Category: News

  • Cultural awareness, global preparedness cap WVSU ILLO’s DSA Training

    Cultural awareness, global preparedness cap WVSU ILLO’s DSA Training

    West Visayas State University’s International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) ended its two-day DSA: Leading in Action, Inspiring for Impact, Representing for Global Citizenship training today, August 15, at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    The final day opened with a session by Prof. Rica Obsequio Funtecha, faculty member of the College of Communication, who discussed Power Dressing, Confidence, and Personality Development, alongside tips on basic event hosting. Her talk highlighted how a polished appearance and confident demeanor strengthen an ambassador’s credibility and impact.

    Dr. Joyce Colon from the College of Arts and Sciences followed with Iloilo Vibes: Old Soul, New Beat, a discussion on the city’s cultural heritage, traditions, and evolving identity. She encouraged student ambassadors to appreciate and promote Iloilo’s unique blend of history and modernity in their engagements.

    Mr. Victor O. Alfaro, WVSU’s Chief Security Officer, presented a comprehensive discussion on The Flag Code, emphasizing the importance of observing proper flag etiquette as part of national pride and protocol.

    Mr. Roy Gatpatan, Managing Partner for Operations of Paradise World Travel and Tours, shared insights on Basic Tour Guiding, covering essential techniques in presenting local attractions, managing tour groups, and creating engaging travel narratives.

    The training concluded with How to Spot Possible International Partners + Workshop, facilitated by Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, ILLO Director. Participants applied their learning in a closing activity through presentations and pitching sessions, demonstrating their readiness to represent WVSU and build partnerships in international platforms.

    Over the course of two days, the DSA training strengthened the leadership, communication, cultural awareness, and branding skills of WVSU’s student ambassadors, equipping them to serve as the university’s dynamic representatives in both national and global arenas.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU Dominates AI Fest 2025 with Hackathon Sweep and Film Awards

    WVSU Dominates AI Fest 2025 with Hackathon Sweep and Film Awards

    West Visayas State University–College of Information and Communications Technology (WVSU–CICT) shone brightly at the National AI Fest 2025, held from August 11–13 at the Iloilo Convention Center. Organized by DOST VI under the theme “Coding a Better Future: Responsible AI for Cities and Communities,” the event united innovators, students, and industry leaders for competitions, showcases, and technical sessions focused on ethical AI applications. 

    WVSU–CICT teams swept the National AI Hackathon, securing Champion, 1st Runner-up, and 2nd Runner-up titles among 10 finalist teams from 62 nationwide entries. The hackathon, hosted at Richmonde Hotel, challenged participants to develop AI solutions for real-world issues over a three-day sprint. The winning teams were:

    • Champion: Badminton Girls (3rd Year BS Computer Science):
      * Shane D. Canabo,
      * Myrrhea Belle B. Junsay,
      * Kyla Elijah C. Ramiro,
      * Meagelleine Rose S. Sionosa,
      * Athena S. Villarin.
    • 1st Runner-up: DiaSight (4th Year BS Information Systems):
      * James Andrew C. Dorado,
      * Lance Gabriel B. Masigon,
      * Gio Anthony A. Callos,
      * Jemmar V. Padernal,
      * Mary Shanley C. Sencil.
    • 2nd Runner-up: Hard Engineering Neighbors (3rd Year BS Computer Science):
      * Jullian A. Bilan,
      * Clarence Anthony G. Bolivar,
      * Frederick Jibril L. Buñag
      * Kirk Henrich C. Gamo
      * Jan Floyd J. Vallota.

