Category: News

West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized its topnotchers and passers in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) during its weekly flag-raising ceremony held earlier today, May 18, at Jubilee Park.

The University announced that the Main Campus posted a 100% passing rate in both the elementary and secondary levels of the LET, while also emerging as the top-performing school nationwide in the secondary level.

Topnotchers from the College of Education (COE) and the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (COP) were likewise recognized, including COP’s first-ever LET topnotcher, Keith Brian Jabaybay.

COE Dean Dr. Ricky M. Magno highlighted the achievement as a reflection of the University’s continued commitment to quality teacher education and academic excellence.

Meanwhile, COP Dean Dr. Porferio Barlas Jr. emphasized the collective effort behind the achievement, thanking the University community for its support and prayers. “We do believe that the efforts of others may have a direct influence on the output of one,” he said, acknowledging the support extended by the administration, faculty, staff, utility personnel and students in sustaining the University’s academic performance.

Jabaybay also expressed gratitude to the University community and the COP faculty for their guidance throughout his academic journey.

“Since first year, ginhubog niyo guid kami para maging quality nga educators,” he said.

During the ceremony, Magno also introduced student interns from Universitas Negeri Jakarta composed of Bachelor of Secondary Education majors in English and Mathematics who are currently undertaking their SEA Teacher internship program at WVSU. He described the initiative as part of the College’s continuing internationalization efforts and expressed hope for its continuation in the coming academic year with the support of the administration.

The student interns likewise shared their appreciation for the opportunity to study and train at WVSU, describing Iloilo City and the University community as welcoming and supportive since the beginning of their stay.

Magno also thanked the University’s top management following the recent evaluation for Centers of Excellence, noting that evaluators commended the strong presence and support of University officials throughout the assessment activities.

The ceremony, hosted by the Accounting Unit headed by Ms. Marissa Antonillas, concluded with trivia games and interactive activities for members of the University community.

The West Visayas State University–College of Information and Communications Technology (WVSU-CICT) strengthened the University’s international research presence after presenting three studies on disaster communication and healthcare access at the 2025 International Conference on Convergence Content (ICCC), held Dec. 18-20 at the National Taipei University of Technology in Taipei, Taiwan.

The papers were selected from 239 accepted research presentations representing more than 10 countries, highlighting WVSU-CICT’s growing contribution to community-centered and globally relevant technological innovation.

Now in its 25th year, ICCC is an annual international conference organized by the Korea Contents Association that convenes researchers, engineers and students to exchange ideas on emerging trends in technology, digital applications, and content production and use. The 2025 conference was co-hosted by the National Taipei University of Technology and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information.

WVSU-CICT presented the following research studies at the conference:

Secure disaster messaging using VHF radio technology

A study on a secure disaster messaging application that addresses communication breakdowns during emergencies by utilizing very high frequency (VHF) ham radio technology with block-based message transmission. The research was authored by Jose Occeña III, Regin Cabacas, Hyung-Jin Kim and In-Ho Ra, and presented by Occeña and Dr. Regin Cabacas.

Blockchain-based outpatient records management

A blockchain-enabled system designed to provide secure, tamper-resistant sharing of outpatient department records through smart contract–based access control and encryption. The study was authored by Genine Lynelle Cabantug, Doane Marie Horlador, Kristel Mae Lim, Jhules Loren Maquiran, Ram Wisdom Nacis and Regin Cabacas, and presented by Cabantug, Lim and Maquiran.

Near-infrared vein detection mobile application

A mobile application that assists healthcare workers in locating veins using near-infrared spectroscopy, aimed at addressing challenges in venipuncture procedures. The research was conducted by Trixie De la Cruz, Alyanna Lois Geonanga, Regin Cabacas, Augustine Seve Kang Bacale, Edrianne Luise Parales and In-Ho Ra, and was presented by De la Cruz, Geonanga, Bacale and Parales.

WVSU-CICT’s participation in ICCC 2025 underscores the University’s commitment to research excellence, international collaboration and the development of technologies that respond to real-world needs, particularly in healthcare delivery and disaster preparedness.

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The WVSU Panayana Cultural Group clinched second place at the Ambahanon sa Pototan 2025 (Season 3) Chorale Competition on Dec. 19, showcasing musical excellence in a regional Christmas choral festival held in front of the Pototan Municipal Hall.

Conducted by Ronnie A. Libutaque, the university choir stood out among four competing ensembles with a repertoire that blended traditional holiday themes and socially reflective music. Their performance featured “Diwa ng Pasko” by Ramon Tapales, arranged by Lucio San Pedro; “Bahay” by Gary Granada; and “Tuloy na tuloy pa rin ang Pasko” by Andrei Dionisio.

The Ambahanon sa Pototan is a community-based choral competition organized by the local government of Pototan as part of its Christmas festivities. The event brings together school, church, and community choirs from across Western Visayas and neighboring regions to celebrate music, culture, and the spirit of the season.

The Panayana Cultural Group’s strong showing underscored WVSU’s continuing commitment to cultural artistry and performance excellence, reinforcing the university’s presence in regional artistic platforms while fostering community engagement through music.

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The West Visayas State University Federated Alumni Association, Inc. (WVSUFAAI) officially kicked off activities for the 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with the launching and opening of an art exhibit at SM City Iloilo on Dec. 16, 2025.

Dubbed a prelude activity to the Grand Jubilarian Alumni Homecoming set in January 2026, the exhibit runs until Dec. 20 and features works by alumni artists Joel Senina Adrias (WVSU–College of Education Batch 1976) and Joel Eugenio E. Ferraris (WVSU High School Batch 1976).

The opening program included the National Anthem, opening prayer, and the WVSU Hymn, followed by words of welcome from Dr. Jonathan C. Glorial, director of WVSU Alumni Affairs. Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president, delivered the keynote message, underscoring the role of alumni engagement in sustaining the university’s legacy. A message was also delivered by Faculty Regent Shim Lester de Pio, president of the Federated Faculty Association.

Ribbon-cutting rites were led by Mr. Jeremias Adrias, brother of artist Joel Adrias; Inesitas Lacson-Palermo, Former Alumni Queen 2023 (WVSU-COE Batch 1971); Dr. Ricky Magno, dean of the College of Education; and Shim Lester de Pio.

Adrias presented a series of 20 circular-themed works, while Ferraris showcased one large acrylic piece alongside several other artworks. Ferraris also enhanced the exhibit with a multimedia component—a video loop featuring his artworks and artist interviews—displayed on a flat-screen monitor installed at the venue.

Alumni from various jubilarian batches, including WVSU-COE Classes of 1971, 1976, 1991 and 1992, WVSU-CAS-1981, WVSU-CAF 1981 and 1986 attended the opening, reflecting strong intergenerational support for the homecoming buildup.

The exhibit not only celebrates alumni creativity but also supports creative entrepreneurship, with selected artworks available for viewing. Serving as the event’s emcee was Prof. Bonifacio P. Gaverza.

WVSUFAAI said the launching and exhibit set the tone for the 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming, highlighting unity, creativity, and sustained alumni involvement as the university prepares for its major alumni gathering early next year.

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) reinforced its commitment to accountable and efficient records management with the successful conduct of a two-day Seminar-Workshop on Records Disposition Administration on Dec. 11-12, 2025, at the Research and Extension Building.

The first day of the workshop was led by Mr. Terence Michael Tablizo, NAP Supervising Records Management Analyst. Tablizo discussed the foundations of records disposition, emphasizing the importance of proper records evaluation, retention scheduling, and compliance with national standards. He highlighted the legal mandate of Republic Act No. 9470, also known as the NAP Act of 2007, which requires government agencies to systematically manage, preserve, and dispose of records in accordance with approved retention and disposal authorities.

On the second day, Mr. Kevin Barrientos, NAP Records Management Analyst II, guided participants through advanced and practical applications of records disposition administration. His sessions focused on the correct accomplishment of records disposition forms, ensuring that participants not only understood the policy framework but were also equipped to implement it in their respective offices.

Hands-on workshops were conducted on both days to allow participants to actively complete records disposition forms, simulate evaluation processes, and apply retention and disposal procedures based on actual office records. This practical component aimed to bridge theory and practice, reinforcing accuracy, compliance, and confidence in handling institutional records.

The seminar-workshop underscored WVSU’s continued efforts to elevate its records management standards, ensure adherence to national archival policies, and strengthen institutional practices that promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability in administrative operations.

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West Visayas State University opened its Wellness Park on Dec. 17, 2025, providing students with a new on-campus space for recreation, sports and wellness activities.

Also known as the Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (PESCAR) Court, the park was inaugurated with a prayer and blessing led by Rev. Fr. Jose Rex Jiloca, chaplain of the WVSU Medical Center.

University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered a message highlighting the university’s commitment to promoting student well-being and active lifestyles through accessible and inclusive campus facilities.

Following the message, Dr. Villaruz led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially opening the Wellness Park in the presence of key university officials, PESCAR faculty and staff. Intermission performances by the WVSU TeatroTayo, Irong-irong Dance Cultural Group and the PESCAR Sports and Wellness Club followed the ceremony.

A tree-planting activity was held after the program, with university officials, faculty representatives, officers of the Board of Regents, and alumni leaders participating to replace trees removed during the construction of the facility.

The Wellness Park features two basketball courts convertible into volleyball courts and two sepak takraw courts, which will serve as sports venues and outdoor activity spaces for students, faculty and staff, reflecting WVSU’s continuing efforts to provide more inclusive and improved campus facilities that support student welfare and overall well-being.

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Student leaders from West Visayas State University took part in a values-centered leadership training aimed at strengthening ethical leadership, responsible communication, and empathy in campus governance during a Dec. 13, 2025 session at the WVSU College of Communication TV Laboratory.

Titled “Beyond Authority: Nurturing Compassionate and Communicative Leadership in the University Student Council,” the activity gathered officers from the University Student Council and other student support groups. The session focused on how student leaders can responsibly exercise freedom of expression while fostering trust, harmony, and inclusivity within the WVSU community.

Discussions emphasized compassion- and faith-informed leadership as essential to effective student representation, particularly in navigating diverse perspectives and responsibilities on campus.

The morning session featured Rev. Fr. John Tadifa, rector of St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary, who spoke on “Leadership with Compassion, Anchored with the Teachings of the Lord.” In the afternoon, Rev. Fr. Eugene D. Lucerna II, dean of studies and director of human formation at St. Joseph Regional Seminary, discussed “Compassionate Leader and Communicator.”

Organizers said the initiative sought to equip student leaders not only with practical leadership skills, but also with moral integrity and empathy as they serve and represent the WVSU student body.

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NAGA CITY, Philippines – WVSU Development Communication Division was named as the largest delegation with 21 participants, comprising three faculty members, 11 undergraduate, and seven graduate school students during the 3rd ADCEP Philippines International Conference and 13th Scientific Meeting last December 6 to 8, 2025, held in Ateneo de Naga University.

Between the participants, 11 research papers were presented following the conference theme “Communicating with Conscience and Compassion: Bridging Gaps in Transformative Times.” In addition, Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, faculty of the DevCom Division, served as a panelist during the roundtable discussion on “Development Communication Research Ethics.”

The division presented research with topics on educational communication, community development, media and representation, and youth engagement. The following are the papers and authors:

1. Employability and Program Relevance: A Tracer Study of 2017-2019 West Visayas State University Development Communication Graduates by Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, Dean of College Communication

2. Mapping Service-Learning Experiences in Student-Initiated Educational Camp: Pathway for Curriculum Integration by Ms. Joesyl Marie D. Aranas, Development Communication Division Chair

3. When Messages Miss the Mark: Storied Realities of (Dis)Engagement from Sustainable Development Goals Communication Among University Students by Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, DevCom Faculty and the WVSU Focal Person of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network

4. Dulungan Lupad: Educating and Advocating for Dulungan-Friendly Barangay by MDevcom students Rhaneth Joy Kirtley, Jethro Aranas, Cherry Mae Dorado, Juhn Evans Silda, Christopher Perile, Jennelyn Omadio, Margaret Anjelie Llorico, Saredith Sola, Reynaldo Palencia II, and Melmar dela Cruz together with Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, Director of the WVSU Extension Development Center

5. Understanding Community Disaster Preparedness: A Knowledge Diagnosis in Coastal Barangay of Rizal-Ibarra, Iloilo City by MDevcom students Juhn Evans Silda, Cherry Mae Dorado, Christopher Perile, Jennelyn Omdaio, Jethro Aranas, Margaret Anjelie Llorico, Melmar Dela Cruz, Reyn Palencia II, Rhaneth Joy Kirtley, and Saredith Sola

6. Communication as a Tool in Advocating Sustainable Development through Mindset Transformation: A Case of Saemaul Undong in Lemery, Iloilo by BSDC students Vinz Jerald Calanuga, Jeanne Michaella Anthonette Nanquil, and Jannah Pearl Palma

7. Campus Publications as Community Media: Perceptions of the University Student Body by BSDC students Gwen P. Alejandria, Zerenea R. Pollicar, and faculty Joesyl Marie D. Aranas

8. De-Amplifying Disinformation: Framing News Coverage of Duterte’s ICC Detention and Arrest by BSDC students Christian John Barredo, Rita Divine Caballero, and faculty Joesyl Marie D. Aranas

9. Framing of Women Political Leaders in Local Radio Stations in Iloilo City by BSDC students Wendell Grace B. Clark and Danica A. Pascua

10. Maki Beki, Declare Climate Justice: Queer Leaders’ Engagement and Activism on Socio-Environmental Movements by BSDC student Jan Andrew Gelera

11. Local Flood Risk Communication Efforts of a Coastal Community in Iloilo City by BSDC students Alyssa Jael V. Salvador, Angela Loreen C. Caisido, and Hannah Fatima C. Cueto

The successful participation of WVSU Devcom underscores the growing research culture within the division and its commitment to producing evidence-based insights to address the emerging challenges in the field.

“Seeing our faculty and students present diverse, relevant, and community-rooted research at an international conference affirms the strength of the Development Communication program in WVSU. This also shows our commitment to explore and improve how development is communicated in these consequential times,” said Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, COC Dean.

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