Students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) and other institutions gathered at the WVSU Audio-Visual Hall on Mar. 16 for a forum on Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) aimed at strengthening media literacy and responsible information consumption among the youth.
The interactive discussion introduced participants to how foreign information manipulation operates online and how it can influence public discourse, highlighting the need for critical thinking and careful verification of information in the digital age.
Prof. Joesyl D. Aranas, chair of the Development Communication Division, welcomed the participants, organizers and guest speakers during the opening program. She emphasized the importance of becoming informed and responsible consumers of information amid the fast-changing digital landscape.
Guest speakers shared insights from research and journalism. Janina Santos of DoubleThink Lab discussed the basics of FIMI and presented case studies showing how foreign influence operations shape narratives online. Christina Chi of PhilStar.com shared newsroom experiences in gathering data and reporting on FIMI-related issues, while Prof. Felipe Salvosa II of PressOne.Ph examined how narratives, influence and manipulation can reshape public perception.
An open forum moderated by Atty. Joseph Bernard A. Marzan, senior reporter of the Daily Guardian, allowed students to engage with the speakers and ask questions about media literacy and information verification. The program concluded with the awarding of certificates to speakers and participants, followed by closing remarks from Francis Allan L. Angelo, editor-in-chief of the Daily Guardian.
The forum was organized through a collaboration among the WVSU Development Communicators’ Society, Daily Guardian, and InterNews to help strengthen media resilience and promote informed public discourse in the region.
Category: Governance
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WVSU hosts forum on foreign information manipulation to strengthen media literacy
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Salcedo named WVSU vice president for medical and allied sciences
West Visayas State University (WVSU) has appointed Dr. Victorino Salcedo III as vice president for Medical and Allied Sciences, a role he formally accepted during the University’s flag-raising ceremony on Mar. 16 at Jubilee Park.
University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz introduced Salcedo to the University community, citing his longstanding service to the institution and contributions to medical education and healthcare at WVSU.
“When I reflect in this moment, I realize that my entire life has been deeply intertwined with this University,” Salcedo said. “In many ways, this institution has shaped not only my professional life but also the way I think about leadership, service, and public responsibility.”
Salcedo’s academic and professional journey has been closely tied to the University. He entered WVSU at age 16 as a student in the biology program, later completing his medical degree and surgery residency at the University Medical Center. He eventually joined the College of Medicine faculty, teaching anatomy and surgery, and served as consultant in the Department of Surgery. He also earned his master’s degree in public governance from the University.
Beyond his professional milestones, Salcedo shared that WVSU also holds personal significance for him, recalling that he met his wife on campus during his student years.
“Because of all these memories and experiences, this University holds a special place in my heart,” he said, adding that it was difficult to decline the opportunity when Villaruz offered him the position.
Salcedo accepted the post with gratitude and emphasized the importance of collaboration in fulfilling the responsibilities of the office. He expressed his intention to work closely with faculty, staff and students in advancing the University’s mission in medical and allied health education, and asked the community to keep him in their prayers “that I may be blessed by the Lord with wisdom in all the things that I do and in all the decisions that I make.”
Salcedo succeeds Dr. Celina Cordero-Gellada, who now serves as dean of the College of Medicine after assuming the position on Mar. 1. -
WVSU shares key institutional updates in weekly flag-raising ceremony
West Visayas State University (WVSU) shared updates on academic activities, administrative arrangements and upcoming institutional events during its weekly flag-raising ceremony held Mar. 16 at Jubilee Park, led by the Supply and Property Management Unit headed by Ms. Basilia Galvan.
University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz also introduced Dr. Victorino Salcedo III as the new vice president for Medical and Allied Sciences. Salcedo, currently a medical officer at WVSU Medical Center (WVSUMC), is a long-time member of the WVSU community. He completed his undergraduate and graduate studies, medical degree and surgery residency at the University and has served as a faculty member of the College of Medicine and a consultant surgeon at WVSUMC.
Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, expressed appreciation to faculty and staff who assisted in administering the WVSU Admission Examination last Mar. 8, noting that the checking and evaluation of examination materials are now underway.
Dequilla announced that preparations are also ongoing for the National Culture and the Arts Festival 2026, which WVSU will host. Around 50 representatives from state universities and colleges are expected to arrive this week to assess the documents of participants for the national event.
Meanwhile, Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, vice president for Administration and Finance, reminded personnel of the temporary work schedule for this week and that the current four-day work week with 10-hour workdays remains a temporary arrangement while the University studies its long-term feasibility.
Paris reiterated that work-from-home arrangements remain available for faculty and non-teaching personnel on Mar. 19, subject to approval by their respective supervisors.
The ceremony concluded with a brief energizer led by the Supply and Property Management Unit. -
WVSU visits Iloilo City Government to strengthen sustainable finance collaboration under Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE
In line with its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration, West Visayas State University (WVSU) visited the Iloilo City Government as part of its engagement under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) Project, GREEN FINANCE: Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Growth in Southeast Asia. The initiative seeks to enhance education, research, and policy engagement in sustainable finance and promote climate-responsive financial practices in the Philippines.
The visit, led by Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Associate Professor V and Project Manager of the Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE initiative, aimed to introduce the project to the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions (LEDIP) Office and seek their endorsement to participate in the Stakeholders Survey. This collaboration ensures that local government policies, priorities, and opportunities are integrated into the design of modular and online micro-credential courses that WVSU will develop for sustainable finance education.
Through this engagement, WVSU emphasizes the importance of aligning academic programs with city development goals, empowering local stakeholders and Ilonggos to adopt green and sustainable mindsets in finance. The initiative demonstrates a shared commitment to responsible investment, inclusive growth, and environmentally sound practices, reinforcing WVSU’s role as a leader in sustainability-driven higher education.
Funded by the European Union, the Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE project positions WVSU to bridge international expertise with local needs, ensuring that Iloilo City benefits from innovative and outcomes-based green finance initiatives.
Photos by Iloilo City Government -
WVSU presents Strategic Development Plan 2026-2035 to university leaders
West Visayas State University (WVSU) convened its vice presidents, college deans, unit heads, student representatives, and invited industry partners for a Stakeholders Orientation on the WVSU Strategic Development Plan (SDP) 2026-2035 on Mar. 10, outlining the University’s long-term direction for strengthening instruction, research, extension, and institutional development.
The 10-year strategic plan, developed over two years through consultations and collaborative planning with key stakeholders, sets the framework that will guide the University’s programs, initiatives, and resource priorities in the coming decade.
The orientation was led by the University Planning and Development Office (UPDO), headed by Director Dr. Reymund Flores, who presented the plan’s strategic framework and key goals.
Central to the plan is WVSU’s vision of becoming “a global research university that shapes generations,” supported by its mission to empower lifelong learners as agents of value while delivering impactful research, responsive extension programs, and compassionate healthcare services.
During the orientation, WVSU also officially launched its new institutional tagline, “Transforming Generations,” which will guide the University’s direction moving forward. The tagline reflects WVSU’s continuing commitment to ensure that its tradition of excellence leads to meaningful impact by shaping individuals, communities, and future generations.
Among the plan’s key directions is strengthening the University’s internationalization efforts by expanding institutional partnerships and enhancing global visibility. The plan also prioritizes improving teaching and learning, advancing knowledge generation through research, strengthening extension and healthcare services, supporting mission-driven institutional operations, diversifying resource generation, and reinforcing quality assurance systems.
UPDO Planning Officer Michael Gervero presented the strategic roadmap and Gantt chart outlining how the University will operationalize the plan from 2026 to 2035, translating strategic goals into concrete initiatives and timelines across campuses, colleges, and administrative units.
Unlike planning cycles aligned with administrative terms, the Strategic Development Plan spans a full decade to ensure continuity in institutional priorities and sustained progress regardless of leadership transitions.
