Month: January 2025

The university’s sharpest minds clashed in an intellectual battle during the first round of eliminations of the 2025 WVSU University Days’ Banggianay, held at the College of Medicine Gymnasium on January 27.

Following a modified Oxford-Oregon debate format, each team delivered their best arguments as they competed to survive the two-day elimination rounds and secure a spot in the semi-finals.

The event was officially opened by Federated Student Council Secretary Keven Rizzo Sitjar, who expressed his hope that both contestants and the audience would gain valuable insights from the debates.

“A bit of information, a bit of understanding, but, above all, a bit of respect even for contrasting views and opinions. As people of this civilized society, we must not lose respect,” Sitjar said.

Here are the results of the first three elimination matches:

First Match: Dapug Manugsanlag Triumphed over Dapug Manuglupak

The elimination rounds began with a strong showing from Dapug Manugsanlag (College of Nursing), who dominated over Dapug Manuglupak (Integrated Laboratory School).

The two teams debated the proposition that social media platforms should be held accountable for the spread of misinformation. The College of Nursing argued against the need for such accountability, asserting that users, creators, and algorithms should bear responsibility. They also highlighted the complexities and challenges of implementing the proposed policy.

With this victory, the College of Nursing advanced to the next round, where they are set to face the College of Education.

Second Match: Dapug Manugpangat Defeated Dapug Manugpakas

In a debate over the abolishment of political dynasties as defined by Senate Bill 2649, Dapug Manugpangat (College of Communication) triumphed over Dapug Manugpakas (College of Business and Management).

The College of Communication emphasized that political dynasties are not the root cause of societal issues but rather symptoms of deeper systemic problems. Their necessity speaker declared, “Political dynasties are not the roots of the problem. They are weeds growing from corrupted soil. We must tend the soil, not cut the weeds.”

The College of Communication will proceed to the next round, where they will face the College of PESCAR.

Third Match: Dapug Manugtuom Overpowered Dapug Manugbusa

Last year’s Banggianay champions, Dapug Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences), secured a commanding victory over Dapug Manugbusa (College of Information and Communications Technology).

The debate centered on whether PhilHealth should be subsidized by Congress for the fiscal year 2025. Dapug Manugtuom argued against the subsidy, citing the sufficiency of reserve funds and the agency’s responsibility to manage them effectively. Their rebuttal speaker stressed, “The problem is not the lack of budget but mismanagement.”

The College of Arts and Sciences will face Himamaylan City Campus in the next round of the competition.

Banggianay remains one of the most anticipated events of this year’s University Days. The next elimination rounds continue on January 28, with the semi-finals to be held on January 29. The final match is scheduled for January 31 at the WVSU Grandstand.

Story by Paul Asi Hitalia and Jeraldine Miranda/The Courier

Photos by LINK.exe

“Kadiwa sa WVSU” took center stage as West Visayas State University (WVSU) launched its 2025 University Days celebration on Jan. 27, at the Rizal Hall Grounds. The event spotlighted local agricultural products and innovations through colorful exhibits.

Opening at 1 p.m., the soft launch transformed the Rizal Hall Grounds into a vibrant hub of discovery, underscoring WVSU’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and community development.

In his remarks, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the vital role of agriculture in society. “Through initiatives like ‘Kadiwa sa West,’ we are not only creating opportunities for our local producers but also fostering a deeper appreciation for agriculture as the backbone of our economy and culture,” he said.

The event formally began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Rizal Hall Grounds, led by Dr. Villaruz along with university administrators, deans, directors, and Department of Agriculture officials.

Students, faculty, and visitors explored the exhibits, which featured agricultural innovations, cultural showcases, and locally produced goods. Each display reflected WVSU’s commitment to empowering local communities and supporting sustainable initiatives.

The “Kadiwa sa WVSU” exhibits will be open to the public until January 31, offering a week-long celebration of collaboration, innovation, and local ingenuity.

Story by Kacey Claire Tanallon/The Innovator

Photos by PAMCO

A feast for the senses unfolded at West Visayas State University (WVSU) as the much-awaited 2025 University Days kicked off with a dazzling parade that turned the streets into a vibrant showcase of dapog-inspired artistry in the morning of Jan. 27.

The parade celebrated the ingenuity and culinary heritage of the Filipino tradition, dapog—a rustic outdoor cooking method that served as the creative foundation for the event’s highlights.

This year’s theme, “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” inspired students to transform dapog into imaginative, larger-than-life props. Each college brought their own twist to the tradition, captivating the crowd with their outstanding creations.

Topping the list of standout props was the College of Dentistry’s show-stopping “Dapog Manuglechon,” a meticulously crafted, life-sized roasted pig (lechon) that symbolized festivity and precision. Meanwhile, the College of Business and Management wowed spectators with their “Pinakas nga Isda” under the theme “Dapog Manugpakas,” spotlighting a vibrant display of dried fish that showcased regional pride. Not to be outdone, the College of Education presented their “Dapog Manugsugba,” featuring human-sized pork skewers made from styrofoam, embodying the art of grilling with flair and creativity.

Each college’s dapog display demonstrated not only artistry but also the deep resourcefulness and camaraderie of the Taga-West community. These imaginative props reflected the essence of the university’s commitment to innovation while honoring cultural roots.

The parade concluded with students forming the WVSU acronym at the grandstand, captured through a stunning drone shot that symbolized unity and school pride. Despite the searing heat, the energy and spirit of the participants remained undeterred, proving that the flames of Taga-West creativity and camaraderie burn bright.

