Month: January 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

By the time the Agro-Industrial Fair opened its doors on January 27, marking the first day of University Days, colorful stalls bustled with enthusiastic patrons. Yet one stall stood noticeably different—not because it lacked appeal, but because it was nearly wiped clean. The Alimodian Agriculture Cooperative (Seven Cities) had already sold most of its produce, leaving the women running the booth with little else to do but relax.

Seated behind a tower of empty baskets, Virgie Aldamar, 60, and Imelda Catanus, 67, seemed pleasantly surprised by their swift success. It was only 1 p.m., yet they were already making calls back home to replenish their inventory. The demand spoke volumes about the quality of their produce.

“High-value crops,” they called them. Bell peppers, cabbages, carrots, tomatoes, string beans, sayote—everything had flown off the table by midday. All these vegetables were grown on their own land and nurtured through advanced farming techniques, including greenhouse cultivation, a new addition they built in March of last year.

Virgie and Imelda shared another innovation they swear by: Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) as a natural alternative to conventional fertilizers. These microorganisms, which include fungi, bacteria, and yeast found in soil and living organisms, not only speed up plant growth but also reduce toxic chemicals in the soil. They adopted this method after attending seminars hosted by the Korea International Cooperation Agency, which has partnered with the Department of Agriculture for three decades to strengthen Philippine agriculture.

For Virgie and Imelda, farming is both heritage and innovation. They’ve been vending vegetables as cooperative members for four years, but their farming roots go deeper. “Since then,” they answered simply when asked how long they’d been cultivating crops. They inherited their green thumbs from parents who farmed rice and corn fields.

Their produce is more than just a product of soil and rain—it’s a fusion of traditional wisdom and forward-thinking technology. Breaking away from chemical-heavy fertilizers, they believe, results in healthier crops and healthier lives.

Their success at the fair wasn’t just about their high-value crops, though. While other vendors leisurely set up their stalls, Virgie and Imelda were ready for business by 9 a.m., proving that the early bird truly does get the worm—and, in this case, gets to relax far earlier than the rest of the flock.

Story by Trixie Aurelia Ningas, Hazelyn Aliboso, Ryde Rendell Ponsaran, and Kaela Jamelo/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Trixie Aurelia Ningas

More than a ceremonial tradition, the annual State of the University Address (SUA) at West Visayas State University has become a platform for reflection, recognition, and goal-setting. This year’s address, delivered by President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz at the WVSU Cultural Center, struck a chord with the audience, eliciting both tears and inspiration with its focus on opportunity, growth, and education’s role in driving social change.

President Villaruz’s speech, delivered in a reflective, monologue-like style, not only highlighted the university’s achievements but also sparked conversations among students and faculty on the institution’s future direction.

Kurt Gamo, a second-year BS Computer Science student from the College of Information and Communications Technology, expressed excitement about the university’s growing international engagements. “What stood out to me was Dr. Villaruz’s emphasis on international affairs. It’s exciting for us students to have opportunities to learn from and exchange experiences with other universities abroad,” Gamo said.

The desire for global opportunities and a strong commitment to academic growth emerged as common themes among audience members. For Roberto Villanueva, a professor at the College of Law and College of Medicine and Chair of the WVSU Unified Research Ethics Review Committee, the president’s message was clear and ambitious.

“He gave us a comprehensive rundown of the university’s accomplishments and future plans. These plans are ambitious but achievable with the right support from the administration,” Villanueva said.

The SUA resonated deeply with students and faculty, highlighting a shared vision for growth, global engagement, and the transformative power of education. As the university continues to evolve, the address served as a rallying call for the community to actively shape their academic environment and contribute to the institution’s ongoing progress.

This year’s address also prompted students to reflect on their roles as active participants in WVSU’s narrative. As they navigate their academic journey, they are inspired to seize new opportunities and be catalysts for positive change.

Story by Frances Erica Salcedo, Reamae Velasco, and Gene Joy Gabasa/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Reamae Velasco

On the second day of University Week, themed “Digamo sa West,” students from various colleges gathered at the New Academic Building Function Hall to demonstrate their quick thinking and eloquence during the extemporaneous speaking competition.

With only three minutes to respond, participants tackled questions on societal and institutional issues, including WVSU’s stance on technological advancements, economic growth, and student welfare.

The hall filled with eager spectators who applauded each performance. Among the standout contenders were representatives from Dapog Manugsugba (College of Education), Dapog Manugpangat (College of Communication), and Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus), who became crowd favorites for their confident and compelling deliveries.

Prince Ryan Rabo, a College of Education student, shared his thoughts on the event. “It’s a great platform to inspire the audience through words and wisdom. Personally, I’m rooting for the College of Education, but I must say the girl from Dapog Manugbati and the representative from the College of Communication were really impressive—their posture and delivery were powerful,” Rabo said.

One of the competition’s standouts was Andrei Jan Tono, a second-year student from Dapog Manugsugba. His sharp responses, clear delivery, and composed presence earned enthusiastic applause. Tono credited his preparation, which included research and guidance from his ELTD teachers, for his performance.

However, his topic on balancing technological innovation with social and environmental responsibility presented unexpected challenges. “It wasn’t something I had fully anticipated,” Tono admitted. “I prepared more for social issues and personal questions, but thankfully, through God’s grace, I managed to answer it.”

Tono emphasized the importance of preparation for aspiring extemporaneous speakers. “Research and practice are essential. It won’t necessarily make you perfect, but it prepares you for different scenarios. Most importantly, enjoy the moment, have confidence, and trust that you can handle it regardless of the outcome,” he advised.

The competition highlighted not only the intellectual prowess of Taga-West students but also their drive to embrace growth and innovation—a true testament to the University’s spirit.

Story by Dexter Jake Galeno, Kelley Marie Matoy, and Princess Yiana Beatrize Paitan/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Princess Yiana Beatrize Paitan and SILAK Media

The battle for the top intensifies as the university’s top debaters faced off in the second elimination round of the WVSU U-Days 2025 Banggianay, held at the COM Gym today, January 28.

As participants prepared for the clash, event co-chairperson and USC Councilor Jan Michael Alayon reminded all attendees of the heart of the event.

“You are part of something larger: a community dedicated to the pursuit of truth and the enrichment of knowledge,” Alayon said.

Below are the results of the second elimination round of the event.

First Match: Dapog Manuglagpang shows strength in quality against Dapog Manugkilaw

Outnumbered but not outmatched, Dapog Manuglagpang (College of Medicine) prevailed over Dapog Manugkilaw (Janiuay Campus) in the first match of the second elimination round, arguing against the enactment of a law defining and criminalizing.

The team hammered in how currently existing laws already cover the harms and effects of red-tagging and offer justice to the victims. They pointed out that creating a new law will only add to an already overwhelmed justice system and hinder the government’s ability to suppress actual threats.

“Is it the law that we really need?” the team’s beneficiality speaker asked, “Or is it just a law that appeases us and remains inefficient and ineffective?”

They proposed that the government should instead amend existing laws and enhance its systemic enforcement.

Dapog Manuglagpang will be one of the four teams to compete in the semi-finals of this year’s Banggianay.

Second Match: Dapog Manugsanlag edges out Dapog Manugsugba

Dapog Manugsanlag (College of Nursing) narrowly escapes the grip of last year’s Banggianay runner-up, Dapog Manugsugba (College of Education), in a continuous heated exchange over whether the Philippines should adopt a two-party system.

The winning team highlighted the legislative inefficiencies of a multi-party system, pointing out that the current administration currently focuses on impeachment trials instead of tackling more urgent societal issues. According to them, the Philippines was built on change, and thus we must continue to pursue this change.

In their closing remarks, the rebuttal speaker of the winning team ultimately described their debate as “lowly”, citing numerous logical fallacies committed by the opposing team and showing why they deserved to take the debate.

The College of Nursing will face the College of Medicine for the semi-final round tomorrow, January 29, at the College of Medicine Gymnasium.

Third Match: Dapog Manugpangat bests Dapog Manuglapay

Dapog Manugpangat (College of Communications) continues its rise to the top by bringing down Dapog Manuglapay (College of PESCAR) in a debate on whether academic institutions should utilize artificial intelligence.

Manugpangat’s necessity speaker succinctly summarized the debate in his rebuttal speech, stating, “AI in classrooms is like training wheels on a bike: helpful for balance but at some point, the kids have to learn on their own.”

The team further argued that excessive reliance on AI undermines critical thinking and creativity, noting that current AI detectors are not reliable in detecting AI-generated work. Instead of integrating artificial intelligence, the winning team proposed that the country should focus on addressing the fundamental needs of academic institutions.

Dapog Manugpangat advances to the semi-final round of the competition.

Fourth Match: Dapog Manugtuom continues to shine, outclasses Dapog Manugbati

Defending champions Dapog Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences) remain the team to beat, overpowering Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan Campus) in a compelling battle of arguments, successfully defending their stand against the discontinuation of the MATATAG Curriculum.

They argued the curriculum is still in its initial phase and that discontinuing it with no clear plan will result in confusion, inconsistencies and an overall poorer educational experience for both students and teachers. They also highlighted that the problems found within the curriculum are rooted within the overall educational system rather than the curriculum alone.

“We need results by evidence, not by theories,” declared Manugtuom’s practicability speaker, adding, “Like all change, it takes time.”

The College of Arts and Sciences will face the College of Communication for the semi-finals round tomorrow, January 29.

Story by Paul Asi C. Hitalia and Jeraldine Miranda/the Courier

Photos by Cassandra Alexa Ciasico/The Courier

Vying artists from different colleges and external campuses of West Visayas State University (WVSU) unleashed their creative talents through an exciting series of visual arts competitions on January 28, during the second day of the 2025 DIGAMO sa West University Days.

