Category: Academic News

The West Visayas State University Integrated Laboratory School (WVSU ILS) honored the 44 members of the Kindergarten Malambing Batch 2026 during its Moving Up Ceremony held today at the WVSU Cultural Center, celebrating the pupils’ completion of preschool education for Academic Year 2025–2026.

Families, teachers and guests filled the venue as the young learners marked their first academic milestone and prepared to transition to elementary education.

Prof. Mary June Pineda, ILS director, formally presented the kindergarten completers during the ceremony. Following the presentation of graduates, certificates were awarded by Pineda together with Dr. Michael Caesar Tubal, chairperson of the Division of Elementary Teacher Training; Prof. Jan Iris Faye Basbas, ILS guidance counselor; and Dr. John Erwin Pedroso, associate dean of the College of Education Graduate School.

The program highlighted not only the pupils’ academic achievements but also their creativity and appreciation of Filipino culture through a series of performances prepared by the learners and teachers.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the celebration was the movie presentation titled “Kindergarten: Tiny Moments, Big Smiles,” presented by Mikaella Gianna Solas. The audiovisual presentation featured classroom memories, school activities and candid moments shared by the pupils throughout the academic year.

The audience was also treated to a cultural stage play titled “Dances of the Philippines,” which showcased traditional dances representing the country’s major island groups.

Among the featured performances were “Luzon: Ragragsakan,” “Visayas: Cariñosa” and “Mindanao: Kinakulangan,” with the kindergarten pupils taking the stage in colorful traditional-inspired costumes and lively choreography.

An intermission number was rendered by Astrid Reus Aventura, a Grade 1 pupil, while kindergarten practice teachers also performed a special intermission presentation for the completers and their families.

The moving up ceremony concluded with the graduation song “Ready to Go,” as the Kindergarten Malambing Batch 2026 sang alongside their classmates and teachers in a heartfelt finale symbolizing both gratitude and new beginnings.

WVSU ILS offers Kindergarten to Grade 10 education and serves as a training hub for preservice teachers of West Visayas State University, providing future educators with experiential learning opportunities in classroom instruction, child development and student engagement.

West Visayas State University concluded the second day of the 2026 Teacher Education Centers of Excellence (COE) Identification and Designation Field Visit on May 13, with forums involving students, alumni, and extension stakeholders as part of the evaluation process led by the Teacher Education Council.

Selected students from various undergraduate teacher education programs shared their experiences on academic instruction, student support, and campus services during the student consultation forum. Alumni representatives from various educational institutions and leadership positions also participated in discussions validating graduate outcomes and professional engagement among graduates of the university’s teacher education programs.

Extension coordinators and partner stakeholders also presented collaborative initiatives and community-based programs implemented by the university to demonstrate the sustainability and impact of its extension services.

Following the consultation sessions, the TEC Field Visit Team proceeded with deliberations and report writing at the WVSU Board Room to consolidate findings from the two-day assessment.

During the closing program, TEC Secretariat Lead Mariz Geraldine A. Jose emphasized that the university’s final evaluation would still undergo a comprehensive review. “The final recommendation will be based on the comprehensive evaluation of your institution’s performance against the established criteria,” Jose said after presenting the team’s general observations.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, meanwhile, underscored the university’s commitment to continuous improvement and service through teacher education. “We leave today with renewed clarity about where we stand and, more importantly, renewed resolve about where we are going,” Dequilla said.

“This professional courage is not small; it is, in fact, exactly the spirit we hope to cultivate in every teacher we send out from this institution. Carry this forward. West Visayas State University continues as it always has, doing things para sa Bayan, para sa Guro, para sa Bata,” she added.

West Visayas State University commenced the first day of the 2026 Teacher Education Centers of Excellence (COE) Identification and Designation Field Visit on May 12 at the university’s main campus as part of the national assessment process under Republic Act No. 11713, or the “Excellence in Teacher Education Act.”

The evaluation, conducted by the Teacher Education Council, seeks to determine whether teacher education institutions continue to satisfy the standards for Centers of Excellence in instruction, research, extension services, faculty qualifications, student support, and graduate outcomes.

The activity opened with a team huddle, courtesy meeting, and opening program attended by WVSU President Joselito Villaruz, university officials, College of Education administrators, and members of the TEC Field Visit Team.

In his message, Villaruz reaffirmed the university’s commitment to advancing teacher education and sustaining academic excellence. “At West Visayas State University, our vision is to remain a premier institution that produces educators of the highest caliber. For us, the pursuit of the Teacher Education Center of Excellence is a legacy of service to the nation and our pursuit of innovation in pedagogy,” Villaruz said.

TEC Secretariat Lead Mariz Geraldine A. Jose likewise underscored the purpose of the on-site evaluation during the opening activities. “The purpose of this field visit is to validate and further assess your institution’s submission in relation to Teacher Education COE criteria,” Jose said.

“We would also like to emphasize that this process is evaluative and developmental. While we are guided by the established criteria and scoring requirements, we also aim to surface institutional strengths and identify areas for further improvement,” she added.

In accordance with the provisions of RA 11713, the assessment included the validation of institutional practices and resources supporting quality teacher education and the professional preparation of future educators. Assessors reviewed documentary exhibits and institutional records presented by the university to verify compliance with COE criteria established by the Teacher Education Council.

Classroom observations involving Bachelor of Elementary Education and Bachelor of Secondary Education classes were also conducted to evaluate curriculum implementation, instructional delivery, and student engagement.

The TEC assessment team likewise inspected major university facilities, including the Smart Classrooms in Quezon Hall and the College of Information and Communications Technology, the University Learning Resource Center (ULRC), the Central Science Laboratories, the University Research and Development Center, the Integrated Laboratory School, and College of Education facilities to assess the adequacy and utilization of academic and research resources.

The first day of the evaluation concluded with separate meetings involving university administrators and faculty members to validate governance structures, academic management, teaching practices, and faculty participation in program delivery and development.

The Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), through its Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME), in collaboration with the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Research Journal and the Patriot Scholars Organization, organized a groundbreaking 3-day seminar workshop titled “𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘋𝘢𝘵𝘢 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩: 𝘈 𝘚𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘳 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱 𝘰𝘯 𝘗𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.”

This event, held from November 6 to 8, 2024, at the Richmonde Hotel in Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, aimed to empower scholars with the skills and knowledge required to transform their research data into publishable manuscripts.

The seminar drew 69 committed DOST-SEI CBPSME scholars, each equipped with their research papers and laptops, ready to engage in this intensive training.

The workshop featured esteemed resource speakers, including Dr. Aris C. Larroder, Editor-in-Chief of the WVSU Journal, and Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio, Director of DOST-SEI.

The event was further enriched by the presence of prominent figures such as Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president; Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, WVSU vice president for Administration and Finance; Dr. Josette T. Biyo, human resource department consultant for DOST-SEI; and Mrs. Sheila L. Oliverio, Project Technical Specialist I, who provided valuable insights and encouragement throughout the seminar.

Dr. Villaruz opened the seminar with an inspiring message, emphasizing the critical role of research publication in bolstering science education in the region.

Dr. Paris posed a thought-provoking challenge to the participants, asking, “So what if you have successfully defended your thesis or dissertation? What happens next?” This question underscored the importance of sharing research findings for the benefit of the broader Filipino community.

On the other hand, Dr. Biyo echoed this call, stressing the importance of giving back by contributing to the nation’s research and extension efforts.

The workshop sessions were meticulously structured to provide a deep dive into the publication process. Dr. Larroder’s plenary session introduced participants to the IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) format, enhanced by the Situation-Problem Solution-Proposal (SPSP) framework for constructing compelling introductions.

Scholars also learned techniques for identifying credible, internationally indexed journals and leveraging AI tools for efficient literature reviews.

On the second day, Dr. Cornelio led an engaging session on “Publishing 101,” focusing on the three Cs of publication namely contribution, coherence, and clarity. He shared practical tips for selecting suitable journals and maximizing the impact of their research through clear and concise writing.

The final day featured a hands-on writeshop, where scholars presented their revised manuscript drafts for peer and mentor feedback. This interactive session provided an invaluable opportunity for participants to refine their work based on expert guidance.

The seminar concluded with a certificate awarding ceremony, expressions of gratitude from both organizers and participants, and a commemorative group photo, symbolizing the scholars’ readiness to contribute to the academic community through published research.

| 𝘛𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘗𝘢𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘬 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘯 𝘔. 𝘗𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘻𝘢
| 𝘗𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘣𝘺 𝘋𝘳. 𝘑𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦 𝘛. 𝘉𝘪𝘺𝘰, 𝘋𝘢𝘺𝘭𝘦𝘯 𝘔. 𝘌𝘯𝘳𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘻, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘻 𝘚𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘰

#WVSUExcels#SDG4#SDG16#SDG17

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Ph.D. Science Education major in Biology students from West Visayas State University-La Paz conducted an extensive three-part field study focused on assessing the health and biodiversity of mangrove, seagrass, and coral ecosystems in the Municipality of Concepcion, Iloilo, on Nov. 3-4, 2024. This activity is part of their course, SCI 629: Advanced Marine Ecology, under the guidance of Dr. Josette T. Biyo.

The first part of the study, titled “Assessment of Mangrove Community Structure in Two Study Areas of Concepcion, Iloilo, Philippines,” aimed to describe and compare the ecological framework of two distinct sites: Brgy. Bacjawan Sur and Sitio Pasil, Brgy. Malangabang coastal areas. The research team collected data on species composition, species density, regeneration rates, ambient parameters, cohabiting organisms, and human impacts in these areas.

The second part, “Community Structure of the Seagrass Ecosystem in the Intertidal Zones of Concepcion, Iloilo,” explored the ecological characteristics of seagrass beds in the same sites by measuring parameters such as species composition, species density, biomass, presence of epiphytes, and human-induced disturbances.

Finally, the third part, “Biodiversity Assessment of Coral Reefs Regenerated a Decade After Typhoon Yolanda Destruction at Malangabang, Concepcion, Iloilo, Philippines,” evaluated coral regeneration in terms of hard and soft coral composition, recruitment, percent cover, and the health of the coral reef ecosystem, considering both keystone and harmful species, as well as economically valuable invertebrates.

In the first activity, participants used the quadrat sampling method (10 m x 10 m) in five sampling sites to obtain a representative ecological survey of mangrove biodiversity in the study sites. The findings indicated greater diversity of mangrove species in Sitio Pasil, Brgy. Malangabang, an island setting, compared to Brgy. Bacjawan Sur on the mainland. Prominent species included Rhizophora apiculata, Avicennia marina, and Sonneratia alba. Other notable organisms observed in the mangrove area included periwinkle snails, hermit crabs, fire ants, egrets, and ruddy turnstones. The contrast in species density and regeneration between the two sites provides insights into the differing ecological pressures and conditions on the island versus the mainland, informing conservation strategies for each habitat.

In the second activity, researchers employed the random core sampling technique with a total of 25 replicates to assess seagrass ecosystems. The results revealed that Brgy. Malangabang had richer seagrass biodiversity, with species such as Enhalus acoroides, Halodule uninervis, and Halophila ovalis thriving in the intertidal zones, while only Enhalus acoroides was present in Brgy. Bacjawan Sur. The significant variation in species composition and density between the two sites emphasizes the need for localized management efforts that account for site-specific ecological dynamics, especially given the environmental pressures that can impact the resilience of these vital ecosystems.

The third activity employed quadrat sampling (1 m x 1 m) along a 50 m transect line in five locations to analyze coral reef biodiversity. Data indicated that the coral reefs in Sitio Malangabang support an abundant variety of species, including Brain coral (Leptoria), Moon coral (Acanthastrea), Staghorn coral (Acropora), Plate coral (Montipora capricornis), Green horn coral (Hydnophora), and Leather coral (Sarcophyton). The presence of corallivores like Drupella snails and sea urchins (Diadema setosum), which can damage reef structures, highlights the challenges these reefs face as they recover from the impacts of Typhoon Yolanda. During the study, participants also interviewed locals to better understand human activities that affect these ecosystems. Key disturbances included aquaculture, agriculture, conversion of mangrove forests into residential land, wastewater discharge, and plastic pollution.

This field study underscores the delicate balance of these coastal ecosystems and the pressing need for effective conservation strategies. With increasing anthropogenic pressures, sustainable management and community engagement are critical to preserving the biodiversity and ecological functions of mangroves, seagrasses, and coral reefs in Concepcion, Iloilo. The findings call for collaborative action among local stakeholders, conservationists, and policymakers to protect these ecosystems, which are invaluable to both biodiversity and the livelihood of coastal communities.

The researchers would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of their field study. They sincerely appreciate the warm welcome and support extended by Mayor Milliard Villanueva. They also wish to acknowledge Mr. Mark Rufino, CRMO-DA, and Ms. Je Johann Velasco, DA representative, for their invaluable cooperation.

 Finally, the class extends their deepest thanks to the people of Brgy. Malangabang for their kindness and generosity. Your efforts made this study possible, and we are truly appreciative of all your contributions. | Text by Patrick John M. Paniza, student of Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education (Biology), WVSU College of Education Graduate School| Photos by Jayson I. Gula, Joven J. Loja, JM Abilo, and Angilleca C. Tolones

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Panalawsaw 2024: A Regional Research Colloquium on Languages and Literature, themed “The Tapestry of Tongues: A Cross-Cultural Exploration of Languages and Literature”, took place from Oct. 11 to 13, 2024, at Harbor Town Hotel in Iloilo City, Philippines.

The event organized by the 4th year students of AB Foreign Languages, who were the first undergraduates to organize a research colloquium, gathered scholars and professionals to explore the intersections of language, culture, and literature through discussions, presentations, and collaboration.

Dr. Eleonora B. Padilla is their class adviser and teacher-in-charge.

The colloquium that has 102 online and face-to-face participants opened on Oct. 11 with Ritz Lacanilao as emcee, beginning with registration at 1 p.m.

Dr. Hazel P. Villa, the plenary speaker and Director of the Public Affairs, Marketing, and Communication Office (PAMCO) of West Visayas State University (WVSU) shared her expertise, sparking discussions about the connections between literature, folklore, and research. Her session included an open forum, allowing participants to engage deeply with the themes of the colloquium.

On the second day, Oct. 12, researchers presented their studies on topics like the cultural impact of Hangeul and feminist interpretations of Korean folklore, offering unique insights into cross-cultural themes.

Shane Dominique L. Celeste, chairperson of Panalawsaw 2024, expressed gratitude to Dr. Villa, acknowledging her support and insights that enriched the colloquium.

The colloquium is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on Quality Education (SDG 4), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).

| 𝘛𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘑𝘦𝘧𝘧 𝘗𝘳𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘦, 𝘗𝘈𝘔𝘊𝘖 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯
| 𝘗𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘗𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘸𝘴𝘢𝘸 2024 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘦

#WVSUExcels#Panalawsaw2024#SDG4#SDG10#SDG16#SDG17

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Two graduates from the West Visayas State University – College of Agriculture and Forestry (WVSU CAF) ranked among the top performers in the recent October 2024 Foresters Licensure Examination (FLE).

Jessa Jean T. Flores earned fifth place with a score of 91.80%, while Yzabella A. Guillen secured the tenth spot with a rating of 91.40%.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced the results on November 5, 2024, initially recording WVSU CAF with 47 passers out of 49 takers, and WVSU Main Campus with two passers out of four takers. Upon verification by the Office of the Registrar, it was clarified that all passers were indeed from WVSU CAF, as the Main Campus does not offer a degree program in Forestry.

This minor discrepancy appears to have been an oversight during the examination application process. With the confirmed figures, WVSU CAF achieved an impressive passing rate of 92.45%, with 49 passers out of 53 takers, including a remarkable 47 first-time passers out of 49. WVSU CAF also ranked as the top-performing forestry school across the entire Visayas region.

The FLE, held on October 29 and 30 at various testing centers nationwide, saw 928 passers out of 1,574 examinees, with a national passing rate of 58.96%.

𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙬𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙏𝙖𝙜𝙖-𝙒𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨! 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙒𝙑𝙎𝙐.

#WVSUExcels#BastaTagaWestTheBest#WVSUCAF#ForestersLicensureExamination2024#FLE2024

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