Category: News

  • Project G.L.O.B.E. advances learning on Biocontrol and Biosafety in WVSU Biology lecture series

    Project G.L.O.B.E. advances learning on Biocontrol and Biosafety in WVSU Biology lecture series

    Fourth-year Biology students of West Visayas State University (WVSU) immersed themselves in advanced scientific discussions during the online lecture series “Biocontrol & Biosafety in Harmony,” an academic collaboration designed to connect classroom learning with real-world applications in research and practice.

    Organized by the Faculty of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, in partnership with the DagYoung Student Ambassadors through their flagship internationalization initiative, Project G.L.O.B.E. (Generating Leadership, Outreach, Bridging, and Engagement), with the support of MICROBIA and the International and Local Linkages Office, the event underscored the role of global knowledge exchange in preparing students for leadership and innovation in the sciences.

    In his welcome message, Dr. Alexander J. Balsomo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the importance of cultivating globally aware and scientifically competent graduates. He noted that activities like this lecture series build confidence and competence among students as they prepare for on-the-job training, research endeavors, and future careers.

    Dr. Jeannemar Genevive Yap-Figueras, Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, formally introduced the guest experts whose lectures highlighted the interconnectedness of biocontrol, biosafety, and responsible scientific practice.

    Fourth-year Biology students of West Visayas State University (WVSU) immersed themselves in advanced scientific discussions during the online lecture series “Biocontrol & Biosafety in Harmony,” an academic collaboration designed to connect classroom learning with real-world applications in research and practice.

    Organized by the Faculty of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, in partnership with the DagYoung Student Ambassadors through their flagship internationalization initiative, Project G.L.O.B.E. (Generating Leadership, Outreach, Bridging, and Engagement), with the support of MICROBIA and the International and Local Linkages Office, the event underscored the role of global knowledge exchange in preparing students for leadership and innovation in the sciences.

    In his welcome message, Dr. Alexander J. Balsomo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the importance of cultivating globally aware and scientifically competent graduates. He noted that activities like this lecture series build confidence and competence among students as they prepare for on-the-job training, research endeavors, and future careers.

    Dr. Jeannemar Genevive Yap-Figueras, Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, formally introduced the guest experts whose lectures highlighted the interconnectedness of biocontrol, biosafety, and responsible scientific practice.

    The discussion on safety and responsibility was deepened by Mr. Edcharles John R. Baylon, Faculty of Biological Sciences, who delivered a lecture on strengthening biosafety in the academe. He stressed the importance of adhering to strict safety standards and protocols in laboratory work, reminding students that innovation and discovery must always be guided by responsibility. This was followed by Mr. Saturnino Luke A. Sobrevega’s lecture on biotoxins, which shed light on the dangers posed by small doses of toxic substances. His talk underscored the need for vigilance, ethical responsibility, and caution when dealing with potentially hazardous biological materials.

    The lecture series affirmed WVSU’s dedication to nurturing globally competitive and socially responsible graduates. Through Project G.L.O.B.E., the university continues to expand opportunities for youth leadership, global citizenship, and meaningful contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. More than a seminar, the event served as a platform where knowledge met

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • CapSU visits WVSU for benchmarking on internationalization, academic exchange

    CapSU visits WVSU for benchmarking on internationalization, academic exchange

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed a delegation from Capiz State University (CapSU) on September 17 for a benchmarking engagement with the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), aimed at strengthening academic exchanges and global linkages in agriculture.

    The team, led by Dr. Salvacion Legaspi, Vice President for External Affairs and Linkages, together with Dr. Annalie Campos, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Marien Laureto, International and National Affairs Director; Dr. Ryan Sarimong, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry (Burias Campus); Dr. Ronel Reproto, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry (Pontevedra Campus); and Prof. Gelene Roda Alvarez, Faculty Member of the College of Agriculture.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, shared valuable insights on WVSU’s internationalization activities and programs. The discussion highlighted best practices in forging global academic linkages, mobility programs, and partnerships that support faculty and student exchanges.

    As part of their visit, the delegation also paid a courtesy call to WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, underscoring the strong commitment of both universities to building meaningful collaborations that advance internationalization and academic excellence.