The event featured several standout categories, including digital art painting, on-the-spot poster making, charcoal and pencil drawing, and a photo contest. Each category challenged participants to bring their visions to life with approximately four hours to complete their pieces.

In the digital art painting category, participants used electronic devices and accessories to visualize “A Feast of Futures,” aligning their pieces with the theme of growth, innovation, and future endeavors.

Simultaneously, the College of Dentistry Building buzzed with spectators as student artists crafted vibrant posters that symbolized the “Recipe of Excellence,” reflecting their Basta Taga-West, Dabest spirit.

“This year we are focusing on the extraordinary journey of growth, innovation through the years and beyond. We cannot limit our students from what they have learned in the university, but encourage them to strive for growth. The university is feeding us the knowledge—the recipe for us to grow further,” Federated Student Council Chairperson and event facilitator, Gilbert Cerillo said in an interview.

Meanwhile, the Charcoal and Pencil Drawing contest took DIGAMO to another level as participants paid homage to Chef Rafael “Tibong” Jardaleza. Through their portraits, they honored the renowned Ilonggo ethnic food advocate. Over the last thirty years, the creator of the “Food Haven of the Philippines” has been instrumental in bringing the Western Visayan and Ilonggo Heritage Cuisine spotlight on the national stage.

As part of 2025 University Days festivities, WVSU recognizes Chef Jardaleza’s contribution to the province as a distinguished gastronomic destination in the Philippines.

“I am expecting a lot from the participants, given that they represent the best of the best from their colleges and campuses. We can expect high-quality artworks that not only resonate with the theme but also reflect their pride as mga Taga-West,” Cerillo added.

The official entries from the visual arts competition will be posted on the Federated Student Council’s official Facebook page for public viewing.

Story by Grace Divine Salumag/The Mediator

Photos by LINK.exe

Tatlumpu’t apat na kalahok mula sa iba’t ibang kolehiyo at kampus ng West Visayas State University (WVSU) ang nagpakitang-gilas ng kanilang talento at malikhaing imahinasyon sa Filipino Literary Competition na ginanap noong Enero 27, 2025, sa University Library.

Ang Filipino Literary Competition ay bahagi ng selebrasyon ng University Days mula Enero 27 hanggang 31, na tampok ang mga pagtatanghal na nakasentro sa temang “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Meaningful Growth and Opportunities.”

Tampok sa nasabing kategorya ang mga patimpalak sa pagsulat ng sanaysay at pagsulat ng tula, na may 17 kalahok bawat kumpetisyon.

“Sa una, medyo na-overwhelm ako sa tema ng kumpetisyon, ngunit sa huli, naintindihan ko rin naman ito,” ani Hernani Adame, kinatawan ng College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) sa pagsulat ng sanaysay.

Samantala, ibinahagi naman ni Kristine Mainar mula sa Janiuay Campus, na sumali sa pagsulat ng tula, ang kanyang karanasan: “Nung una, hindi ko alam kung ano ang aking isusulat. Mabuti na lang at dalawang oras ang ibinigay sa amin kaya nakapag-isip ako ng maayos at naisulat ko ng maayos ang aking pyesa.”

Ang mga nanalo sa Filipino Literary Competition ay iaanunsyo sa ganap na ika-5 ng hapon, Enero 28, kasabay ng resulta ng iba pang kompetisyon.

Story by Marah Eunice B. Esponilla/The Blue Quill

Photos by SILAK Media and The Blue Quill

Participants of the 2025 West Visayas State University (WVSU) U-Days Literary Writing (English) Competition flaunted their skills as Taga-West writers on Jan. 27, 2025 at the University Library.

As part of the competitions of the University Days, the English literary event featured essay and poetry writing.

A total of 34 contestants – 17 per category – represented their respective colleges and crafted their original pieces based on the theme: “Ripples for Change: the Campuses Perspective” within a 2-hour limit.

For the participants, the competition was both a challenge and opportunity for growth. “It was a bit hard as it is my first time joining the competition,” shared Joseph Albuya, a participant of Poetry Writing from the College of Education – Main Campus. “But at least it’s done, and I’m hoping for the best results.”

Essay writer Geellen Solatorio from the College of Communication reflected on her experience. “It is my second time joining this Essay Writing competition yet the feelings are still the same – pressured and overwhelmed because, like they said, you’re not only representing your college but yourself as well.”

Helen Panaglima, a Bachelor of Secondary Education student from the Lambunao Campus, shared a similar statement. “This competition had a big impact on me as it pulled me out of my comfort zone. It was nerve-wracking, but at the same time, fulfilling.”

A panel of esteemed literary experts: Adrian Fisca Luague, Pearl Parangan, and Edmer Bernardo, judged the competition. Entries were evaluated based on content, creativity, coherence, style, and clarity. Results are set to be announced on the afternoon of Jan. 28, 2025.

Story by Breanne Thianel V. Tan/The Blue Quill

Photos by LINK.exe