Category: News

West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered a powerful and reflective State of the University Address (SUA) at the WVSU Cultural Center, highlighting significant achievements and laying out ambitious plans for the institution’s future.

Anchored on eight priority areas, Dr. Villaruz’s speech of 14 pages accompanied by a PowerPoint Presentation and delivered in an hour and 6 minutes emphasized WVSU’s commitment to research, global partnerships, quality education, and infrastructure development—all aligned with national and global educational goals.

Research and Innovation Excellence

The university recorded a robust output of 274 research projects in 2024, following a peak of 279 in 2023. WVSU earned top recognition from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. Notably, faculty member Dr. Ryan Michael Oducado was included among the top 2% of scientists globally.

Global Partnerships and Exchange Programs

WVSU expanded its international collaborations, hosting exchange programs with Jeju National University (South Korea), Mohawk College (Canada), and Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (Indonesia). The university also welcomed two Spanish interns and 20 Korean students for immersive experiences.

Program Development and New Offerings

The introduction of the innovative seven-year WVSU Expedited Select Track for Medicine (WEST Med) program and the upcoming launch of a Bachelor of Science in Radiology reflect WVSU’s response to healthcare demands. The College of Law maintained its status as the top-performing school in the national bar exams.

Infrastructure Modernization

The university completed major projects, including the construction of the Doctor of Dental Medicine Building Phase 2 and rehabilitation of the grandstand. Plans are underway for a 15-story medical arts and multi-specialty tower.

Quality Assurance Achievements

WVSU achieved a 100% accreditation rate for its undergraduate programs and ranked among the top 25 Philippine universities in the QS Asia Rankings. It also became a member of the United Nations Academic Impact and applied for ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance membership.

Faculty and Staff Development

Over 419 faculty members received promotions, and 572 faculty were trained in various programs, achieving a 100% student satisfaction rate in performance evaluations. International scholarships increased, contributing to WVSU’s rising QS rankings.

Student Empowerment and Cultural Achievements

WVSU students excelled in international competitions, with the Grupo del Oeste winning the Sinamba sa Regatta Grand Championship. Despite shifting from second to third in the SCUAA Regional Meet, athletes secured multiple individual medals.

Medical Advancements at UMC

The University Medical Center expanded services, including the renovation of the operating room complex and the construction of a multi-specialty tower. Admissions grew from 6,468 in 2021 to 9,936 in 2024.

Institutional and Administrative Reforms

The deployment of the Human Resource Information System (HRIS) streamlined processes, while the university maintained strong fiscal management with grants totaling ₱600.8 million in 2023.

Sustainability and Green Initiatives

Dr. Villaruz reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through renewable energy initiatives and sustainable infrastructure projects.

Call for Transformation

Reflecting on WVSU’s journey, Dr. Villaruz posed the question: “Quo vadis, Taga-West?”—Where are we going? He emphasized the non-negotiable need to transform WVSU into a research university.

With a focus on student empowerment, the president called for enhanced academic programs, increased global opportunities, and stronger partnerships to prepare graduates for the challenges of the future.

Dr. Villaruz expressed his gratitude to the WVSU Board of Regents, faculty, and students for their unwavering support, stressing that their collective efforts had propelled the university to greater heights.

As he concluded his speech, Dr. Villaruz introduced the university’s new battle cry: Transforming Generations. He underscored the administration’s pledge to continue fostering innovation, excellence, and societal transformation.

By Dr. Hazel P. Villa/PAMCO

Photos by PAMCO

“Kadiwa sa WVSU” took center stage as West Visayas State University (WVSU) launched its 2025 University Days celebration on Jan. 27, at the Rizal Hall Grounds. The event spotlighted local agricultural products and innovations through colorful exhibits.

Opening at 1 p.m., the soft launch transformed the Rizal Hall Grounds into a vibrant hub of discovery, underscoring WVSU’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and community development.

In his remarks, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the vital role of agriculture in society. “Through initiatives like ‘Kadiwa sa West,’ we are not only creating opportunities for our local producers but also fostering a deeper appreciation for agriculture as the backbone of our economy and culture,” he said.

The event formally began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Rizal Hall Grounds, led by Dr. Villaruz along with university administrators, deans, directors, and Department of Agriculture officials.

Students, faculty, and visitors explored the exhibits, which featured agricultural innovations, cultural showcases, and locally produced goods. Each display reflected WVSU’s commitment to empowering local communities and supporting sustainable initiatives.

