Category: Academic News

The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Law marked a significant milestone as it held its Third Commencement Exercises on June 5 at the WVSU Cultural Center, conferring the degree of Juris Doctor upon its newest graduates.

The ceremony gathered university officials, faculty members, families, and guests in recognizing the academic achievements of the graduating class and their readiness to enter the legal profession. Among those in attendance were His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., guest of honor and commencement speaker; First Lady Atty. Louise Araneta-Marcos, who served as an instructor of the graduating Class of 2026; and Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education and chair of the WVSU Board of Regents.

In his welcome address, College of Law Dean Atty. Ian Thomas M. Besana congratulated the graduates and acknowledged the collective efforts of faculty members, families, and supporters who contributed to the students’ journey through legal education.

Academic excellence and outstanding achievements were recognized during the presentation of awards and citations led by faculty member Atty. Regina Johanna V. Gustilo. The awards were conferred by President Marcos, First Lady Araneta-Marcos, Chair Agrupis, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, Besana, and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla.

The candidates for graduation were subsequently presented by Besana before the formal conferral of the degree of Juris Doctor by Agrupis.

Following the conferral of degrees, graduates received their academic hoods in a symbolic investiture ceremony led by the dean and assisted by family members. Diplomas were awarded by Villaruz and Dequilla.

Representing the graduating class, Jeremiah Davidson D. Yanson and Faith E. Montalban delivered the graduates’ response, reflecting on their experiences, challenges, and aspirations as future members of the legal profession.

The graduating batch also presented an audio-visual tribute honoring First Lady Araneta-Marcos, who had served as their instructor since joining the College of Law faculty in 2022.

A graduate’s prayer was led by Diana Michelle R. Consing, after which the graduates were formally inducted into the West Visayas State University Alumni Association by Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, president of the alumni association.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the commencement address delivered by President Marcos. Introduced by Villaruz, the President addressed the graduates, university officials, and guests, offering words of encouragement as the newest members of the legal profession prepared to embark on their careers.

A plaque and token of appreciation were presented following the commencement address, with Villaruz and Besana leading the recognition.

As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, the ceremony served as both the culmination of years of rigorous legal education and a call to uphold the principles of integrity, service, and excellence that define the WVSU College of Law.

West Visayas State University (WVSU) celebrated advanced academic achievement as it conferred degrees upon 405 graduates during its 2026 Graduate School Commencement Exercises held June 5 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The graduating class consisted of 262 graduates from the Graduate School and 143 graduates from the University Distance Education program, reflecting the university’s continuing efforts to expand access to advanced and flexible learning opportunities for professionals and lifelong learners.

Among the colleges offering graduate programs, the College of Education produced the largest number of graduates with 353, accounting for nearly four-fifths of all Graduate School graduates. The College of Business and Management followed with 23 graduates, while the College of Arts and Sciences produced 15. The College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts, and Recreation graduated eight students, the College of Nursing had five graduates, and the College of Communication produced one graduate.

Serving as commencement speaker was Hon. Regent Atty. Jobert A. Peñaflorida, private sector representative to the WVSU Board of Regents. Addressing the graduates, he challenged them to view their degrees not merely as academic credentials but as tools for meaningful leadership, innovation and service in their respective professions and communities.

A plaque of appreciation was presented to Peñaflorida by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, assisted by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Aarcel Vinz D. Agudo, chair of the University Senior Curriculum Council.

The candidates for graduation were formally presented by their respective deans before Hon. Chair Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, chair of the WVSU Board of Regents and chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education, formally conferred the degrees. Master’s and doctoral graduates were likewise hooded by the vice presidents and their thesis advisers during the ceremony, signifying the completion of their advanced academic training and entry into a community of scholars and professionals. Diplomas were subsequently distributed by Villaruz and the University vice presidents, assisted by University Registrar Mardy A. Ledesma.

The graduates were subsequently inducted into the WVSU Federated Alumni Association by its president, Hon. Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, formally welcoming them into the university’s network of alumni and professionals.

Representing the graduating class, Dr. Gemma Quintana, Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education major in Mathematics, delivered the graduates’ prayer, offering gratitude for the academic journey and the support that enabled the graduates to reach this milestone.

The commencement exercises marked the culmination of years of advanced study, research and professional development. For the graduates, the ceremony signified not only the completion of postgraduate education but also a renewed purpose to applying their expertise in service of their professions, communities and society.

West Visayas State University (WVSU) Main Campus celebrated a milestone of academic excellence as it conferred degrees upon 1,441 baccalaureate graduates during its 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Exercises held June 4 at the WVSU Quezon Hall Grounds.

Of the total graduates, 1,060 earned Latin honors, representing nearly three-fourths of the graduating class. The honorees included 23 summa cum laude graduates, 572 magna cum laude graduates and 465 cum laude graduates, underscoring the university’s continued commitment to academic excellence across disciplines.