    The benchmarking activity provided a platform for mutual learning as both universities expressed their commitment to enhancing collaborations that promote quality education and global competitiveness in agriculture and allied fields.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • New ordinance shield Turtle Nesting Grounds in Tigbauan; DagYoung Student Ambassadors’ Project gains ground

    New ordinance shield Turtle Nesting Grounds in Tigbauan; DagYoung Student Ambassadors’ Project gains ground

    In a strong affirmation of grassroots-led environmental protection, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tigbauan passed a resolution declaring Barangay Atabayan Ordinance No. 2025-004, “An Ordinance Creating a Sea Turtle Nest Protection Program, Providing Guidelines for Conservation and Appropriating Funds Thereof”, as legal and valid.

    The resolution, sponsored by Hon. Adrian Camposagrado and motioned by Hon. Marlon R. Terunez, Chair of the Committee on Rules, Ordinances, and Resolutions, earned the full support of the council. The ordinance strengthens local conservation efforts to safeguard sea turtle nesting sites in Barangay Atabayan, an identified breeding ground of the olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea).

    Legal Basis and Review Process

    Pursuant to Section 447 of the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160), the Sangguniang Bayan holds the authority to review barangay ordinances to ensure compliance with legal and procedural requirements. Barangay Atabayan first endorsed its draft ordinance for review in May 2025, but due to technical inconsistencies, it was referred back to the barangay.

    On August 13, 2025, the revised ordinance was resubmitted and thoroughly reviewed by the Committee on Rules, Ordinances, and Resolutions. The committee found the ordinance consistent with Section 391 of the Local Government Code, which empowers barangays to enact measures that promote the general welfare, prescribe penalties for violations, and undertake other functions mandated by law.

    Anchored on National Environmental Laws

    The resolution further recognized that the ordinance aligns with Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which mandates the safeguarding of vulnerable species, including marine turtles. Barangay Atabayan, identified as a vital nesting ground for the olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), has faced threats such as poaching, pollution, and habitat loss.

    Community-Led Conservation Effort

    Barangay Captain Edison Camiña and the members of the Barangay Council emphasized that the ordinance strengthens the local government’s role in protecting marine biodiversity. The initiative complements the Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project, launched in January 2025 by West Visayas State University (WVSU) DagYoung Student Ambassadors, in partnership with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Young Journalists’ Society (YJS) and the Development Communicators’ Society,

    The project, funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, underscores the power of community-university partnerships in advancing conservation and sustainability.

    Final Action of the Sangguniang Bayan

    With no objections raised during the third and final reading, the Sangguniang Bayan formally resolved to declare Barangay Ordinance No. 2025-004 legal and valid, directing copies of the resolution to be furnished to Municipal Mayor Atty. Virgilio T. Teruel, the Liga ng mga Barangay, and Barangay Atabayan for proper information and action.

    A step Toward Lasting Conservation

    This move marks a milestone for Tigbauan’s local governance and environmental stewardship. By institutionalizing sea turtle nest protection through legislation, Barangay Atabayan sets an example of how community-driven conservation efforts, backed by legal measures, can ensure the survival of vulnerable marine species for generations to come.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU concludes 2025 Pag-iririmaw, hails College of Education overall champion

    WVSU concludes 2025 Pag-iririmaw, hails College of Education overall champion

    After a series of competitions against various colleges, the College of Education was crowned this year’s overall champion. 

    For the highlight, the Sambuwa sang mga Abilidadan took place at the WVSU Cultural Center, with the College of Education, College of Business and Management, and College of PESCAR emerging as the top three finalists for the final showdown. 

    The College of Education was declared the champion, followed by the College of PESCAR as first runner-up and the College of Business and Management as second runner-up. 

    In the Hugyaw Sayaw competition, special awards went to the College of PESCAR for best choreography and to the College of Nursing for best in costume and props. 

    Major awards included the College of PESCAR as champion, the College of Nursing as first runner-up, the College of Communication as second runner-up, and the College of Education as third runner-up. 

    Following the individual competition awards, overall ratings were announced, with the College of Education securing the top spot, the College of PESCAR as first runner-up, and the College of Nursing as second runner-up. 

    After the awards ceremony, students enjoyed a Band Night and DJ music, showcasing stylish yet personal outfits for a dress to impress segment of the event.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

     By WVSU PAMCO

  • WVSU Holds Forum on Media, Women, and Climate Change

    WVSU Holds Forum on Media, Women, and Climate Change

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) held a lecture and forum titled “Media, Women, and Climate Change: Portrayals, Perspectives, and Politics” on Thursday, September 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the WVSU Rehearsal Room, Main Campus. 

