Category: News

Student musicians and vocalists from various campuses and colleges of West Visayas State University (WVSU) showcased their talents in the Musical Category on the third day of the University Days celebration, held at the WVSU Cultural Center on January 29.

The program commenced at 8:30 a.m., with approximately 14 to 17 participants representing their respective departments in each contest. The first category featured was Solo Instrumental, where each contestant performed using their chosen instrument—the guitar.

This was followed by the Vocal Solo Classical category, with performers rendering Filipino classics such as “Nasaan Ka, Irog” and “Dandansoy.” The competition then moved to the Vocal Solo Pop category, where contestants delivered popular Pinoy Pop (P-Pop) songs, including “Amakabogera” and “Araw Gabi.”

The final segment of the musical competitions featured 14 pairs competing in the Vocal Duet Pop category, concluding the series of performances under the Musical Category.

Aligned with this year’s University Days theme, “BANAAG sang West: Celebrating Our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations,” the event highlighted how musical artistry unites the WVSU community. Through their performances, students demonstrated how creativity, cultural tradition, talent, and excellence continue to be passed on across generations.

The competition concluded at around 1:45 p.m., paving the way for the remaining categories scheduled for the afternoon.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Helen Natalie D. Bolivar & Tonette Mari S. Jamero/The Blue Quill

Photos by Markey Jaims L. Arboleda/The Blue Quill

West Visayas State University (WVSU) – Office of the Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences (OVP-MAS), in collaboration with the College of Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Dentistry, Department of Radiologic Technology, WVSU Medical Center, and University Health Services, spearheaded a University Health Outreach Program at WVSU Main Campus, yesterday, Jan. 29 as part of the 2026 University Days.

The program benefited the residents of Brgy. Montinola, Jaro and WVSU employees, faculty, and students, totaling to more than a hundred beneficiaries.

The Nursing Building served as the avenue for medical checkups, laboratory exams, pharmacy, and PhilHealth YAKAP registrations, while volunteer dentists from the college faculty and Philippine Dental Association-Iloilo Chapter, assisted by the Pre-Clinical Committee, performed free dental consultation, dental X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleaning), fluoride application, and dental extractions at the Dentistry Building.

Simultaneously, the Philippine Dental Students Association (PDSA)-WVSU Chapter held a series of dental health talks, and the WVSU-CON faculty presented a simultaneous seminar on breast cancer and breast self-examination demonstration at their respective buildings.

Sophia Talamera, President of WVSU-COD Pre-Clinical Committee, emphasized that offering free medical and dental services falls upon one’s duty as “Iskolars ng Bayan.” Likewise, she remained enthusiastic that more communities will benefit from such initiatives in the future, starting from those close to WVSU.

Amidst the vibrant displays of colors and skills, this initiative served as a testament that excellence and competence also come in the form of community service—dedicating oneself in alleviating public woes.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Rosema Kamsa, Shaila Veronica Paris, & Amiel Zaulda/Pagyuhum Publication

Photos by Aryanna Celebrar, Ciro Dumaicos, & Krizzle Caldera/Pagyuhum Publication; Dominic Maranon, Jericho Francesco Jandongan, Miles Tambanillo, & Ryzen John Blanco/The Lifeline Publication; Isabelle Viaje/Vital Signs Publication

West Visayas State University (WVSU) spotlighted the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education as Jose Jenil Demorito, assistant secretary of the Public Information Service of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Central Office, delivered the keynote lecture during the University Convocation on Jan. 28 at the WVSU Cultural Center, a major highlight of the 2026 University Days celebration.

Held under the theme, “Banaag sang West: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations,” the convocation gathered university officials, faculty, staff, students and alumni to reflect on the University’s mission of excellence, service and innovation amid emerging technological and social challenges.

In his lecture, Demorito described AI as both a “boon and a bane,” emphasizing that while technology can enhance teaching, learning and productivity, its ethical and responsible use remains crucial. He urged WVSU to lead in cultivating AI literacy, transparency and human-centered innovation, stressing that AI should empower educators and students rather than replace human judgment, creativity and empathy.

Demorito illustrated AI’s creative potential by presenting videos generated from archival photographs, offering a nostalgic journey through student life with his college batchmates. He also challenged the University to integrate AI thoughtfully across instruction, research and administration, promoting a culture of responsible use, academic integrity and continuous innovation.

A highlight of the convocation was the screening of “Ang Yab-ok Nangin Amon Napanag-iyahan”, produced by Madyaas Productions of the WVSU College of Information and Communications Technology, as part of the DAR PelikulAgraryo Film Festival 2025. The award-winning film, which placed second in the Best Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations category, showcased the students’ contribution to digital storytelling and agrarian reform advocacy, reflecting the University’s growing role in leveraging media and technology for social development.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, vice president for Administration and Finance, underscored the University’s enduring radiance, noting that WVSU’s “banaag” is a collective glow shaped by service, commitment, and shared purpose that continues to illuminate communities.

WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz formally introduced Demorito, highlighting his distinguished career in broadcast media, corporate leadership and public service, and emphasizing his homecoming as a proud alumnus of the University’s Mass Communications Class of 1984 and one of the Most Outstanding Alumni during the university’s centennial anniversary.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to shaping the nation’s future through excellence in instruction, research, and community engagement, calling on the academic community to nurture integrity, diligence, innovation, and compassion in service of the Filipino people.

The University Convocation formed part of the weeklong 2026 University Days celebration, reinforcing WVSU’s dedication to transformative education, ethical leadership and inclusive development in the digital age.

Banaag sang West shone even brighter as more competitions were held on the second day of 2026 University Days on the afternoon of January 28. At the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Cultural Center, the Lip-Sync Battle brought out the best in each participating team’s creativity and talent, matched by the roaring cheers of supporters and attendees.

“I now feel excited to be part of something bigger, widening my talents and cherishing the memories I made with these people,” said Leigh Ush Violet Silvestre, one of the performing contestants from Tribu Mayari, College of Business and Management.

Competing teams in the Lip-Sync Battle were composed of 15 to 25 members who performed pop culture-inspired songs for three to five minutes, while others also touched on contemporary issues and trends in the country. As teams faced off head-on, each performed with full effort in their dances, props, and costumes, syncing their movements and expressions to capture the judges’ votes and the support of the audience.

Prince Lance Tuvilla, a second-year BSBA-FM student, expressed his reaction after witnessing the event. “I find it unique and very entertaining. It’s like you can’t get your eyes off of them (performers),” he said.

The contestants showcased intense energy throughout the competition, as the audience did not disappoint in lifting their spirits and igniting the atmosphere inside the venue. This overwhelming energy pushed the performers to innovate and improve year after year, keeping the audience engaged and the surprises coming.

The competition served as a platform for Taga-West to display their talent and expertise in lip-syncing, highlighting their competitive spirit and passion for performance. Their shared goal was to bring pride and glory to their respective campuses and colleges.

Winners will be announced later today, January 29, at the WVSU Cultural Center, along with the results of other University Week competitions.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications
Caption by Nicole Ponsoy, The Innovator
Photos by Ena Kristelle De Nuevo, The Innovator

The morning brilliance met an audience filled with anticipation as the Binalaybay and Sugidanon Contest of the 2026 University Days showcased compelling chronicles at the Quezon Hall Merged Room on January 28.

University Student Council (USC) Vice Chairperson Psalms Matthew Saligumba opened the event by emphasizing the richness of the Hiligaynon language. In his opening remarks, he underscored the vital importance of cultural preservation through the Hiligaynon Category Contest.

Contestants from different colleges illuminated the stage with performances that echoed the spirit of this year’s University Days theme, “BANAAG SANG WEST: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations.” Each piece served as a living testament to the university’s mission of safeguarding Hiligaynon for the generations yet to come.

Thirteen Binalaybay contenders delivered memorized poems rich with emotion and local color, weaving verses that spoke of heritage, struggle, and pride. Meanwhile, twelve Sugidanon participants brought forth heartfelt narratives—stories born from lived experiences, aspirations, and hope—anchored in themes of perseverance and passion.

Ensuring a fair and esteemed evaluation, the university welcomed distinguished alumni from the University of the Philippines Visayas—John Ian Allenciaga, Eliodora Dimzon, and Noel Galon De Leon—as members of the panel of judges. Performances were assessed under strict guidelines: entries must be written and delivered solely in Hiligaynon, align with the official theme, run for three to five minutes, and be presented without background music, sound effects, or props.

Through eloquence, authenticity, and unwavering pride in their roots, Taga-West students once again proved that brilliance thrives not only in classrooms, but also in the voices that keep culture alive.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Caption by Keiane Grace Casera, The Innovator
Photos by Kim Janna Provido, The Innovator

Dawning with rhymes and creativity, students from 17 colleges and campuses of West Visayas State University gathered for the Filipino Literary Writing Competition of 2026 University Days, held from 1 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 27 at the University Learning Resource Center Reference Section.

Participants showcased their wit and eloquence as they competed in Pagsulat ng Sanaysay and Pagsulat ng Tula, writing original works on the common theme, “Ang Pagpapahalaga sa Kulturang Pilipino sa Kabila ng Pagsulong ng Makabagong Teknolohiya.”

Entries were written anonymously within the allotted time and evaluated based on content relevance, originality, clarity, organization, creativity, language use, and overall structure.

The competition was adjudicated by a distinguished panel of judges composed of Palanca Award winner Kimberly Rose Pillo–Frufonga, award-winning publication adviser of Philippine Science High School Roden Pedrajas, and Dr. Joel Labos of the University of the Philippines Visayas.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications
Write-up by Chris Gem Quimba, SILAK Media
Photos by Yoj Frances Chiva, SILAK Media

Bursting with verse and imagination, 17 competing teams from various colleges and campuses of West Visayas State University gathered for the English Literary Writing Category of 2026 University Days on Jan. 27, from 1 to 5 p.m., at the second floor of the University Learning Resource Center.

The competition featured two categories—Poetry Writing and Essay Writing—challenging participants’ critical thinking, creativity, and command of the English language.

Poetry writers were given the topic “How does a voice refuse to disappear even when ignored?” at the venue and were allotted two hours to conceptualize and complete their entries. Essayists, meanwhile, demonstrated their literary prowess by articulating well-structured and insightful perspectives through their compositions.

The awarding ceremony for the English Literary Writing Category was held on Jan. 28 at the University Cultural Center, recognizing outstanding works in both divisions. The event highlighted not only the university’s academic excellence but also the wit, creativity, and literary skill of its students.

Here are the colleges whose light shone brightest among the rest:

Essay Writing

Champion: College of Nursing

1st Runner-up: College of Communication

2nd Runner-up: College of Medicine

3rd Runner-up: College of Education

4th Runner-up: Integrated Laboratory School

Poetry Writing

Champion: College of Education

1st Runner-up: College of Communication

2nd Runner-up: College of Arts and Sciences

3rd Runner-up: College of Medicine

4th Runner-up: Janiuay Campus

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications
Write-up by Fritz Jaime Sumbo, SILAK Media
Photos by Yoj Frances Chiva, SILAK Media

Armed with confidence and stage presence, 17 participants from different tribes showcased their storytelling skills during the Pagkukuwento Contest of the ongoing University Days 2026, held at the CON Building, Room 302, Jan. 28, 2026.

The contest served as a venue for students to demonstrate proficiency in Filipino while highlighting narrative structure, vocal expression, and creative delivery through original and adapted stories.

Jan Dennis Dariagan, representative of Tribu Elag from the College of Information and Communications Technology, recalled the challenges he faced prior to the contest, including the absence of a coach, limited preparation time of three days, and simultaneous participation in the Suguidanon competition.

“Three days before the contest, I got a runny nose, but despite that, I continued training on my own, especially practicing how to master my ‘lolo’ voice for my Pagkukuwento performance, and thankfully, I managed it,” Dariagan said.

Allan Ken Dominguez, University Student Council councilor, board member of the Federated Student Council, and contest chair for the Filipino Speech Category, said that despite the success of the event, several setbacks were encountered, such as difficulty in sourcing appropriate stories and balancing responsibilities as both contest chair and Suguidanon contestant.

“For the past few days, we have been busy preparing for the event plus managing academic demands, and being a contest chair is not easy. We struggled to find stories to be used, and although our adviser attempted to source pieces from PASUC, none were available. I also had to juggle my role as contest chair and as a contestant for my tribe in Suguidanon the reason why I have to leave for a while the responsibilities to my fellow FSC members and with proper time management, we made it,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez also expressed gratitude to contest facilitators from various colleges and external campuses for their responsiveness and support, noting that their cooperation greatly helped in ensuring sufficient manpower and smooth coordination.

While contest pieces vary each year, organizers noted that this year’s entries mostly carried moral lessons and were largely “kuwentong pambata,” challenging participants to perform as if speaking to children despite being college students.

Pagkukuwento, one of the contests under the Filipino Speech Category, was held on the second day of University Days 2026 alongside the English and Hiligaynon Speech Categories and the Lip Sync Battle.

University Days 2026 commenced on January 27 and will conclude on Jan. 30, 2026, carrying the theme “BANAAG sang WEST: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations.”

Words by Jose Alphonso E. Ceria and Pia E. Maleriado, SBR Class
Photos by Jemmar T. Tejero, SBR Class

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels