The West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined other higher education institutions across Western Visayas in advancing Internationalization (IZN) efforts during the “Fortifying Bridges: Seminar Series on Faculty and Student Mobility,” organized by the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office VI (CHEDRO VI) on October 20, 2025, at Sotogrande Iloilo Hotel.
In line with CMO No. 55, s. 2016 or the Policy Framework and Strategies on the Internationalization of Philippine Higher Education, and in celebration of ASEAN Month with the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” the seminar-workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration and enhance institutional capacity in student and faculty mobility programs.
In his message, Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr.,Director IV of CHEDRO VI, emphasized that collaboration and partnership among HEIs are vital in achieving the country’s internationalization goals.
Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office and Vice President for Visayas of the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Philippines Council, served as one of the resource speakers. She shared her expertise on faculty mobility and the UMAP program, highlighting WVSU’s experiences and best practices in promoting international academic exchanges.
She also underscored the university’s growing network of global partnerships and its dedication to providing transformative international learning opportunities for students and faculty.
Other notable speakers included Mr. June Carl Seran of the University of St. La Salle, who discussed the Asian International Mobility for Students (AIMS) program, and Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice of Central Philippine University, who presented effective strategies for advancing institutional IZN.
Also representing WVSU were university officials Dr. Alona M. Belarga, Director of the Office of the Instruction; Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs; Dr. Geneveve P. Lachica, Director of the Center for Research and Innovation in Science, Mathematics, and Education (CRISMEd); and Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin, Information Officer I.
The program concluded with Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, OIC Chief Education Program Specialist and IZN Focal Person of CHEDRO VI and XVIII, expressing gratitude to all participating institutions for their continued support in strengthening the region’s global education initiatives.
Through its active participation, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to internationalization and global engagement, aligning with CHEDRO VI’s mission to build a globally competitive, inclusive, and collaborative higher education community in Western Visayas.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
