West Visayas State University honored its top-performing students and campus leaders during the University Recognition Program held June 3 at the WVSU Cultural Center.
The day-long recognition rites featured separate ceremonies for academic and non-academic awardees, celebrating student excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and co-curricular engagement across the university’s colleges.
Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete delivered the inspirational message during the academic awards ceremony, encouraging students to embrace a people-centered approach to leadership as they pursue their future endeavors.
“True success is not solely defined by titles, ranks, or badges. It is measured by how you lead, collaborate with, and support people around you,” Nafarrete said.
Drawing from his leadership experience, Nafarrete underscored the importance of valuing people as the foundation of any organization.
“Whether in a military unit, corporate institution, or global enterprise, the heart of any organization is not steel, technology, or infrastructure; it is flesh and blood. It is the people who serve, sacrifice, and stand steadfast,” he said.
He also reminded the awardees that meaningful progress begins with investing in others and fostering human development.
“As you step into the world, remember that you cannot build a nation or drive global progress without first building up the people next to you. Safeguarding peace and prosperity begins by taking care of humanity,” he added.
During the program, Louise Angelika P. Pahilang, the university’s Most Outstanding Student in Academics from the College of Information and Communications Technology, Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS), delivered a message on behalf of the awardees.
The afternoon program also included the recognition of non-academic achievers and the oath-taking of the University Student Council officers for Academic Year 2026–2027.
The annual University Recognition Program serves as the institution’s tribute to students whose achievements embody the university’s commitment to excellence, leadership, and service.
