West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized faculty, staff, administrators, researchers, and retirees from its main campus, satellite campuses, and Medical Center during the WVSU Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) 2026 held June 15 at Sotogrande Hotel at Green Meadows, Iloilo.
Carrying the theme “Taga-WEST Legacy: Standing Strong in Service, Honoring Dedication and Inspiring Excellence,” the annual event celebrated members of the University community whose commitment and contributions have helped advance WVSU’s vision, mission, and goals.
Awards conferred during the ceremony included the Presidential Service Award, Retirement Award, University Service Award, Administrative Service Award, Loyalty Award (Bronze Pin for 10 years, Silver Pin for 20 years, and Gold Ring for 30 years), and Outstanding Researchers Award.
Former Commission on Higher Education Chairperson and WVSU Board of Regents member Dr. Julian Prospero “Popoy” de Vera III delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individuals whose years of service have strengthened the institution.
“Today, through PRAISE, we recognize individuals who have demonstrated loyalty, service, excellence, and outstanding achievement,” de Vera said.
“All of them have devoted the best years of their lives to WVSU. They are the men and women who practice excellence, discipline, and innovation and are committed to quality in their work every day, every week, and every year.”
He also underscored the role of the entire WVSU community in sustaining the University’s legacy and contributing to nation-building.
“Many problems beset our nation, but there is hope. Here in Iloilo City and throughout Region VI, there is hope as long as our awardees today, along with all our administrators, faculty, staff, students, and alumni, work together to build and sustain the Taga WEST legacy—a legacy defined by strong service, dedication, and excellence.”
In his message, University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz paid tribute to the awardees and thanked them for their years of service to the institution.
“Today, we pay tribute to those who have contributed their time, loyalty, and dedication to duties to our beloved institution… For 124 years, we have built a legacy. And this legacy is not seen in its physical structure, medals, or recognitions — it is made up of people like you, who chose every day to show up, to serve, to go the extra mile, and to be part of something bigger than yourselves… Madamo gid nga salamat to each one of you.”
Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, chairperson of PRAISE 2026, welcomed the awardees and guests, while Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Julius B. Undar delivered the closing remarks.
Representing the honorees, Retirement and Administrative Service Award recipient Dr. Mary Josephine Bautista delivered the response, expressing gratitude on behalf of the awardees for the recognition and the opportunity to serve the University.
The annual PRAISE program recognizes productive, innovative, exemplary, and ethical service among University personnel, reaffirming WVSU’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, dedication, and public service across the institution.
