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WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz in France for High-Level Science and Technology Summit

Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University, joined an esteemed delegation of Philippine representatives in France for the 2nd Philippines-France Joint Committee Meeting (JCM-2) on Science and Technology. The event, which runs from December 9 to 12, 2024, is a significant platform for fostering science and technology cooperation between the Philippines and France.

 

The JCM-2, led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and his French counterpart, served as a platform to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and France in the fields of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). Discussions focused on joint initiatives such as the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, alongside opportunities for future collaborations.

 

One of the major topics of discussion at JCM-2 is the update on the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, which promote academic and professional exchanges between the Philippines and France. Dr. Villaruz, as part of the Philippine delegation, underscores the significance of these programs, noting that they open doors for Filipino students and researchers to engage in world-class learning and research experiences.

The event also highlighted the critical role of universities like WVSU in fostering international cooperation. Dr. Villaruz, alongside other university representatives, engaged with French institutions to build academic networks and enhance research exchanges, particularly in health, environmental sciences, and emerging technologies. This collaborative spirit aims to enhance research capacity-building, increase scientific data sharing, and facilitate personnel exchange.

 

As the Philippine delegation continues its discussions with French research agencies, there is optimism for the establishment of a framework agreement that will advance joint projects and strengthen bilateral relations in STI.

 

Dr. Villaruz’s participation reflects West Visayas State University’s dedication to playing an active role in global scientific advancements. By fostering international partnerships, WVSU continues to uphold its mission of addressing societal challenges through innovation, research, and collaboration.

 

This milestone event reaffirms the commitment of both nations to advance science for the betterment of society, with Dr. Villaruz and WVSU at the forefront of this collaborative journey. Through these efforts, WVSU continues to position itself as a key player in the global academic and research community

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Four WVSU graduates top November 2024 Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination

Four graduates from the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Nursing (CON) ranked among the top 10 in the November 2024 Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE).

 

The CON Batch 2024, known as Batch Zephyr, showcased exceptional performance, led by Ma. Irish Silvestre, who secured Rank 8 with a score of 91%. She was followed by Robert Matthew Opong and Karen Joy Oscares, tied at Rank 9 with 90.80%, and Richard Olano, Jr., who claimed Rank 10 with 90.60%.

 

As first-time takers, Batch Zephyr achieved an impressive 100% overall passing rate, with all 108 examinees successfully passing the board exam.

 

WVSU once again affirmed its status as a leading nursing school, ranking first nationwide. This achievement marks the university’s fifth consecutive year as a top-performing institution in the PNLE.

 

The second batch of the November PNLE was conducted on November 9 and 10 at various testing centers across the country. Results, released by the Professional Regulation Commission on November 28, showed a national passing rate of 84.99%, with 29,349 passers out of 34,534 takers.

 

Congratulations to the newly licensed Taga-West RNs! May you continue to embody excellence, compassion, and integrity as you serve in the fields of community and public healthcare. Basta Taga-West, The Best!

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WVSU Devcom research work shines at ADCEP 2024

West Visayas State University has completed its three-day performance review for fiscal year 2024, held at the university’s board room on Dec. 4.

 

The review, facilitated by the University Planning and Development Office, is an annual evaluation where university units present their accomplishments, assess progress, and identify areas for improvement. The event aims to measure how the university’s activities align with its mission and goals.

 

This year’s review carried the theme “Sustaining the Vision Through Synergy” and included presentations from vice presidents, deans, campus administrators, and other university officials. The presentations highlighted strengths, challenges, and opportunities across the university.

 

The panel of evaluators included Shim Lester de Pio, president of the WVSU Faculty Association and member of the university board of regents; Kristine E. Sabla-on, chief human resource specialist of the Civil Service Commission’s regional office; Paulo Cabanero, Education Supervisor II of the Commission on Higher Education’s regional office, and Francis John Palabrica, a senior economic development specialist at the National Economic and Development Authority regional office.

 

The performance review is part of the university’s commitment to accountability and strategic planning. It provides a platform to reflect on accomplishments, address gaps, and refine strategies for sustained growth and development.

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WVSU concludes Performance Review for FY 2024

West Visayas State University has completed its three-day performance review for fiscal year 2024, held at the university’s board room on Dec. 4.

 

The review, facilitated by the University Planning and Development Office, is an annual evaluation where university units present their accomplishments, assess progress, and identify areas for improvement. The event aims to measure how the university’s activities align with its mission and goals.

 

This year’s review carried the theme “Sustaining the Vision Through Synergy” and included presentations from vice presidents, deans, campus administrators, and other university officials. The presentations highlighted strengths, challenges, and opportunities across the university.

 

The panel of evaluators included Shim Lester de Pio, president of the WVSU Faculty Association and member of the university board of regents; Kristine E. Sabla-on, chief human resource specialist of the Civil Service Commission’s regional office; Paulo Cabanero, Education Supervisor II of the Commission on Higher Education’s regional office, and Francis John Palabrica, a senior economic development specialist at the National Economic and Development Authority regional office.

 

The performance review is part of the university’s commitment to accountability and strategic planning. It provides a platform to reflect on accomplishments, address gaps, and refine strategies for sustained growth and development.

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FROM WVSU TO CANADA: Two CICT students to study at Mohawk College under SEED program

West Visayas State University (WVSU) proudly celebrates a significant milestone as two of its College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) students, Von Ashley P. Chichirita and Reeman L. Singh, have been awarded the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) grant.

 

This marks the second consecutive year that WVSU students have been selected to study at Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, showcasing the university’s commitment to fostering global opportunities for its students.

 

Von Ashley, who will specialize in Computer Engineering Technology – Mechatronic Systems, and Reeman, will focus on Computer Systems Technology – Software Development, have earned their spots in the SEED program through their academic excellence and determination. Both students will study at Mohawk College’s Fennell Campus, the main campus known for fostering innovation and global collaboration.

 

The scholarship program will run from January 2 to April 30, 2025, offering the students a chance to immerse themselves in a world-class educational environment.

 

Through the SEED program, Von Ashley and Reeman will have the opportunity to enhance their academic and technical expertise while contributing to global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their studies at Mohawk College will prepare them to tackle real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, and bring positive change to their communities upon their return.

 

This opportunity marks a significant achievement for both students and highlights WVSU’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and global citizenship. Von Ashley and Reeman’s participation in the SEED program is expected to broaden their horizons, enhance their technical expertise, and enable them to contribute meaningfully to their fields and communities.

 

The WVSU community celebrates this outstanding achievement, which not only showcases the students’ potential but also reinforces the university’s standing as a center for academic and professional excellence.

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WVSU, PNVSCA shine light on Volunteerism: A global tribute for International Volunteerism Month 2024

Iloilo City, December 5, 2024 — The West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) and the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) Emergency Response Team, in partnership with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), marked the Volunteerism at WVSU: The International Volunteerism Month Celebration 2024. This event underscores the university’s dedication to fostering a culture of service, compassion, and social responsibility within the academic community and beyond.

 

In his opening remarks, Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of WVSU, welcomed participants and guests, emphasizing the university’s commitment to volunteerism as a cornerstone of community development. He highlighted how such initiatives align with WVSU’s mission to nurture socially responsible individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.

 

Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the broader impact of volunteerism on peace and sustainability. “Let’s take this opportunity to reflect on the positive impact of volunteerism, strengthen our commitment to serving others, and inspire one another to continue contributing to the well-being of our society. Together, we can build a better, more compassionate future,” she said, inspiring the audience to embrace service as a way of life.

 

Sharing Stories of Service

 

A key feature of the event was a forum where international and local volunteers shared their experiences, providing diverse perspectives on the transformative power of volunteerism:

 

Mr. Sakamoto Hideki, a Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer assigned to LGU Kalibo, discussed his work in community development, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange in fostering sustainable growth.

