The West Visayas State University (WVSU) University Health Services (UHS) was officially recognized as the first university clinic in Region VI accredited as a PhilHealth Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) facility during the program held Sept. 4 at the University.
The milestone strengthens WVSU’s efforts to bring accessible and preventive healthcare closer to its students, faculty, staff, and other eligible members of the University community.
As a PhilHealth YAKAP facility, the UHS will provide primary healthcare services focused on prevention, early detection, and timely management of health conditions. The program is designed to help members maintain good health through regular consultations, early disease detection, laboratory services, medicines, and other preventive care, helping address health concerns before they progress into more serious conditions.
PhilHealth Regional Office VI Regional Vice President Marjorie A. Cabrieto delivered a congratulatory message during the ceremony, citing the partnership between PhilHealth and the University.
“Beyond excellence in academics and research, including producing topnotchers, WVSU gives paramount importance on the health and well-being of not just their employees but also of their students and their dependents,” Cabrieto said.
University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz formally accepted the recognition on behalf of WVSU, emphasizing that the significance of the milestone goes beyond being the first school-based health center in the region accredited as a PhilHealth YAKAP facility.
“Beyond being first, what matters most is what this partnership makes possible: bringing preventive healthcare closer to our people, expanding access to essential health services, and transforming our shared commitment to health and well-being into meaningful action that touches lives and strengthens communities,” Villaruz said.
He also underscored the responsibility that comes with the accreditation, particularly the need to continuously strengthen the capacity of the UHS to provide responsive and people-centered care.
Dr. Ronalyn P. Gallinero, University Physician, together with members of the UHS team, accepted the recognition on behalf of the University Health Services. Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences Dr. Victorino A. Salcedo III, Vice President for Administration and Finance Peter Ernie D. Paris, Vice President for Academic Affairs Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, Faculty Regent Shim Lester G. de Pio, and Alumni Regent Bonifacio P. Gaverza were also present during the launch.
As part of the launch, PhilHealth personnel set up registration booths at the UHS to assist students and other eligible individuals with PhilHealth membership, YAKAP registration, and First Patient Encounter.
Students who are not yet PhilHealth members were provided free assistance with membership registration, while eligible students were given the opportunity to voluntarily register for the YAKAP program.
For WVSU, the accreditation represents another step toward strengthening a culture of health across the University.
“At West Visayas State University, transforming generations means investing not only in knowledge and skills, but also in the health and well-being of the people who carry our mission forward,” Villaruz said.
The University looks forward to sustaining its partnership with PhilHealth in advancing preventive healthcare and ensuring that quality health services remain within reach of the people it serves.
Category: Governance
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WVSU University Health Services becomes first university clinic in Region VI accredited as PhilHealth YAKAP facility
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More than a reunion: WVSU SLS Batch 1989 finds new ways to give back
For West Visayas State University (WVSU) Secondary Laboratory School (SLS) Batch 1989, coming home was more than a chance to revisit old memories. Their reunion became an opportunity to give back.
Through two outreach activities held on July 4 and 5 under the theme “Batch ’89 Giving Back: Excellence and Gratefulness,” the alumni brought together their time, resources, and professional expertise to serve both their alma mater and communities beyond the University. The initiative was led by Organizing Committee Head Mary Theobelle Parreno-Lopez.
The first stop was the Pediatric Ward of the WVSU Medical Center, where the batch donated three pediatric cribs, a 43-inch smart TV, a bookshelf containing 40 hardbound books, educational toys and activity materials, and 80 vacutainers. Beyond the donations, members of the batch spent time with patients and hospital staff, turning what could have been a simple act of giving into an afternoon of presence and connection.
The following day, Batch 1989 brought the same spirit of service to the Ati Village in Lanit, Jaro, reaching 50 families with rice, vegetables, basic medicines, slippers, school supplies, hygiene kits, and pantry goods.
But the outreach was not limited to what could be placed in a donation bag. Drawing from the diverse professions of its members, the alumni also organized a storytelling session, a basic hygiene session, and medical consultations. Members from the education, nursing, and medical fields shared their knowledge and spent time engaging with the community. The activity culminated in a shared meal of arroz caldo prepared together with community members.
The batch was connected to the community through Mr. John Paul Petrola, Director of the University of San Agustin’s Center for Heritage and Indigenous Cultures.
One of the more personal dimensions of the outreach was the batch’s commitment to support Ms. Rowela Palacios, a member of the Ati community and a 2019 graduate of the WVSU College of Education. The alumni are supporting her in completing her remaining K-12 units so she can qualify to take the licensure examination for teachers.
For Batch 1989, giving back has also found its way home. The alumni donated a whole-body walkthrough scanners and a baggage X-ray machine, installed at the University’s gates, as part of efforts to strengthen campus security and help ensure the safety of students and the wider WVSU community.
These acts may have taken different forms — a hospital donation, a community outreach, support for an aspiring professional, or a contribution to campus safety — but they share a common thread: a desire to turn gratitude into something tangible.
A reunion often brings people back to where a shared story began. For WVSU SLS Batch 1989, that return became an opportunity to carry something forward.
Their story is a reminder that the ties built in school can extend far beyond graduation. Years after leaving the halls of WVSU, the values, friendships, and sense of community formed there can continue to find expression through service.
For Batch 1989, giving back is more than remembering where they came from. It is finding ways to make what they received matter to someone else.
WVSU expresses its gratitude to the WVSU SLS/High School Batch 1989 for continuing to remember its alma mater and for turning a celebration of shared memories into meaningful acts of service. -
WVSU installs walkthrough scanner and x-ray machine at entrances to strengthen campus safety and security
West Visayas State University has further strengthened its campus security with the installation of another whole-body walkthrough scanner at the Elementary Gate and a baggage X-ray machine at the Main Gate.
The additional security equipment, donated by WVSU High School Batch 1989 and Safety PH Innovation Inc., forms part of continuing efforts to help keep students, faculty, staff, and visitors safe while inside the University.
The University asks everyone’s cooperation in following campus security protocols and submitting to the required inspection upon entry. These measures are in place for everyone’s safety and security. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to keep WVSU a safe and secure community. -
WVSU student leaders put learning into action through Guilds Summit, culminating SLDP 2026
West Visayas State University (WVSU) student leaders brought the three-day Student Leadership Development Program (SLDP) 2026 to a close on Aug. 29, turning lessons on leadership, collaboration, and resilience into concrete advocacy initiatives during the Guilds Summit.
Held under the theme “Resilience: The Strength to Continue, The Vision to Advance,” SLDP 2026 brought together more than 170 student leaders from the University Student Council, College Student Councils, university-wide and college-based student organizations, and student publications. Participants were organized into eight guilds — Architectura, Philosophia, Ars, Humanitas, Historia, Rhetorica, Natura, and Innovatio — throughout the program.
From ideas to advocacy
On the final day, the eight guilds gathered in classrooms at Quezon Hall to develop and refine their advocacy initiative proposals based on their assigned leadership charters, values, and focus areas.
The Guilds Summit provided the student leaders a platform to translate their experiences throughout SLDP into initiatives addressing needs within the University community.
The proposed initiatives included Architectura’s “Archive,” a cloud-based repository designed to preserve organizational history and institutional memory and support continuity during leadership transitions; Philosophia’s “Project Pause,” a three-part leadership training program for senior high school students; and Ars’ “Project Kab-ot: Kabataan, Abot ang Pangarap,” which uses art and literacy activities to support children at risk.
Humanitas’ “Kapwa” proposed peer-facilitation training for college students, while Historia’s “Pag-amlig sa Manug-amlig” sought to preserve the stories and experiences connected to trees on campus through tree labels and QR-linked oral histories. Rhetorica’s “Project Makisalamuha” proposed a feedback and solutions-tracking mechanism to improve coordination between offices and student organizations.
Meanwhile, Natura’s “E-Collect” focused on proper bottle disposal and recycling while generating resources for student organizations, and Innovatio’s “Project Share” proposed a university community pantry for students, colleges, offices, and organizations to share and access needed materials.
The proposals demonstrated the guilds’ application of teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving toward initiatives with potential value to the University community.
Recognizing leadership and participation
The Guilds Summit also recognized excellence in project pitching and initiative development. Natura emerged as champion of the Guild Leadership Initiative Pitch, followed by Humanitas as first runner-up and Innovatio as second runner-up.
Special awards were likewise given to the guilds for their respective strengths:
Best Project Pitch: Natura
Best in Question and Answer: Humanitas
Best in Leadership Charter Alignment: Natura
Most Relevant and Significant Initiative: Humanitas
Most Innovative Initiative: Innovatio
Best in Feasibility and Sustainability: Historia
Closing a journey of formation
SLDP 2026 formally concluded with a closing program featuring messages from participants and SLDP 2026 Chairperson Adriane T. Legislador, reflecting on the lessons and experiences gained throughout the three-day program.
The closing program also recognized the results of the team-building activity held on Day 2, with Architectura emerging as champion, followed by Historia as first runner-up and Innovatio as second runner-up. The overall SLDP 2026 results likewise named Historia as champion, Architectura as first runner-up, Innovatio as second runner-up, and Humanitas and Natura as third runner-ups. Certificates of participation were also presented to the student leaders who completed the three-day program.
From discussions on resilience and the realities of leadership to sessions on governance, event management, and organizational development, followed by team-building and the Guilds Summit, the program gave student leaders opportunities to learn, connect, collaborate, and put leadership into practice.
As the student leaders return to their respective councils, organizations, and publications, SLDP 2026 challenges them to carry forward the strength to continue and the vision to advance, leading with integrity, purpose, and service.
Through initiatives such as SLDP, WVSU continues to nurture student leaders who are equipped not only to lead their organizations, but also to contribute meaningfully to the University and the communities they serve. -
WVSU conducts New Government Procurement Act training for procurement practitioners
West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB), conducted the GPPB-WVSU Republic Act No. 12009 (The New Government Procurement Act) NGPA Training on August 18-20, 2026, at Sam’s 21 Hotel, Iloilo City, for government procurement practitioners in the region. This marked the third batch of the training caravan conducted by the University this year.
The three-day training brought together Bids and Awards Committee – Technical Working Group members, end-users, and members involved in government procurement. The activity focused on strengthening participants’ understanding and application of RA No. 12009 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, covering strategic procurement planning, market scoping, preparation of Project Procurement Management Plans (PPMPs) and Annual Procurement Plans (APP), competitive bidding, alternative modes of procurement, contract implementation and management, digital procurement, and mPhilGEPS.
Speakers for the training were GPPB-recognized trainers and procurement practitioners. WVSU Chief Administrative Officer Julius B. Undar discussed the key provisions of RA No. 12009 and strategic procurement planning on Day 1. On Day 2, former University of the Philippines Visayas Chief Accountant and UPV Foundation Inc. Consultant on Finance and Administration Jocelyn T. Genesila discussed modes of procurement and negotiated procurement.
Day 3 featured discussions by Atty. Marlita V. Dagsa, Deputy Executive Director for Administrative, Finance and Legal Group of the Procurement Service-Department of Budget and Management, on procurement by electronic means, including e-Marketplace and PS-DBM, and the mPhilGEPS orientation and overview. Engr. Stephanie N. Gadong, Project Development Officer IV and Procurement Officer of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, discussed contract implementation and sanction mechanisms.
The training helped participants translate the provisions and policies discussed into actual procurement processes. Through these sessions, participants gained practical knowledge, strengthened their capacity for procurement planning and project implementation, and engaged with fellow procurement practitioners across Western Visayas.
Participants from WVSU included university officials and personnel from the main campus and satellite campuses, as well as representatives from various offices and end-user units. The University was joined by participants from Aklan State University, including its Main, Makato, and Washington campuses; City Government of Bacolod; Civil Service Commission Region VI Regional Office and Iloilo Field Office; Department of Agriculture Region VI Regional Office; Department of Science and Technology Region VI Regional Office; Department of Trade and Industry Region VI Regional Office; National Police Commission Region VI; Northern Iloilo State University Main Campus; Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus; Provincial Government of Guimaras; Local Government Unit of Hamtic, Antique; State University of Northern Negros Main and Cadiz campuses; Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital; Iloilo State University of Fisheries, Science and Technology Main Campus and Tiwi Site; Guimaras State University Main Campus; and University of Antique Main Campus.
As one of the GPPB’s recognized partner institutions, WVSU continues to support capacity-building initiatives that strengthen procurement practice and institutional compliance. The training reinforces the University’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in the use of public resources, equipping procurement practitioners with the knowledge and skills to carry out procurement processes fairly, responsibly, and in accordance with established laws and policies. Through responsible procurement, WVSU helps ensure that public funds are used efficiently and that resources are directed toward delivering quality services to its stakeholders. -
WVSU Alumna Earns Taiwan ICDF Scholarship for Graduate Studies in Arts and Creative Industries
West Visayas State University proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of Ms. Kyla Agnes Ramirez, an alumna who has earned a full scholarship under the 2026 Taiwan ICDF Scholarship Program.
Ramirez will pursue the International MA Program in Arts and Creative Industries at the Taipei National University of the Arts in Taiwan, marking another significant step in an academic journey that began at WVSU.
Her accomplishments extend to other distinguished universities abroad. She was admitted to the Master of Social and Cultural Anthropology program at KU Leuven in Belgium with a partial tuition waiver and was also offered a full scholarship to the ASEAN Master in Sustainability Management at Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia.
A Magna Cum Laude graduate of WVSU Class 2024, Ramirez distinguished herself both academically and through student leadership. During her university years, she actively served the WVSU community, including as the founding Chairperson of WVSU-Maaram.
Her journey from the halls of West Visayas State University to opportunities at leading institutions across Asia and Europe reflects the kind of scholarship, leadership, and commitment to meaningful engagement that the University seeks to nurture in its students.
The WVSU community congratulates Kyla as she carries with her the knowledge, values, and experiences shaped by her years as a Taga-West.
Congratulations, Kyla! Padayon, Taga-West! -
WVSU holds FY 2027 Budget Hearing to align resources with institutional priorities
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. -
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.