Category: News

  • 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

  • WVSU joins government job fair celebrating civil service anniversary

    WVSU joins government job fair celebrating civil service anniversary

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined the 2025 Government Job Fair at SM City Iloilo on Sept. 4–5, in celebration of the 125th anniversary of the Civil Service Commission (CSC). 

    The event, part of a monthlong celebration themed “Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing Para sa Bayan,” aimed to promote public service opportunities and highlight the role of government workers in nation-building. 

    WVSU was represented in the job fair by the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO), with staff members Abigail Quirante and Rey Matthew Parreno at the forefront. They were guided by Ms. Doullie M. Lotilla, HRMO head, and joined by Ms. Ludylie Buendia, WVSU career job placement coordinator. 

    CSC Region VI Acting Director Atty. Erna T. Elizan opened the event, emphasizing the importance of bringing government job opportunities directly to the public to support national development. 

    WVSU’s participation aligned with CSC’s initiative to connect qualified applicants with government positions. The fair, held at SM City Iloilo’s activity center, offered job seekers a chance to explore a wide range of employment opportunities. 

    Job openings are posted on CSC Region No. 6 official Facebook page:facebook.com/share/p/1FGyB2aHPw

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

  • WVSU-COC, UPV ACTIon Research Project seal partnership through MOA

    WVSU-COC, UPV ACTIon Research Project seal partnership through MOA

    The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Communication formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) ACTIon Research Project (Assistance, Collaborations, Trainings, and Other Interventions on Research Project) today, September 3, at the university board room, strengthening their collaborative efforts in advancing communication and research development.

    In her welcome address, Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, Dean of the COC, emphasized the significance of the partnership, describing it as more than an agreement but a “commitment to excellence, mutual support, and shared success in advancing scholarly works.” She noted that the collaboration was built on friendship, nurtured through research conferences, and envisioned to elevate WVSU’s research culture while creating meaningful impact not only within the academe but also in the wider community.

    An overview of the partnership was presented by Prof. Prabhat Ranjan B. Ubas of the UPV ACTIon Research Project and Prof. Joesyl Marie D. Aranas, Chair of the WVSU Development Communication Division.

    The ceremonial signing was led by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and UPV Chancellor Dr. Clement C. Camposana, who both underscored the long-standing academic ties between the two institutions.

    In his message, Dr. Villaruz expressed optimism that the collaboration will enhance the research competencies of WVSU faculty and students while opening broader avenues for partnership. Chancellor Camposana, meanwhile, reaffirmed UPV’s commitment to sharing expertise and strengthening regional academic networks through cooperative endeavors.

    Under the agreement, UP Visayas, through its ACTIon Research Project Team, will provide technical assistance to WVSU by designing and implementing capacity-building programs on research conceptualization, implementation, and dissemination. The team will also extend consultations, manuscript review and editing sessions, proofreading and copyediting services, and guidance in the development of research guidelines. Both institutions will likewise co-create mechanisms for data sharing and collaborate on at least one publishable co-authored academic paper.

    In support of this initiative, WVSU-COC, through its Development Communication Division, will provide logistical assistance for research activities. It will also facilitate linkages between UPV and WVSU researchers, organize research forums, and officially recognize the contributions of the UPV ACTIon Research Project Team.

    The event concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Early Sol A. Gadong, UP Faculty Regent, who praised the initiative as a model for inter-university collaboration that fosters research excellence and bridges academic communities.

    Through this MOA, both institutions commit to cultivating a stronger research culture that not only uplifts scholarly output but also generates sustainable solutions with relevance to society.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU’s Cadiao and Violeta elected to SUCTEA VI leadership

    WVSU’s Cadiao and Violeta elected to SUCTEA VI leadership

    Two West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Education (COE) faculty members have been elected to the leadership of the State Universities and Colleges Teachers and Educators’ Association (SUCTEA) Region VI, as announced on SUCTEA VI’s Facebook page on September 1, 2025. Prof. Esperval Cezhar Cadiao will serve as Chairperson, while Prof. Marievic Violeta has been named Board Member.

    Prof. Cadiao, an English educator and COE College Secretary for the undergraduate level, has represented WVSU in various internationalization programs and professional training initiatives. He has also contributed scholarly work on innovative approaches to language teaching and learning.

    Prof. Violeta, from the Division of English Language Teaching, is widely recognized in the region for her expertise in literacy development. She has authored instructional modules on beginning reading and has spearheaded capacity-building programs for early childhood educators.

    Why SUCTEA matters

    SUCTEA is a professional association of teacher-educators from Philippine state universities and colleges that promotes collaboration, innovation, and quality in teacher education through conferences, research presentations, and capacity-building. Its conferences and regional activities highlight futures thinking, technology integration, and quality assurance for the teaching profession.

    WVSU’s standing in Teacher Education

    WVSU’s College of Education is a Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-recognized Center of Excellence in Teacher Education—most recently redesignated in April 2025—underscoring the university’s longstanding leadership in the field. WVSU also received the Excellence in Quality Assurance in Teacher Education, or EQUATE, Awards from CHED in 2025 for excellence in teacher education quality assurance.

    With Cadiao and Violeta stepping into SUCTEA VI roles, WVSU’s Center of Excellence continues to extend its impact beyond campus—helping shape regional directions in literacy, language education, and teacher training.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

    Photo courtesy: Sperv Cadiao/Facebook

    Access the SUCTEA VI Announcement here:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16vCcpyTnN/

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  • WVSU sets off Transcultural Nursing Program with Yokohoma City University delegation

    WVSU sets off Transcultural Nursing Program with Yokohoma City University delegation

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed a delegation from Yokohama City University today, September 1, for a three-day transcultural nursing program aimed at enhancing healthcare practices and cultural awareness.

    The team, led by Dr. Eriko Shinohara and Assistant Professor Masaki Kidera of YCU’s School of Medicine, was formally introduced during WVSU’s flag ceremony by CON Dean Dr. Madonna Palmes. A courtesy call with WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz followed, affirming the strong partnership between the two institutions.

    “We are honored to host students from Yokohama City University as we continue to build bridges of learning and cultural understanding. This exchange is not only an opportunity to share best practices in nursing and health care but also a chance to strengthen the friendship between our institutions and our peoples,” Dr. Villaruz said.

    As part of the program, both universities introduced their faculty and student representatives. Prof. Christopher T. Palmares, Internationalization (IZN) Coordinator of WVSU-CON, shared the history of the college, while student representatives from YCU discussed Japan’s healthcare and nursing systems as well as maternal health practices in Japan. WVSU-CON students also presented the theme “All for Health Towards Health for All”.

    The sessions included cultural presentations by YCU delegates highlighting Japanese culture, youth perspectives, and university activities, followed by group discussions, reflections, and exchange of ideas.

    Beyond academic exchanges, the program also includes community and clinical immersion activities designed to enhance transcultural nursing practices. The delegation will visit the La Paz Maternity and Reproductive Health Center for prenatal consultations, followed by an exposure trip to Healthway Qualimed Hospital. They are also scheduled to visit the Nabitasan Health Center and the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, Inc. Clinic, where they will observe fertility and family planning consultations. The three-day visit will conclude with a closing program at the College of Nursing Amphitheater.

    The partnership aims to foster mutual learning and understanding in nursing education, deepen cultural awareness, and strengthen health sciences collaboration between Japan and the Philippines.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO