West Visayas State University held its FY 2027 Budget Hearing on Aug. 11-13 at the WVSU Board Room, bringing together University officials, campus administrators, college deans, and unit heads to review proposed programs, projects, and resource requirements for the coming fiscal year.
Anchored on the theme, “From Blue Print to Action: Enforcing Policies and Ensuring Transparency,” the three-day hearing provided an avenue to examine how proposed expenditures respond to the University’s institutional priorities and contribute to delivering quality services to its stakeholders, particularly its students.
Presentations were made by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension, and Vice President for Administration and Finance for the offices under their respective units. The head of Student Services, the Medical Center Chief, campus administrators of the six satellite campuses, the University’s college deans, the director of the University Physical Development and Planning Office (UPDO), and representatives of offices under the President’s Office likewise presented their proposals.
Each proposal was considered in terms of its significance in addressing institutional priorities, introducing improvements or innovations, and generating measurable benefits. The process underscores the University’s effort to ensure that available resources are strategically directed toward programs and initiatives that strengthen its mandate in instruction, research, extension, healthcare, and public service.
Serving as panelists during the budget hearing were members of the WVSU Board of Regents: Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI; Shim Lester G. De Pio, President of the WVSU Federated Faculty Association; Bonifacio P. Gaverza, President of the WVSU Alumni Association; Dr. Gerard Joel C. Abonado; and Dr. Raul F. Muyong, Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education VI. Maria Liane L. Gayomali, Regional Director of the Department of Budget and Management Regional Office VI; Dr. May Rose O. Suerte, Asst. Regional Director for Finance and Admin Services, DOST VI; John Lorenz R. Belanio, Former Vice Chancellor of the Administration of the University of the Philippines in the Visayas; and Moonyeen E. Bolivar, Senior Economic Development Specialist of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region VI, also served as panelists. From the WVSU administration, Dr. Reymund B. Flores, Director of UPDO and Mrs. Jasmin L. Vargas, Chief of Finance Division likewise were panelists.
Through the annual budget hearing, WVSU strengthens its commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial stewardship, ensuring that plans for the coming fiscal year are translated into investments that create meaningful value for the University community and the communities it serves.
As the University moves forward with its research, instruction, extension, healthcare, and public service mandates, the FY 2027 budget process serves as an important step in turning institutional priorities into concrete programs and services that support WVSU’s continuing pursuit of excellence and its mission of Transforming Generations.
Category: Education and Research
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WVSU holds FY 2027 Budget Hearing to align resources with institutional priorities
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WVSU charts way forward for AY 2026-2027 at General Assembly for Faculty and Staff
West Visayas State University (WVSU) gathered its faculty and staff from across the University system for the 2026 General Assembly for Faculty and Staff on August 10 at the WVSU Cultural Center, setting the tone and direction for Academic Year 2026-2027 through a shared commitment to institutional excellence, service, and transformation.
Anchored on the theme of moving WVSU forward, the assembly highlighted the University’s accomplishments in the previous academic year while presenting key priorities and initiatives for the year ahead. University President Prof. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered his message, “WVSU Forward: Celebrating Progress, Transforming Generations,” reflecting on the University’s gains in academic excellence, research and extension, financial performance, and healthcare services.
In his message, Villaruz emphasized that WVSU’s progress is a collective achievement built on the dedication of its faculty, staff, students, alumni, partners, and stakeholders. He also outlined the University’s continuing priorities, including strengthening academic quality, expanding research productivity and international collaboration, enhancing community development, accelerating digital transformation, improving infrastructure and learning environments, advancing healthcare services, pursuing national and international quality recognition, strengthening financial sustainability, and sustaining WVSU’s global visibility.
“The future calls for us to think bigger, innovate further, and serve with greater purpose,” Villaruz said, emphasizing that the University’s work must ultimately be measured not only through numbers and records, but through the lives touched, communities empowered, and future built together.
Charting the way forward
The University’s vice presidents likewise presented their respective directions and priorities for AY 2026-2027.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Ma. Asuncion V. Dequilla, centered her presentation on the University’s most important priority: its students. Her presentation emphasized empowering faculty, enriching instruction, and enhancing student services, underscoring the shared responsibility of educators and university personnel in preparing students for their future.
Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences Victorino A. Salcedo III presented the University’s commitment to its students, employees, and communities through student care, employee health, and community impact. His presentation highlighted competence, compassion, science, and service as key elements in building a healthier and more resilient WVSU community.
For research, innovation, and extension, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Greta G. Gabinete presented an “Impact Pathway” that moves from research and innovation toward technology transfer, extension, and ultimately meaningful impact. The framework emphasizes the University’s role in turning knowledge into solutions and bringing these solutions to communities.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Peter Ernie D. Paris presented the University’s direction toward enabling institutional excellence, focusing on productive and responsive governance, sustainable resource and financial management, and infrastructure, systems, and digital transformation. His presentation underscored the need to strengthen policies, ensure transparency, manage resources wisely, and build systems that support a future-ready university.
Together, the presentations provided a systemwide view of WVSU’s priorities for the coming academic year—from instruction and student services to healthcare, research and innovation, community engagement, governance, financial sustainability, and digital and physical infrastructure.
Recognizing the WVSU community
The assembly also recognized the faculty and staff, whose excellence and service continue to support WVSU’s operations across its campuses.
Campus Administrators of the six satellite campuses (Calinog, Himamaylan City, Janiuay, Lambunao, Pototan, and the College of Agriculture and Forestry) as well as the deans of the University’s main campus colleges and VPAF Peter Ernie D. Paris welcomed those in attendance.
The assembly also featured the Recognition of Top Instructors and Professors in Teaching Effectiveness, presented by Prof. Alona M. Belarga, PhD, Director of Instruction and Quality Assurance, honoring faculty members who demonstrated excellence in teaching based on the faculty evaluations from the previous year.
Faculty Regent Hon. Shim Lester G. de Pio, President of the WVSU Federated Faculty Association, likewise delivered a message to the University community.
Welcoming a new generation of WVSU personnel
The University formally welcomed its newest members, who were introduced by Doullie M. Lotilla, Administrative Officer V of the Human Resource Management Office. They then took their oath of office before President Villaruz, officially marking the beginning of their service to the University and its stakeholders.
Adding to the celebration were special performances by West Crew and the Irong-Irong Dance Company, bringing energy and festivity to the gathering.
As WVSU begins another academic year, the General Assembly served as both a reflection on how far the University has come and a reminder of the work that lies ahead. WVSU moves forward into AY 2026-2027 with a shared direction: to strengthen the University, deliver greater value to its stakeholders, and continue Transforming Generations. -
WVSU receives 4 awards, hosts 6th CHED Regional Quality Awards
West Visayas State University (WVSU) received four major recognitions and served as host institution for the 6th Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Quality Awards, held at the WVSU Cultural Center as part of CHED’s celebration of its 32nd Founding Anniversary and the 5th Higher Education Day.
The annual awards program recognizes higher education institutions (HEIs) in Western Visayas for excellence in instruction, research, extension, internationalization, and other key areas aligned with CHED policies and quality standards.
WVSU received the following recognitions during the ceremony:
• CHED Regional Office VI’s Partner HEI
• Excellence in Research
• Excellence in Internationalization Initiatives
• Excellence in Peace Education Implementation
The event was led by CHED Regional Office VI Director IV Raul F. Muyong, while CHED Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis delivered a special video message recognizing the contributions of HEIs in advancing quality higher education in the region.
The program also recognized scholarship grantee topnotchers from WVSU and other universities across Western Visayas.
WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz received the awards on behalf of the University together with the vice presidents and key officials. Villaruz also delivered the response speech for the awardees, expressing gratitude to CHED and reaffirming the commitment of HEIs to continue improving the quality of education and service.
The hosting of the regional awards and the recognitions received reflect WVSU’s continuing efforts to strengthen research, internationalization, peace education, and institutional partnerships in support of quality and transformative higher education. -
WVSU hosts cultural mapping book distribution for Iloilo partners
West Visayas State University welcomed partner institutions and cultural stakeholders for the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG) Book Distribution on May 21, 2026, at the WVSU Quezon Hall Merged Rooms, reinforcing efforts to preserve and document the region’s cultural heritage.
The activity served as an early distribution of the books ahead of the project’s official launch in June 2026, in partnership with University of the Philippines Visayas and other local stakeholders. Dr. Mary Ann de la Vega serves as the Project Coordinator of WVSU CMPG for Iloilo City and the 3rd District of Iloilo Province, facilitating local coordination for the cultural mapping initiative.
The books contain documented cultural resources of Iloilo City and the Third District in the Province of Iloilo, including historical landmarks, traditions, practices, local stories, and other heritage elements that reflect the identity of communities in the region.
Present during the event were representatives from the local government offices of Iloilo City and the Third District of Iloilo Province, cultural tourism officers, Dr Bonna Palma, Dean-CAS, Anna Razel Ramirez from UPV, and Neshil Garvilles from the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, cultural workers, and academic institutions involved in the initiative.
Through the initiative, WVSU continues to support cultural preservation and strengthen partnerships with institutions working to promote greater appreciation of the rich heritage of Western Visayas. -
WVSU highlights internationalization efforts at CHED Region VI IRO Convergence
At the 2nd International Relations Officers (IROs) Convergence of the Regional Office VI, held at the Central Administration Boardroom of Capiz State University – Main Campus with the theme “ACHIEVEing Impact-Driven Internationalization Strategies: International Relations Convergence”, WVSU was represented by the Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), Ms Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, who is also the President of the Western Visayas Council of IROs; Dr May Joy Fernandez, IZN coordinator of WVSU-Calinog Campus, and Mr. Christopher Palmares, IZN coordinator of the College of Nursing.
Ms. Subong-Csoka delivered the accomplishment report of the University’s internationalization (IZN) initiatives and milestones.
Ms. Mabel Gutierrez, the Officer-in-Charge Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED IAS, opened the program, stressing the importance of sustainable collaborations.
Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer , Director IV and Director-in-Charge of CHED International Affairs Service, discussed the important role of the IROs in the higher education institutions, highlighting key qualities and skills. Dr. Ferrer also highlighted the relevant policies of the Commission that serve as guide for internationalization-related operations.
Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, the Secretary of the Commission on Higher Education, emphasized that Internationalization is “no longer about sending students or faculty abroad or attending conferences” but rather creating transformative learning environments, expanding research collaboration and innovation, and sharing that Filipino learners are globally competent yet “grounded with our identity”.
The 2nd International Relations Officers (IROs) Convergence gathered international relations officers from state universities and colleges, private higher education institutions, and local colleges in the region. -
From 4Ps scholar in WVSU College of Education to Arizona’s Teacher of the Year: Ilonggo educator earns top U.S. district honors
By Hazel P. Villa
ILOILO CITY — Years ago, Jake Lopez was a child of a struggling family in Estancia, Iloilo, whose mother sold food in an elementary school while his father drove a tricycle to make ends meet. Today, the former Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) scholar has become an award-winning educator in the United States after receiving two major teaching honors in Arizona.
Lopez, who hails from Barangay Cano-an in Estancia, was named both “School Site Teacher of the Year” and “District Teacher of the Year” by the Pendergast Elementary School District in Arizona during an awarding ceremony held at the Pendergast Community Center in Phoenix on May 13 in the United States, or early morning of May 14 in the Philippines.
The “District Teacher of the Year” award is considered the highest annual teaching recognition in the Pendergast Elementary School District, which covers 12 schools serving around 8,000 to 9,000 students across Phoenix, Avondale, and Glendale, Arizona.
Apart from the district recognition, Lopez also received the “Westside IMPACT Teacher of the Year” award during a separate ceremony held on May 5 at Grand Canyon University in Arizona.
The Westside IMPACT Teacher of the Year program honors outstanding educators from West Valley school districts for excellence in instruction, leadership, mentorship, professional growth, and community involvement.
In an interview via Facebook Messenger, Lopez described the moment as surreal.
“Bongga bala ya ang national. 4Ps iskolar noon, Teacher of the Year na ngayon,” he told the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
Lopez graduated cum laude in 2018 from the West Visayas State University College of Education, where he also served as managing editor of a student publication. He earned a Bachelor in Special Education with specialization in teaching the gifted.
He is now teaching under the Developmental Academic Program for middle school students in Grades 6 to 8 with mild to moderate disabilities, particularly learning disabilities.
Before moving to the United States in July 2023 as a J-1 teacher, Lopez worked at Hua Siong College of Iloilo. He admitted that pursuing the opportunity abroad came with financial struggles and uncertainty.
“I spent every cent I had from my savings sang ga-teach ako sa Hua Siong,” Lopez said.
He recalled how some parents of his former students helped him raise funds for his U.S. journey by hiring him as a tutor, while another parent even offered him an interest-free loan.
“That’s why I never asked a single cent from my family because I knew they did not have that amount. I gambled and took a risk,” he said, adding that he also sought help from lending companies just to finance his deployment.
Lopez said his upbringing continues to inspire him as an educator.
“I passed the 4Ps scholarship sang 2014. We were the second batch of 4Ps scholars,” he shared. “My mom was a housewife and sometimes sold food in an elementary school to help my father, who was a tricycle driver.”
Despite his achievements, Lopez said adjusting to life and work in the United States was far from easy.
“One of the most challenging moments I experienced as a Filipino teacher in the U.S. was adjusting to the culture, language differences, and the weather in Arizona,” he said.
Although English is widely spoken in the Philippines, Lopez admitted he still struggled with accents, expressions, and fast-paced conversations in the U.S. classroom setting.
He also had to adapt to Arizona’s extreme heat and the demands of being a Special Education teacher for the first time.
“I had to quickly learn how to support students with diverse needs, understand individualized education plans, and apply effective teaching strategies while adjusting to a new environment,” he said.
Still, Lopez said he chose to remain optimistic through the transition.
“These experiences helped me become more adaptable, patient, and compassionate as an educator,” he added.
For many Ilonggos and fellow educators, Lopez’s story has become more than a tale of professional success. It is also a story of grit, sacrifice, and how a child once supported by government aid rose to become one of the most recognized teachers in an American school district.
Photos courtesy of Jake Lopez -
WVSUMC hosts 2-day surgical workshop and postgraduate course
The West Visayas State University Medical Center (WVSUMC), through its Department of Surgery and in cooperation with the Philippine Society of General Surgeons, Inc. – Panay Chapter, successfully mounted a two-day medical training event focused on advancing surgical knowledge and clinical skills among healthcare professionals.
Held on May 14 to 15, 2026, the activity featured a pre-convention clinical workshop on the first day and the 3rd Postgraduate Course on Surgical Emergencies 2.0 on the second day.
Day 1, held at the 5th Floor Conference Room of WVSUMC, focused on a clinical workshop on suturing techniques, wound care, and stoma practice primarily designed for nurses and physicians working in district hospitals.
Originally intended for only 60 participants, the workshop exceeded expectations with 97 registrants, reflecting strong interest among healthcare workers in continuing medical education and hands-on surgical training.
Dr. E. Wilfredo Sombong Jr., chairman of the Department of Surgery of WVSUMC, delivered the welcome remarks during the opening program.
For Session 1 on the Science of Tissue Management: Suturing Techniques and Suturing Workshop, Dr. Pamela-Di Traya introduced the speaker, while Dr. Ryan Ed Comuelo discussed “Science of Tissue Management” and “Suturing Techniques.” Dr. Comuelo also facilitated the skills workshop and practical stations on simple interrupted suturing.
Meanwhile, Session 2 focused on the Holistic Approach on Wound Care Management and Stoma Care. Dr. Pamela-Di Traya again served as introducer of the speaker. Dr. Kutch Yasa and Ms. Fia Pabiona delivered lectures on wound and stoma care, while Dr. Yasa facilitated the afternoon skills workshop.
The closing remarks for the first day were delivered by Dr. Victorino Salcedo III, chair of the Scientific Committee for the Postgraduate Course.
On May 15, the second day of the event featured the 3rd Postgraduate Course on Surgical Emergencies 2.0 at the Ann Margaret Ballroom of Diversion 21 Hotel. The convention gathered medical professionals, nurses, students, and interns for discussions and updates on surgical emergency management and related healthcare practices.
The two-day event highlighted WVSUMC’s continuing commitment to strengthening medical education, professional development, and quality healthcare service in Western Visayas through specialized training and collaborative learning initiatives. -
WVSU concludes Teacher Education Council evaluation visit
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. -
WVSU undergoes Day 1 of TEC evaluation for excellence in teacher education
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. -
WVSU, Allenco Iloilo Realty partner to expand student internships and industry training
West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Allenco Iloilo Realty Corporation (AIRC) formalized a partnership through a memorandum of agreement aimed at expanding student exposure to industry practice and strengthening academic alignment with workforce needs.
Signing the agreement were Kristin G. Hortelano, regional manager of AIRC, and Ivan Mark Arendaje, marketing manager of AIRC, together with Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president, and Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, Office of Student Affairs dean.
The agreement establishes collaboration on internship and apprenticeship programs, recruitment activities, career symposia, and curriculum enhancement initiatives designed to ensure students are better prepared for professional practice. It also provides avenues for direct engagement between students and industry partners.
WVSU committed to integrating industry expertise into its academic programs while ensuring students uphold professionalism, confidentiality, and due diligence during immersion activities. The university also expressed support for joint community initiatives, including participation in national learning camps and environmental programs such as coastal clean-ups and Earth Hour activities.
Officials said the partnership reflects a shared goal of producing graduates who are both academically prepared and industry-ready, while strengthening the local talent pipeline through sustained academe-industry collaboration.