    The event featured Dr. Ian Weber, an Australian journalist, writer, and novelist affiliated with Bond University and the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. 

    Organized by the Public Affairs and Marketing Communications Office (PAMCO), in partnership with the College of Education’s SILAK Media and Iloilo Art Life, the forum aimed to deepen understanding of how media representations intersect with issues of gender and climate change, and to foster dialogue among students on these pressing global concerns. 

    Student publications and partners from the Gender and Development Office were invited to participate, recognizing the relevance of the discussion to journalism, gender advocacy, and social awareness. 

    “What is the difference between diversity of media and diversity of opinion? If all the media present the same opinion, you’re only going to get one perspective,” Weber told participants as he emphasized the need for plurality in media discourse. 

    Students also posed thought-provoking questions about the ethical dilemmas they may face as journalists and communicators in the university. 

    The forum encouraged active participation and critical discussions among students, strengthening their awareness of the media’s role in shaping perspectives on women and the environment. 

    Weber also recently spoke before English majors in a special lecture on autobiographical literature held on September 9 at the Center for Foreign Languages – Rehearsal Room. The lecture, organized by the English Majors’ Organization in partnership with the English Language Teaching Division of the College of Education, explored heroism and anti-heroism in personal narratives. 

    Drawing from his autobiographical novel Apted Park and his 35 years of professional writing, Weber discussed how contradictions shape authentic storytelling and highlighted how deconstructive readings influence literary perspectives. 

    These back-to-back talks highlight WVSU’s commitment to shaping critical thinkers through bold conversations on literature, media, and global issues. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • WVSU takes part in nationwide earthquake drill to boost disaster readiness

    WVSU takes part in nationwide earthquake drill to boost disaster readiness

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined the 3rd quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Sep. 11, 2025 at 4 p.m., in response to the Office of Civil Defense’s call to strengthen preparedness and resilience. 

    The activity was spearheaded by the University Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (UDRRM), led by Mr. Ian Van Sumagaysay, UDRRM director, in coordination with the university constituents. Faculty, students, and staff practiced the “duck, cover, and hold” procedure for one minute after the alarm, following prescribed earthquake response steps. 

    The quarterly drill is part of a nationwide initiative to promote a culture of safety and readiness in the face of earthquakes and other disasters. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • Global collaboration beings as WVSU welcomes Japanese Lecturer Dr. Natsuko Uchida

    Global collaboration beings as WVSU welcomes Japanese Lecturer Dr. Natsuko Uchida

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed Dr. Natsuko Uchida, Lecturer from Ferris University, Yokohama, Japan, today, September 11, 2025.

    WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz extended his greetings and appreciation to Dr. Uchida, emphasizing the University’s continuing commitment to fostering strong international partnerships in research and education.

    Dr. Uchida is set to serve as the resource speaker at the Research Café Activity of WVSU-Pototan Campus on September 12, 2025. The seminar, titled “Internationalization Seminar on Global Research Trends,” carries the theme: “Research Without Borders: Insights and Perspectives.”

    Also present during the courtesy meeting was Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), who facilitated the engagement as part of WVSU’s internationalization initiatives.

    This collaboration marks another milestone in WVSU’s internationalization initiatives, reinforcing its vision of nurturing globally competitive graduates and strengthening its role in the international academic community.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • Youth educators join forum with cast of ‘Quezon’ at WVSU

    Youth educators join forum with cast of ‘Quezon’ at WVSU

    Students and teachers from different schools gathered Monday afternoon at West Visayas State University Cultural Center for MLQ: Mga Lingering Questions on Leaders, Legacy, and Liberty, a Youth and Educators Forum featuring the cast and creators of the upcoming historical film Quezon. 

    The forum, held Sept. 8 from 1 to 5 p.m., combined dialogue on history and civic responsibility with a 10-minute special preview of the film directed by Jerrold Tarog. Acclaimed actor Jericho Rosales, who plays former President Manuel L. Quezon, headlined the panel alongside veteran stage and screen actor Bodjie Pascua, who portrays Raymundo Melliza, Iloilo’s second governor during the American occupation.

    They were joined by award-winning actress Therese Malvar, who plays Nadia Hernando, and Daphne Chiu-Soon, president and COO of TBA Studios, the production company behind the film. WVSU Film Society and the WVSU University Student Council played a crucial role in bringing this event to the University as organizers for this leg of the Bayaniverse forum. Historian Alvin Campomanes gave the participants an in-depth discussion on Manuel L. Quezon’s life as a statesman and as a Filipino. He also discussed Quezon’s major political and presidential decisions that continue to influence the nation today.

    The cast shared their reasons for accepting their respected roles and shared their preparations for the film and the significance of their historical figures they portrayed, director Jerrold Tarog, through a message, called upon the viewers and the students to be discerning and be critical of our political landscape, and Chiu-Soon underscored TBA Studios’ commitment to telling stories that both educate and entertain. 

    The gathering at WVSU is part of Dakila Collective, Active Vista, and TBA Studios’ educational roadshows to promote Quezon and strengthen historical awareness among the youth. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • WVSU joins 2025 PCSA Fun Run, earns recognition for strong delegation

    WVSU joins 2025 PCSA Fun Run, earns recognition for strong delegation

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) participated in the 2025 Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) Fun Run organized by the Civil Service Commission Regional Office VI at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand earlier today, in celebration of the 125th PCSA with the theme “Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing para sa Bayan.” 

    WVSU registered 85 employees to the fun run, one of the largest contingents from participating agencies. The University was also recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for this strong turnout, received by Ms. Christine Jaspe of the Administrative Division.

    The fun run held simultaneously nationwide and in Region 6 through the University of Antique in Sibalom, drew almost 2,000 runners in Iloilo City and underscored the civil service’s commitment to wellness, solidarity, and public service.

    Proceeds will benefit the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani Program, which honors fallen public servants by providing financial assistance and educational support to their families. 

    By actively joining the event, WVSU reinforced its dedication to promoting unity, wellness, and excellence in public service—values at the heart of the civil service tradition. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU Fitness and Wellness Center Builds Strength, Health and Community

    WVSU Fitness and Wellness Center Builds Strength, Health and Community

    Tucked on the third floor of the West Visayas State University Hometel, the WVSU Fitness and Wellness Center (PSWC Fitness and Wellness) has become more than a gym. Since opening in 2018, it has grown into a hub where students, faculty and staff build strength, health and camaraderie. 

    The center is run by the PESCAR Sports and Wellness Club, under adviser Prof. Rocky Penuela. Inside, visitors find five treadmills, stationary bikes, a multifunctional machine and rows of free weights, from barbells to dumbbells. For dynamic workouts, the facility also offers plyometric boxes, padded floors and open space suited for bodyweight training, crossfit and high-intensity routines. 

    But the center’s purpose extends beyond equipment. It provides a safe and inclusive environment where members of the university community improve both physical and mental well-being. Performing and athletic groups also rely on the space: TeatroTayo and the WVSU Irong-Irong Dance Company condition there under the guidance of Prof. Cyril Galanza, while the WVSU Dragon Boat Team uses it to build endurance and power. Because of limited classrooms at the College of PESCAR, the facility also doubles as a learning venue. From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. it serves as a classroom, then reopens after hours as a fitness center for the wider WVSU community. Its development has been collaborative. Most equipment was acquired through donations in 2018, with later additions funded by the College.

    The university recently supported ceiling renovations, though Penuela said more work is needed on flooring and walls to avoid health hazards. Maintenance remains a challenge, with expenses largely shouldered by PESCAR. Members of the Sports and Wellness Club help sustain the center by assisting in upkeep and mentoring new gym-goers. With training in physical education, they provide guidance on basic workouts and safe routines.

    For Penuela, the facility’s value lies in preparing every “Taga-West” to meet the demands of academic life and beyond. “We need physically fit members of the university because physical fitness promotes productivity and optimum efficiency,” he said. “A healthy Taga-West is ready to face challenges in instruction, research and extension.

    This is also an avenue to address stress and counter the effects of sedentary office or school life.” In promoting fitness, wellness and balance, the WVSU Fitness and Wellness Center reflects the university’s commitment to excellence and community well-being. It stands not just as a gym but as a space for growth and resilience. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels