Category: Linkages

Driving focused international research dialogue in languages and culture, West Visayas State University (WVSU) brought together students, alumni, and partners for “Panalawsaw 2026: Borderless Unbound – Weaving Words Across Worlds” on April 29 at the Rehearsal Hall.

The colloquium was organized by the College of Arts and Sciences – BA Foreign Languages in collaboration with the UP Korea Research Center and supported by the Korea Foundation.

Opening messages were delivered by Dr. Eleonora B. Padilla, Student Research Coordinator, and Dr. Bonna S. Palma, CAS Dean, who emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and global engagement in advancing higher education.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of Dr. Kyung Min Bae, who underscored the role of the UP Korea Research Center in localizing Korean Studies in the Philippines and fostering meaningful international academic partnerships.

The program also featured a research presentation by Krizza S. Cañete, UPKRC-KONECT Alumnus, which offered a comparative analysis of how language and landscapes shape historical consciousness in Iloilo City and Seoul.

Panalawsaw serves as a platform for intercultural exchange and collaborative research in language and culture, strengthening WVSU’s global engagement, with the colloquium set to conclude tomorrow.

An atmosphere of gratitude and cultural appreciation filled the closing ceremony as West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized French interns Eugénie Mouret and Maëlys Bourdin for successfully completing their two-month internship program.

The interns, who are taking up a Master’s degree in “Teaching Abroad” at Université Toulouse – Jean Jaurès in France, specialize in international cooperation, cultural diversity, and intercultural mediation. Their stay at WVSU was facilitated by the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO).

During their internship, Mouret and Bourdin played an active role in academic life by conducting French language classes and facilitating crash courses on French culture for students at the main campus.

Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, expressed her appreciation for the interns’ enthusiasm, dedication, and the global perspective they shared, emphasizing the positive impact of their presence on both students and faculty.

Faculty members also reflected on their experiences working with the interns. Dr. Alexander Balsomo of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) highlighted not only their academic contributions but also the memorable hiking experience they shared, which fostered camaraderie and cultural exchange outside the classroom. Meanwhile, Prof. Raffy Galan of the College of Communication (COC) commended their openness to learning, particularly their willingness to participate in a Hiligaynon class, showing genuine interest in understanding the local culture.

Host family likewise played a significant role in the interns’ experience, providing a welcoming environment that allowed them to fully immerse themselves in Filipino culture and daily life.

Students expressed their gratitude for the interns’ creative teaching methods, while members of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors noted how the program strengthened cultural connections and promoted mutual understanding among participants.

The ceremony marked the culmination of a meaningful exchange, reflecting WVSU’s continued efforts to expand its global partnerships.

In line with its commitment to internationalization, the College of Education of West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to expand its global academic engagement as two of its students participate in the 11th batch of the Southeast Asian Teacher (SEA-Teacher) Project at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from March 31 to April 25, 2026.

Representing the university are Mhegan Lois Valerio, a fourth-year Bachelor of Early Childhood Education student, and Romavil Abelarde, a fourth-year Bachelor of Special Needs Education major in Elementary School Teaching.

The SEA-Teacher Project provides pre-service teachers with opportunities to gain international classroom experience, enhance pedagogical competence, and foster cross-cultural understanding among future educators across Southeast Asia.

Accompanying the students as faculty advisor is Dr. Micron Rey Fuego, faculty member of the Division of Special Needs Education, COE. During the visit, Dr. Fuego also presented a lecture titled “Inclusive Learning: Assessment and Classroom Management Strategies,” as part of the academic collaboration between the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education of UAD and WVSU.

Through its continued participation in the SEA-Teacher Project, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to developing globally competent educators equipped with international perspectives and professional excellence.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Strengthening international academic partnerships and expanding global learning opportunities, West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined the Philippine-American Educational Foundation’s (PAEF) Higher Education partnership ceremony held on March 24 at SPACE at One Ayala, Makati City.

The event marked the ceremonial launch of the Consortium for Study Abroad in the Philippines (CSAP) and the formal signing of partnerships between Fulbright Philippines and participating higher education institutions nationwide.

As one of the 22 selected member institutions, WVSU is now eligible to host American students and faculty through exchange and collaborative academic programs.

Leading the university’s participation in the event were Dr. Victorino Salcedo III, Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences (VPMAS); Dr. Madonna S. Palmes, Dean of the College of Nursing; and Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office.

The program featured messages from education and government leaders, including PAEF Executive Director Julio Amador III, U.S. Embassy Counselor for Public Affairs Jessica Simon, Commission on Higher Education Chairperson Dr. Shirley Agrupis, and Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Christine Joy Cari.

The event also commemorated the 78th anniversary of Fulbright Philippines, highlighted by a reception attended by distinguished Guests of Honor, including First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Y. Robert Ewing.

WVSU’s participation in CSAP strengthens its global engagement and international learning opportunities.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Cultures, classrooms, and conversations came together at West Visayas State University as the International and Local Linkages Office, in partnership with the College of Education, hosted ‘Voices Across Cultures: Eurasian Thoughts and Practices on Student Exchange and Mobility’ on March 23, 2026.

Meanwhile, practice teachers from Walailak University, Thailand—Patcharapon Jitprapai, Ranchida Saengsri, Apinya Meednui, and Prompond Yoma—discussed their experiences as exchange student teachers under the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA-Teacher) Project, highlighting teaching practices and student life in Thailand and at their host institution.

The event was graced by Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs, who expressed support for initiatives that promote global collaboration and intercultural learning within the university community.

COE and COC students joined the discussion virtually, contributing their perspectives to the intercultural dialogue.

Through initiatives like this, WVSU strengthens international partnerships and promotes intercultural learning.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed His Excellency Mariomassimo Santoro, Ambassador of the European Union to the Philippines, during a courtesy visit with President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, together with Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, Vice President for Administration and Finance.

Anchored on the theme “Transcending Borders Toward Global Harmony,” WVMUN 2026 aims to inspire dialogue, inclusivity, and collaboration among student delegates through simulations of international diplomacy.

Ambassador Santoro delivered the keynote address during the opening plenary, sharing insights from his extensive experience in diplomacy and international relations, including his previous role as Head of Office of the Secretary General of the European External Action Service and Head of Division for Policy Coordination from 2021 to 2024.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Strengthening its commitment to international academic collaboration and cultural exchange, West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed the second batch of Japanese student interns from universities in Japan for a short-term educational internship program this February.

The visiting interns include Tanaka Hiroto from Surugadai University, Harata Kotarou and Kawamura Miko from Nagoya Gakuin University. Their internship placements across various offices and academic units aim to provide them with meaningful exposure to the Philippine educational system while fostering intercultural engagement with the WVSU community.

Tanaka began his internship from February 19 to 25, 2026, under the WVSU Guidance Office, where he observed office operations and assisted with various administrative tasks.

Meanwhile, Harata and Kawamura, completed their internship from February 20 to March 5, 2026. Harata was assigned to the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) and the College of PESCAR, while Kawamura was assigned to the Office of the University President.

During their internship, they assisted in various academic and administrative activities and gained valuable insights into university operations and student services.

To note, this is the second year that WVSU has hosted Japanese interns.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Three Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) Janiuay Campus participated in the one-month local Students Exchange and Mobility Program hosted by Philippine Normal University (PNU) from February 26 to March 26, 2026.

The participants — Ma. Ela P. Alido, Dharilyn C. Camarista, and Aira Jane C. Carnaje — were provided opportunities to deepen their engagement in Filipino linguistics, literature, and pedagogy through advanced teaching practices and academic exchanges within PNU.

To ensure the students’ academic progress and welfare throughout the program, the participants were accompanied during an official visit to the university by Prof. Leryvie Shyn S. Gregori, faculty member and program coordinator, and Prof. Eleanor L. Cornal, Chair of the Filipino Department and academic adviser.

The exchange allowed the students to experience the academic and linguistic environment of Manila, enriching their preparation as future Filipino educators.

Meanwhile, WVSU also welcomed student interns from PNU–North Luzon as part of the same exchange initiative.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Advancing global collaboration in nursing and public health education, the West Visayas State University (WVSU) – College of Nursing participated in a Faculty Development and Academic Immersion Program at the Mahidol University of Public Health, Thailand, from March 11 to 17, 2026.

The 16-member CON faculty delegation, led by Dean Dr. Madonna S. Palmes, participated in academic exchanges and activities to strengthen their teaching, research, and knowledge of global best practices in nursing and public health.

Through initiatives like this, WVSU continues to promote globally responsive education and reinforce its commitment to excellence in nursing and health sciences.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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International collaboration in teacher education continues to grow as West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed the 11th batch of pre-service student teachers from Walailak University, Thailand under the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA-Teacher) Project on March 10 at the university board room.

The ceremony introduced four practice teachers from Walailak University—Mr. Patcharapon Jitprapai, Miss Ranchida Saengsri, Miss Apinya Meednui, and Miss Prompond Yoma—who will complete their teaching internship at the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School until April 7.

Delivering the welcome message on behalf of Dr. Ricky M. Magno, Dean of the College of Education, Dr. Rosemarie G. Felimon, Associate Dean, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in teacher education. She noted that the partnership reflects a shared vision among institutions to advance excellence in teacher preparation and reminded the visiting students that they serve as ambassadors of their country, bringing with them culture, knowledge, and compassion.

Prof. Mary June Pineda, Director of the Integrated Laboratory School, expressed her support for the visiting practice teachers and highlighted the school’s commitment to providing a nurturing learning environment that will support their professional growth during the internship.

The message was echoed by Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, who reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and promoting global competence among future educators.

An overview of the internship program was presented by Dr. Cheryl Lyn Delgado, Chair of the Division of Secondary Teacher Training, who outlined the academic and teaching components of the SEA-Teacher engagement.

Following the introduction, faculty members from Walailak University shared academic insights through presentations on Mathematics Education by Miss Pha-emah Chesa and Science Education by Dr. Nutt Tananimit, providing perspectives on teaching practices in Thailand.

The program concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Esperval Cezhar Cadiao, COE IZN Coordinator, who also visited Walailak University in Thailand on January 30 together with two WVSU COE practice teachers who participated in the SEA-Teacher exchange program.

The SEA-Teacher Project continues to serve as a platform for cross-cultural learning and professional development, reinforcing WVSU’s dedication to internationalization in teacher education.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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