    In the SineAI showcase at Festive Walk Cinemas, WVSU teams excelled in AI-generated short films, with “Seen by Team Likatha” (3rd Year BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing) taking Champion and “Ambahanon sg Indi Makatikab” by Team CMD (4th Year BS Information Technology and 3rd Year BS Information Systems) earning 2nd Runner-up. The winning teams in Sine AI are the following: 

    • CHAMPION: “Seen by Team Likatha” (3rd Year BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing)

      * Janine Megumi Cabangal,
      * Wendi Deocares,
      * John Christian Ledesma,
      * Khrysryl Ardee Mallo
      * Cathleen Kaye Orio
    • 2nd Runner UP: “Ambahanon sang Indi Makatikab” by Team CMD (4th Year BS Information Technology and 3rd Year BS Information Systems students)

      * Cedrick Angelo Rico,
      * Diether Jaye Catolin,
      * Miguel Jacob Artillero,

    At the Technical Conference, WVSU’s Aaron John S. Azarcon (4th Year BS Computer Science) presented groundbreaking research on “LSTM-based Classification of Heart Audio Signals with PCGmix Augmentation,” advancing mobile-assisted heart disease screening.

    AI Fest 2025 highlighted WVSU–CICT’s leadership in fostering innovative, socially responsible AI talent, cementing its role in shaping a tech-driven future for the Philippines.

    WVSU congratulates the young developers of CICT and their transformative innovations.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • DSA training kicks off at WVSU with focus on leadership, impact, and university branding

    DSA training kicks off at WVSU with focus on leadership, impact, and university branding

    The first day of the DSA: Leading in Action, Inspiring for Impact, Representing for Global Citizenship training kicked off today, August 14, at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    Organized by the West Visayas State University (WVSU) International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), the program brought together DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA) from various colleges of the university for a series of sessions designed to prepare them as WVSU’s internationalization arm.

    The event opened with remarks from Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs, who underscored the importance of leadership, representation, and the ambassadors’ role in carrying the WVSU identity to national and global platforms.

    The first session, “Getting to Know,” was led by Ms. Mariter Sajise Guatche, Guidance Counselor III from WVSU Pototan Campus. Through activities such as the Poncho Exercise, which encouraged participants to express appreciation for each other, and the Jigsaw Puzzle Challenge, which tested teamwork in both verbal and non-verbal settings, participants were challenged to build unity, foster collaboration, and strengthen communication skills.

    Dr. Hazel Villa, Director of the Public Affairs and Marketing Communications Office (PAMCO), discussed WVSU’s symbols and brand guidelines, emphasizing the importance of understanding and representing the university’s identity. She highlighted the amphora as a university emblem and introduced the newly trademarked “West Marals” logo, which was officially registered with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines on May 1.

    Dr. Villa stressed that this visual identity is not merely a design but a unifying representation of WVSU’s values, mission, and pride, which ambassadors must embody and promote as the university’s arm in internationalization.

    Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, ILLO Director, delivered a session on ASEAN and the role of DagYoung Student Ambassadors in advancing the university’s internationalization initiatives.

    The day concluded with Ms. Danielle Galecio, who introduced topics such as basic diplomatic protocol, events and conference management, social functions, and the duties of a protocol officer. She emphasized the need for ambassadors to possess both foundational knowledge and practical skills to observe protocol, manage formal ceremonies, and represent the university in high-level engagements with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.

    This marks the first day of the training program, which seeks to mobilize WVSU’s student ambassadors as leaders, cultural bridges, and proud bearers of the university brand in national and international arenas.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU, SEC formalize partnership for financial literacy and investor education

    WVSU, SEC formalize partnership for financial literacy and investor education

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Iloilo Extension Office officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, August 13, at the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) conference room to strengthen financial literacy, investment awareness, and responsible entrepreneurship within the university community.

    The signing ceremony was led by Atty. Ma. Cristina T. Montelibano, SEC Iloilo Extension Office Director II, and Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU President.

    Dr. Villaruz expressed optimism that the partnership will further strengthen WVSU’s commitment to producing financially literate graduates who can make informed economic and entrepreneurial decisions. Atty. Montelibano, in turn, affirmed SEC’s dedication to fostering financial empowerment through sustained education campaigns in academic institutions.

    The partnership is anchored on the SEC Communication Advocacy Network (SEC-CAN!) Program, which promotes investor protection and financial education nationwide. It aims to empower students with knowledge on sound investment practices, fraud prevention, and compliance with corporate regulations.

