West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its College of Education, officially opened today, May 11, the Institution-Based Summer Training Program for Multigrade Teachers with an opening program and enrollment held at the WVSU AV Hall.
Implemented in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), the Summer 2026 program gathered 144 teacher-participants from Regions VI, VII, VIII, and the Negros Island Region (NIR), highlighting the University’s expanding role in advancing multigrade education across the Visayas.
Participants came from various divisions in Western Visayas, including Iloilo, Antique, Guimaras, Capiz, Aklan, and Negros Occidental; from Central Visayas, including Bohol, Cebu Province, Naga City, Danao City, and Talisay City; and from Eastern Visayas, including Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Leyte, Borongan City, Biliran, Baybay, Maasin City, Catbalogan, and Calbayog.
Representatives from the Negros Island Region also joined the training, including participants from Sipalay, Silay, Escalante City, Siquijor, Kabankalan City, Canlaon City, Cadiz City, La Carlota City, Negros Oriental, Guihulngan City, Bayawan City, and Tanjay City.
To accommodate the large number of participants, the scholars were divided into two groups, with Class A holding sessions at the WVSU AV Hall and Class B at the WVSU Center of Teaching Excellence (CTE).
The month-long training program is designed to strengthen the competencies of teachers handling multigrade classes through practical, research-informed, and learner-centered approaches tailored to diverse classroom settings.
The intensive professional development initiative features a six-unit training track focused on multigrade pedagogy, curriculum mapping, integrated instruction, differentiated learning, and reflective teaching practice.
According to the program description, the training aims to help educators transition from a traditional “grade-separated” teaching approach toward a more flexible multilevel learning model that encourages collaboration, peer teaching, and integrated lesson planning across grade levels.
Featured courses include MG 401: The Multigrade Specialist: Pedagogy, Philosophy, and Learner Profiling, MG 402: The Spiral Lens: Advanced Curriculum Mapping and Vertical Synthesis, and MG 403: The Learning Architect: Mastering Integrated Instruction and Tiered Design.
The training will run until May 30, 2026.
WVSU also noted that grades earned in the program may be credited toward equivalency in the Master of Arts in Education major in Teaching in Challenged Areas offered by the University.
The initiative reflects the University’s continuing commitment to advancing quality teacher education and supporting educators in delivering inclusive, responsive, and transformative learning experiences across underserved and geographically challenged communities.
Category: Education and Research
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WVSU Opens Summer Training Program for Multigrade Teachers Across Visayas and NIR
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WVSU highlights WURI ranking, upcoming COE validation during weekly flag ceremony
West Visayas State University (WVSU) shared updates on the University’s recent achievements and upcoming institutional activities during its weekly flag-raising ceremony held May 11 at Jubilee Park.
During the ceremony, Dr. Villaruz announced that WVSU once again secured a place in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), ranking 137th this year and surpassing its previous placement of 178th. He also shared that the University entered the top 100 in several categories, highlighting WVSU’s continuing efforts to strengthen innovation and quality assurance initiatives.
Dr. Villaruz expressed hope that the University would sustain its quality assurance achievements for future international recognitions, noting that the administration aims to see WVSU included in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings within the next five years.
Meanwhile, College of Education Dean Dr. Ricky M. Magno announced the successful submission of requirements for the Center of Excellence in Education evaluation, qualifying the University for the field validation phase.
Dr. Magno shared that evaluators are expected to visit the campus this week for assessment activities, including campus tours and visits to various University offices as part of the validation process.
This week’s flag-raising ceremony was led by the University executive officers, with Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Julius B. Undar serving as master of ceremonies. -
5th Peace Education Forum at WVSU highlights its role in advancing global harmony
Educators, students, researchers, and peace advocates gathered at the College of Education – NAB 110 of West Visayas State University on May 9, 2026 for the 5th West Visayas Peace Education Forum.
Anchored on the theme “Blessed Victoria Diez Memorial Lecture: Openness and Dialogue,” the forum featured discussions on peacebuilding, dialogue, and education as foundations for a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Dr. Rodgen M. Jabor, Peace Educator and Researcher, underscored the importance of education in cultivating empathy, responsible citizenship, and mutual understanding among communities.
Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, emphasized that peace education plays a significant role in shaping future generations and fostering global understanding.
“Peace education is the key in solving global problems. It is not an overnight solution, but if we teach our students at a young age about its value, we are creating a peaceful world one step at a time. As to internationalization, networking and forging partnerships will not prosper without peace,” she said.
The forum also showcased research presentations from educators and students across Iloilo, promoting the exchange of peace education initiatives and best practices.
Joint efforts of the WVSU – Center for Peace Education (CPE), ILLO, University Learning Resource Center, Department of Education Region VI, WVSU College of Education – Graduate School (Peace Education Class), and the Department of Guidance and Values Education made the activity possible. -
WVSU rises to Rank 137 in WURI 2026
West Visayas State University continues to gain global recognition for innovation and social impact after rising to Rank 137 in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, placing the University among the Global Top 500 Innovative Universities.
From advancing inclusive and socially responsive programs to strengthening internationalization and student engagement, this achievement reflects the collective efforts of the entire WVSU community in pushing boundaries and creating meaningful impact beyond the classroom.
WVSU also earned spots in several WURI Top 100 categories, including:
Rank 8 Inclusive Social Innovation for the Underserved (C6)
Rank 36 Student Mobility and Openness (A2)
Rank 47 Future-Oriented Responses to Global Uncertainty and Geopolitical Risk (A7)
Rank 83 SDG- and ESG-Based Responses to Past and Present Global Challenges (A8)
As WVSU continues to expand its global footprint, this recognition affirms the University’s commitment to transformative education, innovation, and service for communities here and beyond. -
WVSU, Silla University conclude global innovation series; CON team tops final pitch
Bridging the 2,500-mile distance between Iloilo and Busan, West Visayas State University (WVSU) successfully concluded its intensive three-session international series, conducted online, “Global Education Innovation for Sustainable Cities: Busan-Iloilo Collaboration,” on April 28, 2026. The program, a landmark collaboration with South Korea’s Silla University, culminated in a high-stakes pitch competition where the College of Nursing (CON) emerged as the grand champion. The activity was facilitated by the Offices of the Instruction, Vice President of Academic Affairs, University Extension and Development Center, and the Directors of Academic Affairs.
A Vision of Internationalization
The series opened in February with a powerful message from University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, who underscored WVSU’s commitment to elevating the university to global academic standards. Under the guidance of the Office of Instruction led by Dr. Alona M. Belarga, the program immersed university faculty in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically focusing on Quality Education (SDG 4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
The Road to Innovation: From Busan to Iloilo
The collaboration was structured as a three-session intensive series spanning February to April 2026. Keynote lectures from Wootak Jung (Former Director, UNESCO Asia-Pacific), Hyunkyu Oh (Former Busan City Councilor) and Dr. Ricky Becodo (Director of WVSU Extension and Development Center) provided the strategic foundation. Teams were later trained in “Storytelling-Based Approaches’ and & Living Lab”; methodologies by Silla University’s Prof. Eunhwa Lee and Prof. Hayoung Shin, turning theoretical global concepts into practical solutions tailored for the Ilonggo context.
The Final Pitch: A Battle of Specialized Brilliance
The final session served as the “moment of truth,” where seven teams from the Main and Satellite campuses defended their visions. The results showcased the diverse expertise of the “Taga-West community:
• 1st Place: College of Nursing (CON) – Represented by Prof. Sheila Beliran, Dr. Madonna Palmes, and Prof. Febray Lapidante, the team took the top spot with their proposal, “Project CON-CARE: Clinical Outreach and Nursing-Led Community Assessment for Resilience Empowerment” Their project masterfully integrated public health strategies with urban resilience.
• 2nd Place: College of Communication (COC) – Presented by Dr. Rona Dhel Alingasa, Dr. Louis Placido Lachica, Prof. Joesyl Marie Aranas, Dr. Ricky Abaleña III, and Dr. Shiela Mae Quero), the project “MAGSAYSAY PREPARADO: A Communication-Driven Behavior Change Intervention for Enhancing Disaster Preparedness in Barangay Magsaysay Village, La Paz, Iloilo City”; stood out for its focus on communication-driven behavior change, creating a critical bridge between awareness and survival in flood-prone urban barangays.