Leading in the number of graduates was the College of Education with 417 graduates, followed by the College of Arts and Sciences with 277 and the College of Business and Management with 241. The College of Information and Communications Technology produced 177 graduates, while the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation had 122. The College of Communication and College of Nursing contributed 118 and 89 graduates, respectively.

Delivering the commencement address was Hon. Jed Patrick E. Mabilog, undersecretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and a member of the WVSU Class of 1987. Addressing the graduates, he emphasized that leadership is defined not by titles or positions but by character, courage and service, reminding the Class of 2026 that integrity remains the foundation of meaningful leadership.

A plaque of appreciation was presented to Mabilog by WVSU President Joselito F. Villaruz, assisted by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Aarcel Vinz D. Agudo, chairperson of the University Senior Curriculum Council.

The seven undergraduate colleges formally presented their candidates for graduation through their respective deans before Villaruz conferred the degrees. The distribution of diplomas was assisted by University Registrar Mardy A. Ledesma.

In recognition of their academic achievement, qualified awardees were granted the Honor Graduate Eligibility by a representative of the Civil Service Commission Regional Office VI.

The graduates were likewise inducted into the WVSU Federated Alumni Association by its president, Hon. Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, officially welcoming them into the university’s growing community of alumni.

Adding a reflective moment to the ceremony, Louise Angelika P. Pahilanga, summa cum laude graduate of the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program and recipient of the Most Outstanding Graduate in Academics award, delivered the graduates’ prayer on behalf of the Class of 2026.

As the graduates crossed the commencement stage, the numbers reflected more than academic achievement. The new degree holders represented years of perseverance, scholarship and service, joining the ranks of WVSU alumni prepared to contribute to their professions, communities and the nation.

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.

The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Education (COE) recognized its outstanding students, student leaders, and top-performing graduates during Papuri 2026, the college’s annual recognition program held June 2 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The ceremony celebrated excellence in academics, leadership, and service, reflecting the College’s continuing commitment to developing future educators who excel both inside and outside the classroom. Graduates who earned top marks in the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) were also recognized, underscoring COE’s strong tradition of producing high-performing teachers.

Awards were presented by College of Education Dean Dr. Ricky M. Magno and Office of Student Affairs Dean Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, together with university and college officials.

Serving as guest speaker was Prof. Dr. Reynaldo Galido Segumpan, professor and former dean of the City Graduate School of the City University of Malaysia, who challenged awardees to use their achievements in the service of others and to make a meaningful difference in their future classrooms and communities.

“Awardees, you will have students who are frightened of failing; you will have colleagues who are on the edge of giving up. You will have communities that have been disappointed too many times to believe that help is coming. You will have children in your future classrooms who are one caring teacher away from a completely different life. Be the ‘hen’ for them. Not because it is glamorous, not because it earns you another award, but because this is how excellence lives beyond the ceremony,” Segumpan said.

Drawing from lessons illustrated through various animals, he emphasized the values of perseverance, collaboration, and compassion in the teaching profession.

“We have traveled through the animal kingdom today: the carabao, the honeybee, the ant, the elephant, the monarch butterfly, and the hen. In each of them, we have seen a truth about excellence that no textbook notes more clearly: no creature thrives alone. Every awardee in this room needs the people in this room,” he said.

Papuri 2026 served not only as a celebration of achievement but also as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with excellence as students prepare to serve future generations of learners.

The West Visayas State University College of Business and Management (CBM) honored its top-performing students and outstanding achievers during its 2026 Honors and Awards Ceremony held June 1 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The ceremony recognized recipients of academic, non-academic, and special awards, highlighting student achievements in scholarship, leadership, and service. The program also featured the recognition of the college’s most outstanding graduates and the oath-taking of newly elected CBM Student Council officers for Academic Year 2026–2027.

CBM Dean Dr. Raymund B. Moreno opened the program, while WVSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla and Office of Student Affairs Dean Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata led the awarding of medals and certificates to honorees.

Delivering the inspirational message was CBM alumnus Atty. Gerald V. Pinpin, J.D., Co-Founder and Managing Partner of VP Law and Accounting Office. Pinpin encouraged students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

“In the court of life, failure is not a final judgment. It is just a proof that you are actively stretching out your limits. We, as humans, are meant to evolve; to scale up and reach our full potential,” Pinpin said. “But that requires willingness and bravery to step up and step out into the unknown and uncharted territory.”

The annual event celebrated the achievements of CBM students while reaffirming the college’s commitment to developing competent, resilient, and future-ready graduates.

West Visayas State University (WVSU) students earned top distinctions at the 17th The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA), with four Taga-West honorees securing places among the competition’s highest awardees and bringing home several special recognitions during the awarding ceremony held May 30 at Robinsons Place Pavia.

Among the university’s awardees, Fritz Jaime Sumbo and Romavil Abelarde of the College of Education and Jan Michael Alayon of the College of Arts and Sciences secured places in the prestigious College Top Circle of Five, one of the highest recognitions granted during the annual search.

Adding to the university’s achievements, Unah Angel Gabrielle Robante of the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School was named to the Junior High School Top Circle of Five, placing her among Iloilo’s most outstanding young student leaders.

The university’s representatives also garnered several special awards. Arcel Vinz Agudo received both the TOSIA Artisan Award and Advocacy Video Award in the college category, while Fritz Jaime Sumbo earned the TOSIA Scholar Award. In the junior high school category, Zoe Alexandria Lanceta was recognized with the TOSIA Artisan Award.

WVSU was recognized with the TOSIA Elite Schools Award, a distinction bestowed on institutions that consistently produce exemplary student leaders.


Organized by JCI Regatta, TOSIA recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service, and character. This year’s search drew nearly 100 applicants from schools across Iloilo. Following a rigorous screening process that included document evaluation, interviews, and leadership assessments, only a select number of students advanced as awardees and Top Circle honorees.

The West Visayas State University College of Communication (WVSU COC) recognized outstanding student achievement, leadership, and service during Parangal 2026, its annual recognition ceremony held June 1 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The event brought together students, faculty members, parents, and university officials to celebrate the accomplishments of COC learners for Academic Year 2025–2026 and honor those who demonstrated excellence both inside and outside the classroom.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, COC dean, commended the students for their dedication and perseverance throughout the academic year. This was followed by a message from Dr. Alona M. Belarga, director of the Office of Instruction, who encouraged the awardees to carry their achievements with humility, uphold the values of truth and service, and use their voices to create meaningful impact in their communities.

Serving as the inspirational speaker was Ms. Mary Zeliet D. Paris, supervising producer of GMA Public Affairs and a graduate of the Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting program, Batch 2017, where she earned the distinction of cum laude. Drawing from her experiences in the media industry, Paris inspired students to step beyond the classroom, seek transformative experiences, and allow the stories and people they encounter to shape them into compassionate and purposeful communicators.

The presentation of academic awards was led by Alingasa together with Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Belarga, recognizing students who excelled in their academic pursuits during the school year.

Adding a cultural highlight to the ceremony was a performance by Leobert Vincent M. Delariarte, champion in Vocal Solo Kundiman at the 2026 National Culture and the Arts Festival, accompanied by Prof. Ronie Libutaque, who served as coach and accompanist.

The presentation of non-academic awards followed, led by Dr. Shiela Mae C. Quero, division chair for Broadcasting; Dr. Ricky G. Abalena III, division chair for Journalism; and Ms. Joesyl Marie D. Aranas, division chair for Development Communication. The awards recognized students who distinguished themselves in leadership, campus involvement, competitions, and various co-curricular and extracurricular endeavors.

Another highlight of the event was the oath-taking of the newly elected COC Student Council officers, administered by Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, dean of the Office of Student Affairs, marking the transition of student leadership within the college.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of the College of Communication Graduating Class of 2026, recognizing graduating students as they prepare for commencement exercises and their transition to professional practice.

Ms. Lara Jeunese Villaruel, college secretary and chairperson of the Awards Committee, delivered the closing remarks and congratulated the awardees for their achievements, encouraging them to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and service as ambassadors of the college beyond the university.

The West Visayas State University College of Information and Communications Technology (WVSU CICT) recognized outstanding student achievement during its Recognition Program, Parangal 2026, held May 29, at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The ceremony gathered students, faculty members, parents and university officials in celebrating the academic and non-academic accomplishments of CICT learners for Academic Year 2025–2026.

Serving as inspirational speaker was Mr. Herbert M. Saladar, co-founder and product and engineering lead of Haraya Digital and a graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Information Management Batch 2008. Drawing from his experiences in the technology industry, Saladar encouraged students to remain adaptable, innovative and purpose-driven as they prepare to enter the professional world.

The presentation and awarding of academic and non-academic awardees were led by Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, dean of CICT, and witnessed by Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, dean of the Office of Student Affairs.

Among the highlights of the program was the message delivered by Louise Angelika O. Pahilanga of the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program, who was recognized as the Most Outstanding CICT Graduate in Academics. In her message, Pahilanga reflected on the challenges, sacrifices and perseverance behind every achievement, while expressing gratitude to the people who supported the students throughout their academic journey.

Closing the ceremony was Dr. Cureneo S. Dofitas Jr., chairperson of CICT Parangal 2026, who commended the awardees for their dedication and encouraged them to continue embodying excellence and service beyond the university. The recognition program forms part of the culminating activities of the University ahead of its commencement exercises, honoring students who excelled in academics, leadership and service throughout the academic year.