Category: Linkages

A new French language class, led by Mr. Enzo Muñoz from the MEEF Master’s Degree program in Teaching Abroad at INSPÉ de Toulouse, Université Toulouse II, officially launched today, February 28, at West Visayas State University (WVSU).

The class is a part of the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office’s ongoing efforts, in cooperation with Young Journalists’ Society, to equip BA Journalism and BS Tourism Management students with essential language skills and a deeper understanding of different cultures.

By the end of the program, students will be well-equipped to navigate diverse cultural environments, making them more competitive in fields like journalism and tourism management.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

On February 28, 2025, West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Dalhousie University of Nova Scotia, Canada, took a significant step towards enhancing global collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement marks the beginning of a partnership aimed at advancing educational initiatives, and sustainability efforts.

The signing ceremony, was led by Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of WVSU, Ms. Lana Boss, Manager of International Relations at the Faculty of Agriculture and David Parks, Projects & Partnerships Coordinator for International at Dalhousie. Their combined leadership underscored the shared vision of both institutions.

“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Villaruz. “With Dalhousie University’s expertise, we can achieve meaningful progress in the areas of education and conservation. The partnership will not only benefit our students but also the wider community”, he added.

Also in attendance were key WVSU officials, including Dr. Joel A. Araquil Sr., Campus Administrator of the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF), Dr. Anthony Leal, Director of College of Agriculture, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), Dr. Belinda G. Leonida, Director of Academic Affairs CAF, Dr. Jerry A. Ceballos, Director College of Forestry and Prof. Michael Gonzales, IZN Coordinator of CAF.

This partnership set the foundation for developing advanced academic programs in veterinary sciences. Both universities discussed plans to proposed the establishment of a conservation center at Mariit Eco Park, where WVSU faculty and students could engage in joint research, helping not only to preserve the park but also to contribute to the wider academic community.

Both parties agreed that the Vet Tech program would be developed in line with international standards, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with the competencies outlined by global organizations.

The two institutions are committed to exchanging knowledge, expertise, and resources that will foster long-term growth and innovation in education, research, and sustainability efforts.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

Cebu, Philippines, February 27-28, 2025 –West Visayas State University (WVSU) Graduate School alumni, Diane Gay Escobañez and Aliza Marie Gabayeron, along with their research adviser Dr. Antoniette D. Cortez, Director of the WVSU Center for Teaching Excellence, represented the university at the 9th Annual Conference of the Association for Reading and Writing in Asia (ARWA 2025).

The ARWA Conference, formed in 2016, brings together researchers, educators, and policymakers dedicated to understanding and promoting literacy learning across diverse contexts. It serves as a vibrant platform for sharing ideas, disseminating research findings, and promoting educational development. This year, the conference featured four keynote speeches from renowned literacy experts and included 80 oral presentations and 40 poster presentations, representing global perspectives on literacy, from Asia to North America and Europe.

As part of the conference, Escobañez and Gabayeron presented their research in poster sessions that contributed to the global dialogue on literacy issues.

Diane Gay Escobañez’s research, titled “Reader stance, reading motivation, and personal understanding among Filipino children from varied socioeconomic classes,” examined how children from different socioeconomic backgrounds develop attitudes toward reading. In her poster session, Escobañez explored the factors influencing reading motivation, focusing on how these factors may vary based on children’s socioeconomic conditions. She found that reading motivation and engagement are often shaped by a child’s access to resources, family support, and exposure to reading materials. Escobañez emphasized the importance of addressing these disparities to improve reading outcomes for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Escobañez shared her excitement about the conference, stating, “The ARWA Conference has broadened my understanding of literacy development and provided me with the opportunity to engage with experts from around the world. It was an honor to present my research on such a significant platform, and I’m thankful that our work was selected for presentation. It’s truly a privilege to represent the Philippines in an international conference like this.”

Aliza Marie Gabayeron, also presented her research on the importance of home literacy practices in early childhood education. Gabayeron’s poster session, titled “Literacy gaps and practices at home: Basis in creating a parent-child reading program,” delved into the challenges that children face in terms of literacy development due to gaps in home literacy practices. Her research focused on the crucial role that parents play in fostering literacy skills at home and highlighted the necessity of creating programs that encourage reading between parents and children. Gabayeron’s research aimed to provide insights into developing more effective strategies for improving early literacy by involving families in their children’s learning process.

“The ARWA Conference has been an incredibly inspiring experience. It motivated me to further explore how home literacy practices can influence children’s reading development. I feel fortunate to be one of the few Filipinos presenting research at this international event, and I look forward to future opportunities to collaborate with educators from around the world”, Gabayeron said.

Dr. Antoniette D. Cortez also made significant contributions to the ARWA 2025 Conference. She presented her research in Oral Session 2: Philippine Linguistic Diversity, which focused on “Home Literacy Practices and Literacy Skills of Multilingual Grade 1 Learners with Different Home and School Languages.” Her study examined the relationship between home literacy practices and literacy skills in children who speak different languages at home and at school.

In addition, Dr. Cortez also played an instrumental role at the conference as the moderator for Oral Session 5, which focused on Phonological and Narrative Skills.

WVSU researchers have gained interest from fellow researchers in Asia and were expecting for future research collaboration.

WVSU’s participation in ARWA 2025 underscores the university’s commitment to advancing literacy research and contributing to the global academic community.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

The Scientific Research Writing and Publication workshop at West Visayas State University (WVSU) successfully wrapped up on February 27, 2025, offering participants with expert guidance on finalizing their research articles, addressing reviewer feedback, and mastering the journal submission process.

Prof. Dr. Zaidatun Binti Tasir and Dr. Kew Si Na, provided invaluable insight into the journal submission process. They discussed the steps involved in registering on journal submission systems, uploading manuscripts and supplementary files, and ensuring compliance with specific journal requirements.

One of the key themes of the workshop was the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach. Experts emphasized its importance in synthesizing existing research and identifying gaps in knowledge. They also stressed the need to define clear research questions (RQs) as the foundation of the review process, and navigating the complexities of publishing in top-tier journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.

The event featured an interactive workshop where participants engaged in peer critique and hands-on manuscript formatting, learning how to tailor their articles to meet the specific requirements of their target journals. This collaborative session allowed participants to refine their drafts and receive valuable feedback from both peers and experts.

Dr. Ryan Michael F. Oducado, Director of the University Research and Development Center (URDC), delivered the closing remarks. He emphasized how the workshop fostered collaboration and provided participants with the knowledge and skills to advance their research in the global academic community.

With participants from various colleges and external campuses, the workshop fostered an environment of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Attendees left the event with practical tools to help them elevate their research and make impactful contributions to the global academic community.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

On February 26, 2025, Researchers gathered at the Research and Extension Building of West Visayas State University (WVSU) for the second day of the training-workshop on Scientific Research Writing and Publication.

Prof. Dr. Zaidatun Binti Tasir and Dr. Kew Si Na, provided participants with essential insights into crafting Systematic Literature Review (SLR) articles and navigating the complexities of publishing in top-tier journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.

During the workshop, the SLR was emphasized, as it is an essential approach for synthesizing existing research and identifying gaps in knowledge. Experts explained the importance of defining clear research questions (RQs) that guide the entire review process, ensuring a focused and coherent analysis.

Participants were also engaged in a Discussion-Workshop segment that focused on formatting articles according to specific journal requirements, with an emphasis on peer critique and synthesis. This interactive segment allowed researchers to gain hands-on experience and refine their manuscript drafts for submission to leading academic journals.   

A significant aspect of the session was devoted to offering tips for publishing SLR articles, emphasizing the importance of focusing on relevant and interesting topics, addressing research dilemmas, advancing knowledge, and ensuring a well-grounded literature review that could lead to new theories or substantial research agendas.

The workshop is part of a larger initiative to support researchers in their pursuit of academic excellence and international recognition.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

Two students from Nagoya Gakuin University, Hayato Takano and Ikeuchi Riku, have arrived at West Visayas State University (WVSU) to participate in a two-week educational internship, which will run from February 24 to March 7, 2025. This internship marks the second batch of students from Japan to engage in the program.

This internship is facilitated by the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), with the students being detailed under the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts, and Recreation (PESCAR).

Both Takano and Riku will collaborate with faculty and staff from PESCAR to explore various aspects of physical education, sports, and cultural activities, enriching their understanding of global educational practices.

The experience also allows them to connect with students and contribute to the academic community at WVSU.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

West Visayas State University (WVSU) kicked off its specialized workshop on Scientific Research Writing and Publication today, February 24, 2025, aimed at helping faculty members, researchers, and graduate students enhance their skills for publishing in international journals such as Scopus and Web of Science. The workshop, held at the 4th Floor of the Research and Extension Building, will run until February 27, 2025.

Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, highlighted the significance of the workshop in advancing local research and preparing it for global visibility.

“This workshop, along with the visit of our esteemed resource persons, is a direct outcome of the Letter of Collaboration between West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). This partnership reflects our shared vision of fostering academic cooperation, enhancing research capabilities, and promoting the exchange of expertise between our institutions”, Dr. Gabinete said.

Dr. Elias C. Olapane, Focal Person for visiting professors, introduced the esteemed resource speakers who are guiding the participants through the workshop.

The first session featured Dr. Ong Chan Kwan, Operations and Technology Manager and Program Manager for Home Personal Care at the Care for the Elderly Foundation in Singapore. Dr. Ong presented How Singapore Prepares for the Future: Digital Transformation in Education and Healthcare, offering valuable insights into the digital innovations reshaping education and healthcare, areas that are ripe for future research.

Dr. Zaidatun Binti Tasir and Dr. Kew Si Na, visiting professors and experts from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), led a hands-on session on the critical elements of a research paper. Their focus on writing compelling introductions, formulating clear research questions, analyzing findings, and drafting comprehensive discussions and conclusions helped participants refine their skills for publishing in high-impact journals.

The workshop brought together participants from various colleges and external campuses, fostering a collaborative environment where researchers could learn from one another while gaining expertise in the intricate process of academic publishing. With guidance from top-tier experts, the workshop promises to equip attendees with the knowledge and confidence needed to elevate their research on the global stage.

It is recalled that WVSU, with Dr. Joselito Villaruz, WVSU President; Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, VPREI; Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Campus Administrator of WVSU Calinog Campus; Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of International and Local Linkages Office and Dr. Elias Olapane, Head of Campus Research, Innovation, and Development of Calinog campus visited UTM in July 2024 to pursue collaboration efforts.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

February 23, 2025, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)- Daniela Grace Espedion, a third-year AB English Language Studies student of West Visayas State University (WVSU) and one of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors, has emerged as the Champion of the SDG Project Presentation in the Young Talent Speakers Delegates Category at the ASEAN Student Mobility and Winter Cultural Exchange Programme 2025.

As part of the competition, Daniela’s team, in collaboration with Philippine Normal University (PNU) and University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) was tasked with creating a visual representation for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10 – Reducing Inequalities. The challenge involved capturing a photograph that showcased the theme of inequality reduction in the ASEAN region. Daniela’s team coupled this visual with a powerful speech that reinforced the importance of addressing inequality and promoting inclusive growth.

The ASEAN Universities Exhibition and Forum (AEF) 2025, served as a prominent platform for Daniela to showcase her advocacy for regional collaboration and innovation.

Hosted by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) of Malaysia, under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, this premier event gathers 5,000 attendees, including ASEAN education officials, university leaders, policymakers, and industry experts. The forum highlights student mobility, scholarships, and international partnerships across ASEAN.

This victory further solidifies WVSU’s international reputation as a leading institution that nurtures young leaders with a global perspective and a deep commitment to social change.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed the arrival of esteemed professors and scientists, Dr. Prof. Zaidatun Binti Tasir and Dr. Kew Si Na from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).

The experts will lead a specialized workshop on scientific research writing and publication, aimed at helping faculty members, researchers, and graduate students enhance their ability to publish in top-tier journals such as Scopus and Web of Science. The workshop, set for February 24, 26-27, 2025, will provide participants with valuable insights into the intricacies of the international publication process.

The event is expected to provide participants with the tools and strategies needed to successfully publish in top-tier journals, opening doors to international recognition and collaboration. WVSU continues to foster academic growth and research development through global partnerships like this one, empowering its academic community to reach new heights.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

In the coastal town of Tigbauan, Iloilo, a unique and impactful environmental initiative is unfolding, one that combines the energy and leadership of students with the wisdom of seasoned conservationists to protect the endangered Olive Ridley Sea turtles. The Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project, spearheaded by the West Visayas State University (WVSU) DagYoung Student Ambassadors, stands as a powerful symbol of community collaboration, environmental stewardship, and a commitment to preserving marine life for future generations.

On February 22, 2025, the project held its second seminar-training in Barangay Atabayan, a key nesting site for the Olive Ridley Sea turtle. The event gathered students, local officials, environmental advocates, and community members, united by a shared mission: to protect sea turtles and safeguard their fragile nesting grounds.

A Collective Effort for Conservation

At the heart of this initiative is the partnership between the WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors, the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the WVSU Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society. Funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, the Sanctuarium Maris project is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations, students, and local communities come together to tackle pressing environmental issues.

“The Sanctuarium Maris project is not just about protecting sea turtles; it is about fostering a sense of shared responsibility,” said Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office, during her opening speech. She stressed that the project represents the start of a sustainable conservation movement that aims to preserve marine life for future generations.

Education as the Cornerstone of Conservation

One of the most striking aspects of the seminar-training was its focus on education. With the expertise of the resource speaker, participants were provided with practical knowledge and tools to ensure the survival of sea turtles and their nesting sites.

Ms. Hananiah Pitogo, In-Charge of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC)- Tigbauan Fishworld, delivered an engaging talk on the handling of sea turtle eggs and hatchlings. Her insights were invaluable to participants, many of whom are residents of Barangay Atabayan. She emphasized the importance of proper egg handling, the establishment of marine protected areas, and the role of community-based monitoring systems in fostering long-term conservation efforts.

Pitogo’s presentation also highlighted the dangers that sea turtle nests face, particularly from human activity. “The survival of sea turtles depends not just on the protection of their habitats but on educating local communities about the best practices for conserving them,” Pitogo noted.

A Symbol of Hope for the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle

The Olive Ridley Sea turtle, classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is one of the primary species benefiting from the Sanctuarium Maris project. Barangay Atabayan, known for being one of the Philippines’ significant nesting sites for these turtles, has long faced challenges in protecting the species. Human activities such as fishing and encroachment on nesting sites have contributed to the decline in their population.

In recent years, local conservation efforts have yielded promising results. Between 2001 and 2011, more than 100 turtles were reported stranded, many of which had injuries due to human activity. But as awareness about the importance of sea turtle conservation grew, so did the number of successful rescues. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued by local volunteers, highlighting the region’s growing commitment to preserving these marine creatures.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Sea Turtles

As the Sanctuarium Maris project continues to grow, its impact extends beyond just the shores of Atabayan. The collaborative efforts of WVSU, local government units, community members, and conservationists are laying the foundation for a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious future for Iloilo and the Philippines as a whole.

With a focus on education, community involvement, and practical conservation strategies, the Sanctuarium Maris project is poised to leave a lasting legacy. As local residents and students continue to work together, their collective efforts will ensure that the Olive Ridley Sea turtles have a fighting chance at survival—making Barangay Atabayan a symbol of hope for marine conservation efforts around the world.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO