Category: News

  • WVSU marks end of ASEAN Month 2025 with food fest, awarding

    WVSU marks end of ASEAN Month 2025 with food fest, awarding

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) officially wrapped up its ASEAN Month 2025 celebration today, August 29, with a Closing Program, ASEAN Foodfest, and Awarding Ceremony at the administration lobby.

    The culminating event was spearheaded by the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), in support of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and joined by the different external campuses of the University.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, opened the program with her welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of sustaining partnerships and cultural exchanges among ASEAN member states.

    This was followed by a message from Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, Vice President for Administration and Finance and OIC-University President, who highlighted the relevance of ASEAN’s vision in addressing pressing global issues such as climate change, education, and economic development. He also mentioned how food unite ASEAN citizens.

    The program featured the Awarding of Certificates to the Judges and recognition of winners in the competitions:

    • My ASEAN Story writing contest
    • ASEAN Bulletin Board Competition


    Dr. Alona M. Belarga, Director of Instruction, delivered the Closing Remarks, commending the participants and organizers for their efforts in promoting ASEAN awareness.

    To cap the festivities, guests and participants enjoyed the ASEAN Foodfest, which showcased diverse culinary traditions across the region.

    Earlier this month, WVSU launched its ASEAN Month celebration on August 4 with an Opening Program and ASEAN Attire Showcase, setting the tone for a month-long series of cultural and educational activities.

    With the theme “ASEAN 58: Towards Inclusive and Sustainable ASEAN Future,” this year’s celebration underscored the role of regional cooperation in building a more resilient and united Southeast Asia.

    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 the month, WVSU hosted activities that fostered cultural understanding, regional solidarity, and international collaboration—reflecting the university’s commitment to nurturing globally aware and socially responsible citizens.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU Drop-In Center Ipinagdiwang ang Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa

    WVSU Drop-In Center Ipinagdiwang ang Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa

    Ngayong Agosto 29, 2025, inorganisa ng WVSU Drop-In Center ang selebrasyon ng Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa sa pamamagitan ng isang makulay na programa na ginanap sa Rehearsal Room. Lumahok ang mga mag-aaral mula sa Pink, Yellow, Blue, at Green na klase, kasama ang kanilang mga magulang, sa iba’t ibang aktibidad upang isulong ang wikang Filipino. 

    Nagpakitang-gilas ang mga bata sa entablado na nakasuot ng makukulay na tradisyonal na kasuotan habang ipinapahayag ang kanilang paboritong salitang Filipino, bilang pagpapakita ng yaman ng ating pambansang wika. Ginanap din ang iba’t ibang laro at paligsahan na sinalihan ng mga magulang at mag-aaral. 

    Sa pagsisimula ng selebrasyon, ipinahayag ni Prop. Rosalea Cornelia A. De Leon ang halaga ng ating pambansang wika, “Sa aton gamay nga selebrasyon subong nga adlaw, balikan ta ang aton mga hampang, mga pulong, kag istorya nga paborito kag importante sa aton.” 

    Ang pagdiriwang na ito ay marka ng adhikain ng WVSU na magbigay ng makabuluhang edukasyon sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalaganap ng mayamang kultura at wika ng ating bansa. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU officially designated as King Sejong Institute Iloilo

    WVSU officially designated as King Sejong Institute Iloilo

    In a historic move strengthening Philippine-Korean educational ties, West Visayas State University (WVSU) was formally designated as the host institution of the King Sejong Institute Iloilo (KSI Iloilo), today August 29, at the WVSU board room.

    In his welcome message, Dr. Alexander J. Balsomo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the significance of the milestone, “Hosting the King Sejong Institute at WVSU reflects our commitment to broaden horizons and provide our students and community with opportunities for intercultural exchange and global competence”, Dr. Balsomo said.

    Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, SUC President IV of WVSU, expressed pride in the university’s role in fostering international partnerships.

    “The establishment of KSI Iloilo is a testament to WVSU’s vision of becoming a globally engaged institution. Through this partnership, we not only teach language but also promote deeper understanding and friendship between Filipinos and Koreans”, he said.

    H.E. Sang Hwa Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, who underlined the importance of cultural ties: “The King Sejong Institute Iloilo is more than a language center—it is a bridge of friendship between Korea and the Philippines. I look forward to seeing more young Filipinos learn our language, experience our culture, and build lasting connections.”

    Representing Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, Executive Assistant Jay Treñas praised the collaboration: “This partnership brings Iloilo closer to the world. It strengthens our city’s cultural diversity and creates opportunities for learning and global engagement.”

    Meanwhile, Mr. Seoggu Pyo, Chairman of the Iloilo-Korean United Community, reaffirmed their support: “We are grateful to WVSU for making this dream possible.

    The Korean community in Iloilo is proud to be part of this journey of mutual learning and cultural exchange.”

    The program featured presentations on the Institute’s Achievements and Hymn, as well as Future Plans presented by Dr. Joy H. Pantino, Director of KSI Iloilo, who shared that the institute will expand its courses and cultural activities to benefit more learners in Western Visayas.

    The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by WVSU and KSI Iloilo officials, symbolizing the official launch of the Institute.

    KSI Iloilo was formally established in 2025 through a Memorandum of Agreement between WVSU and the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF), following a six-month trial program in 2024 that drew overwhelming participation from students, professionals, and cultural enthusiasts. Since then, the Institute has offered Korean language and culture classes, alongside activities such as Chuseok celebrations, Korean speech contests, and traditional craft workshops.

    The King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF), a public institution under Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, manages more than 240 institutes across 80 countries. Named after King Sejong the Great (1397–1450), who created the Korean alphabet Hangeul in 1443, the Foundation seeks to promote understanding, cooperation, and cultural exchange between Korea and the global community.

    With its official inauguration, KSI Iloilo places WVSU at the forefront of international education and cultural exchange in Western Visayas, creating stronger bridges of friendship between the Philippines and Korea.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • Irong-Irong Dance Company Wins Big at Saot Ilonggo 2025

    Irong-Irong Dance Company Wins Big at Saot Ilonggo 2025

    The Irong-Irong Dance Company of West Visayas State University’s College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts, and Recreation (WVSU-COP) captured the championship and five special awards at the Saot Ilonggo: Iloilo Traditional Folk Dance Festival held on August 21 at the WVSU Cultural Center in Iloilo City. 

    The group impressed judges with Andaluz, a Visayan folk dance influenced by Spanish traditions and known as a refined courtship dance during the colonial period. Their interpretation combined cultural elegance with technical precision, earning awards for Best in Production Number, Interpretation, Costuming, Staging, and Performance. 

    Guided by choreographer Professor Liberty Porras, the team’s victory highlights WVSU-COP’s continuing excellence in cultural competitions, following previous wins in RASUC-VI and PASUC national festivals. 

    Congratulations, Irong-Irong Dance Company! 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    Photos from: Dynamics Publication

  • WVSU Dean Takes Oath as Vice President in Historic UPV Master of Education Alumni Event

    WVSU Dean Takes Oath as Vice President in Historic UPV Master of Education Alumni Event

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) proudly marks its presence in a historic milestone for the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) Master of Education program. Nearly five decades after its founding, the program officially launched its alumni association through its first-ever oath-taking ceremony held on August 25, 2025, at the Graduate and Continuing Education Building in UPV. 

    Among the newly inducted officers is Dr. Alexander J. Balsomo, Dean of WVSU’s College of Arts and Sciences, who now serves as Vice President of the UPV Master of Education Alumni Association (UPVMEAA). Joining him is fellow WVSU educator Prof. Obed Joy B. Gaitan, who took oath as Auditor. 

    UPV Chancellor Dr. Clement C. Camposano administered the oath, affirming the association’s role in strengthening alumni networks and shaping future leaders in education.  “Graduate education must form leaders, educators, and civic citizens, and this association will help carry that forward,” Camposano said. 

    In his message, Dr. Balsomo reminded members of their shared mission: “To be Iskolar at Maroonong Guro ng Bayan is to bring UP’s values of honor, excellence, and service into every classroom and community.” 

    The newly formed association aims to build a strong alumni directory, offer free webinars, mentor young educators, and engage in outreach programs under its theme “Small Steps, Big Impact.” 

    For WVSU, this development reinforces its enduring commitment to leadership in education—not only within its own community but across the wider academic network. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels 

    Photo from: University of the Philippines Visayas

  • WVSU CBM Student heads to Mohawk College, Canada for ASEAN SEED program

    WVSU CBM Student heads to Mohawk College, Canada for ASEAN SEED program

    For the third consecutive year, West Visayas State University (WVSU) has earned international recognition, with Yshi Mei G. Pomarejos chosen for the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) program.

    Yshi Mei, a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Operations Management student from WVSU’s College of Business and Management, will participate in the Student Exchange Program at Mohawk College, McKeil School of Business, Ontario, Canada, from September 1 to December 31, 2025.

    The program provides her the opportunity to deepen her knowledge of inclusive economic development, social entrepreneurship, and sustainable business practices. She will gain hands-on experience with innovative business models and global operational strategies, particularly in Canada’s support for Indigenous enterprises and community-driven economic policies. These insights are expected to enhance her ability to address local challenges and contribute to impact-driven operations in the Philippines.

    “I am honored to represent WVSU in this international exchange program. This experience will allow me to learn from global best practices in operations and social entrepreneurship, which I plan to share with my fellow students. I hope to use what I learn in Canada to support community-based projects in Iloilo and strengthen opportunities for working students through sustainable, socially responsible initiatives”, she said.

    Yshi Mei also plans to integrate research-based case studies into academic courses and organize public campaigns promoting indigenous craftsmanship and sustainable enterprise. Her participation is expected to foster partnerships between WVSU and Canadian institutions, promote cross-cultural exchange, and elevate the university’s academic standing.

    Her selection for the Canada-ASEAN SEED program underscores WVSU’s commitment to developing globally minded students capable of making meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • 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