Category: News

  • WVSU welcomes USEP delegation for academic benchmarking visit

    WVSU welcomes USEP delegation for academic benchmarking visit

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz welcomed visitors from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP), Davao City, for a benchmarking activity designed to promote academic excellence and strengthen inter-university collaboration.

    The USEP delegation, composed of Prof. Gresiel Ferrando and Prof. Nancy Mozo, faculty members, visited WVSU to benchmark its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS), Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT), and Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) programs.

    This benchmarking activity forms part of USEP’s ongoing curriculum review and enhancement efforts aimed at aligning their programs with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards, current industry demands, and global best practices.

    During the visit, the delegation engaged in insightful discussions on curriculum design, outcomes-based education implementation, laboratory and facility management, and the integration of emerging technologies in teaching and learning. WVSU’s hospitality and openness to knowledge exchange continue to highlight its leadership in innovation, research, and academic partnership-building across Philippine higher education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU leads regional push for global engagement academic mobility

    WVSU leads regional push for global engagement academic mobility

    The West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined other higher education institutions across Western Visayas in advancing Internationalization (IZN) efforts during the “Fortifying Bridges: Seminar Series on Faculty and Student Mobility,” organized by the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office VI (CHEDRO VI) on October 20, 2025, at Sotogrande Iloilo Hotel.

    In line with CMO No. 55, s. 2016 or the Policy Framework and Strategies on the Internationalization of Philippine Higher Education, and in celebration of ASEAN Month with the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” the seminar-workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration and enhance institutional capacity in student and faculty mobility programs.

    In his message, Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr.,Director IV of CHEDRO VI, emphasized that collaboration and partnership among HEIs are vital in achieving the country’s internationalization goals.

    Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office and Vice President for Visayas of the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Philippines Council, served as one of the resource speakers. She shared her expertise on faculty mobility and the UMAP program, highlighting WVSU’s experiences and best practices in promoting international academic exchanges.

    She also underscored the university’s growing network of global partnerships and its dedication to providing transformative international learning opportunities for students and faculty.

    Other notable speakers included Mr. June Carl Seran of the University of St. La Salle, who discussed the Asian International Mobility for Students (AIMS) program, and Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice of Central Philippine University, who presented effective strategies for advancing institutional IZN.

    Also representing WVSU were university officials Dr. Alona M. Belarga, Director of the Office of the Instruction; Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs; Dr. Geneveve P. Lachica, Director of the Center for Research and Innovation in Science, Mathematics, and Education (CRISMEd); and Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin, Information Officer I.

    The program concluded with Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, OIC Chief Education Program Specialist and IZN Focal Person of CHEDRO VI and XVIII, expressing gratitude to all participating institutions for their continued support in strengthening the region’s global education initiatives.

    Through its active participation, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to internationalization and global engagement, aligning with CHEDRO VI’s mission to build a globally competitive, inclusive, and collaborative higher education community in Western Visayas.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU Federated Alumni Assocation launces internet Scholarship Program

    WVSU Federated Alumni Assocation launces internet Scholarship Program

    The West Visayas State University Federated Alumni Association Inc. (WVSUFAAI) officially launched its Internet Scholarship Program on Oct. 17, 2025, reaffirming the alumni’s commitment to supporting student learning and digital access.

    A total of 24 student scholars, nominated by their respective college deans, were selected as the first beneficiaries of the program. Each scholar will receive a ₱500 monthly internet allowance for the entire academic year, from August 2025 until the end of the second semester. The financial support comes from pledges made by alumni benefactors.

    During the launch, Prof. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, WVSUFAAI President, welcomed the scholars and commended the initiative’s role in improving digital access and learning opportunities.

    Atty. Nestor Jeremy Moreno, Chairman of the Internet Scholarship Program, oriented the scholars on the program’s objectives and guidelines.

    Dr. Celina C. Gellada, Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences and OIC University President, encouraged the recipients to persevere in their studies and make the most of the opportunity.

    Also part of the ceremony were the presentation of donors and beneficiaries by WVSUFAAI Assistant Secretary Ana R. Farin and a closing message from Dr. Rodolfo A. Guillergan, Jr.

