WVSU
By Wina de la Cruz/PAMCO
A delegation from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) visited West Visayas State University (WVSU) on February 13, 2025, to explore and learn from the university’s best practices in records management.
Mrs. Jeany G. Garque, Supervising Administrative Officer of WVSU’s Records Office, warmly welcomed the ISUFST team. The meeting centered on discussing key aspects of records management, including classification and cataloging, electronic records management, and disaster recovery planning.
During the meeting, the two institutions shared their approaches to records management, with WVSU offering valuable insights into their processes.
The discussions emphasized how the adoption of effective records management practices, particularly in handling electronic records and planning for disaster recovery, could enhance overall organizational efficiency.
This collaborative effort between ISUFST and WVSU will contribute to improving records management practices and encourage further partnerships between the two universities.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
West Visayas State University (WVSU) recently concluded its academic and cultural immersion program with 20 students from Jeju National University (JNU), South Korea. The program, which started on January 17, and culminated on February 13, 2025, was designed to promote cross-cultural learning and strengthen academic ties between the two universities.
The ceremony opened with Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Dean of the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT), welcoming the JNU delegation. Dr. Concepcion emphasized the significance of such exchange programs in broadening students’ global perspectives and reinforcing educational ties.
“This program stands as a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration, fostering innovation, learning, and global understanding, as well as over 15 years of friendship between West Visayas State University and Jeju National University”, Dr. Concepcion said.
Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President of Research, Innovation, and Extension, delivered a message, underscoring the importance of international partnerships in providing students with a well-rounded education. She noted that these exchange programs offer invaluable academic and cultural exposure, equipping students with the skills to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), underscored the importance of the university’s international programs in cultivating long-lasting global relationships. She emphasized that these initiatives play a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding among students from diverse cultural backgrounds.
During the ceremony, JNU students shared their experiences and impressions on their time at WVSU. They spoke about the academic growth they experienced through courses offered by the CICT, especially in information technology and communications. Many also expressed their gratitude for the English language training they received at WVSU’s Center for Foreign Languages, which broadened their academic horizons.
Beyond academics, the students were deeply appreciative of their cultural immersion in the Philippines. They recalled participating in traditional Filipino dances, food tasting, and visits to cultural landmarks, which they found to be some of the most memorable parts of the exchange. Several students also mentioned the warmth and hospitality of WVSU students, which made their immersion even more meaningful.
A highlight of the closing ceremony was the Innovation Project Presentation, where JNU students showcased their collaborative research and projects. Among the presentations were projects focusing on Smart Farming, IoT-Based Weather Monitoring Systems, Aquaponics System Automation, and the Development of a Comprehensive IoT-Based Mango Farm System. These projects highlighted the students’ academic and creative development, as well as the power of cross-cultural collaboration in generating innovative solutions to contemporary challenges.
This program further strengthens the growing partnership between WVSU and JNU, underscoring their shared commitment to academic excellence and international collaboration.
As the program concluded, both the JNU students and their WVSU counterparts expressed a desire to maintain the friendships and knowledge gained during this meaningful exchange, paving the way for future collaborations and continued global dialogue.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
Daniela Grace Espedion, one of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors (the student arm of the WVSU internationalization) and third-year AB English Language Studies student from West Visayas State University (WVSU), has been selected to participate in the highly anticipated ASEAN Universities Exhibition and Forum (AEF) 2025. The event, which will be held both online and physically in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from February 11 to 25, 2025, is a key part of the ASEAN Student Mobility Programme.
The AEF 2025, hosted by Education Malaysia Global Services in collaboration with Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education, a premier event serves as a platform for showcasing the excellence of ASEAN universities, promoting regional innovation, and fostering collaboration within the ASEAN community.
For Daniela, this opportunity represents more than just a chance to participate in a global event. It is a chance to contribute to a broader dialogue about education, youth empowerment, and regional cooperation. As part of the ASEAN Student Mobility Programme, Daniela will join a diverse group of students and professionals from across the ASEAN region. The programme aims to facilitate meaningful exchanges and knowledge-sharing while fostering relationships that could shape the future of Southeast Asia.
The programme will kick off with an online orientation and program overview on February 11, followed by the Young Speaker Contest, where participants will tackle pressing issues facing the region, including youth empowerment, climate action, and strengthening ASEAN partnerships.
The AEF 2025 will culminate with forum sessions on February 24, where Daniela will have the opportunity to join the finalists of the Young Speaker Contest as panelists, discussing the future of ASEAN universities and regional cooperation. The final round of the contest and a special session with ASEAN leaders will wrap up the event on February 25.
Daniela’s acceptance into this prestigious programme highlights the growing recognition of WVSU students on the international stage. As an advocate for regional collaboration and youth development, Daniela looks forward to gaining invaluable insights and building connections that will serve her future academic and professional pursuits.
This remarkable opportunity is not only a testament to Daniela’s dedication but also a reflection of the increasing role of student mobility programs in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
Two promising fourth-year students from the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF), Justin June P. Cerillo and JC C. Fernandez, have been selected to participate in the highly esteemed Thailand Student Exchange Program at Kasetsart University. The exchange program, which will take place from February 8, 2025, to May 31, 2025, will allow the students to study under the Tropical Agriculture (International Program) at the university’s Faculty of Agriculture.
Cerillo and Fernandez, both pursuing their Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degrees, will experience a rich academic journey that includes academic exposure, cultural immersion, field studies, laboratory work, and research activities. These experiences will deepen their understanding of agricultural practices in Thailand, offering them valuable insights into tropical agriculture and farming innovations in Southeast Asia.
The program promises to be a transformative experience that will not only enrich their academic knowledge but also expand their global perspectives—both of which will prove invaluable as they continue their academic and professional journeys. Kasetsart University, known for its advanced research in tropical agriculture, provides the perfect setting for Cerilo and Fernandez to develop their expertise.
This exchange program serves as a testament to WVSU’s commitment to providing its students with global learning opportunities that prepare them for the challenges of modern agriculture. It also highlights the university’s dedication to producing well-rounded graduates equipped to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
West Visayas State University (WVSU) honored the pre-service fourth year students from College of Education (COE) and the College of Physical Education, Culture, Arts, and Recreation (PESCAR) during the 2nd Teaching Internship Pinning and Completion Rites held earlier today at the WVSU Cultural Center.
The ceremony recognized 566 student teachers comprised of 456 from COE, and 110 from PESCAR.
As featured in the event, the distribution of certificates of completion were awarded to Bachelor of Special Needs Education (BSNED) Generalist Teaching Internship completers for the academic year 2024 to 2025.
The program included the pinning ceremony, the recitation of the practice teachers’ creed, and the induction of COE teaching internship officers.
Known as batch INARA, the ceremony concluded with the singing of the batch song, “Long Live” by Taylor Swift.
As they step into the world of teaching, the 566 pre-service teachers carry forward a strong tradition of excellence and a commitment to lifelong learning. This milestone marks the start of their journey as educators, ready to inspire and shape future generations.
By JA Temelo/PAMCO, with sources from SILAK Media
Photos by Wina de la Cruz/PAMCO
Over a thousand delegates—including student-athletes, coaches, faculty, and staff—from the seven West Visayas State University (WVSU) campuses participated in the opening ceremony of University Hinampang 2025, held earlier today.
The ceremony began with a foot parade from the WVSU Main Campus grounds, followed by a street dance competition judged in front of the Administration Building.
The opening program commenced at the Iloilo Sports Complex, where campus administrators, heads, and sports coordinators raised their banners and recognized their respective student-athletes as they took the oath of sportsmanship.
Dr. Celina Cordero-Gellada, Vice President of Medical and Allied Sciences and current OIC University President, reminded everyone of the true victory that lies in the University Hinampang.
“Remember that true victory lies in the effort, the friendships forged, and the memories made, so let us embrace each opportunity to challenge ourselves, uplift one another, and showcase the spirit of WVSU sportsmanship,” said Gellada.
Jerome P. Millan, WVSU Student Regent, emphasized the University’s dedication to a holistic development that included athletic performance.
“[Hinampang 2025] represents the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of our life, personal growth, teamwork and leadership,” said Millan.
Following the preliminaries was the cheer dance competition, featuring participants from the Janiuay, Himamaylan, and La Paz campuses. The program then concluded with a unity dance led by the Federated Student Council.
With the theme “PAGSIBOD 2025: Harnessing Growth, Celebrating Unity—A Journey of Progress through Sports,” University Hinampang 2025 aims to reignite passion for sports and foster unity as part of holistic growth, upholding the tradition of excellence among Taga-West.
By JA Temelo/PAMCO, with sources from SILAK Media
Photos by Wina de la Cruz/PAMCO
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
