West Visayas State University (WVSU) has appointed Dr. Victorino Salcedo III as vice president for Medical and Allied Sciences, a role he formally accepted during the University’s flag-raising ceremony on Mar. 16 at Jubilee Park.

University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz introduced Salcedo to the University community, citing his longstanding service to the institution and contributions to medical education and healthcare at WVSU.

“When I reflect in this moment, I realize that my entire life has been deeply intertwined with this University,” Salcedo said. “In many ways, this institution has shaped not only my professional life but also the way I think about leadership, service, and public responsibility.”

Salcedo’s academic and professional journey has been closely tied to the University. He entered WVSU at age 16 as a student in the biology program, later completing his medical degree and surgery residency at the University Medical Center. He eventually joined the College of Medicine faculty, teaching anatomy and surgery, and served as consultant in the Department of Surgery. He also earned his master’s degree in public governance from the University.

Beyond his professional milestones, Salcedo shared that WVSU also holds personal significance for him, recalling that he met his wife on campus during his student years.

“Because of all these memories and experiences, this University holds a special place in my heart,” he said, adding that it was difficult to decline the opportunity when Villaruz offered him the position.

Salcedo accepted the post with gratitude and emphasized the importance of collaboration in fulfilling the responsibilities of the office. He expressed his intention to work closely with faculty, staff and students in advancing the University’s mission in medical and allied health education, and asked the community to keep him in their prayers “that I may be blessed by the Lord with wisdom in all the things that I do and in all the decisions that I make.”

Salcedo succeeds Dr. Celina Cordero-Gellada, who now serves as dean of the College of Medicine after assuming the position on Mar. 1.