    Held at the WVSU Board Room, the launch underscored the alumni association’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion and educational equity, empowering students through accessible, technology-enabled learning.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU, JNU drive global innovation through Digital Transformation collaboration

    WVSU, JNU drive global innovation through Digital Transformation collaboration

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed professors from Jeju National University (JNU), South Korea, as part of the collaborative engagement visit for the Proposed Digital Transformation initiative between the two institutions, which runs from October 18 to 22, 2025.

    The delegation from JNU is composed of Professor Kang Cheol-woong, Vice President for Research; Professor Yung Cheol Byun, Project Leader; and Professor Kim Yong-woon, Researcher.

    Dr. Celina C. Gellada, Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences and Officer-in-Charge President, expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership that has flourished between the two universities for more than fifteen years. She emphasized WVSU’s dedication to fostering global alliances that support the university’s vision of driving digital innovation and research excellence.

    Also present during the visit were Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office; Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Dean of the College of Information and Communications Technology; and Prof. Shem Durst Elijah Sandig, Internationalization Coordinator.

    The engagement focuses on strengthening initiatives in AI and digital transformation aligned with WVSU’s programs under the College of Information and Communications Technology and the Center for Digital Transformation (CDx) of WVSU. It also includes joint consultations and planning sessions for a proposed project on AI and digital innovation in Western Visayas under the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Official Development Assistance (ODA) framework.

    Anchored on the Memorandum of Understanding between the Jeju National University–Regional Innovation System and Education (RISE) and the WVSU Center for Digital Transformation for Governance Project (CDx), the activity reinforces both universities shared mission to advance smart education, research collaboration, and sustainable regional development.

    This collaboration represents another significant milestone in WVSU’s pursuit of global engagement and leadership in technology-enabled education and research.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • Passion for Korean Language leads WVSU BAFL Student to Excellence Award in KSI speech contest in South Korea

    Passion for Korean Language leads WVSU BAFL Student to Excellence Award in KSI speech contest in South Korea

    What began as a passion for language learning has taken Bryl Christian R. Sario, a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Language (major in Korean) student at West Visayas State University (WVSU), all the way to Seoul, South Korea—where he earned the Excellence Award in the 2025 King Sejong Institute Speech Contest Finals.

    Representing both the King Sejong Institute (KSI)–Iloilo and the Philippines, Sario stood among the top 10 finalists worldwide, captivating the judges with his story of perseverance and purpose throughout his five-year Korean language journey. His speech highlighted his deep appreciation for the Korean language and his aspirations to foster intercultural understanding between Filipinos and Koreans.

    Before the final round, Sario and other international participants joined a weeklong cultural immersion program in Korea, gaining firsthand experiences that deepened their connection to Korean traditions and values.

    Sario was mentored by Ms. Reeran Park of KSI–Iloilo, who guided him after his victory in the local speech contest held last May.

    The King Sejong Institute Speech Contest, organized annually by the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF), gathers outstanding learners from over 240 KSI centers worldwide to celebrate excellence in Korean language and culture.

    Sario’s achievement also reflects the growing impact of KSI–Iloilo, which operates under the WVSU College of Arts and Sciences. Established in partnership with KSIF, the institute aims to provide quality Korean language education and promote global linkages through cultural and academic exchange.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz amplifies WVSU’s global presence in Health Research at ARISE 2025 in Japan

    Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz amplifies WVSU’s global presence in Health Research at ARISE 2025 in Japan

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz leads the university’s participation in the 4th Annual ARISE (ARO Alliance of Southeast and East Asia) Meeting held in Nagasaki, Japan, from October 16 to 17, 2025.

    With the theme “Leveraging ARO Capacity to Strengthen the Clinical Trials Ecosystem in ARISE,” the event brings together key leaders from Academic Research Organizations (AROs) across Asia to strengthen collaboration in clinical research and public health development.

    The meeting is co-hosted by Nagasaki University, renowned for its expertise in infectious disease research and disaster preparedness. It is supported by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED) under the project “Clinical Research and Clinical Trial Platform Formation to Promote International Research Cooperation Between Japan and Asian Countries in the Field of Infectious Diseases.”

    Dr. Villaruz’s engagement in the meeting highlights WVSU’s dedication to advancing health research and enhancing evidence-based healthcare in the region.

    “At WVSU, we serve communities that lack access to advanced healthcare and research facilities, particularly in rural areas. Our action plan is anchored in the belief that clinical research should not be confined to urban centers alone. By establishing a clinical trial unit and investing in local capacity-building, we hope to bridge this gap and make research more inclusive and impactful. This aligns with ARISE’s vision of strengthening research ecosystems, especially in regions traditionally underrepresented in clinical studies,” Dr. Villaruz shared.

    The ARISE network envisions becoming a leading and reliable collaboration of AROs in Asia that promotes infectious disease clinical trials while upholding ethics, integrity, safety, and quality in research. Through this international engagement, WVSU continues to affirm its role as a research-driven institution committed to global collaboration, innovation, and improving public health outcomes through science.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU Student Earns Excellence Award in Global Korean Speech Contest

    WVSU Student Earns Excellence Award in Global Korean Speech Contest

    Bryl Christian R. Sario, a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Language (BAFL) major in Korean at West Visayas State University, earned the Excellence Award at the 2025 King Sejong Institute Speech Contest Finals held Oct. 15 in Seoul, South Korea.

    Representing both the King Sejong Institute (KSI)–Iloilo and the Philippines, Sario was among the top 10 finalists chosen from hundreds of contestants across more than 240 KSI branches worldwide. His winning speech shared his five-year journey of learning the Korean language, his motivations for pursuing Korean studies, and his future goals in the field.

    Before the competition, Sario and other finalists participated in a weeklong cultural immersion program in Korea. As part of his competition, he will remain in South Korea until Oct. 20 for further cultural activities and engagements.

    The KSI Speech Contest is held annually by the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF) to foster global appreciation for Korean language and culture participated in by outstanding learners from across the world, each representing their respective KSI branches.

    Sario first secured his spot in the finals after winning the local competition hosted by KSI–Iloilo on May 31. The preliminary round, joined by 11 participants, highlighted the learners’ experiences in studying the Korean language and culture.

    He was mentored by Ms. Reeran Park, instructor at KSI–Iloilo, which operates under the College of Arts and Sciences at WVSU. The institute, formally inaugurated last August following a Memorandum of Agreement between WVSU and the King Sejong Institute in Korea, aims to strengthen Korean language education and cultural exchange in Western Visayas.

    According to Ms. Krizza S. Cañete of KSI–Iloilo, this achievement reflects the strength of WVSU’s Korean language program and the success of the institute in promoting Korean language and culture in the region.

    “Since may ara kita BAFL nga program, mas gina-strengthen ang aton Korean program, especially sa pagpalaganap sang Korean culture—not just sa WVSU but in the whole Western Visayas. Kita lang ang KSI sa Western Visayas. Aside sa internationalization sang aton university and as the only university nga naga-offer sang Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Language program, mas na-help pa gid ni KSI nga maging stronger ang program ta for Korean language,” Cañete said.

    Sario’s international recognition marks a milestone for both WVSU and KSI–Iloilo, showcasing the growing impact of the university’s foreign language programs on the global stage.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU-ILS students named ‘mayor’ and City Legal Officer in Rotary Club of Iloilo City’s Boy’s and Girls’ Week 2025

    WVSU-ILS students named ‘mayor’ and City Legal Officer in Rotary Club of Iloilo City’s Boy’s and Girls’ Week 2025

    Two students from West Visayas State University-Integrated Laboratory School (WVSU-ILS) were among this year’s top honorees in the Boys’ and Girls’ Week 2025 celebration organized by the Rotary Club of Iloilo City, in partnership with the Department of Education, SM City Iloilo, and the City Government of Iloilo.

    Helen Natalie Dime Bolivar, a Grade 10-Jupiter student, was declared Mayor, while her classmate Unah Angel Gabrielle Robante was assigned to the Office of the City Legal Officer. Both represented WVSU-ILS with distinction under the mentorship of Sir Angelou Deloguines.

    The Boys’ and Girls’ Week, themed “Unite for Good,” aims to cultivate youth leadership, civic engagement, and public service among young Ilonggos. During the weeklong program scheduled from Oct. 20 to 26, the selected student officials will assume their respective duties alongside Iloilo City officials and participate in various civic and leadership activities. The celebration will open with a foot parade from the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, followed by a transition ceremony at the Iloilo City Hall Grounds, and an exhibit and ribbon-cutting at SM City Iloilo.

    The awarding ceremony, held today, Oct. 14, 2025, at SM City Iloilo, was one of the highlights of the celebration. The 52 qualified participants officially received their assigned positions as mayor, vice mayor, councilors, and department heads, marking the culmination of a selection process that began in August.

    The competition started with a written examination on Aug. 16 at Assumption Iloilo, which drew 122 participating schools. From there, 52 schools advanced to the interview round held on Sept. 13 at Jubilee Hall.

    Bolivar also performed during the intermission of the Announcement of Positions program, showcasing the WVSU-ILS students’ active involvement in the event. She is the third WVSU-ILS student to earn the title of “girl mayor” in the city’s Boys’ and Girls’ Week history, following Jennifer Javier in 1990 and Lady Ochel Espinosa in 1999.

    The Rotary Club of Iloilo City facilitates the annual Boys’ and Girls’ Week to foster civic consciousness, leadership, and social responsibility among the youth.

    The recognition of Bolivar and Robante underscores WVSU-ILS’s strong culture of leadership and excellence, reflecting the university’s mission to nurture future leaders committed to service, creativity, and innovation.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

  • Dagyoung Student Ambassadors foster global citizenship through SDGs workshop

    Dagyoung Student Ambassadors foster global citizenship through SDGs workshop

    DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA) from various colleges of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) main campus took part in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) workshop during SYNC: Shaping Youth, Nurturing Connections held on October 10 at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU Focal Person for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN) initiatives, served as the resource speaker for the session.

    He discussed the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their significance in addressing issues such as poverty, education, equality, and climate change. Dr. Lachica also emphasized how student ambassadors can contribute by integrating SDG-oriented values and communication into their campus and community initiatives.

    One of the highlights of the session was the “Rank the Goals” workshop, where participants formed small groups and ranked the 17 SDGs according to what they believed were the most urgent for today’s generation. Each group presented their top three priorities, which led to meaningful exchanges of ideas on pressing youth and global concerns.

    The ambassadors also shared personal insights on which goals resonated with them most and why they believe these goals must be addressed in today’s world.

    Through the workshop, the DSAs strengthened their understanding of global issues and reaffirmed their commitment to becoming advocates of sustainable change—living out the essence of youth leadership with purpose and responsibility.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • SYNC 2025 onboards new DagYoung Student Ambassadors from WVSU main campus

    SYNC 2025 onboards new DagYoung Student Ambassadors from WVSU main campus

    A new set of DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA) from various colleges of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Main Campus gathered for SYNC: Shaping Youth, Nurturing Connections – Onboarding and Orientation held on October 10 at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    Aihrich Toreres, Chairperson of the DSA, welcomed the participants and encouraged them to embrace leadership, teamwork, and advocacy as guiding values in their term of service.

    The program featured a comprehensive session led by Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, who discussed key topics including “What WVSU Does,” “Internationalization and Global Perspectives,” “The Role of the WVSU Community in Global Issues,” and the Duties and Responsibilities of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors. Her talk emphasized how student leaders play a vital role in promoting global awareness and engagement within the WVSU community.

    In addition, Johnric Vargas, Special Projects Head, and Amabela Fiona Le Benid, Education and Training Head, elaborated on the ambassadors’ specific duties and expectations, offering practical guidance to help new members perform their functions effectively.

    To foster fellowship and teamwork, participants also joined an interactive “Get Acquainted with Current DSA Members” Bingo Game, which encouraged collaboration and camaraderie among new and continuing ambassadors.

    The orientation concluded with a shared commitment among the DagYoung Student Ambassadors to embody WVSU’s core values and contribute to shaping globally engaged and socially responsible student leaders.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO