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.
Category: Governance
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WVSU advances academic excellence through lecture series on Outcome-Based and Competency-Based Education
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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 recognizes law moot team’s international win in first May flag ceremony
West Visayas State University (WVSU) highlighted the international achievement of its College of Law (COL) during the first flag-raising ceremony for May held earlier today, May 4, at Jubilee Park, led by the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (COP).
The WVSU COL Vox Populi Moot Team was recognized for securing first runner-up honors in the 30th Annual Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition in Gulfport, Florida, USA. Representing the University were Therese Diane Germinanda, Jose Emilio Luis Combatir, and John Patrick Palquiran.
Germinanda was named third best speaker in the preliminary rounds and best speaker in the final round, while Palquiran placed ninth best speaker in the preliminary rounds.
COL Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana described the achievement as a milestone for the University.
“This is the first time that WVSU Law joined an international competition, and in our debut performance, we emerged as the first runner-up, beating several teams around the world,” he said. “Thank you for making our trip to Florida possible in representing not only WVSU, but the entire country.”
In his message, Palquiran emphasized the collective effort behind the team’s success.
“Standing here today, we are reminded that while our achievements may bear our names, they are written in the ink of collective sacrifice,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to University officials, particularly highlighting University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, for their support.
“To the WVSU community, look around you. This achievement is a mosaic of all your efforts. Whatever you gave us—a word of encouragement, administrative support—this is for you,” Palquiran added. “We are, and we will always be taga-West.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of administrators, faculty, staff, sponsors and support units who assisted the team throughout their preparation.
The team’s success was guided by its coaches, Judge Lowell Fredrick Madrileño, Atty. Regina Johanna Gustilo and Prof. Frederic Loise Regencia, with the support of COL Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana.
The ceremony concluded with Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr., COP faculty member, encouraging the community to sustain its commitment to excellence.
“As we begin another week in WVSU, may we continue to honor our roots, uplift our community, and contribute meaningfully to the future we are building together,” Garcia said. -
WVSU College of Medicine earns multiple honors at 9th APMC-SN National Convention
The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Medicine garnered multiple national awards and recognitions during the 9th Association of Philippine Medical Colleges – Student Network (APMC-SN) National Convention held from Apr. 9 to 11, 2026 at the De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute in Dasmariñas, Cavite.
Celebrating its 25th year, the APMC-SN marked its silver milestone through the convention themed “Iridescence: Through the Silver Years of APMC-SN,” highlighting unity, leadership, and service among medical students nationwide. The organization is recognized as one of the largest alliances of Filipino medical students and student councils across the country.
The WVSU College of Medicine received the following awards and recognitions:
• Seal of Good Governance – Gold Awardee
• Ten Outstanding Medical Student Organizations
➤ Order of Asclepius – 1st Place
➤ AMSA WVSU – 2nd Place
➤ Vital Signs – 3rd Place
• Mga Natatanging Mag-aaral ng Medisina ng Pilipinas
➤ Franco Miguel M. Nodado – 3rd Place
➤ Kathleen Mae V. Donoso – 5th Place
➤ Ma. Charlene S. Jereos – 7th Place
• National Medical Quiz Bee Competition – 7th Place
• National Clinico-Pathologic Case Competition – 1st Runner-Up
➤ Best Presentation – 1st Place
➤ Best Presenter – 1st Place: Carlos Jose E. Cerrada
• National Interscholastic Medical Debate Competition – 5th Place
Top 5 Best Speakers:
➤ Earl Cedric T. Lagapa
➤ Richard D. Olano, Jr.
• National Healthcare Innovations Competition – National Qualifier
These achievements reflect the WVSU College of Medicine’s commitment to excellence in academics, leadership, research, and service, reinforcing its role in shaping competent and globally competitive future medical professionals. -
WVSU CICT faculty member joins TESDA Iloilo advisory council
Dr. Lea M. Gabawa, a faculty member of the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) of West Visayas State University (WVSU), took her oath as an appointed member of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Technology Institutions (TTI) Advisory Council of the Regional Training Center (RTC) Iloilo on Apr. 27, 2026.
The oath-taking ceremony and first council meeting were held at the RTC Iloilo in Zamora-Melliza, Iloilo City, marking the start of her three-year term from 2026 to 2029. She represents WVSU in the academe sector.
The council is mandated to provide policy advice and strategic guidance and to strengthen networks for RTC Iloilo. It also adopts a holistic approach to sectoral needs to help address and prevent skills mismatch in local industries.
During the meeting, members proceeded with the oath-taking, approved the 2026 TTI Advisory Council annual plan, received updates on the TESDA Innovation Center, and provided inputs on various TESDA directives.
Gabawa’s appointment highlights her leadership in research and innovation. She is the president of the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines – Western Visayas Chapter, where she advances initiatives in innovation, automation and mechatronics—areas aligned with the direction of the newly launched regional TESDA Innovation Center.
She also serves as the CICT Gender and Development Focal Person representing in WVSU, contributing to the integration of gender-responsive approaches in university programs and initiatives.
Her role in the advisory council reinforces collaboration between the academe and industry in developing a more responsive and future-ready workforce in Western Visayas. -
WVSU CAF alumna Joy Cardinal Saban wins 3rd place in Young Farmers Challenge national tilt
Joy Cardinal Saban, an alumna of the West Visayas State University College of Agriculture and Forestry, placed third in the Department of Agriculture’s Young Farmers Challenge National Business Pitch Competition Food Processing Category, held at the Iloilo Convention Center, for her agribusiness, Banana Kingdom Food Products.
Saban, who graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Crop Science, was recognized for her innovative value-added banana enterprise that supports Indigenous livelihoods in Lambunao, Iloilo. She received ₱300,000 in prize money under the program’s Start-Up Component.
Organized by the Department of Agriculture through its Young Farmers Challenge Program in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s Youth Entrepreneurship Program, the competition highlights youth-led agribusiness ventures that promote innovation and sustainability in the agriculture sector.
Through Banana Kingdom Food Products, Saban transforms locally grown bananas into marketable products, creating economic opportunities for her Indigenous community while promoting inclusive growth in agriculture.
The program provides training and mentorship to strengthen long-term resilience and sustainability among young agripreneurs, supporting the continued development of enterprises like Saban’s.
Her achievement underscores the role of WVSU’s College of Agriculture and Forestry in producing graduates who contribute to agricultural innovation and community empowerment, in line with the university’s commitment to excellence, creativity, and service. -
WVSU administers UNPO oath, celebrates NCAF 2026 success in flag ceremony
West Visayas State University (WVSU) administered the oath of office for the new set of officers of the University Non-Teaching Personnel Organization (UNPO) Inc., and recognized the successful hosting of the National Culture and the Arts Festival (NCAF) 2026 during its flag-raising ceremony held on Apr. 20, at Jubilee Park, led by the University Research and Development Center headed by Dr. Ryan Michael Oducado.
The newly elected UNPO officers for 2026-2028, led by President Ms. Elsie Retotar, registrar of the College of Medicine, formally took their oath before Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris.
University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz expressed his gratitude to the WVSU community for the successful hosting of NCAF 2026, noting positive feedback from state university and college presidents and members of the NCAF national technical secretariat. He also congratulated participating students and awardees, encouraging them to take pride in their achievements.
Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, likewise acknowledged the collective effort of faculty, staff and students who contributed to the success of the national event.
Members of the organizing committees were also recognized during the program. Dr. Jon Kristoffer Deguma commended the working committees, while Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr. acknowledged the technical teams and emphasized their continued commitment to excellence.
Meanwhile, Prof. Liberty Porras highlighted the achievements of student artists, noting that Region VI placed first runner-up with 171 points, of which 103 points, or 60 percent, were contributed by WVSU delegates.
The ceremony concluded with performances from NCAF champions in Storytelling and Vocal Solo (Kundiman), as well as winning groups in Folk Dance, Indigenous Dance, and Street Dance. -
WVSU holds COA exit conference, reviews audit findings and next steps
West Visayas State University (WVSU) conducted its Commission on Audit (COA) exit conference on April 7, 2026, at the WVSU Boardroom, giving University officials the opportunity to review audit findings and align on next steps before the release of the final audit report.
University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, together with COA Supervising Auditor V Ms. Ma. Rebecca C. Tamba and the COA WVSU Audit Team, led the discussion on audit observations, recommendations and proposed actions. The exit conference serves as the final stage of the audit process, where agencies can clarify findings and respond to concerns.
Villaruz emphasized that the process goes beyond compliance and contributes to strengthening University systems. He noted that engaging with audit findings helps improve financial management, reinforce accountability and ensure the responsible use of public funds.
He also thanked COA for its guidance and professionalism, adding that the exchange of insights supports WVSU’s efforts to enhance transparency and uphold public trust.
The conference allowed University management to formally respond to audit observations, helping ensure that identified issues are addressed and that operations remain aligned with national accounting standards, internal controls and good governance practices. -
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.