• 3rd Place: College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) – Led by Dr. Michael Victor Gonzales, Dr. Belinda Leonida, Dr. Anthony Leal, and Mr. Nico Mambusadathe, the team’s initiative “Optimizing Residential Waste Valorization Pathways: A WVSU-CAF Initiative Based on Community Waste Profiling and Food Security Needs,” offered a vital solution for community waste management while simultaneously addressing local food security.
The “One WVSU” spirit was further solidified by the participation of WVSU-Calinog, Himamaylan City, Janiuay, and Pototan. These campuses brought vital provincial perspectives to the global stage, ensuring that the innovation dialogue reached every corner of the region.
Further, the activity became more meaningful due to the special participation of the College of Communication – Graduate School Students.
Global Scrutiny and Academic Excellence
The proposals were scrutinized by a distinguished panel that bridged academic theory and government policy:
• Prof. Lee Eun Hwa: Dean of the Graduate School at Silla University
• Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla: WVSU Vice President for Academic Affairs
• Dr. Greta G. Gabinete: WVSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension
• Ms. Febie S. Ibojos: Vice Chair of the Iloilo Provincial Social Development Committee
The Path Forward
In the closing ceremony, the university leadership signaled that these proposals are not merely academic exercises but blueprints for the future of the region. As WVSU continues to expand its global footprint, this partnership with Silla University serves as a testament to what can be achieved when local ingenuity meets international collaboration.
For the winners and participants, the Busan-Iloilo journey has set a new benchmark for excellence, proving that the ‘Taga-West’ community is ready to lead the world in sustainable urban innovation. -
WVSU BSHM students lead PMS training to strengthen front office skills
Second-year Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students of West Visayas State University (WVSU) conducted and participated in an advanced training on front office operations and service excellence on April 27–28, 2026, at the WVSU BINHI Building.
Titled “Optimizing Front Office Operations through PMS for Quality Service Excellence,” the activity was held under the courses Front Office Operations and Management and Quality Service in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry, under the guidance of faculty member Ms. Feanna B. Vito.
The students not only attended the program but also took the lead in organizing, facilitating and managing the activity as part of their course requirements. The hands-on approach allowed them to experience the full process of event management while strengthening their practical skills in the hospitality field.
A key component of the program was the use of Property Management Systems (PMS), commonly used in hotels to manage reservations, guest information and daily operations. Through the workshop, students gained practical exposure to industry-standard tools, helping them better understand real-time front office procedures, improve service efficiency and enhance their leadership and communication skills.
Resource speaker Mr. Peter Paul Dayanan of Paul Kaldi Coffee shared insights on real-world front office operations, providing students with industry-based perspectives that complemented their classroom learning.
The activity forms part of WVSU’s continued efforts to equip hospitality management students with hands-on, industry-relevant skills and prepare them for future careers in the field. -
WVSU rises to rank 137 in WURI 2026, breaks into global top 500 innovative
West Visayas State University (WVSU) has secured Rank 137 in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, placing it among the Global Top 500 Innovative Universities.
This marks a significant rise from its 187th position in 2025, highlighting the university’s continued commitment to innovation, quality assurance, enhanced student engagement, and strengthened international collaboration.
In addition to its overall ranking, WVSU earned recognition in several specialized categories within the WURI Top 100:
* Rank 8 – Inclusive Social Innovation for the Underserved (C6)
* Rank 36 – Student Mobility and Openness (A2)
* Rank 47 – Future-Oriented Responses to Global Uncertainty and Geopolitical Risk (A7)
* Rank 83 – SDG- and ESG-Based Responses to Past and Present Global Challenges (A8)
The World University Rankings for Innovation evaluates universities based on innovation, practical impact, and responsiveness to global and societal challenges, rather than traditional academic metrics.
WVSU’s improved standing reflects its continued commitment to advancing education that is innovative, socially responsive, and aligned with global standards. -
WVSU advances academic excellence through lecture series on Outcome-Based and Competency-Based Education
West Visayas State University (WVSU), through the Office of the Director of Instruction and the Director of Academic Affairs, successfully conducted a three-part Faculty Lecture Series on “Curriculum Mapping and Learning Outcomes Evaluation of Competency-Based Education” on March 27, March 31, and April 24, 2026 via Zoom, engaging faculty members across campuses in a unified effort to enhance instructional quality and academic excellence.
The lecture series featured Dr. Lee Eun Hwa, Dean of the Graduate School of Education of Silla University, Busan, South Korea, who delivered three interconnected sessions that collectively strengthened faculty understanding of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Competency-Based Education (CBE).
The first session, held on March 27, 2026, focused on the “Paradigm Shift for Higher Education with OBE and CBE,” where participants examined the transition from traditional, content- centered instruction toward learner-centered and outcome-driven education. Emphasis was placed on defining clear learning outcomes as the integration of knowledge, skills, and attitudes, and recognizing that these outcomes serve as the foundation for curriculum design, instruction, and assessment.
The second session, conducted on March 31, 2026, centered on “Mapping the Curriculum of Competency-Based Education,” where Prof. Lee guided participants through the systematic alignment of institutional vision, program goals, and course outcomes. The discussion highlighted the importance of developing a coherent curriculum framework anchored in core, professional, and leadership competencies, ensuring that learning experiences are purposeful and responsive to real-world demands.
Faculty members were introduced to practical approaches in designing curriculum maps that link intended outcomes with instructional strategies and assessment methods, thereby reinforcing the principle that outcomes determine the educational process.
The third and final session, held on April 24, 2026, focused on the “Evaluation of Learning Outcomes of Competency-Based Education,” emphasizing the critical role of assessment and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) in sustaining academic excellence. Participants explored a comprehensive cycle that includes defining outcomes, implementing aligned instruction, assessing student performance, and utilizing data for continuous program enhancement. This evidence-based approach ensures that academic programs remain responsive to the evolving needs of learners and society, while fostering a culture of accountability and innovation within the institution.
The successful implementation of this lecture series demonstrates WVSU’s strong commitment to advancing quality assurance, fostering innovative teaching practices, and strengthening outcomes-based education across its campuses. By deepening faculty understanding of OBE and CBE principles, the University continues to uphold its mission of developing competent, reflective, and globally responsive graduates who are capable of addressing the challenges of a dynamic and super complex world, thereby reaffirming its role as a leading institution in transformative and learner-centered education. -
WVSU COD conducts second-level screening for dentistry applicants
West Visayas State University – College of Dentistry held the second-level screening for eligible applicants to its Doctor of Dental Medicine program on May 5, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the New Academic Building 2.
The screening gathered aspiring dental students in a series of assessments designed to evaluate their readiness for the program. The screening was administered by faculty and staff, led by College of Dentistry Dean Dr. Liza Assumpta M. Jover and Admissions Committee Chair Dr. Eva Marie V. Gustilo. It consisted of three components: an essay and a dexterity examination in the morning, followed by panel interviews in the afternoon, conducted across various stations and rooms within the college.
The process aims to assess applicants’ competencies, particularly critical thinking, communication, and manual skills essential to dental practice, before admission into the program.
The screening reflects WVSU’s commitment to maintaining high standards in dental education by selecting candidates who demonstrate both academic potential and clinical aptitude. -
WVSU NSTP students lead outreach for rescued dogs through ‘Project Pawsitive’
Students under the National Service Training Program–Civic Welfare Training Service (NSTP-CWTS) of West Visayas State University conducted an outreach activity for rescued dogs on May 1, 2026, at the Ilonggo Aspin Shelter, promoting compassion, animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
Dubbed Project Pawsitive, the initiative was carried out by CWTS Class G, facilitated by Ms. Feanna B. Vito, with student volunteers from Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting (BAB 1A), Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BAJ 1A) and Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM 1A).
As part of their community engagement, the students donated dog food, eggs and other essential supplies to support the shelter’s daily operations. They also spent time interacting with and caring for the rescued aspins, giving the animals attention and socialization.
The activity aimed to deepen students’ understanding of animal welfare while encouraging empathy and kindness toward animals. Shelter representatives also emphasized responsible pet ownership and promoted the advocacy “Adopt, don’t shop” among participants.
Project Pawsitive highlights WVSU’s continued efforts to engage students in community-based initiatives that extend care not only to people but also to animals.