    This initiative builds on earlier engagements between WVSU and SEC, including the 2025 SEC Can! Investor Education Forum held last February 28, where Business Administration and Cooperatives Management students from CBM attended a learning session at the University Research Conference Room. The event themed “Wais sa Pinansya, Sigurado sa Kinabukasan,” featuring insights from the SEC Iloilo Extension Office, RCBC Bank, GCash, and the National Bureau of Investigation – Western Visayas Regional Office 6 (NBI-WEVRO6).

    Also present were Dr. Ma. Asuncion Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Raymund Moreno, Dean of the College of Business and Management (CBM); Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, ILLO Director; Atty. Josefa Maria A. Castro-Alfabeto, SEC Securities Counsel II; and Ms. Jola Lyn C. Tingson, SEC Information Officer II.

    With this formalized partnership, WVSU positions itself not only as a center for academic excellence but also as an active advocate for financial empowerment.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU shares best practices to strengthen PSU-PCAT’s accreditation prep

    WVSU shares best practices to strengthen PSU-PCAT’s accreditation prep

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed officials from Palawan State University – Palawan College of Arts and Trades (PSU-PCAT) on August 11, 2025, for a benchmarking visit aimed at strengthening PSU-PCAT’s preparations for program accreditation as well as the review of its organizational structure and fiscal management as an integrated campus.

    The visit began with a session at the College of Education, where WVSU shared its processes for addressing academic concerns, syllabus preparation, and curriculum review. The discussion also included the Search for Most Outstanding Pre-Service Teachers and the rubrics used for evaluating internship performance, providing valuable insights into internship coordination and academic excellence.

    This was followed by discussions with the Quality Assurance office, focusing on accreditation documents, manuals, and institutional best practices that help maintain high standards in academic programs.

    Administrative offices also shared their expertise during the visit. The Human Resource Management Office presented WVSU’s hiring process and faculty clearance procedures, while the Budget and Accounting Office explained their protocols for budget preparation, utilization, and liquidation. Other key units, including the HM Laboratories, University Library, and Registrar’s Office, showcased their manuals, operational procedures, and credential issuance processes.

    The visit also highlighted WVSU’s role as a leading institution dedicated to promoting collaboration and academic excellence in the region.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU Holds Faculty General Assembly 2025

    WVSU Holds Faculty General Assembly 2025

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) conducted the Faculty General Assembly at the Cultural Center today, August 8, 2025. Faculty members from all colleges and campuses were in attendance at the venue, along with those participating online. 

    The assembly aimed to set the direction for the Academic Year by aligning the WVSU community, its administrators, faculty, staff, and students around shared goals for institutional growth, academic excellence, and community impact. Newly hired educators and those with Doctorate degrees were also introduced during the program. In his opening address, University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz welcomed educators from the entire WVSU system, highlighting the support of the University for the faculty in academics, research, and administrative matters, and most importantly, their personal well-being and professional career. He reminded teachers of their role in the University, saying, “Let’s continue not just as educators, but as agents of change who will transform generations.” 

    Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla underscored that the success of students is greatly influenced by the quality of teaching provided to them. Faculty members were reminded to guide students through flexible learning, integrated collaborative instruction, authentic assessment, and an industry-driven approach in their curriculum.

    Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris emphasized the importance of following existing school policies. He also stressed proper compliance with the required forms when transacting with the Administrative and Finance Division. 

    Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences Dr. Celina C. Gellada presented their Strategic Thrusts for 2025, which are Advancing Interdisciplinary and Global Research in Medical and Allied Health Sciences, Transformative Health Education for Lifelong Learners, Sustainability and Resilience in Health Systems, and Compassionate and Inclusive Healthcare Services. 

    Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Greta G. Gabinete also shared their Strategic Thrusts for 2025. These include enhancing research capability and output, strengthening extension services and community engagement, promoting innovation and technology transfer, and advancing institutional development and policy. 

