Day: January 29, 2025

ILOILO CITY – A diverse cast of performers captivated a bustling crowd that filled the West Visayas State University’s Cultural Center to capacity on January 28 during the Character Interpretation Contest, as part of the University Week 2025 celebration. From festive cheers to thunderous applause, the audience was clearly enthralled by their dynamic portrayals.

The contest left a lasting impression on spectators, as each contestant emphasized the significance of raw emotions behind every character, giving justice to the competition’s true essence: to transform inspiration into reality.

“For me, I truly enjoyed and loved the performances,” said Mhara Joyce A. Castilla, a freshman from the College of Arts and Sciences, after expressing her satisfaction with the event. “Some parts were very entertaining, while others impressed me with the performers’ ability to accurately copy the characters.”

Helen Joy C. Dabucos, a freshman from the College of Agriculture and Forestry, shared a similar experience: “It was very inspiring to see the performers’ artistic sides truly exposed, especially the way they incorporated ad-libs into their performances.”

Featuring 16 contestants, the competition provided a platform for the main and external campuses to showcase diverse personas, from heroic legends to misunderstood villains, exploring the artistic play of portrayal and the awareness of distinct personalities.

Representing the College of Communication, fourth-year Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting (BAB) major Lyka S. Sandiego, emphasized her enthusiasm for representing her college for the last year after participating in the event for the past three consecutive years.

“It was a fun and thrilling experience for me, but also overwhelming,” she said. “I will be leaving college life soon, and I just wanted to enjoy the moment of being here at West and performing for the crowd while representing my college.”

The character interpretation contest ran from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the results set to be announced at the Cultural Center along with the results of other competitions for the day. The results will also be posted on the official WVSU page.

Story by Elyza Cantomayor/The Innovator

Photos by Ena Kristelle De Nuevo

Student entrants showcased their oratory skills during the 2025 West Visayas State University (WVSU) U-Days English Speech Competition on January 28 at the New Academic Building Function Hall. The event, featuring storytelling and declamation, had contestants impressing the crowd with their creative renditions of various speeches.

The afternoon program commenced with storytelling, having a total of 14 contenders from various colleges and external campuses that captivated the audience with their powerful delivery of Leoncio P. Deriada’s story compilation.

Lance Enriquez from Dapog Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences) kicked off his rendition of The Dog Eaters by asking the audience, “What happens after happily ever after?” Reflecting on his performance, Enriquez shared, “This is actually my first time competing at this point of my life. It feels good. I hope you guys enjoyed it.”

The storytelling segment set the tone for the competition, exhibiting creativity and passion of each contestant as they brought Deriada’s stories to life.

Following on the same venue was the declamation contest, where 16 participants representing their departments and campuses took the stage to deliver original prose pieces, demonstrating their declamatory skills with shifting voices and characters that kept the audience locked in.

An orator from Dapog Manuglapwa (Pototan Campus), Aisha Gail Bebit, shared her favorite part in an interview after her performance: “It’s not about forcing pieces together; it’s about creating new ones.” This line is from her declamation piece, The Innovator’s Journey.

Aileish Kate Jaudian, a performer from the College of Information and Communications, pushed through nerves and a forgotten line during the execution of her composition, Fell from Grace. “The added pressure from the audience was scary,” she admitted, mentioning that she was still proud to represent Dapog Manugbusa.

The contestants were evaluated by a panel of professional and notable public speakers: Cynia Mirasol, Iris Lacuesta, and former WVSU Prof. Maria Eloisa Yap. Results were released on the same day at the WVSU Cultural Center.

Story by Rosema Kamsa and Abbygale Hope Abasolo/Pagyuhum Publication

Photos by Pagyuhum Publication

The Fair on Innovation, Research, and Extension Services (FIRES) 2025 marked its third year on Jan. 28 at West Visayas State University’s Research and Extension Building, showcasing exceptional works by faculty, students, and research partners.

The event, held on the fourth floor at 2 p.m., featured projects highlighting research, extension services, and innovations aimed at addressing societal challenges and fostering development.

In his opening remarks, West Visayas State University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the event’s importance in driving knowledge and creativity.

“This event showcases the outstanding work of our faculty, our students, and partners, highlighting the groundbreaking contributions that strengthen our university’s mission,” Villaruz said. He urged attendees to “remain committed to excellence, push the boundaries of knowledge, and inspire one another in our pursuit for development.”

Each presenter was given 10 minutes to explain their project’s purpose and functionality. The projects, many of which have received national and international recognition, highlighted the ingenuity and dedication of Taga-West researchers and innovators.

Student-led initiatives addressed pressing public concerns, demonstrating the transformative role of research in advancing economic and environmental sustainability.

FIRES 2025 concluded with renewed inspiration among participants, reaffirming the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in research, extension, and development.

Story by Jake Ramira/The Innovator

Photos by Sheldon Balinas/The Innovator