 

Ms. Kamehama Chihiro, also from the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, shared her experiences in municipality of Oton, where she focuses on youth engagement and education.

 

Ms. Chloe Mitchell, Mr. Patrick Brown, Ms. Crystal Garcia, and Mr. Neil delos Trinos, all from the United States Peace Corps, shared stories of their work in rural communities, highlighting initiatives in education, health, and environmental conservation.

 

Ms. Maria Ramona Moleño from Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) stressed the importance of capacity-building and empowering local communities to become self-reliant.

 

Prof. Ruben Gamala, a professor from UP Visayas, provided an academic perspective on volunteerism as a tool for social innovation and resilience.

 

Mr. Franz Remar Garion, Information Officer II of the Philippine Information Agency, underscored the role of media in promoting volunteer efforts and encouraging community participation.

 

Empowering a Community of Volunteers

 

The forum highlighted the diverse ways volunteerism can address societal challenges and foster global connections. Through personal stories and insights, the speakers emphasized that volunteerism is not just about giving time but about creating meaningful relationships and empowering communities to thrive.

 

The event also saw the active participation of CAF Emergency Response Team (ERT) volunteers, who demonstrated their readiness to serve in times of crisis and emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness and community resilience.

 

Furthermore, this event is part of a simultaneous nationwide celebration of International Volunteerism Month, with universities and organizations across the Philippines hosting similar activities to promote the spirit of volunteerism.

 

As WVSU continues its celebration of International Volunteerism Month, it reinforces its role as a leader in promoting global citizenship and social responsibility, inspiring its community to actively engage in volunteer work both locally and internationally.

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WVSU recognizes the College of Nursing for exemplary board performance

West Visayas State University (WVSU) honored the four topnotchers and new board passers for the 100% passing rate of the College of Nursing (CON) Batch 2024 in the recent Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE) during the first Monday of the month flag raising ceremony held earlier today, Dec. 2, 2024.
 
This performance also marked the fifth consecutive year of the University being a top performing nursing school.
 
Dr. Madonna Palmes, CON dean, invited the CON faculty and staff to be recognized by the WVSU community, while Prof. Aj Khaner Rendaje, CON faculty member, introduced CON Batch 2024, also known as Batch Zephyr.
 
The four topnotchers who were acknowledged are the following: Ma. Irish Silvestre – Rank 8 (91%), Robert Matthew Opong – Rank 9 (90.80%), Karen Joy Oscares – Rank 9 (90.80%) and Richard Olano, Jr. – Rank 10 (90.60%).
 
Dr. Joselito Villaruz, WVSU President, recalled in his speech that Batch Zephyr was the batch of first year nursing students when he became the university’s president.
 
“[This batch is] the crowning moment for my administration,” added Pres. Villaruz.
 
Aside from his pride and gratitude on this remarkable feat, Pres. Villaruz also expressed his only request to Batch 2024 in relation to giving back to the university.
 
“My only prayer [perhaps] is some of you might stay a little longer in the Philippines to serve our countrymen. In fact, this has been a call of everyone from all sectors for you, our graduates, to help narrow the gap in meeting our healthcare needs,” said Pres. Villaruz.
 
Dr. Celina Gellada, Medical and Allied Sciences VP, also encouraged Batch Zephyr to give back to the university, especially for those with the passion to teach or take their master’s degree in the College of Nursing graduate program.
 
“This is a product not only of your hard work, dedication, and persistence, but also [that] of the faculty and staff,” said Dr. Gellada.
 
Ma. Irish Silvestre, PNLE topnotcher at rank 8th with a 91% passing rate, expressed her appreciation to the entire WVSU community for the unwavering support and guidance throughout their entire nursing school journey.
 
“You accepted us like baby birds, and let us go like full grown eagles ready to fly. We are beyond grateful of all your service, support, belief, and prayers,” said Silvestre.
 
Silvestre also highlighted the challenges that her batch underwent, such as having limited practical applications due to an online learning set-up for two years brought about by the pandemic. Nevertheless, she spoke of emerging as competitive nurses despite these limitations.
 
“WVSU CON, we [Batch Zephyr] can attest that truly you are living the mission of making world-class nurses. We are so privileged to bring back the honor to you and to live up to the tradition of excellence,” concluded Silvestre.
 
The WVSU CON clinched the top spot among nursing schools in the country with a 100% passing rate in the PNLE.
 
The Professional Regulation Commission released the November 2024 PNLE results last Nov. 28 with 29,349 passers out of 34,534 takers and an 84.99% national passing rate.
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WVSU scholars excel in 10th Nat’l Research Conference in Science and Mathematics Education

West Visayas State University (WVSU) scholars once again showcased academic brilliance, dominating both oral and poster presentations at the 10th National Research Conference in Science and Mathematics Education (NRCSME) held at the SMX Convention Center, Clark, Angeles City, Pampanga, on November 21-22, 2024.
 
With the theme “SYNERGIES IN STEM: Fostering Cultural Integration, Collaboration, and Innovation for Sustainable Futures,” the conference gathered over 350 graduate scholars and guests under the DOST-SEI’s Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME) and Project STRAND.
 
Competing against top universities nationwide, WVSU scholars emerged victorious in five categories.
 
Oral Presentation Winners:
Category A (Conceptual Studies and Assessments)
Jeena A. Amoto (PhD in Sci. Ed. Mathematics)
Adviser: Dr. Alona M. Belarga
 
Category C (Teaching Capacity Development)
Lenard L. Guinsatao (MAEd Physics)
Adviser: Dr. Chive G. Gabasa
 
Category D (Instructional Material Development – Print Materials and Other Resources)
Ofelia Aljade E. Ramos (PhD in Sci. Ed. Mathematics)
Adviser: Dr. Roberto G. Sagge Jr.
 
Category E (Instructional Material Development – Electronics, Technology, and Media Devices)
Daisy Mae E. Tiro (PhD in Sci. Ed. Mathematics)
Adviser: Dr. Jonathan C. Glorial
Poster Presentation Winners:
 
Category A (Conceptual Studies and Assessments)
1st Place: Joan Mae P. Pascua (MAEd Biological Science)
Adviser: Dr. Ricky M. Magno
2nd Place: Carmel J. Pacificar (MAEd Biological Science)
Adviser: Ma. Elena Bernadette P. Hojilla
 
Category B (Learning Experiences and Teaching Strategies)
1st Place: Lizette J. Amodia (MAEd Biological Science)
Adviser: Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris
 
Category C (Teaching Capacity Development)
1st Place: Arthur G. Paniergo (MAEd Biological Science)
Adviser: Christine C. Coriento
 
Category D (Instructional Material Development – Print Materials and Other Resources)
2nd Place: Derwin L. Lapating (MAEd Mathematics)
Adviser: Dr. Cheryl Lyn C. Delgado
 
Category E (Instructional Material Development – Electronics, Technology, and Media Devices)
2nd Place: Ma. Danieza Jan R. Guzman (MAEd Mathematics)
Adviser: Dr. Roberto G. Sagge Jr.
 
Highlights of the Event
 
The two-day conference featured plenary talks, fostering collaboration and innovation in STEM education. Among the keynote speakers were:
 
• Prof. Lerma De Llana-Paris (West Visayas State University), who addressed ethical considerations in research.
• Dr. Richard R. Jugar (University of San Carlos), who discussed leveraging mobility and recognition mechanisms for STEM internationalization.
• Dr. Melfei E. Bungihan (University of Santo Tomas), who shared insights on outcomes-based frameworks in science education.
 
Testimonials from WVSU Scholars
 
Dr. Jeena Amoto, a PhD scholar, described the experience as “enriching and inspiring,” particularly on integrating critical theories into science and mathematics education.
 
“It was thought-provoking and allowed us to connect with fellow scholars, further fueling our passion for educational breakthroughs,” she shared.
Dr. Johnrey Dagiagnao echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the event’s role in fostering growth and collaboration.
MAEd Mathematics scholar Greg Alvaro highlighted the importance of the conference in uniting researchers.
 
“NRCSME opened new doors and reignited our commitment as DOST-SEI-CBPSME scholars to serve the nation through science and mathematics education,” Alvaro said.
 
Moving Forward
 
The NRCSME 2024 stands as a testament to the transformative potential of collaborative efforts in STEM. WVSU scholars continue to uphold their tradition of excellence, contributing significantly to the advancement of science and mathematics education in the Philippines.
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WVSU Office of Student Affairs benchmarks best practices at PNU, UP Diliman, and Ateneo

The Office of Student Affairs (OSA) of West Visayas State University (WVSU) conducted a series of benchmarking visits to the Philippine Normal University (PNU), the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), and Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) from November 13 to 15, 2024. These visits aimed to explore innovative strategies and best practices to enhance WVSU’s student services.
 
Led by OSA Dean Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, the delegation included key OSA personnel: University Guidance Counselor Maybelle de la Gente, University Psychometrician Windy de la Cruz, Career and Job Placement Coordinator Ludylie Buendia, Scholarship Coordinator Sarah Jane Dequito, OIC Dormitory Manager Marilou Bibanco, Communications Staff Nelly Gallego, and Student Affairs Staff Jhena Mae Berlin.
 
The team engaged in discussions with officials and toured student affairs offices at PNU, UPD, and AdMU, gathering insights to guide significant improvements at WVSU. Key projects include the enhancement of the WVSU Student Center, updates to the WVSU Student Handbook, and the establishment of Peer Support Services.
 
Dr. Malata emphasized the importance of expanding the OSA workforce, highlighting the need for additional plantilla positions to hire more guidance counselors and psychometricians. With continued support from WVSU’s top management, OSA envisions creating a vibrant hub to empower students academically, personally, and socially.
 
The WVSU-OSA Team would like to extend their sincere gratitude to PNU officials led by Vice President for Student Success and Stakeholders Services, Dr. Denmark Yonson; UPD Officials led by the OIC of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Dr. Jay-ar Igno; and AdMU Officials led by Vice President for Higher Education, Dr. Maria Luz Vilches.
 
Special thanks to Dr. Bryan Dayuta (Director of PNU Linkages and International Office), Dr. Jayeel Cornelio (Director of DOST Science Education Institute), Sir Michael Avelino of UPD Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Dr. Leland Joseph Dela Cruz (AdMU Assistant Vice President for Social and Environment Engagement for Development and Sustainability), Ms. Karen Sunico (AdMU Director of Partnerships and Engagement) for coordinating the schedules of WVSU-OSA’s benchmarking visits.
 
The insights gained from these exchanges are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of student services at WVSU.
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WVSU agriculture graduates among November 2024 Agriculturist Licensure Exam passers

Graduates from the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) at West Visayas State University (WVSU) and its Calinog Campus have been recognized as successful passers in the November 2024 Agriculturist Licensure Examination (ALE).

 

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) released the ALE results on November 22, 2024. Initially, WVSU CAF was reported to have 28 passers out of 56 takers, while the WVSU Main Campus had eight passers out of 12 takers. However, the CAF Office of the Administrator later verified that the passers attributed to the Main Campus were also from WVSU CAF, as the Main Campus does not offer a degree in Agriculture.

 

With the revised figures, WVSU CAF achieved a 52.94% passing rate, with 36 passers out of 68 takers. Meanwhile, WVSU Calinog Campus recorded a 50% passing rate among first-time takers, with four passers out of eight examinees.

 

The November 2024 ALE, conducted in 18 testing centers nationwide, recorded 3,628 passers out of 7,144 examinees, yielding a national passing rate of 50.78%.

 

Congratulations to the newly licensed Taga-West Agriculturists for their dedication to agricultural innovation, sustainability, and excellence!