May 21, 2025

3 WVSU student journalists honored as 2025 IWAG awardees

Three outstanding student journalists from West Visayas State University have brought honor to the University after being named among the 13 recipients of the prestigious 2025 IWAG Awards by the Philippine Information Agency on May 19.

Recognized for their leadership, journalistic excellence, and dedication to development communication were Nove Joy Losbañes, Editor-in-Chief, and Cybelle Rio Jhane Hembra, Associate Editor of Forum-Dimensions, the official university publication; and Roger Sibag Jr., Senior Editorial Consultant and former Editor-in-Chief of Silak, the official publication of the College of Education.

Now in its 48th year, the IWAG Awards continue to celebrate campus journalists whose work fosters community engagement, civic awareness, and responsible reporting. Established in 1977, the program aligns with PIA’s commitment to nation-building by recognizing young communicators who serve as agents of positive change.

WVSU beams with pride as these taga-West awardees exemplify the excellence and spirit of service that define the University—Basta Taga-West, the Best!

#WVSUexcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations
#IWAGAwards2025 #PIAWesternVisayas

Text by DO Callosa/PAMCO
Publication materials from PIA Western Visayas/Facebook

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May 21, 2025

WVSU delegates met Coventry University Officials in collaborative talks

A delegation from West Visayas State University (WVSU) met with officials from Coventry University, United Kingdom on May 21, 2025, for a series of collaborative talks centered on advancing research, fostering innovation, and strengthening academic partnerships.

Led by Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, the WVSU delegation includes Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Campus Administrator of Calinog Campus, and Dr. Elias C. Olapane, Head of Research, Innovation and Development and Internationalization Coordinator.

The team discussed with Prof. Elena Gaura, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Academic Engagement, for a courtesy visit and dialogue on strengthening institutional collaboration. In-depth discussions were also held with Prof. Moya Kneafsey, Director of the Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience, alongside other key professors and researchers to explore joint initiatives in sustainable development and agroecology.

Another highlight of the day was the engagement with Prof. Marina Orsini-Jones, Lead of the Equity and Equality in Education theme at the Research Centre for Global Learning. The WVSU delegation also interacted with professors, PhD students, research assistants, and scholars focused on global learning, equity, and inclusive education.

This ongoing visit aims to solidify academic partnerships, promote collaborative research, and foster mutual capacity-building between WVSU and Coventry University, in line with WVSU’s internationalization goals and commitment to innovation-driven education.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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May 21, 2025

Hospitality students explore culture, cuisine, and collaboration in Vietnam tour

Third-year Hospitality Management students from the West Visayas State University College of Business and Management explored the sights, flavors, and traditions of Vietnam during their international educational tour and cultural immersion from May 4 to 9.

The weeklong trip brought the students to Hanoi and Sapa, where they marveled at the scenic landscapes of Halong Bay and ascended the famed Fansipan, also known as the “Roof of Indochina.” The tour also featured hands-on activities, including a Vietnamese culinary and coffee-making class, where students learned the craft behind local cuisine and beverage preparation.

More than just sightseeing, the tour served as a cultural bridge. The WVSU students met with Hospitality and Tourism majors from Hanoi University of Culture, exchanging insights on tourism, tradition, and academic life. A cultural exchange event hosted by the Vietnamese university featured music, dance, and messages of friendship that strengthened ties between the two institutions.

Accompanying the students were CBM faculty members Dr. Cristy M. Pagente, associate dean; Dr. Ma. Flora Collado, division chair for Hospitality Management; and Sr. Cynthia Miñon, CBM research coordinator.

The tour highlighted WVSU’s commitment to global learning and industry immersion, helping students develop cultural awareness, professional skills, and a broader global perspective in preparation for careers in the hospitality field.

Text by Hazel P. Villa/PAMCO
Photos and sources from the College of Business & Management

#WVSUExcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations