Day: February 1, 2025

The 2025 DIGAMO sa West reached its boiling point as the week-long festivities drew to a close with a sizzling victory for Dapog Manugsanlag (College of Nursing), which executed a grand leap to the top of the leaderboard, securing the overall championship title.

The Home of the Topnotchers turned up the heat in the final stretch, dethroning the two-time defending champion, Dapog Manuglapay (College of PESCAR).

With a remarkable score of 375 points, the College of Nursing proved its dominance in the showdown of wit, artistry, and creativity, prevailing as a formidable force in the university.

Following closely behind with 359 points was Dapog Manugsugba (College of Education), while the Talent Center of the University, Dapog Manuglapay (College of PESCAR), climbed the rankings to claim third place with 325 points—thanks to their stellar performances in the musical and performing arts category.

Next in the rankings, Dapog Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences) secured fourth place with 320 points, while Dapog Manugpangat (College of Communication) rounded out the top five with 290 points.

As the final scores were tallied and the new champions celebrated, DIGAMO sa West 2025 proved to be the ultimate feast of the year—a chef’s kiss-worthy celebration.

Story by Grace Divine Salumag/The Mediator

Pubmat by Pagyuhum Publication

During Laro ng Lahi at West Visayas State University’s 2025 University Days celebration, inclusivity takes center stage as everyone, regardless of their role, gets a chance to participate. This year, the basketball court became an unexpected battleground for a team composed of campus security guards, including 54-year-old Rico Andrade, Security Guard I at WVSU-Main Campus.

Since joining the university in 2013, Andrade has suited up for the basketball team every year. During their recent game against WVSU-Lambunao Campus, he played as the team’s center—a position that demands strength and stamina. Despite facing younger and more agile opponents, Andrade embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.

“Maka pa balhas lang, okay na ko,” Andrade said, smiling as he described how sweating it out on the court was enough of a victory for him.

The biggest hurdle, he admitted, was the age gap. “Budlay kay puro bata mga kontra namon,” he shared. Still, their perseverance paid off as the Main Campus secured an overall victory, proving that experience and determination can triumph over physical disadvantages.

Beyond the competition, Andrade emphasized the importance of staying fit, particularly for security personnel. “Mayad gid sa amon ni nga mga guwardiya. Dapat physically fit kami,” he said, highlighting how physical activity benefits their ability to perform their duties efficiently.

As the final buzzer sounded and the crowd erupted in cheers, it was clear that the game was more than just a sporting event. Andrade and his teammates demonstrated the university’s commitment to inclusivity, where even those working behind the scenes have a chance to be part of WVSU’s cherished traditions.

During University Days 2025, WVSU proved that inclusivity is not just a principle but a lived experience, ensuring everyone, regardless of their role, gets their moment in the spotlight.

Story by Dwiniane Keith Escoltor and Hazelyn Aliboso/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Dwiniane Keith Escoltor/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

The West Visayas State University grandstand came alive with electrifying energy as 12 colleges and campuses fiercely competed in the highly anticipated Battle of the Bands on Jan. 31, the culminating event of this year’s University Days celebration.

Each band performed one slow and one fast song, showcasing their musical versatility and creativity. The crowd was treated to a vibrant mix of genres, with performances including “Rolling in the Deep,” “Isang Linggong Pag-ibig,” and “Ang Buhay Ko.”

The atmosphere was electric as the audience cheered, sang along, and danced to the performances. John Vall Moreno, a student from Himamaylan City Campus, described the event as heartwarming.

“Ang experience ‘ko gid diri sa Battle of the Bands is ka-warm gid sang environment, especially sang mga Taga-West. Makita mo gid nga full support sila sa ila mga banda kag representatives. Ma-feel mo gid nga ga-vibe sila sa kanta, rock, music, and all,” Moreno said.

After a high-energy competition, Himamaylan City Campus emerged as the champion, followed by the College of PESCAR as first runner-up. The College of Nursing, Pototan Campus, and Integrated Laboratory School secured second, third, and fourth runner-up positions, respectively.

Special awards were also given to individual performers. Himamaylan City Campus swept most of the honors, winning Best Vocalist, Best Guitarist, and Best Bassist. The College of Information and Communications Technology earned the Best Drummer award, while the College of PESCAR was recognized for Best Keyboardist.

The event not only highlighted the musical talent of the university but also fostered a sense of community as students, faculty, and staff came together to celebrate the power of music. The competition proved to be a memorable highlight of University Days, leaving attendees eager for next year’s festivities.

Story by Kim Sualibios, Ryan Joy, Portillo, and Shianne Michael Dela Peña/Dynamics Publication

Photos by Rhenel Villaluna and Mark Stephen Dellavan/Dynamics Publication