The “Kadiwa sa WVSU” exhibits will be open to the public until January 31, offering a week-long celebration of collaboration, innovation, and local ingenuity.

Story by Kacey Claire Tanallon/The Innovator

Photos by PAMCO

A feast for the senses unfolded at West Visayas State University (WVSU) as the much-awaited 2025 University Days kicked off with a dazzling parade that turned the streets into a vibrant showcase of dapog-inspired artistry in the morning of Jan. 27.

The parade celebrated the ingenuity and culinary heritage of the Filipino tradition, dapog—a rustic outdoor cooking method that served as the creative foundation for the event’s highlights.

This year’s theme, “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” inspired students to transform dapog into imaginative, larger-than-life props. Each college brought their own twist to the tradition, captivating the crowd with their outstanding creations.

Topping the list of standout props was the College of Dentistry’s show-stopping “Dapog Manuglechon,” a meticulously crafted, life-sized roasted pig (lechon) that symbolized festivity and precision. Meanwhile, the College of Business and Management wowed spectators with their “Pinakas nga Isda” under the theme “Dapog Manugpakas,” spotlighting a vibrant display of dried fish that showcased regional pride. Not to be outdone, the College of Education presented their “Dapog Manugsugba,” featuring human-sized pork skewers made from styrofoam, embodying the art of grilling with flair and creativity.

Each college’s dapog display demonstrated not only artistry but also the deep resourcefulness and camaraderie of the Taga-West community. These imaginative props reflected the essence of the university’s commitment to innovation while honoring cultural roots.

The parade concluded with students forming the WVSU acronym at the grandstand, captured through a stunning drone shot that symbolized unity and school pride. Despite the searing heat, the energy and spirit of the participants remained undeterred, proving that the flames of Taga-West creativity and camaraderie burn bright.

The event formally opened with the singing of the national anthem, followed by a heartfelt prayer in song. The WVSU Hymn filled the air, setting the stage for an inspiring message delivered by WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz.

Through their dapog-inspired creations, the Taga-West community showcased how cultural traditions can be reimagined into meaningful opportunities for expression and celebration—a perfect beginning to WVSU University Days.

Story by Abeguil Gafate, Shane Rochelle Toleran, and Gene Joy Gabasa/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by PAMCO

West Visayas State University (WVSU) launched its 2025 University Days with a vibrant parade and opening ceremony on Jan. 27 at the WVSU-Main Campus in Iloilo City.

A celebration of culture, unity, and innovation, the event gathered students, faculty, alumni, and staff from both the main and external campuses to mark the beginning of the much-anticipated annual festivity.

With the theme “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” the celebration began with a parade from the Iloilo Sports Complex, featuring the WVSU Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), alumni, and participants from different colleges and campuses proudly carrying their distinct colors.

The parade’s energy set the tone for the assembly at the WVSU Grandstand, where students and alumni came together to form the “WVSU” acronym, a striking visual of school pride and solidarity captured from above.

The opening ceremony commenced with the Entrance of Colors led by the ROTC, followed by a cultural performance by the Panayana Cultural Group.

University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz officially declared the 2025 University Days open, emphasizing the significance of the Hiligaynon term digamo as a metaphor for collaboration and unity.

“Each of us is an indispensable ingredient in this grand recipe, bringing our unique flavors, skills, and ideas to the table. Together, we shall create a feast that will tantalize the senses, leave an enduring, unforgettable taste, and inspire future generations,” Dr. Villaruz shared in his address.

The program continued with the sashing ceremony for the candidates of Mr. & Ms. WVSU 2025, with college deans presenting the sashes to their representatives. Cheers and yells from various colleges and external campuses added to the festive spirit.

A standout moment was the unity dance, performed by students from WVSU-Lambunao Campus, who brought the official U-Days theme song, “Taga-West,” to life on stage, leaving the audience in awe.

This year’s University Days, running from January 27 to 31, promises a celebration of culture, creativity, and camaraderie—hallmarks of the vibrant Taga-West spirit.

Story by Lara Danielle Malayang/The Courier

Photos by LINK.exe

Taga-West from various colleges and campuses stirred excitement for the 2025 University Days as they marched onto campus grounds with passion and enthusiasm for the Opening Parade on January 27.

The parade celebrated the unique identities of each college and campus, symbolized by the “dapog,” a Hiligaynon term for “fireplace,” representing each kitchen as a source of warmth and unity. This was expressed through creative displays, chants, and cheers, showcasing the spirit of the WVSU community.

Adding to the vibrancy of the celebration, alumni from various batches joined the festivities, proudly representing their alma mater and reconnecting with fellow members of the WVSU community.

This year’s theme, DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Meaningful Growth and Opportunities, reflects the core values of West Visayas State University (WVSU). The university fosters holistic development, guiding students through a transformative journey. Just as preparing a meal requires careful attention and creativity, WVSU nurtures its students through academic rigor, extracurricular engagement, and professional growth.

The 2025 University Days will showcase diverse talents and provide opportunities to celebrate the achievements and diversity of the WVSU community.

Story by Shianne Michael Dela Peña/Dynamics Publication

Photo/s by LINK.exe

To kick off University Days 2025, students, faculty, staff, and alumni of West Visayas State University (WVSU) gathered for a Eucharistic celebration on Jan. 27 at the University Cultural Center.

The Mass was officiated by the Rev. Fr. Jose Rex Jiloca and the Rev. Fr. Vicente Duron, as the university emphasized spirituality alongside its dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

This year’s theme, “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” reflects the university’s commitment to fostering growth and creating impactful opportunities.

“I look forward to celebrating this anniversary with my fellow alumni after four years of missing the past alumni homecoming,” said Esther B. Babalo, a member of WVSU-College of Education Batch 1985.

University Days is an annual tradition that showcases the talents and intellect of students from the colleges on the main campus and external campuses of the WVSU system through various activities and competitions.

Story by Rochel Dorothy Rafael/SILAK Media

Photo/s by SILAK Media

As part of “Kilitaay sa West”, an event organized by the WVSU Federated Alumni Association Inc., alumni, retirees, faculty, and staff participated in an Ilonggo music fest celebrating the community’s rich cultural heritage and creativity at 3 p.m. on Jan. 27 at the New Academic Building Quadrangle.

With the theme “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” the same as 2025 University Days, this year’s celebration highlights the university’s commitment to fostering growth and creating impactful opportunities.

The event featured a binalaybay competition, traditional music performances, and fine dining, aiming to foster community spirit, showcase talent and innovation, and celebrate the institution’s cultural and academic heritage.

“This event and the significant performances provide us with an experience we can share,” said Rixfel Aperong, this year’s U-Days chairperson.

“It’s more about being the lens of a teacher, not just an audience. We absorb these experiences so we can pass them on to our future students,” added Aperong.

The festival also underscored the importance of cultural preservation, offering attendees a deeper appreciation of Ilonggo culture and its relevance in contemporary times.

“I’m thankful that West Visayas State University showcased traditional culture, which needs to be preserved,” said Brytch Ampania from the Calinog Campus. “I was able to see the diverse musical traditions of Iloilo.”

Story by Joella Nicole C. Faeldonea/SILAK Media

Photos by SILAK Media

West Visayas State University’s college publications have joined forces to provide unified and dedicated coverage of the 2025 University Days celebration on Jan. 27 to 31, marking a milestone in the university’s history.

On Jan. 23, 2025, editors, student journalists, and a representative from a journalism class on Specialized Beat Reporting gathered at 2:30 p.m. in the University Library’s Reference Section to coordinate reporting assignments. Joining them were representatives from the Circle of Mathematicians, the student organization in charge of tabulating and validating competition results.

The meeting was facilitated by the Public Affairs and Marketing Communications Office (PAMCO), led by its director, Dr. Hazel Villa.

“We are excited because this is the first time in the university’s history that we have a unified documentation team from all the college publications,” Villa said.

“It is a great way for the publications to get to know each other better and, at the same time, ensure that WVSU’s stakeholders are informed of the daily activities. We aim to make WVSU more accessible through dedicated and accurate coverage of the U-Days, considering that aside from student competitions, we also have fairs, exhibits, and extension activities,” said Villa who is also the adviser of SILAK Media of the College of Education.

This year’s University Days, organized by the University Student Council, the Federated Student Council, and the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance, promises a dynamic lineup of events.

LINK.exe, the official documentation partner from the College of Information and Communications Technology, will spearhead the initiative, working closely with the newly formed unified documentation team.

The collaboration highlights the university’s commitment to fostering community engagement and amplifying its celebrations through comprehensive and professional reporting.

By Dr. Hazel P. Villa/PAMCO

Photos by PAMCO