Through the SDP 2026-2035, WVSU seeks to align its policies, programs, and resources toward strengthening its role as a research-driven university while continuing to serve students, communities, and partner institutions. -
Over 20,000 take WVSU admission exam across campuses
A total of 20,944 applicants took the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Admission Examination on Mar. 8, as the University administered the test simultaneously across its campuses for prospective first-year students for Academic Year 2026-2027.
Most examinees took the test at the WVSU Main Campus in La Paz, Iloilo City, which hosted 14,044 applicants. The campus also has the largest projected intake, with 1,575 slots for incoming first-year students.
Across the University, WVSU expects to admit about 4,401 first-year students based on available program slots in its campuses.
Applicants were also distributed among WVSU’s satellite campuses. The College of Agriculture and Forestry recorded 420 applicants competing for 190 slots. Calinog Campus had 715 applicants for 336 available slots, while Himamaylan Campus accommodated 1,175 examinees for 295 projected enrollees.
Janiuay Campus recorded 1,440 applicants for 615 slots, Lambunao Campus had 1,600 applicants for 805 slots, and Pototan Campus hosted 1,550 applicants vying for 585 available slots.
The examinees came from different parts of the country, reflecting the University’s growing reach and reputation as a preferred institution for quality higher education beyond Western Visayas.
University officials expect to begin releasing examination results to applicants in April 2026. -
WVSU and Silla University strengthen global synergy for urban innovation
West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to expand its international footprint by deepening its collaborative relationship with Silla University, South Korea. The latest milestone, the “Busan-Iloilo Collaboration,” seeks to bridge local academic expertise with global sustainable solutions.
Guided by the mission to develop life-long learners who serve as agents of community transformation, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz officially opened the landmark program, “Global Education Innovation for Sustainable Cities: Busan-Iloilo Collaboration.”
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Villaruz emphasized the University’s critical role in fostering global engagement and transformative education to address the evolving needs of modern society.
The initiative, conceptualized by Dr. Alona M. Belarga (WVSU Director of Instruction) and Prof. Eunhwa Lee (Dean of Silla University Graduate School of Education), establishes a high-level academic linkage with Busan, South Korea—a metropolitan leader renowned for progressive educational systems and sustainable urban development.
Phase 1: Knowledge Exchange and Global Resilience (February 23-24, 2026)
The first phase featured an intensive series of virtual lectures designed to strengthen the global competencies of WVSU faculty from both the Main and Satellite Campuses.
The sessions opened with former UNESCO Director Mr. Wootak Jung, who advocated for Global Citizenship Education (GCED) as the linchpin for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Hyunkyu Oh, former Busan City Councilor, provided a deep dive into Busan’s 2040 Master Plan, illustrating how the city balances urban expansion with green conservation.
To localize these perspectives, Dr. Ricky P. Becodo (WVSU Director for Extension) identified practical pathways for the community, including mobility as learning access and disaster resilience research.
The second day focused on innovative pedagogy, with Prof. Eunhwa Lee introducing “Narrative Science” to empower students through storytelling, and Prof. Hayoung Shin exploring the “Living Lab” model.
This framework marks a paradigm shift championed by the university leadership, transitioning WVSU from a traditional “Ivory Tower” to a Regional Innovation Hub that actively engages with regional urban challenges.
Phase 2: From Theory to Implementation (April 28, 2026)
The collaboration reaches its peak on April 28, 2026, with a faculty-led competitive showcase.
Moving beyond theory, faculty members will present high-impact innovation proposals for quality instruction and engaged extension programs tailored to the needs of the community and its various sectors. These proposals will be evaluated by a panel of experts based on their potential to address urban sustainability.
The top three presenters will be recognized with Certificates of Recognition during a formal Closing Ceremony, marking a milestone in the University’s effort to translate international academic theory into actionable local solutions.
Strategic Alignment with the UN SDGs
The Busan-Iloilo partnership—jointly organized by the Office of the Director of Instruction (DI), the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA), and the University Extension Office—serves as a practical manifestation of WVSU’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
• SDG 4: Quality Education – Building institutional capacity and faculty expertise through international knowledge exchange.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Adapting global best practices in urban planning to enhance local resilience.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Establishing sustainable cooperation networks for future faculty and student exchange.
By fostering these global connections under the leadership of Dr. Villaruz, WVSU continues to lead the way in transformative education, ensuring the University remains at the forefront of global innovation while staying deeply rooted in the service of the community.
#WVSUTransformingGenerations
#WVSUexcels
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WVSU expands regional engagement at ASCC High-Level Forum 2026
West Visayas State University took part in the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community High-Level Forum 2026 on March 4, 2026 at The Peninsula Manila, joining regional leaders and stakeholders in discussions aimed at strengthening a resilient and people-centered ASEAN Community.
The forum was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which currently chairs the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community pillar under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, represented WVSU as part of the Philippine higher education delegation endorsed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
Discussions focused on identifying actionable strategies to advance a resilient, cohesive, and people-empowered ASEAN while strengthening cooperation across the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars of the regional bloc.
Meanwhile, Mr. Johnric Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator of DagYoung Student Ambassadors, also attended the forum, representing the youth sector through the National Youth Commission. His participation highlighted the role of young leaders in shaping inclusive and future-ready pathways toward the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
Through its participation, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to international engagement and regional cooperation, contributing to ongoing conversations that aim to empower ASEAN citizens and strengthen collaborative solutions to shared challenges.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO -
WVSU disposes 3.3 metric tons of old records in first joint campus-wide initiative
West Visayas State University (WVSU) disposed of 3,330 kilograms of valueless records on March 4, 2026, in a university-wide activity that, for the first time, included its satellite campuses.
The disposal was led by the WVSU Records Office headed by Ms. Jeany Garque and forms part of the University’s continuing efforts to strengthen records management and ensure compliance with national government regulations.
Records personnel from the main campus and members of the Records Management Improvement Committee from satellite campuses participated in the activity.
Supervising the disposal was National Archives of the Philippines (NAP) representative Mr. Jhonley Joseph Item, Records Management Analyst II, who ensured that the activity followed national guidelines on the disposition of government records.
Prior to disposal, the records were evaluated and identified as valueless or non-current documents that had already exceeded their prescribed retention periods under government records management guidelines. In government agencies, such records may be disposed of only after proper inventory, evaluation and authorization to safeguard accountability and transparency.
The disposal was carried out through sale to NAP-accredited buyer D’Lacoste Enterprise, following standard procedures.
University officials said the joint participation of satellite campuses marks a milestone in institutionalizing uniform records management practices across WVSU.
Through the initiative, WVSU aims to improve office efficiency, free up storage space, and reinforce responsible records lifecycle management while promoting good governance and compliance with national standards on public records administration. -
WVSU launches 2026 National Women’s Month celebration with campuswide activities
West Visayas State University (WVSU) has begun its 2026 National Women’s Month celebration, with activities lined up across campuses to engage students, faculty and staff throughout March.
The university formally launched the observance during the first flag-raising ceremony of the month at Jubilee Park. Prof. Rosalea Cornelia Araneta-de Leon, director of the Gender and Development (GAD) Office, encouraged the WVSU community to take part in the monthlong activities organized by GAD focal persons.
National Women’s Month is observed every March in the Philippines under the Philippine Commission on Women. The 2023-2028 theme, “WE for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society,” continues this year with the subtheme “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”—a call to recognize and strengthen women’s leadership in communities and institutions.
At WVSU, the GAD Office will roll out interactive and educational initiatives designed to spark conversation and awareness on gender issues. These include an interactive photobooth frame wall and a bulletin board exhibit featuring notable women in history. The exhibit will be updated weekly to highlight women’s contributions across various fields.
Satellite campuses and the WVSU Medical Center will also host activities, such as booth set-ups, unity dances, and gender-sensitivity training sessions, to deepen understanding of gender and development principles within their respective communities.
Through these events, the university joins the nationwide campaign to promote gender equality, recognize women’s role in nation-building and strengthen inclusivity across the academic community.
The full schedule of activities for the university’s National Women’s Month celebration is available on the WVSU GAD Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17EF4m26YJ/.