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STUDENT IUIS (Main Campus)

Category: Linkages

  • WVSU, DENR VI ink MOU to strengthen environmental and student initatives

    WVSU, DENR VI ink MOU to strengthen environmental and student initatives

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Regional Office VI (DENR VI) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on June 5, 2025, at the university board room, forging a strong partnership focused on environmental conservation, sustainability, and youth engagement.

    The ceremonial signing was led by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and DENR VI OIC Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla.

    Dr. Villaruz, in his message, emphasized the importance of education in addressing environmental issues and fostering a culture of sustainability among the youth. “West Visayas State University (WVSU) proudly stands today as a partner in environmental stewardship, sustainability, and academic excellence. As we formalize this collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Regional Office VI, we acknowledge the indispensable role that education plays in shaping a future built on environmental responsibility and conservation,” he said.

    Present during the signing were June Melissa C. Garol, Assistant Regional Director for Management Services of DENR VI, Armin Halili, Community Environment and Natural Resources Office of Guimbal, and Jessie L. Reyes, Communication Development Officer II and Regional Designate Youth Desk Officer. Representing WVSU, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csóka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, formally read the provisions of the agreement and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in sustaining environmental programs.

    The MOU outlines the responsibilities of both parties in implementing environmental and educational initiatives. WVSU commits to providing academic resources, research support, and facilitating student and faculty participation in environmental programs, while DENR VI offers technical expertise, policy guidance, and access to environmental data and protected areas. The agreement also aims to support the conduct of community-based projects, awareness campaigns, and youth-led initiatives through DENR VI’s Youth Desk Office.

    One of the notable initiatives supported by this partnership includes the Santuarium Maris Sea Turtle conservation project, showcasing the shared goal of both institutions to preserve biodiversity in Western Visayas.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors officers for A.Y. 2025-2026 take oath, ushering stronger student representation and internationalization efforts

    WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors officers for A.Y. 2025-2026 take oath, ushering stronger student representation and internationalization efforts

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) marked a significant step in its internationalization efforts today, June 5, as the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) hosted the oathtaking ceremony for the DagYoung Student Ambassador Officers for Academic Year 2025–2026 at the university board room.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO and adviser of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors, expressed confidence in the newly appointed officers, emphasizing their role as key players in WVSU’s expanding international presence.

    “The DagYoung Student Ambassadors serve as the face and force of WVSU in building international friendships, promoting global competitiveness, and fostering diplomatic ties with local and international partners,” she said.

    The DagYoung Student Ambassadors are recognized as the official student representatives of WVSU, approved by the Board of Regents. They are envisioned to be key players in bringing the university closer to the global academic community as WVSU transitions into a research-centered institution.

    The newly inducted officers for A.Y. 2025–2026 are:

    • Chairperson – Aihrich Toreres
    • Vice-Chairperson – Benz Dominique Delariman
    • Secretary – Riena Tabing
    • Treasurer – Marie Claire Estrebillo
    • Auditor – Athena Villarin
    • Business Manager – Deon Adrian Rizaldo
    • Public Information Officer – Lil Benedict Herrera


    Originally approved by the Board of Regents in 2022, the DagYoung Student Ambassadors represent the official cohort of student leaders who personify WVSU’s values and excellence. Their mission includes assisting with domestic and international partnership engagements, coordinating diplomatic and consular relations activities, supporting campus-based internationalization efforts, promoting global competitiveness through student programs, and advocating for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    Composed of student volunteers from across the WVSU system’s various colleges, the DagYoung Ambassadors are expected to take the lead in welcoming global partners, fostering international friendships, and helping implement student-centered internationalization initiatives.

    As WVSU continues its transition into a research-centered university, the role of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors remains critical in ensuring student voices are heard and are actively contributing to the university’s global aspirations.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU clinches fourth consecutive CHED award for internationalization excellence

    WVSU clinches fourth consecutive CHED award for internationalization excellence

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) once again proved its commitment to global engagement as it received the Excellence in Internationalization (IZN) Initiatives Award for the fourth consecutive year at the 4th Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Quality Awards held on May 28, 2025, at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, Central Philippine University, Iloilo City.

    The award was accepted by Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, alongside WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, and Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation Dr. Greta Gabinete.

    The CHED Regional Quality Awards, held in celebration of CHED’s 31st founding anniversary and the 5th Higher Education Day, recognize higher education institutions for excellence in board examination performance, research, instruction, internationalization, and institutional innovation.

    WVSU’s four-year winning streak, which began in 2022, reflects its unwavering efforts to establish international partnerships, enhance academic mobility, and offer globally competitive programs.

    WVSU remains a leading institution in Western Visayas, setting the standard in international academic partnerships and innovation.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU leads regional internationalization as Dir. Edel Subong-Csoka elected IRO Council President

    WVSU leads regional internationalization as Dir. Edel Subong-Csoka elected IRO Council President

    A new chapter in internationalization for Western Visayas’ higher education institutions unfolded as Director Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka of the International and Local Linkages Office, West Visayas State University (WVSU) was elected President of the Region VI International Relations Officers (IRO) Council during the event “Activating Linkages: International Relations Officers Convergence” held at the Research and Extension Hub of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) in Tiwi, Barotac Nuevo on May 27, 2025.

    The event gathered International Relations Officers from public and private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across Region VI to align their Internationalization (IZN) efforts with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) IZN Pillars, which focus on building global partnerships, international mobility, and academic excellence through international engagement.

    Twelve HEIs, including WVSU, presented their 2025 IZN initiatives, showcasing their strategies for global collaboration, faculty and student exchange, and cross-border academic linkages.

    In her presentation, Director Edel highlighted WVSU’s ongoing and upcoming IZN programs, including active linkages with international universities, faculty mobility projects, and research collaborations aimed at fostering global competencies.

    The convergence also marked the formal establishment of the Region VI IRO Council, culminating in the election of its first set of officers. As newly elected president, Director Edel is expected to lead the council in strengthening regional cooperation, sharing best practices, and creating joint initiatives to elevate the international profile of Region VI’s academic institutions.

    The event was held in celebration of CHED’s 31st Anniversary and 5th Higher Education Day, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to promoting global standards and innovation in Philippine higher education.

    With the formation of the Region VI IRO Council, and under Director Edel’s leadership, Western Visayas is poised to build stronger international linkages, support capacity-building among IROs, and promote a more globally engaged academic community.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • French ambassador impressed with La Maison du Leganes dining experience

    French ambassador impressed with La Maison du Leganes dining experience

    No less than Her Excellency Marie Fontanel, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to the Republic of the Philippines was impressed with her dining experience at La Maison Du Leganes-French Bistro and Café located in the municipality of Leganes, Iloilo.

    The ambassador and Claire Châles, Higher Education and Scientific Cooperation officer – Cooperation and Cultural Affairs Department, had dinner at La Maison on May 23, 2025, arranged by the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) of the West Visayas State University (WVSU).

    “What an incredible experience to have dinner in France… in Iloilo!” wrote Ambassador Fontanel in La Maison’s guest book.

    She also wrote that “Iloilo deserves the title of gastronomic capital of the Philippines but La Maison deserves the title of best French restaurant. I am impressed!”

    The Ambassador and Ms. Châles, together with WVSU representatives Edel Carmela Csoka, ILLO director; and Hazel Villa, director of Public Affairs, Marketing and Communications Office were served the following:

    𝘊𝘖𝘓𝘋 𝘈𝘗𝘗𝘌𝘛𝘐𝘡𝘌𝘙
    𝘗𝘰𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘱𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘶𝘳𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤, 𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘤𝘳𝘰 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯𝘴

    𝘚𝘈𝘓𝘈𝘋𝘌
    𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘺 𝘚𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘮𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘯
    𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘩 𝘢𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘭𝘢, 𝘵𝘰𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘯𝘶𝘵𝘴, 𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘤 𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘪𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦

    𝘗𝘓𝘈𝘛 𝘐𝘕𝘛𝘌𝘙𝘔𝘌𝘋𝘐𝘈𝘐𝘙𝘌
    𝘎𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘯𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘗𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘰, 𝘭𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦

    𝘗𝘓𝘈𝘛 𝘗𝘙𝘐𝘕𝘊𝘐𝘗𝘈𝘓
    𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘯-𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘪𝘴𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘶𝘤𝘦
    𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘢

    𝘋𝘌𝘚𝘚𝘌𝘙𝘛
    𝘓𝘢 𝘔𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯’𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘰 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘭é
    𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘺𝘰𝘯

    On hand to explain how La Maison came to be were dinner hosts of La Maison — Dr. Anjuli May Jaen, CEO and President; Leah Gonzaludo, Operations Officer; and Ms. Geline Jaen-Gurrea, Finance Officer.

    Ambassador Fontanel was so pleased with her experience and said she will share the experience with the French Community and invited La Maison to join the Goût de France / Good France this end of May 2025 – the biggest dinner in the world to celebrate French gastronomy which is organized by French diplomatic missions in their host countries as a tribute to the excellence of French cuisine.

    #WVSUInternationalization #WVSUILLO
    #WVSUTransformingGenerations

    Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia

    Text: 𝘋𝘳. 𝘏𝘢𝘻𝘦𝘭 𝘝𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢, 𝘗𝘈𝘔𝘊𝘖 𝘋𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳
    Photos: 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘯 𝘏𝘦𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘺 𝘋𝘦𝘨𝘰𝘮𝘢

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  • E-Bridge phase 6 culminates in volunteers’ appreciation day celebration

    E-Bridge phase 6 culminates in volunteers’ appreciation day celebration

    In a celebration of dedication, service, and intercultural learning, Education for an Interdependent World (EDIW) and West Visayas State University (WVSU) held the e-BRIDGE Volunteers’ Appreciation Day on May 26, 2025, at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    The event marked the successful completion of Phase 6 of the e-BRIDGE International Digital Learning Program, and honored the student-teacher volunteers who contributed their time, talents, and compassion to promote digital education across cultural and regional boundaries.

    The program opened with a message from Andrei Jan Tono, Lead Student Volunteer, who shared heartfelt reflections on the significance of the volunteers’ work. “Through each virtual classroom, we planted seeds of hope, knowledge, and unity,” Tono said.

    Messages from key figures followed, including Dr. Emma Melgarejo, Project Coordinator for Asia and North America, who praised the volunteers for their selfless service and dedication to promoting digital education across diverse communities. “You are proof that education can transcend limitations and bring people together,” she said.

    Dr. Julia Maria Gonzales Ferreras, President of EDIW, emphasized the deeper mission of the organization: “Our goal is to develop young people who are globally aware and locally responsive. You have shown exactly what that looks like.”

    Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed pride in the university’s continued partnership with EDIW. “This program exemplifies the kind of engaged, transformative learning WVSU stands for,” she said.

    Volunteers were formally recognized during the certificate awarding ceremony, honoring their commitment to teaching literacy, English, and science to young learners in diverse communities. The event also featured personal reflections from three student volunteers, who spoke about the impact of their work and the meaningful connections they built throughout the program.

    Athria Vidiot, Assistant Lead Student Volunteer, delivered the closing remarks, calling on her fellow volunteers to carry the experience forward. “Phase 6 may be over, but our journey as educators and bridge-builders continues. Let’s keep making a difference—wherever we go,” she said.

    Dr. Antoniette Cortez, Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence and International Program Coordinator, was also present to lend her support. A champion of the initiative since its inception, Dr. Cortez reaffirmed the program’s transformative impact and announced that Phase 7 will be launched in October 2025. Notably, the upcoming phase will welcome student volunteers from WVSU Himamaylan Campus and the College of Communication (COC), expanding the program’s reach and inclusivity.

