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.
Category: News
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WVSU CAF alumna Joy Cardinal Saban wins 3rd place in Young Farmers Challenge national tilt
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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.
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6 WVSU students named Outstanding Students of Iloilo for 2026
Six students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) have been named awardees in the 2026 Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA), recognizing their achievements in academics, leadership and service.
For the tertiary level, awardees include Fritz Jaime Sumbo and Romavil Abelarde of the College of Education, Arcel Vinz Agudo of the College of Communication, and Jan Michael Alayon of the College of Arts and Sciences. From the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School, Zoe Alexandria Lanceta and Unah Angel Gabrielle Robante were recognized in the high school category.
Organizers announced the awardees April 11, 2026, following a selection process that included bid screening, essay writing and panel interviews.
Organized by JCI Regatta in partnership with the Department of Education divisions of Iloilo, Iloilo City and Passi City, as well as the Commission on Higher Education Region VI, TOSIA recognizes students who demonstrate strong character, resilience and social responsibility.
The 2026 awards, guided by the symbol of the firefly, highlight students whose perseverance and commitment to excellence continue to make an impact in their schools and communities.
The recognition adds to WVSU’s growing roster of student leaders who bring honor to the University through excellence, innovation and service.
Publication materials by: TOSIA – The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards
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Candidates Face Full-Day Test as PASUC 2026 Events Intensify Ahead of Coronation Night
From first impressions to full performance, candidates of Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 are now undergoing a series of rigorous public engagements as the competition enters a decisive phase.
Following their formal introduction during the Sashing Ceremony and Press Conference on April 6, the candidates stepped into a more demanding spotlight on April 9 through the Talent Showcase and Regional Attire Competition held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Robinsons Place Iloilo, Main Branch along Quezon Street.
The daytime event required candidates to demonstrate not only stage presence and creativity, but also cultural interpretation through performance and attire, further testing their readiness for the national stage.
Earlier in the week, the candidates were ceremonially presented at the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Medicine Auditorium, where they faced their first public evaluation through a press conference that assessed their articulation, composure, and advocacy.
In her message, Local Contest Head Master Dr. Bonna S. Palma emphasized the shared purpose that binds the candidates despite regional differences.
“Despite the different regions we actually come from, we can move forward together with the same purpose: to honor, to understand, and to belong,” she said.
Candidates have since carried that message into subsequent events, where they continue to articulate their roles as cultural representatives. Kevin Angelo Mijares, Mr. PASUC CARAGA Region, earlier underscored the importance of preserving heritage while inspiring future generations.
“I stand firm that we are the bridge between the past and the future; if we preserve our
heritage, we protect our stories and inspire future generations,” he said.
As part of final preparations, candidates are set to return to the WVSU Cultural Center on the evening of April 9 for a technical rehearsal scheduled from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., ensuring that staging, production flow, and performances are aligned for the culminating event.
With each activity raising the level of expectation, the competition now moves toward its most anticipated moment. The Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 Pageant Proper and Coronation Night will take place on April 10 at the WVSU Cultural Center, where candidates will present the full measure of their talent, intellect, and cultural identity before a national audience.
(by Andrei Jan Tono, Alvine Cornelia Faciolan, Riego Jon Alcallaga, Gerritz Jay Celestre, DC Mae Divino, Doreen Mae Garalda, Ma. Erenica Gina Laraya, and Darl Syde Napatang)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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7 WVSU student journalists honored as 2026 IWAG awardees
Seven student journalists from West Visayas State University have brought pride to the University after being named among the 25 recipients of the prestigious 2026 IWAG Awards conferred by the Philippine Information Agency Region 6.
Recognized for their excellence in campus journalism, development communication, and academic performance were LJ Orpheus Soriano and Jericho Francesco C. Jandongan of The Lifeline (College of Nursing); Gierson F. Bordon of The Mediator (College of Communication); Josef Henri S. Tumbagahan of Forum-Dimensions (Main Campus); Sean Lerry Jim Claud and Franco Miguel M. Nodado of Vital Signs (College of Medicine); and Fritz Jaime L. Sumbo of SILAK Media (College of Education).
The 2026 PIA IWAG College Awardees recognize graduating campus editors across Western Visayas who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to promoting national development through responsible and impactful journalism. Awardees are selected from among participants of PIA-6’s campus journalism initiatives, including seminar-workshops and press conferences.
Now on its 49th year since its establishment in 1977, the IWAG Awards remain the region’s premier recognition program for student writers who champion truth, civic engagement, and community development through media.
WVSU continues to take pride in its student communicators whose work reflects the University’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and service—Basta Taga-West, the Best!
Photos from Philippine Information Agency Region VI
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WVSU fosters International learning through SEA-Teacher Batch 11 at UAD Indonesia
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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WVSU honors 22 learners in Drop-In Center Recognition Program 2026
West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized the achievements of young learners during the Drop-In Center Recognition Program 2026 held on March 30 at the University’s Rehearsal Room.
A total of 22 Drop-In Center children, accompanied by their parents, were honored in a ceremony attended by teachers, Gender and Development (GAD) Office focal persons, and student assistants. The program celebrated the children’s perseverance as they prepared to transition to the next stage of their educational journey.
The activity featured the awarding of ribbons and certificates, along with an inspirational message from guest speaker Prof. May Buenafe-Dela Cruz, who emphasized the importance of holistic growth among children. She highlighted that development should not only focus on academic achievement but also on values formation, emotional well-being, and social skills, underscoring the vital role of parents in nurturing and supporting their children’s growth.
The recognition program aimed to honor the challenges the children had overcome while motivating both learners and their families as they embark on the next phase of their education. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks and a shared meal, reinforcing a sense of community among participants.
The initiative reflects WVSU’s commitment to inclusive development for young learners through programs that promote both educational advancement and personal growth.
