Biliran Province State University recently participated in the Writeshop on Journal Peer Review on March 20-21 at Surigao del Norte State University-Del Carmen Campus, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. 

The event, organized by the Visayas-Mindanao Consortium on Journal Publications, Inc. (VMCJPI), aimed to enhance the peer review capabilities of researchers and academic editors, ensuring the quality and integrity of scholarly publications.  

The BiPSU delegation composed of eleven members was led by Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Roland A. Niez, Research and Development Office (RDO) Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, and Journal of Society and Technology (JST) Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Ruffy Rodrigo.

In an interview, Dr. de Paz explained that BiPSU’s participation in the said activity is an important step in the preparation for BiPSU’s plan to relaunch its peer-reviewed official journal in April 2025—the Journal of Society and Technology (JST)—which aims to become a premier platform for high-quality research publications.

“We aim to streamline our peer review processes, elevate the quality of our published research, and align our practices with international academic standards,” Dr. de Paz said. 

Throughout the two-day event, participants underwent intensive training focused on improving the peer review process. Sessions emphasized the importance of conducting thorough and objective reviews, addressing common challenges in virtual peer reviews, and promoting professionalism and ethical standards in academic publishing. 

The workshop also provided practical guidelines to ensure that submitted works meet the rigorous requirements of reputable academic journals.  

BiPSU’s selected research chairpersons from various schools and members of the editorial team of the JST journal also attended the said writeshop including Kevin T. Lagat, STEd research chairperson; Glenn Gumba, STCS research chair; Bonifacio M. Jumetilco, SME research chair; Ma Grace Sañosa-Docallos, SAS research chair; and RDO staff Ma. Shiela C. Torregoza, Phia Jane Llesis, Rambee Golin, Myra Ivy Parac.

VMCJPI is a consortium of Higher Education Institutions aimed at initiating activities that will propel attainment of higher accreditation level in journal publication and indexing among all of its member institutions.

BiPSU recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the VMCJPI for the university’s hosting of the 2025 International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR) on September 16-19 this year.

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

During the flag ceremony held today, March 24, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo underscored the importance of focused learning as the second semester of the school year 2024-2025 nears its end. 

“Do not end the semester without learning something,” Dr. Cañezo said. “Let’s focus on teaching and learning, considering that we are about to close the second semester.”

In his address, BiPSU President urged both students and faculty members to keep their attention on teaching and learning, stressing that the semester should not end without ensuring valuable learning outcomes.

He called for everyone’s dedication, reminding the faculty and students that this is the time to make the most of the remaining academic period. He also appealed to the faculty to carry out the task with compassion, courage and humility. 

The BiPSU president also provided important updates regarding the final examination schedule for both campuses. He announced that the final examination for Biliran Campus will be held on April 28 and May 8, while the Naval Campus exams are scheduled for April 29 and May 8, 2025. 

Dr. Canezo reminded students and faculty to ensure that all expected Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude (KSAs) for each subject are covered before exams begin.

Moreover, the president directed faculty to review their syllabi carefully to guarantee that all necessary content and outcomes have been met. He also encouraged and emphasized that any planned vacations should only take place after the completion of the final exams.

“Double your time, make an effort,” Dr. Canezo added, urging everyone to finish the semester strong with valuable learning outcomes.

Additionally, the president shared an exciting announcement about the upcoming visit of the Philippine Normal University (PNU) representatives, scheduled for April 15 and 16, as part of the Educational Mentoring (EMPowerment) Program of the university. He announced that PNU President Dr. Bert Tuga, together with his faculty, are coming to conduct team teaching. 

Dr. Cañezo also outlined the plans for student engagement during the visit. All schools, except for STEd across both campuses, will implement Online Distance Education and Learning (ODeL). However, STEd students from both campuses will participate in interactive discussions and team teaching sessions held at the Naval Campus, utilizing various venues such as the BiPSU Gymnasium, Student Center, Learning Hub, and Hostel A and B.

He also announced that the university will be conducting a pre-board examination. Students will attach the results of the pre-board exam as part of the requirements of the student clearance. 

With these reminders and announcements, Dr. Canezo's speech set the tone for a focused and productive conclusion to the academic year, encouraging everyone to finish strong and continue striving for academic excellence.

#WoWBiPSU

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

Aimed to encourage student participation in the university's choral development and recognize the members' dedication to enhancing the university's cultural and musical programs, Biliran Province State University granted the first semester scholarship stipend to BiPSU Chorale members on March 21.

The semester release held at the Cashier’s Office, disbursed a total of P150,000  to 30 chorale members, each receiving P5,000.  

One of the chorale members, Jilian April Gervacio, shared that the stipend is a “huge help” for her basic needs and educational finances.

“I will use the scholarship to buy the things I need for my studies,” she said. “Some of it will also help with my daily needs like food and transportation.”

The said scholarship was realized through the support of University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., Vice President for Students and External Affairs Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Cultural Affairs and Development Unit Chairperson Kevin Tanguihan, Chorale Adviser Gerry Mae Gervacio, and Chorale Trainers Clark Gravoso and Josephine Gravoso.

Meanwhile, auditions are open for students interested in joining the BiPSU Chorale. Recruitments are scheduled every Wednesday at the University Wellness Center.

[This article aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals no. 4: Quality Education]

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formally awarded two cheques totaling P610,000 to Biliran Province State University to support two collaborative projects between the university and the agency.

BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. personally received the funding during a ceremonial turnover held on March 24 at the Office of the President.

Empowering Marginalized Communities through Science and Technology

A cheque worth P300,000 was presented by DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO)-Biliran Director Dr. Romeo L. Dignos to fund Phase II of the project titled “STI Interventions for the Marginalized Community of Julita, Biliran.” This initiative falls under DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program, which aims to drive economic development in underserved and remote areas through science and technology.

The project, a joint effort between DOST and BiPSU’s School of Engineering (SOE), focuses on providing technology-based support to farmers in Brgy. Julita. The Caimito Coconut Farmers will benefit from a new coconut dryer facility, capacity training on technology utilization, and improved livelihoods through enhanced agricultural practices.

The ceremonial turnover was also attended by DOST PSTO-Biliran personnel, including Supervising Science Research Specialist Maria Catherine G. Mamba, Science Research Specialist Nicka V. Salentes, and PSTO Staff Teddy M. Abenido.

Representing BiPSU were Project Coordinator and SOE Dean Engr. Vivencio Pelesco, Project Assistant Jessie M. Sanoy, and University President Dr. Cañezo.

Dr. Cañezo highlighted the project's importance in advancing sustainable development and strengthening the university's commitment to community engagement.

“Through this partnership with DOST, we aim to deliver practical solutions that directly uplift the lives of our local farmers and provide them with the tools and knowledge needed for long-term growth,” Dr. Cañezo stated.

Advancing Mental Health Research

An additional P310,000 grant was also handed over to support a research project titled “Psychological Stress, Suicidal Ideation, and Coping Mechanisms among Students in Selected Tertiary Academic Institutions in Eastern Visayas.”

This research is funded by DOST through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and seeks to examine mental health challenges among students in the region. The study aims to identify the prevalence of psychological stress and suicidal ideation while exploring effective coping strategies to promote student well-being.

The cheque was presented by DOST Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Council (EVHRDC) Project Staff Jeremy Jusay and witnessed by DOST PSTO-Biliran Director Dr. Dignos and PSTO personnel. 

BiPSU officials present included Project Leader and Research and Development Office (RDO) Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, Assistant Project Leader Dr. Willard N. Riveral from the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), and project members SNHS Dean Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Roland Niez, and University President Dr. Cañezo.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his gratitude to DOST for their continuous support and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing pressing societal issues.

“We deeply appreciate DOST's support for BiPSU's research initiatives,” Dr. Cañezo said. “This funding will enable us to generate evidence-based insights that can inform policies and programs to better support the mental health and well-being of students across Eastern Visayas.”

The findings from the study are expected to shape mental health policies and provide academic institutions with data-driven tools to create supportive and inclusive environments for students.

[This aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth]

The Research and Development Office (RDO) of Biliran Province State University has set its sights on achieving Scopus indexing for the BiPSU Journal of Society and Technology (JST) after successfully conducting benchmarking visit to the University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJR) in Cebu City to learn from the successful Scopus-indexed Recoletos Multidisciplinary Research Journal (RMRJ).

The said visit aligns with BiPSU’s broader internationalization agenda and its commitment to the ambitious WoW BiPSU 2.0 vision, which prioritizes strengthening research outputs and global recognition.

Held on March 18, the activity aims to gain insights from RMRJ’s experience in obtaining Scopus indexing, understand editorial workflows and best practices in peer review and journal management, identify key factors that contribute to citation impact and international recognition, assess JST’s current standing and develop strategies for improvement, and establish collaborations with USJ-R’s editorial board for future knowledge exchange.

Journal of Society and Technology (JST) is the peer-reviewed official journal of BiPSU which aims to become a premier platform for high-quality research publications. However, achieving Scopus indexing requires adherence to rigorous editorial and publication standards.

Moreover, the benchmarking visit, facilitated by the RMRJ Editorial Board, provided BiPSU officials with insights into best practices in editorial management, manuscript review, and citation impact enhancement. 

The benchmarking also involved discussions with RMRJ’s editorial board, presentations on the Scopus indexing process, and the formulation of an action plan to enhance JST’s chances of inclusion in the prestigious database.

Dr. Roland A. Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, led the delegation. Also part of the delegation are Research Director Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, JST Editor in Chief Dr. Ruffy M. Rodrigo, Glenn Gumba, Eric John Celis, John Raymund Calderon, Phia Jane Llesis, Rambee T. Golin, Myra Ivy A. Parac, and Ma. Shiela C. Torregoza.

In an interview, Research Director Dr. de Paz explained the importance of the visit in the BiPSU’s efforts in elevating the university’s research visibility and international standing.

“The increasing emphasis on Scopus-indexed publications underscores the need for high-quality research dissemination,” the research director said. “Our goal is to elevate JST to meet the rigorous standards required for Scopus indexing.”

Dr. de Paz also noted the need to understand the specific requirements for Scopus indexing and refine the university’s editorial workflows to meet the standards. “Strengthening partnerships with institutions like USJR will also open avenues for collaborative research and knowledge exchange,” she added.

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

The Department of Forest Science of BiPSU Biliran Campus partnered with several organizations in the Municipality of Biliran to conduct a mangrove tree planting activity on March 19 in Brgy. Sanggalang, Biliran.

This community-based mangrove restoration initiative is part of the approved extension program of the Forest Science Department and the Municipal Agriculture Office of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Biliran, titled “A Community-Driven Approach to Climate Change Mitigation, Adaptation, and Sustainable Development.”

The activity, which brought together more than 100 stakeholders in a shared commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development, aimed to strengthen coastal resilience and pave the way for agri-ecotourism development. It also aims to offer a sustainable source of income for local communities while contributing to the local economy.

Several agencies and non-government organizations participated in the activity, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) - Biliran, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) - Biliran, San Juan Nepomuceno Parish Council – Biliran, Sanggalang Farmers and Fisherfolks Association, BiPSU Biliran Campus students and faculty members, and the local community.

In an interview, For. Melanie Moncada, chairperson of the Department of Forest Science, shared that the initiative was a response to the community's need to restore the once-abundant mangrove forest in Brgy. Sanggalang.

“The area was devastated by Typhoon Urduja in 2017,” she revealed. “I believe it is our duty to help the community restore coastal protection, revive biodiversity, and enhance livelihoods.”

To strengthen the partnership between BiPSU and LGU-Biliran in recognizing the ecological, economic, and social importance of mangrove ecosystems, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is set to be signed soon.

The agreement will outline specific programs including capacity-building sessions on nursery establishment, site selection, and mangrove propagation techniques, formation of local working groups to ensure community-led restoration efforts, establishment of a functional, community-managed mangrove nursery as a sustainable restoration hub, development of alternative livelihood opportunities, such as eco-tourism and sustainable aquaculture, to provide economic benefits to local communities, and regular monitoring and evaluation to track progress, community engagement, and the long-term impact of restoration efforts.

BiPSU will also enter into a partnership agreement soon with the people’s organizations of Biliran town to advance livelihood and eco- tourism.

[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.]

People who Understand and Love Science Enigma (PULSE), the student organization of Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Science, in collaboration with the Gender and Development (GAD) office, held a seminar training on emergency response on March 19 at the university gymnasium. 

The whole-day training, entitled “Building School Safety: Gender-Responsive Emergency Skills Training For Future Educators,” aimed to equip future educators and instructors of the School of Teacher Education (STED) with essential knowledge and practical skills in fire safety, emergency response, and the integration of gender-sensitive measures into school safety programs. 

Themed “Empowering Future Educators to Build Safe, Inclusive, and Resilient Schools for All,” the event was participated by STED first-year to third-year students from various programs, along with their chairpersons, faculty members, and staff.

In her welcome message, STED Dean Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan explained that the importance of the event is to empower future educators to build safe, inclusive, and resilient schools for all. 

“These basic skills can save lives not only in schools but also in your personal homes and in your communities just in case there are no medics or health practitioners around,” she said. 

The event featured a series of plenary sessions and hands-on activities with the personnel from the Naval Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), through the BFP Provincial Office.

In the morning session, FO3 Jemalyn B. Agustin and  FO3 Joemar E Jamin discussed the common medical and training emergencies, introducing common medical emergencies and emergency action principle. They also demonstrated how to administer first-aid and perform Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

Meanwhile, FO2 Kenneth A Rostata tackled fire service, extinguishing principles, causes and classes of fires, how to use fire extinguisher, dos and don'ts in fighting fire, and home fire safety during the afternoon session. 

Further, students have given hands-on activity on how to perform CPR and its principles considering the consent and safety of the victim. The event also provided an opportunity for students to ask questions in regards to performing CPR in case of a real-life situation.

In her message, GAD office Director Dr. Marianne Dagaylo-an emphasized that the event is not just about preparedness but also about ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment.

“It is not just about preparedness, but also ensuring safety measures, addressing the diverse needs of our students regardless of gender, ability, or background,” she expressed.

[This article is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) no. 4: Quality Education and no. 5: Gender Equality]

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.]