    The-BRIDGE program has expanded its reach, fostering literacy, language proficiency, and scientific knowledge through digital platforms. Phase 6 further strengthened these efforts, bringing together volunteers and learners from different regions to build bridges through education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU hosts French Ambassador to expand educational partnerships, highlights student programs

    WVSU hosts French Ambassador to expand educational partnerships, highlights student programs

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) deepened its global engagement as it hosted French Ambassador Her Excellency Marie Fontanel on May 23, 2025, at the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE), paving the way for new academic partnerships and collaborative initiatives in education, sustainability, and international exchange.

    Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, Vice President for Administration and Finance, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the strong support the French Embassy has continuously provided to WVSU’s internationalization efforts.

    ” West Visayas State University has always believed in the power of education not only to uplift communities but also to connect them across borders. We continue to take another step toward that vision. By joining hands with the French Embassy, we open new doors for our students, faculty, and researchers to engage with a culture and academic tradition that has long been known for its depth, creativity, and global influence”, he said.

    During the visit, Ambassador Fontanel presented a comprehensive overview of the diverse educational opportunities available in France, ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate programs. The presentation aimed to encourage WVSU students and faculty to explore scholarships and exchange programs that foster academic growth and cultural exchange abroad.

    Johnric Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator of the Sanctuarium Maris initiative, also discussed the ongoing sea turtle nest conservation project. Located in Barangay Atabayan, Tigbauan, Iloilo, the project is a key environmental effort by WVSU’s internationalization student arm, the DagYoung Student Ambassadors.

    Barangay Chairman Edison Camiña, representing the local community hosting the conservation site, expressed his gratitude for the project’s positive impact on both environmental preservation and community awareness.

    Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), underscored the importance of the partnership with the French Embassy in advancing WVSU’s goals for global engagement and sustainability.

    “This is not just a partnership on paper or in words-it is a living, breathing collaboration built on shared values: excellence, mutual respect, and a belief in education as a force for good. As we deepen our ties, we also recognize the importance of cultural appreciation and understanding”, she said, recalling key initiatives including funding through the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) for student mobility training and educational trips to France; backing the Sanctuarium Maris project led by the DagYoung Student Ambassadors; and sponsoring the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) delegation trip to France, in which WVSU participated.

    The event was further enriched by the active participation of students from various colleges who engaged with Ambassador Fontanel in meaningful dialogue.

    The visit further solidifies the close ties between WVSU and the Embassy of France, highlighting the shared commitment to educational development and environmental stewardship.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU delegates met Coventry University Officials in collaborative talks

    WVSU delegates met Coventry University Officials in collaborative talks

    A delegation from West Visayas State University (WVSU) met with officials from Coventry University, United Kingdom on May 21, 2025, for a series of collaborative talks centered on advancing research, fostering innovation, and strengthening academic partnerships.

    Led by Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, the WVSU delegation includes Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Campus Administrator of Calinog Campus, and Dr. Elias C. Olapane, Head of Research, Innovation and Development and Internationalization Coordinator.

    The team discussed with Prof. Elena Gaura, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Academic Engagement, for a courtesy visit and dialogue on strengthening institutional collaboration. In-depth discussions were also held with Prof. Moya Kneafsey, Director of the Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience, alongside other key professors and researchers to explore joint initiatives in sustainable development and agroecology.

    Another highlight of the day was the engagement with Prof. Marina Orsini-Jones, Lead of the Equity and Equality in Education theme at the Research Centre for Global Learning. The WVSU delegation also interacted with professors, PhD students, research assistants, and scholars focused on global learning, equity, and inclusive education.

    This ongoing visit aims to solidify academic partnerships, promote collaborative research, and foster mutual capacity-building between WVSU and Coventry University, in line with WVSU’s internationalization goals and commitment to innovation-driven education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU pushes global research network through Coventry University visit

    WVSU pushes global research network through Coventry University visit

    Officials from West Visayas State University (WVSU) are currently visiting Coventry University in the United Kingdom (UK) from May 19 to 22, 2025, to strengthen academic and research partnerships.

    The delegation, led by Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, WVSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, includes Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Campus Administrator of Calinog Campus, and Dr. Elias C. Olapane, Head of Research, Innovation and Development and Internationalization Coordinator.

    The visit is focused on fostering a robust exchange of knowledge and best practices in areas such as research-led teaching and learning, research commercialization, doctoral supervision, and the development of international linkages.

    Dr. Dimitar Angelov, Coventry University’s focal person for the WVSU partnership and lead of the “Digital Challenges and Opportunities in Education (including AI)” theme at the Research Centre for Global Learning, welcomed the delegates at Coventry University’s Priory Street campus.

    They also engaged in roundtable discussions with Prof. Carolyn Wynne, Director of Coventry University’s Doctoral and Researcher College, and Prof. Marina Orsini-Jones, lead of the “Equity and Equality in Education” theme.

    As part of the program, the WVSU delegation will attend a one-day research conference hosted by GLEA. The conference will allow the visitors to present their ongoing research and strengthen WVSU’s global academic presence. Dr. Olapane will discuss indigenous people and WVSU’s initiatives as an emerging research university in the Philippines. Dr. Gabinete will present research-led initiatives aimed at achieving food security, while Dr. Contreras will share insights on biological agents and financial literacy.

    The delegates toured several Coventry University facilities, including the Research Centre for Global Learning, the Institute for Creative Cultures, and the National Transport Design Centre (NTDC). The team also explored significant educational and cultural sites in the UK, such as the Coventry Transport Museum, Coventry Cathedral, and local art galleries, with additional visits planned in London.

    WVSU and Coventry University formalized their collaboration in 2023 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on research and academic exchange.

    This visit represents a significant step in realizing that partnership, aimed at fostering mutual growth and global academic engagement.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU, NCIP, LGU Calinog sign MOA to advance Indigenous Peoples Education

    WVSU, NCIP, LGU Calinog sign MOA to advance Indigenous Peoples Education

    In a historic move to promote Indigenous Peoples (IP) education and cultural preservation, West Visayas State University (WVSU) Calinog Campus, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region VI, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calinog officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, May 6, 2025.

    The MOA signing ceremony was led by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, NCIP Regional Director for Regions VI and VII Princess May Alcarde-Oral, and Mr. Renato Casinao, Indigenous Peoples Focal Person and Executive Assistant, who represented the LGU of Calinog.

    Under the agreement, WVSU Calinog Campus, NCIP Region VI, and LGU Calinog will collaboratively design academic programs that reflect the cultural identities and traditional wisdom of indigenous communities. The integration of indigenous perspectives into the curriculum is seen as a transformative step toward a more inclusive and contextually relevant education system. A specialized program for Indigenous Peoples Education is also planned to further institutionalize this approach.

    The partnership also emphasizes the importance of research and documentation, with the three parties committing to joint studies focusing on indigenous traditions, environmental practices, and sustainable development. NCIP will play a key role in providing cultural oversight and legal guidance to ensure respect for IP rights and heritage throughout the process.

    In line with community extension services, the agreement outlines the organization of cultural events, festivals, and workshops aimed at celebrating and preserving indigenous cultures. The establishment of community-based Sarantes, mobile education services, and an IP Village as a cultural and educational hub is also part of the long-term vision of the partnership.

    Capacity building and professional development will also be central to the collaboration. Educators, researchers, and community leaders will benefit from targeted training and workshops to enhance their skills in indigenous education and engagement. Resource-sharing mechanisms will be developed to support sustainable and collaborative project implementation.

    Also present during the signing were Dr. Rosario Clarabel Contreras-Leda, WVSU Calinog Campus Administrator; Dr. Marie L. Candy Celeste, Director of Academic Affairs; Dr. Elias A. Olapane, Calinog Research Head and Internationalization Coordinator; and Miss Dinna Joy P. Otayde, Peace Coordinator of Calinog Campus.

    This partnership reflects a strong commitment to equity in education, cultural empowerment, and sustainable community development, marking a new chapter in the recognition and integration of Indigenous Peoples’ heritage within academic and local governance frameworks.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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