The event formally opened with the singing of the national anthem, followed by a heartfelt prayer in song. The WVSU Hymn filled the air, setting the stage for an inspiring message delivered by WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz.

Through their dapog-inspired creations, the Taga-West community showcased how cultural traditions can be reimagined into meaningful opportunities for expression and celebration—a perfect beginning to WVSU University Days.

Story by Abeguil Gafate, Shane Rochelle Toleran, and Gene Joy Gabasa/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by PAMCO

West Visayas State University (WVSU) launched its 2025 University Days with a vibrant parade and opening ceremony on Jan. 27 at the WVSU-Main Campus in Iloilo City.

A celebration of culture, unity, and innovation, the event gathered students, faculty, alumni, and staff from both the main and external campuses to mark the beginning of the much-anticipated annual festivity.

With the theme “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” the celebration began with a parade from the Iloilo Sports Complex, featuring the WVSU Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), alumni, and participants from different colleges and campuses proudly carrying their distinct colors.

The parade’s energy set the tone for the assembly at the WVSU Grandstand, where students and alumni came together to form the “WVSU” acronym, a striking visual of school pride and solidarity captured from above.

The opening ceremony commenced with the Entrance of Colors led by the ROTC, followed by a cultural performance by the Panayana Cultural Group.

University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz officially declared the 2025 University Days open, emphasizing the significance of the Hiligaynon term digamo as a metaphor for collaboration and unity.

“Each of us is an indispensable ingredient in this grand recipe, bringing our unique flavors, skills, and ideas to the table. Together, we shall create a feast that will tantalize the senses, leave an enduring, unforgettable taste, and inspire future generations,” Dr. Villaruz shared in his address.

The program continued with the sashing ceremony for the candidates of Mr. & Ms. WVSU 2025, with college deans presenting the sashes to their representatives. Cheers and yells from various colleges and external campuses added to the festive spirit.

A standout moment was the unity dance, performed by students from WVSU-Lambunao Campus, who brought the official U-Days theme song, “Taga-West,” to life on stage, leaving the audience in awe.

This year’s University Days, running from January 27 to 31, promises a celebration of culture, creativity, and camaraderie—hallmarks of the vibrant Taga-West spirit.

Story by Lara Danielle Malayang/The Courier

Photos by LINK.exe

Taga-West from various colleges and campuses stirred excitement for the 2025 University Days as they marched onto campus grounds with passion and enthusiasm for the Opening Parade on January 27.

The parade celebrated the unique identities of each college and campus, symbolized by the “dapog,” a Hiligaynon term for “fireplace,” representing each kitchen as a source of warmth and unity. This was expressed through creative displays, chants, and cheers, showcasing the spirit of the WVSU community.

Adding to the vibrancy of the celebration, alumni from various batches joined the festivities, proudly representing their alma mater and reconnecting with fellow members of the WVSU community.

This year’s theme, DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Meaningful Growth and Opportunities, reflects the core values of West Visayas State University (WVSU). The university fosters holistic development, guiding students through a transformative journey. Just as preparing a meal requires careful attention and creativity, WVSU nurtures its students through academic rigor, extracurricular engagement, and professional growth.

The 2025 University Days will showcase diverse talents and provide opportunities to celebrate the achievements and diversity of the WVSU community.

Story by Shianne Michael Dela Peña/Dynamics Publication

Photo/s by LINK.exe

To kick off University Days 2025, students, faculty, staff, and alumni of West Visayas State University (WVSU) gathered for a Eucharistic celebration on Jan. 27 at the University Cultural Center.

The Mass was officiated by the Rev. Fr. Jose Rex Jiloca and the Rev. Fr. Vicente Duron, as the university emphasized spirituality alongside its dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

This year’s theme, “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” reflects the university’s commitment to fostering growth and creating impactful opportunities.

“I look forward to celebrating this anniversary with my fellow alumni after four years of missing the past alumni homecoming,” said Esther B. Babalo, a member of WVSU-College of Education Batch 1985.

University Days is an annual tradition that showcases the talents and intellect of students from the colleges on the main campus and external campuses of the WVSU system through various activities and competitions.

Story by Rochel Dorothy Rafael/SILAK Media

Photo/s by SILAK Media

As part of “Kilitaay sa West”, an event organized by the WVSU Federated Alumni Association Inc., alumni, retirees, faculty, and staff participated in an Ilonggo music fest celebrating the community’s rich cultural heritage and creativity at 3 p.m. on Jan. 27 at the New Academic Building Quadrangle.

With the theme “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” the same as 2025 University Days, this year’s celebration highlights the university’s commitment to fostering growth and creating impactful opportunities.

The event featured a binalaybay competition, traditional music performances, and fine dining, aiming to foster community spirit, showcase talent and innovation, and celebrate the institution’s cultural and academic heritage.

“This event and the significant performances provide us with an experience we can share,” said Rixfel Aperong, this year’s U-Days chairperson.

“It’s more about being the lens of a teacher, not just an audience. We absorb these experiences so we can pass them on to our future students,” added Aperong.

The festival also underscored the importance of cultural preservation, offering attendees a deeper appreciation of Ilonggo culture and its relevance in contemporary times.

“I’m thankful that West Visayas State University showcased traditional culture, which needs to be preserved,” said Brytch Ampania from the Calinog Campus. “I was able to see the diverse musical traditions of Iloilo.”

Story by Joella Nicole C. Faeldonea/SILAK Media

Photos by SILAK Media