From first impressions to full performance, candidates of Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 are now undergoing a series of rigorous public engagements as the competition enters a decisive phase.
Following their formal introduction during the Sashing Ceremony and Press Conference on April 6, the candidates stepped into a more demanding spotlight on April 9 through the Talent Showcase and Regional Attire Competition held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Robinsons Place Iloilo, Main Branch along Quezon Street.
The daytime event required candidates to demonstrate not only stage presence and creativity, but also cultural interpretation through performance and attire, further testing their readiness for the national stage.
Earlier in the week, the candidates were ceremonially presented at the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Medicine Auditorium, where they faced their first public evaluation through a press conference that assessed their articulation, composure, and advocacy.
In her message, Local Contest Head Master Dr. Bonna S. Palma emphasized the shared purpose that binds the candidates despite regional differences.
“Despite the different regions we actually come from, we can move forward together with the same purpose: to honor, to understand, and to belong,” she said.
Candidates have since carried that message into subsequent events, where they continue to articulate their roles as cultural representatives. Kevin Angelo Mijares, Mr. PASUC CARAGA Region, earlier underscored the importance of preserving heritage while inspiring future generations.
“I stand firm that we are the bridge between the past and the future; if we preserve our
heritage, we protect our stories and inspire future generations,” he said.
As part of final preparations, candidates are set to return to the WVSU Cultural Center on the evening of April 9 for a technical rehearsal scheduled from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., ensuring that staging, production flow, and performances are aligned for the culminating event.
With each activity raising the level of expectation, the competition now moves toward its most anticipated moment. The Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 Pageant Proper and Coronation Night will take place on April 10 at the WVSU Cultural Center, where candidates will present the full measure of their talent, intellect, and cultural identity before a national audience.
(by Andrei Jan Tono, Alvine Cornelia Faciolan, Riego Jon Alcallaga, Gerritz Jay Celestre, DC Mae Divino, Doreen Mae Garalda, Ma. Erenica Gina Laraya, and Darl Syde Napatang)
Category: Education and Research
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Candidates Face Full-Day Test as PASUC 2026 Events Intensify Ahead of Coronation Night
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WVSU honors Villaruz with national quality award, shares key campus updates
West Visayas State University (WVSU) honored University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz as recipient of the Manuel P. Corpus Outstanding Quality Champion Award during its first April flag-raising ceremony, held Monday at Jubilee Park and led by the College of Nursing (CON) under Dean Dr. Madonna Palmes.
The award, conferred by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) on March 24, 2026, recognizes Villaruz’s leadership in advancing quality assurance in higher education. Former AACCUP Board of Trustees member Dr. Alona Belarga read the citation and formally presented the award during the ceremony.
In his message, Villaruz dedicated the recognition to the entire WVSU community. “This is not for one individual, but a collaborative effort of every taga-West who has pushed the University forward and higher in education and quality assurance,” he said.
He also underscored the University’s sustained commitment to accreditation despite challenges. “Despite our heavy hearts and tired bodies, we continued and pursued accreditation. This is a manifestation of all our efforts,” he added.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards received by CON students, faculty and staff in research, arts and journalism competitions.
Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, president of Bicol University and chair of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges Cultural Management Committee, also addressed the WVSU community, thanking the University for hosting national cultural activities and closing with, “Dios mabalos sa indo gabos.”
University officials shared key updates for the week. Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, said results of the WVSU Admission Examination will be released starting next week, with preparations for graduation also underway.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris announced WVSU’s hosting of the National Culture and the Arts Festival (NCAF) 2026 from April 8 to 11 and presented the schedule of activities. He also shared the opening of the Alumni Park, led by Alumni Regent Bonifacio Gaverza in collaboration with alumni and partner groups. -
WVSU Law named pilot school for DOH healthy campus program
West Visayas State University (WVSU) has partnered with the Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) to roll out a health-focused initiative in legal education, with the WVSU College of Law designated as the pilot institution in Western Visayas.
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the Healthy Learning Institution – Legal Education Institution (HLI-LEI) initiative, which aims to promote student well-being by integrating health standards into school systems.
Under the program, the College of Law will incorporate health literacy, mental health support, and physical safety measures into its policies and curriculum. The initiative also seeks to strengthen awareness of health rights among law students while fostering a safer and more supportive learning environment.
The HLI framework, established through Joint Administrative Order No. 2022-0001 and anchored on the Universal Health Care Act, brings together national agencies, including the Legal Education Board, to promote health and well-being in educational institutions.
As part of the rollout, the DOH Health Promotion Bureau will conduct onboarding workshops to guide WVSU faculty and administrators in integrating HLI principles into academic and institutional practices.
WVSU President Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the importance of the initiative, saying, “By signing this MOU, West Visayas State University officially accepts the responsibility of serving as the pilot Legal Education Institution for HLI-LEI in Western Visayas.”
He added that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to “fostering a law school environment that promotes health, safety, and community engagement,” underscoring the university’s role in advancing both legal education and public health outcomes in the region. -
WVSU boosts QA capacity at 20th AUN-QA SAR workshop in Thailand
West Visayas State University (WVSU) strengthened its quality assurance efforts through its participation in the 20th Self-Assessment Report (SAR) AUN-QA Programme Assessment Workshop held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Conducted from March 31 to April 2, 2026, with a follow-up online session on April 17, the workshop focused on developing outcomes-based and evidence-driven Self-Assessment Reports aligned with the ASEAN University Network–Quality Assurance framework.
WVSU delegates Dr. Joanna C. Pabilona, Faculty of CON and Mr. Neiljan C. Raborar, QA focal person of CICT, gained practical insights on aligning program learning outcomes with quality standards and improving documentation and reporting systems.
The workshop also enabled the development of draft SAR sections, supporting continuous improvement and strengthening institutional quality assurance in line with international standards. -
7 WVSU student journalists honored as 2026 IWAG awardees
Seven student journalists from West Visayas State University have brought pride to the University after being named among the 25 recipients of the prestigious 2026 IWAG Awards conferred by the Philippine Information Agency Region 6.
Recognized for their excellence in campus journalism, development communication, and academic performance were LJ Orpheus Soriano and Jericho Francesco C. Jandongan of The Lifeline (College of Nursing); Gierson F. Bordon of The Mediator (College of Communication); Josef Henri S. Tumbagahan of Forum-Dimensions (Main Campus); Sean Lerry Jim Claud and Franco Miguel M. Nodado of Vital Signs (College of Medicine); and Fritz Jaime L. Sumbo of SILAK Media (College of Education).
The 2026 PIA IWAG College Awardees recognize graduating campus editors across Western Visayas who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to promoting national development through responsible and impactful journalism. Awardees are selected from among participants of PIA-6’s campus journalism initiatives, including seminar-workshops and press conferences.
Now on its 49th year since its establishment in 1977, the IWAG Awards remain the region’s premier recognition program for student writers who champion truth, civic engagement, and community development through media.
WVSU continues to take pride in its student communicators whose work reflects the University’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and service—Basta Taga-West, the Best!
Photos from Philippine Information Agency Region VI -
WVSU fosters International learning through SEA-Teacher Batch 11 at UAD Indonesia
In line with its commitment to internationalization, the College of Education of West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to expand its global academic engagement as two of its students participate in the 11th batch of the Southeast Asian Teacher (SEA-Teacher) Project at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from March 31 to April 25, 2026.
Representing the university are Mhegan Lois Valerio, a fourth-year Bachelor of Early Childhood Education student, and Romavil Abelarde, a fourth-year Bachelor of Special Needs Education major in Elementary School Teaching.
The SEA-Teacher Project provides pre-service teachers with opportunities to gain international classroom experience, enhance pedagogical competence, and foster cross-cultural understanding among future educators across Southeast Asia.
Accompanying the students as faculty advisor is Dr. Micron Rey Fuego, faculty member of the Division of Special Needs Education, COE. During the visit, Dr. Fuego also presented a lecture titled “Inclusive Learning: Assessment and Classroom Management Strategies,” as part of the academic collaboration between the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education of UAD and WVSU.
Through its continued participation in the SEA-Teacher Project, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to developing globally competent educators equipped with international perspectives and professional excellence.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO -
WVSU honors 22 learners in Drop-In Center Recognition Program 2026
West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized the achievements of young learners during the Drop-In Center Recognition Program 2026 held on March 30 at the University’s Rehearsal Room.
A total of 22 Drop-In Center children, accompanied by their parents, were honored in a ceremony attended by teachers, Gender and Development (GAD) Office focal persons, and student assistants. The program celebrated the children’s perseverance as they prepared to transition to the next stage of their educational journey.
The activity featured the awarding of ribbons and certificates, along with an inspirational message from guest speaker Prof. May Buenafe-Dela Cruz, who emphasized the importance of holistic growth among children. She highlighted that development should not only focus on academic achievement but also on values formation, emotional well-being, and social skills, underscoring the vital role of parents in nurturing and supporting their children’s growth.
The recognition program aimed to honor the challenges the children had overcome while motivating both learners and their families as they embark on the next phase of their education. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks and a shared meal, reinforcing a sense of community among participants.
The initiative reflects WVSU’s commitment to inclusive development for young learners through programs that promote both educational advancement and personal growth. -
WVSU hosts BIZCON 2026, spotlights Ilonggo gastronomy through innovation talks
West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its College of Business and Management (CBM), hosted the 3rd BIZCON on Mar. 27-28 at the WVSU Cultural Center, with the second day focusing on innovation talks that highlighted Ilonggo gastronomy as a driver of enterprise and creative development.
Carrying the theme “Taste, Tradition, Transformation: Gastronomy Driving Ilonggo Innovation,” the convention gathered students, faculty, and industry practitioners to explore how local cuisine can shape sustainable businesses and strengthen regional identity.
Industry experts led discussions on topics such as sustainable SME financing, culinary branding, and food tourism. Invited speakers included Prof. Ts. Dr. Shafinaz Binti Ismail, Chef Tibong Jardeleza, Ms. Natalie Lim, Chef Cidj Jalandoni, and Mr. Daniel Agan, who shared insights on scaling local enterprises and positioning Ilonggo products in competitive markets.
The talks provided participants with practical perspectives on bridging academic knowledge with industry demands, encouraging innovation rooted in local culture and resources. The program concluded with engagement activities and an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding participants.
The innovation talks followed a series of competitions held on the first day of the convention, including the Ilonggo Cuisine Innovation Showdown, business pitching, table skirting with centerpiece making, and food itinerary development.
Through BIZCON 2026, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural appreciation, equipping students and stakeholders to develop sustainable, homegrown solutions for regional growth. -
WVSU tops Region VI SUCs in DBM review, earns research and quality awards
West Visayas State University (WVSU) ranked highest among state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Region VI in the latest Department of Budget and Management (DBM) performance review, alongside key recognitions in research and quality assurance, University officials announced during a flag-raising ceremony led by the University Extension and Development Center (UEDC).
Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris said WVSU earned a 4.75 rating based on physical targets and fiscal management indicators, placing it at the top among SUCs in the region, including those in the Negros Island Region. He noted that the result may positively influence the University’s future budget allocation.
Paris also announced a temporary adjustment in duty hours from Monday to Wednesday in observance of Holy Week, with personnel reverting to a regular eight-hour work schedule. He encouraged faculty and staff to use the break for reflection and prayer, including intentions for global peace and security.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Greta G. Gabinete reported that WVSU’s Intellectual Property and Technology Support Office (ITSO) was recognized as a Platinum Awardee at the IPOPHL ITSO Cluster Awards 2026, held in Iloilo City. The recognition marks the University’s second platinum award for sustained efforts in technology commercialization, with five consecutive awards required to achieve the highest distinction, the Palladium Award.
In academic leadership, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla announced that WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz received the Manuel T. Corpus Outstanding Quality Champion Award 2026 from the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines. The award, conferred on Mar. 24 at the Century Park Hotel, recognizes his contributions to advancing quality assurance in higher education.
The updates highlight WVSU’s continued gains in institutional performance, research innovation, and academic quality—developments that directly support improved programs, resources, and opportunities for the University community. The program concluded with a Women’s Month trivia game facilitated by the UEDC, engaging participants with fun facts on women’s history and achievements. -
Global opportunities grow as WVSU enters Fullbright Study Abroad Consortium
Strengthening international academic partnerships and expanding global learning opportunities, West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined the Philippine-American Educational Foundation’s (PAEF) Higher Education partnership ceremony held on March 24 at SPACE at One Ayala, Makati City.
The event marked the ceremonial launch of the Consortium for Study Abroad in the Philippines (CSAP) and the formal signing of partnerships between Fulbright Philippines and participating higher education institutions nationwide.
As one of the 22 selected member institutions, WVSU is now eligible to host American students and faculty through exchange and collaborative academic programs.
Leading the university’s participation in the event were Dr. Victorino Salcedo III, Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences (VPMAS); Dr. Madonna S. Palmes, Dean of the College of Nursing; and Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office.
The program featured messages from education and government leaders, including PAEF Executive Director Julio Amador III, U.S. Embassy Counselor for Public Affairs Jessica Simon, Commission on Higher Education Chairperson Dr. Shirley Agrupis, and Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Christine Joy Cari.
The event also commemorated the 78th anniversary of Fulbright Philippines, highlighted by a reception attended by distinguished Guests of Honor, including First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Y. Robert Ewing.
WVSU’s participation in CSAP strengthens its global engagement and international learning opportunities.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO