakers offering guidance.

“This seminar-workshop on research in education is conducted as part of the teaching and learning strategy for the course Research in Education, and I have invited resource speakers whom I believe possess the expertise and skills in conducting research, having served as resource speakers in my previous classes, which contributed greatly to the success of the students in producing research outputs,” he said.

Moreover, on Day 2, Dr. Ernil D. Sumayao conducted a session on action research, guiding students in conducting this type of research, while also covering the development of instructional materials (IMs) and the use of CBAR to equip students with practical research tools.

In an interview, Angela Helton, a third-year BEED student, expressed that the workshop came at the perfect time and that she was grateful for the opportunity to gain further clarity and guidance on her research.

“As a third-year student, I’m still unsure about how to begin my research, and I feel that I need further guidance from experts to fully understand the research processes,” she said. “This workshop is perfectly timed, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn and get the clarity I need.”

#WOWBiPSU

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

Biliran Province State University’s School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) conducted its Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for Criminology students on Thursday, January 23, at the university gymnasium. The seminar aimed to prepare students for their upcoming immersion and field training programs.

SCJE Dean and faculty regent Hon. Vennie G. Coton welcomed 323 Criminology students to the event, emphasizing the importance of their training and the opportunities ahead.

"This seminar is not just an introduction to your on-the-job training, but a reminder of the responsibilities you will carry as professionals, thus uphold the values that will define your success in the field," added Hon. Coton. 

The said event also featured Deputy Provincial Director for Administration, PLTCOL Leonardo C. Angcon of the Biliran Provincial Police Office. In his address, he inspired the students to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their future careers, urging them to remain committed to serving their communities with integrity and responsibility.

“This is an opportunity to apply what you’ve learned and make a real difference," said PLTCOL Angcon. "Serve well regardless of your role, and always strive to contribute to the greater good of the community."

He also highlighted the importance of mental and physical preparation for the challenges ahead. 

"You have to be prepared physically and mentally," advised PLTCOL Angcon, encouraging students to approach their training with determination.

In his message, President Victor Cañezo Jr. shared his own reflections from being a student to becoming a professional, encouraging students to approach their upcoming OJT training with passion and dedication. He emphasized the value of practical experience, recalling his own internship, "It’s inspiring to see so many of you here today, ready to take your next step towards becoming leaders in the field of Criminology," he stated.

President Cañezo also reminded criminology students about the university’s core values —Brilliance, Innovation, Progress, Service, and Unity. "These are not just words. They are the foundation of our community, and they are qualities I’ve seen in our students, the future professionals of Criminology," remarked Dr. Cañezo.

He concluded by offering advice from his own mentor: “Don’t just complete the task—make it count.” The president also encouraged students to take ownership of their roles, to deal with every challenge, and to approach their training with passion and dedication. 

“Go out there and show the world what BiPSU students are made of,” Dr. Canezo concluded. 

The said event was also attended by BSC Chairperson, Roselle Sabornido, Dr. Jane Marie Inocencio, director  of External Services and SCJE faculty and staff. 

[This article aligns with SDG No. 4: Quality Education.]