    Dr. Alona M. Belarga of the Office of the Director of Instruction reiterated the standardized academic and administrative instructions that educators must follow. 

    Closing the assembly, Dr. Shim Lester G. de Pio of the Federated Faculty Association summarized the milestones of the faculty members and the association. He commended their heroic passion for teaching and acknowledged the unwavering support of the University administration for the well-being of the faculty. 

    WVSU continues to serve not just the youth who will transform the nation but the teachers who shape the younger generation. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU alum among 100 youth leaders in National Peace Initiative, champions Peacebuilding and SDGs

    WVSU alum among 100 youth leaders in National Peace Initiative, champions Peacebuilding and SDGs

    One of only 100 youth leaders nationwide, JV Tentativa, a graduate of the Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages from West Visayas State University (WVSU), participated in the “POWER WITH YOUth: 2025 Champions for Peace Training on Resilience and Social Cohesion” held August 8–10, 2025, in Zamboanga City.

    The three-day program was organized by the Kofi Annan Foundation and KRIS for Peace, in partnership with the Temasek Foundation, Nagulendran Philanthropy Alliance, and the Diana Koh Fund. It brought together youth leaders from across Southeast Asia to address pressing social and environmental challenges through collaboration, dialogue, and action.

    Participants joined immersion activities, visiting cultural and community hubs including the Zamboanga Museum, Kids Who Farm, and the Yakan Village to gain a deeper understanding of local heritage and community-driven initiatives.

    The program focused on strengthening youth-led peacebuilding initiatives, promoting intercultural understanding, advocating for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhancing regional collaboration, and building leadership capacity.

    “This was more than just a training—it was a life-changing experience,” Tentativa said. “Meeting passionate youth leaders from different regions reminded me that peacebuilding is not just an idea, but an active choice we make every day. No matter your religion, advocacy, roots, or region, these are never a hindrance to promoting peace and creating a movement.”

    Tentativa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Western Visayas and WVSU, vowing to apply the lessons learned to foster a more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable future in their community.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU open 58th ASEAN Month Celebration with attire showcase, message of unity

    WVSU open 58th ASEAN Month Celebration with attire showcase, message of unity

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) officially opened its ASEAN Month 2025 celebration today, August 4, with a Flag Raising Ceremony held at the Jubilee Park.

    The event marked the start of a month-long celebration of the 58th Founding Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Organized by the College of Business and Management (CBM) in partnership with the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), the ceremony was conducted in support of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and joined by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) nationwide.

    CBM’s Sinagtala Ensemble led the singing of Lupang Hinirang, the WVSU Hymn, and the ASEAN Hymn under the direction of Dr. Rosemarie Dichosa. A cultural performance by the Irong-Trong Dance Troupe added color to the program, followed by a special message from Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka highlighting the importance of ASEAN values and unity.

    A key highlight of the event was the ASEAN Attire Showcase, where faculty, staff, and students wore traditional ASEAN-inspired outfits.

    Winners were announced in three categories:

    • Faculty: Dr. Ricky Abaleña III (College of Communication) and Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla (Vice President for Academic Affairs)
    • Staff: Vince Calambro and Janette Aguilar (University Research and Development Center)
    • Students: Lance Alexander Ibata (College of Nursing) and Gerson Gambito (College of Communication)


    In his message, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz welcomed the opening of the academic year 2025–2026 and highlighted the significance of ASEAN Month in cultivating global perspectives and intercultural understanding among students and educators.

    With the theme “ASEAN 58: Towards Inclusive and Sustainable ASEAN Future,” this year’s celebration aims to raise awareness on the role of regional cooperation in solving current global issues such as climate change, education, and economic development.

    Declared through Presidential Proclamation No. 282, s. 2017, ASEAN Month is celebrated every August across the Philippines to encourage Filipinos—especially the youth—to engage with ASEAN’s vision and goals.

    Throughout August, WVSU will host various activities that promote cultural understanding, regional solidarity, and international collaboration.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU BAFL student heads to South Korea for YCAFE 2025

    WVSU BAFL student heads to South Korea for YCAFE 2025

    Ric Jan Gabales, a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages (BAFL) student from the College of Arts and Sciences at West Visayas State University (WVSU), has been selected as one of the official Philippine delegates to the Youth Camp for ASEAN and Friends’ Engagement (YCAFE) 2025, held from August 3 to 8 in Seoul, South Korea.

    The camp, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, gathers outstanding youth leaders from ASEAN Member States and South Korea to promote cultural exchange, deepen regional cooperation, and strengthen ASEAN-Korea relations.

    This year’s camp is themed “ASEAN in Talk with K-Culture”, highlighting the role of cultural dialogue in building mutual understanding across borders. Over the course of the week-long program, delegates participate in policy forums, lectures, field visits, and youth exchange activities designed to foster regional dialogue and collaboration.

    One of the culminating activities of the camp is a TED Talk-style final presentation, where participants share their reflections and key insights. These presentations are evaluated by Korean government officials, university professors, and media professionals.

    Gabales expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying,

    “I feel incredibly grateful and excited to represent WVSU and the Philippines in YCAFE 2025, as I see this not solely as a personal endeavor, but as an avenue to showcase what WVSU has to offer—especially in promoting our growing Korean language program and the potential of our BAFL students to take part in international exchanges. I am also deeply honored to have been given this opportunity by the Korean Embassy in the Philippines, whose support made it possible for me to join this transformative camp.”

    His selection marks a significant milestone not only in his personal journey but also in the university’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its internationalization agenda.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • Sen. Bam Aquino engages WVSU Community in Stakeholders Consultation

    Sen. Bam Aquino engages WVSU Community in Stakeholders Consultation

    Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV visited West Visayas State University (WVSU) on July 31, 2025, for a stakeholders consultation held at the WVSU Board Room. The visit formed part of his ongoing efforts to strengthen dialogue with the education sector following his recent election as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education in the 20th Congress. 

    The consultation brought together key members of the WVSU community, including university officials, vice presidents, campus administrators, deans, and student leaders from various student councils. Also in attendance were Dr. Clement Camposano, Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Visayas, and Councilor Sheen Marie Mabilog, an advocate for youth and education in Iloilo City. 

    Presided by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, discussions revolved around the current challenges and opportunities within the university, especially in relation to infrastructure, academic resources, and student welfare. 

    Dr. Dave Endel R. Gelito III, Chief of the WVSU Medical Center, emphasized the need for continued investment in the university’s medical and allied health programs, particularly in upgrading facilities and expanding support for the WVSU Medical Center—one of the relatively few state university-operated hospitals in the country. 

    Student leaders present raised concerns about outdated classrooms, limited laboratory resources, and the urgent need for improvements in athletic and learning facilities. They stressed that increased investment in student development and academic support services would significantly impact the university’s ability to nurture competent, future-ready graduates. 

    Similar concerns were echoed by Dr. Rosario Clarabel Contreras-Leda, Campus Administrator of WVSU Calinog Campus. She pointed out the disparity in available resources across campuses, noting that if the main campus is experiencing gaps in equipment and facilities, external campuses face even greater constraints. 

    Leadership voices from the colleges also underscored sector-specific needs. Dr. Liza Assumpta Jover, Dean of the College of Dentistry, advocated for expanded scholarship opportunities for students of dental medicine, particularly those from underserved backgrounds. Meanwhile, Dr. Madonna Palmes, Dean of the College of Nursing, highlighted the general and financial burdens faced by students and faculty during their Related Learning Experiences (RLEs), which are vital components of nursing education. 

    Senator Aquino’s visit reflects a broader initiative to gather firsthand insights from the ground and explore legislative pathways to strengthen support for public universities. The dialogue at WVSU underscored the importance of collaborative governance in shaping a more responsive, inclusive, and future-oriented higher education system. 

    By JA Temelo/PAMCO 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels