West Visayas State University (WVSU) participated in the Regional Development Council (RDC) VI capacity-building activity on strategic communication, with a focus on media relations and social media management, Aug. 18-19, 2026 at the RDC VI Conference Hall of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region 6.
Representing WVSU were Planning Officer Michael Gervero of the University Planning and Development Office, and Information Officer Jessa Temelo of the Public Affairs and Marketing Communications Office.
The two-day activity brought together information and media officers from state universities and colleges (SUCs), local government units, national government agencies and private sector organizations across Western Visayas. It provided participating institutions an opportunity to strengthen their communication practices and build networks for more coordinated and effective public information work.
The first day covered key areas in strategic communication, beginning with “Leveraging Development Communication for Effective Governance,” delivered by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 6 Head Cheryl B. Amor. This was followed by a session on media and information literacy by PIA Information Officer Liez’l Marie Ejeda and a discussion on media relations and public relations by PIA Assistant Regional Head Easter Anne Doza.
The second day shifted to applied learning through media relations simulations. Participants worked in groups and took on different roles in simulated press conferences, press release delivery, media tours and media launches, allowing them to apply communication principles and media engagement strategies in practical scenarios.
The day also featured a session on social media management delivered by PIA Information Officer Franz Remar Garion, highlighting the role of social media in communicating institutional initiatives and engaging public audiences.
Beyond the formal sessions and simulation exercises, the activity also opened opportunities for stronger collaboration among information officers from SUCs across Region 6. WVSU, along with representatives from other SUCs, participated in an informal gathering to establish connections and explore potential collaborations, joint activities and initiatives among SUC information officers.
WVSU’s participation underscores the university’s commitment to continuous capacity building and to strengthening its institutional communication practices. Through engagements such as this, the university contributes to and learns from a broader network of public information professionals working to communicate development initiatives more effectively across Western Visayas.
Category: News
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WVSU strengthens strategic communication through RDC VI capacity-building
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WVSU Alumna Earns Taiwan ICDF Scholarship for Graduate Studies in Arts and Creative Industries
West Visayas State University proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of Ms. Kyla Agnes Ramirez, an alumna who has earned a full scholarship under the 2026 Taiwan ICDF Scholarship Program.
Ramirez will pursue the International MA Program in Arts and Creative Industries at the Taipei National University of the Arts in Taiwan, marking another significant step in an academic journey that began at WVSU.
Her accomplishments extend to other distinguished universities abroad. She was admitted to the Master of Social and Cultural Anthropology program at KU Leuven in Belgium with a partial tuition waiver and was also offered a full scholarship to the ASEAN Master in Sustainability Management at Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia.
A Magna Cum Laude graduate of WVSU Class 2024, Ramirez distinguished herself both academically and through student leadership. During her university years, she actively served the WVSU community, including as the founding Chairperson of WVSU-Maaram.
Her journey from the halls of West Visayas State University to opportunities at leading institutions across Asia and Europe reflects the kind of scholarship, leadership, and commitment to meaningful engagement that the University seeks to nurture in its students.
The WVSU community congratulates Kyla as she carries with her the knowledge, values, and experiences shaped by her years as a Taga-West.
Congratulations, Kyla! Padayon, Taga-West! -
WVSU installs whole-body walkthrough scanner at main entrance
West Visayas State University has installed a whole-body walkthrough scanner at the University’s main entrance gate to further strengthen campus security and ensure the safety of students and the WVSU community.
A whole-body walkthrough scanner is a security screening device designed to detect concealed objects or potential security threats on a person as they pass through the scanner. Its installation provides an additional layer of security screening at the University’s primary entry point.
The scanner was donated by WVSU High School Batch 1989 and Safety PH Innovation Inc., supporting the University’s continuing efforts to maintain a safe and secure learning environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
The initiative underscores WVSU’s commitment to Service by strengthening measures that safeguard the University community and support a conducive environment for learning and development. -
WVSU President ranks among Top 10 SUC Presidents in research recognition
West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz has been recognized among the Top 10 SUC Presidents of the Philippines who are Scopus producers and researchers, earning 10th place in the list released by Global Health Focus (GHF) University Excellence.
Dr. Villaruz recorded a Scopus score of 6, with 93 citations and an h-index of 3. He also has a publication as recent as 2026, highlighting his continuing engagement in research and scholarly work alongside the demands of leading the University.
The recognition reflects Dr. Villaruz’s commitment to leading by example and strengthening a culture of research and knowledge creation at WVSU. His continued involvement in scholarly work demonstrates that university leadership and active engagement in research can go hand in hand, inspiring faculty and students to pursue meaningful research and contribute to the broader academic community.
WVSU celebrates this achievement as a reflection not only of Dr. Villaruz’s scholarly commitment, but also of the University’s continuing pursuit of research excellence and knowledge creation. -
WVSU holds FY 2027 Budget Hearing to align resources with institutional priorities
West Visayas State University held its FY 2027 Budget Hearing on Aug. 11-13 at the WVSU Board Room, bringing together University officials, campus administrators, college deans, and unit heads to review proposed programs, projects, and resource requirements for the coming fiscal year.
Anchored on the theme, “From Blue Print to Action: Enforcing Policies and Ensuring Transparency,” the three-day hearing provided an avenue to examine how proposed expenditures respond to the University’s institutional priorities and contribute to delivering quality services to its stakeholders, particularly its students.
Presentations were made by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension, and Vice President for Administration and Finance for the offices under their respective units. The head of Student Services, the Medical Center Chief, campus administrators of the six satellite campuses, the University’s college deans, the director of the University Physical Development and Planning Office (UPDO), and representatives of offices under the President’s Office likewise presented their proposals.
Each proposal was considered in terms of its significance in addressing institutional priorities, introducing improvements or innovations, and generating measurable benefits. The process underscores the University’s effort to ensure that available resources are strategically directed toward programs and initiatives that strengthen its mandate in instruction, research, extension, healthcare, and public service.
Serving as panelists during the budget hearing were members of the WVSU Board of Regents: Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI; Shim Lester G. De Pio, President of the WVSU Federated Faculty Association; Bonifacio P. Gaverza, President of the WVSU Alumni Association; Dr. Gerard Joel C. Abonado; and Dr. Raul F. Muyong, Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education VI. Maria Liane L. Gayomali, Regional Director of the Department of Budget and Management Regional Office VI; Dr. May Rose O. Suerte, Asst. Regional Director for Finance and Admin Services, DOST VI; John Lorenz R. Belanio, Former Vice Chancellor of the Administration of the University of the Philippines in the Visayas; and Moonyeen E. Bolivar, Senior Economic Development Specialist of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region VI, also served as panelists. From the WVSU administration, Dr. Reymund B. Flores, Director of UPDO and Mrs. Jasmin L. Vargas, Chief of Finance Division likewise were panelists.
Through the annual budget hearing, WVSU strengthens its commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial stewardship, ensuring that plans for the coming fiscal year are translated into investments that create meaningful value for the University community and the communities it serves.
As the University moves forward with its research, instruction, extension, healthcare, and public service mandates, the FY 2027 budget process serves as an important step in turning institutional priorities into concrete programs and services that support WVSU’s continuing pursuit of excellence and its mission of Transforming Generations. -
WVSU charts way forward for AY 2026-2027 at General Assembly for Faculty and Staff
West Visayas State University (WVSU) gathered its faculty and staff from across the University system for the 2026 General Assembly for Faculty and Staff on August 10 at the WVSU Cultural Center, setting the tone and direction for Academic Year 2026-2027 through a shared commitment to institutional excellence, service, and transformation.
Anchored on the theme of moving WVSU forward, the assembly highlighted the University’s accomplishments in the previous academic year while presenting key priorities and initiatives for the year ahead. University President Prof. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered his message, “WVSU Forward: Celebrating Progress, Transforming Generations,” reflecting on the University’s gains in academic excellence, research and extension, financial performance, and healthcare services.
In his message, Villaruz emphasized that WVSU’s progress is a collective achievement built on the dedication of its faculty, staff, students, alumni, partners, and stakeholders. He also outlined the University’s continuing priorities, including strengthening academic quality, expanding research productivity and international collaboration, enhancing community development, accelerating digital transformation, improving infrastructure and learning environments, advancing healthcare services, pursuing national and international quality recognition, strengthening financial sustainability, and sustaining WVSU’s global visibility.
“The future calls for us to think bigger, innovate further, and serve with greater purpose,” Villaruz said, emphasizing that the University’s work must ultimately be measured not only through numbers and records, but through the lives touched, communities empowered, and future built together.
Charting the way forward
The University’s vice presidents likewise presented their respective directions and priorities for AY 2026-2027.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Ma. Asuncion V. Dequilla, centered her presentation on the University’s most important priority: its students. Her presentation emphasized empowering faculty, enriching instruction, and enhancing student services, underscoring the shared responsibility of educators and university personnel in preparing students for their future.
Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences Victorino A. Salcedo III presented the University’s commitment to its students, employees, and communities through student care, employee health, and community impact. His presentation highlighted competence, compassion, science, and service as key elements in building a healthier and more resilient WVSU community.
For research, innovation, and extension, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Greta G. Gabinete presented an “Impact Pathway” that moves from research and innovation toward technology transfer, extension, and ultimately meaningful impact. The framework emphasizes the University’s role in turning knowledge into solutions and bringing these solutions to communities.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Peter Ernie D. Paris presented the University’s direction toward enabling institutional excellence, focusing on productive and responsive governance, sustainable resource and financial management, and infrastructure, systems, and digital transformation. His presentation underscored the need to strengthen policies, ensure transparency, manage resources wisely, and build systems that support a future-ready university.
Together, the presentations provided a systemwide view of WVSU’s priorities for the coming academic year—from instruction and student services to healthcare, research and innovation, community engagement, governance, financial sustainability, and digital and physical infrastructure.
Recognizing the WVSU community
The assembly also recognized the faculty and staff, whose excellence and service continue to support WVSU’s operations across its campuses.
Campus Administrators of the six satellite campuses (Calinog, Himamaylan City, Janiuay, Lambunao, Pototan, and the College of Agriculture and Forestry) as well as the deans of the University’s main campus colleges and VPAF Peter Ernie D. Paris welcomed those in attendance.
The assembly also featured the Recognition of Top Instructors and Professors in Teaching Effectiveness, presented by Prof. Alona M. Belarga, PhD, Director of Instruction and Quality Assurance, honoring faculty members who demonstrated excellence in teaching based on the faculty evaluations from the previous year.
Faculty Regent Hon. Shim Lester G. de Pio, President of the WVSU Federated Faculty Association, likewise delivered a message to the University community.
Welcoming a new generation of WVSU personnel
The University formally welcomed its newest members, who were introduced by Doullie M. Lotilla, Administrative Officer V of the Human Resource Management Office. They then took their oath of office before President Villaruz, officially marking the beginning of their service to the University and its stakeholders.
Adding to the celebration were special performances by West Crew and the Irong-Irong Dance Company, bringing energy and festivity to the gathering.
As WVSU begins another academic year, the General Assembly served as both a reflection on how far the University has come and a reminder of the work that lies ahead. WVSU moves forward into AY 2026-2027 with a shared direction: to strengthen the University, deliver greater value to its stakeholders, and continue Transforming Generations. -
WVSU wins big at AI Fest 2026, showcases AI excellence across national competitions
West Visayas State University (WVSU) emerged as one of the top-performing institutions at AI Fest 2026, earning championship titles, research awards, and finalist finishes across multiple national competitions during the national festival held from Aug. 3 to 5 at the Iloilo Convention Center. The University’s strong showing reinforced its growing leadership in artificial intelligence, research, innovation, and creative technologies.
Anchored on the theme “Building an AI-Ready Future, Together,” AI Fest 2026 brought together researchers, students, industry leaders, government agencies, and technology innovators from across the country. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in collaboration with partner institutions in Western Visayas, the festival served as a platform for advancing the practical, ethical, and collaborative applications of artificial intelligence in governance, education, research, industry, and the creative economy.
As one of the festival’s partner institutions, WVSU played an active role in the event beyond competition, including hosting the SineAI Workshop as part of the festival’s series of preparatory activities that began in June. The University fielded participants across several flagship competitions, demonstrating excellence in research, robotics, software development, filmmaking, and game design.
Among WVSU’s biggest accomplishments was winning the AI Hackathon Open Category, the AI in Motion Robotics Competition, the SineAI Competition, and securing the top two awards in the AI Technical Conference Research Paper Presentation.
AI Technical Conference
The AI Technical Conference gathered researchers, academic institutions, government agencies, and industry professionals to present research addressing real-world applications of artificial intelligence.
Research Paper Presentation
1st Place – Mr. Shem Durst Elijah B. Sandig
TALAAN: A Framework for Offline Multi-Tier Retrieval-Augmented Generation in Philippine Local Government Document Intelligence
2nd Place – Dr. Nikie Jo E. Deocampo
Monocular Depth-Based Thoracic Morphology Analysis for Non-Invasive Pectus Excavatum Assessment
Poster Presentation
Presenter – Dr. Cyreneo S. Dofitas
Adaptive Object Detection with Confidence-Gated Early Exits for Energy-Constrained Road Perception
AI in Motion: Robotics Competition
The AI in Motion competition showcased AI-powered robotics solutions addressing real-world challenges through prototype development and hardware integration.
Champion – Hard Engineering Neighbors (4th Year BS Computer Science)
Project: MangoMind
Members:
Jullian A. Bilan
Clarence Anthony G. Bolivar
Frederick Jibril L. Buñag
Vincent L. Corpes Jr.
Jan Floyd J. Vallota
Mentor: Mr. Mark Joseph Solidarios
Finalist – HAI-5 (4th Year BS Computer Science)
Project: ResQPH: A Smart Autonomous Robotic System for Post-Disaster Area Surveillance and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
Members:
Ariane Pearl Gegawin
Wilfame Esponilla
Joelmar Grecia
Aurelio Innocencio Sua III
Melissa Marielle Valdez
Mentor: Dr. Evan C. Sumido
AI Hackathon – Open Category
The national AI Hackathon challenged participants to develop AI-enabled solutions addressing pressing societal and industry concerns through collaborative innovation.
Champion – Team Bultokachi (BS Information Systems Alumni)
Project: Phantom Wake: A Physics-Informed Maritime Intelligence System for Dark-Vessel Search Corridor Prediction
Members:
James Andrew C. Dorado
Lance Gabriel B. Masigon
Gio Anthony A. Callos
Jemmar V. Padernal
Mary Shanley C. Sencil
Finalist – Team SARDEÑAS (3rd Year BS Information Technology)
Project: AquAIman: A Web-Based Coastal Intelligence System for Risk Classification and Patrol Prioritization in Northern Iloilo Coastal Areas
Members:
Lyka R. Lamparero
Mae Daniella Faith C. Benjamin
Justin Ace D. Ardeña
Luisa Rose D. Brillantes
Hannah Leigh F. Fernandez
Finalist – Team KADJA (3rd Year BS Computer Science)
Project: AETHER (Autonomous Eco-Sentinel for Threat Evaluation, Habitat Intelligence, and Ecosystem Resilience)
Members:
Allanah Jae B. Bragancia
Arvin B. Bearneza
Dominique Lorraine O. Dorado
Jan Dennis J. Dariagan
Kelly Ydrahn A. Alojepan
SineAI
SineAI highlighted the creative use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, supported by pre-event talks, workshops, and screenings designed to promote responsible AI-assisted storytelling.
Champion – ALL OF US ARE J (4th Year BS Computer Science)
Film: Istasyon Numero Nuebe
Members:
Jessie Lorraine Porras
Jethro Roland Danocup
Joelmar Grecia
Jazylle Mae Senibalo
Christine Joy Maravilla
Special Award: Innovation in Storytelling
Finalist – WEST COAST FILMS
Film: BALINSAYAW: A Vestige of Held Breaths
Members:
Ashley Nicole Bulotaolo (4th Year BS Information Systems)
Ariane Pearl Gegawin (4th Year BS Computer Science)
Meryll Klaryze Polaron (4th Year BS Information Systems)
Leann Villaruel (4th Year BS Computer Science)
Florence Elaine Soleno (4th Year BS Information Systems)
AI Game On!
AI Game On! encouraged participants to develop AI-powered games that preserve and reinterpret cultural heritage through immersive digital experiences.
Finalist – Team Hues
Game: Ginhawa
Members:
Quela D. Magbanua (3rd Year BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing)
Lanz Gerard C. Elizaga (3rd Year BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing)
Diosylle Niña Therese R. Auditor (2nd Year BS Information Systems)
Finalist – Kalye Co. (4th Year BS Computer Science)
Game: Kalye Corazón
Members:
Ariane Pearl C. Gegawin
Wilfame Esponilla
Melissa Marielle Valdez
The University’s strong performance across multiple categories reflects WVSU’s growing capabilities in artificial intelligence, interdisciplinary research, software development, robotics, and digital creativity. It also highlights the University’s commitment to producing graduates equipped to develop innovative, ethical, and socially responsive technologies that address real-world challenges.
Through its active participation and partnership in AI Fest 2026, WVSU continues to strengthen its role in advancing innovation, research excellence, and industry collaboration while contributing to the country’s vision of building an AI-ready future. -
WVSU BA Foreign Language Alumni Earn Prestigious Global Korea Scholarship for Graduate Studies
Two alumni of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Language (BAFL) program have earned the highly competitive 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), securing fully funded opportunities to pursue master’s degrees at leading universities in the Republic of Korea.
Ric Jan N. Gabales, a BA Foreign Language graduate from the Class of 2026, will undertake the Korean Language Program before pursuing a Master of International Relations at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies. Meanwhile, Jhazena Joy C. Siosan, a BA Foreign Language graduate from the Class of 2024, will pursue a Master of International Trade at Dongguk University. Both scholars are set to begin their studies in September 2026. The scholarship covers round-trip airfare, tuition, a monthly stipend, and insurance through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea.
The Global Korea Scholarship is among South Korea’s premier international scholarship programs, supporting outstanding students from around the world in pursuing graduate education while strengthening international academic cooperation. Both WVSU alumni successfully advanced through the scholarship’s rigorous selection process before receiving admission to their respective universities.
Reflecting on their achievement, Gabales and Siosan expressed gratitude to West Visayas State University for equipping them with the academic foundation, mentorship, and opportunities that prepared them for graduate education abroad.
“We are deeply grateful to West Visayas State University for providing us with a strong academic foundation and meaningful opportunities that prepared us to pursue graduate education abroad. We hope this achievement brings pride to our university and serves as an inspiration to fellow WVSU students to pursue international academic opportunities.”
For Gabales, the scholarship represents the realization of a dream built through years of academic preparation, international engagement, and the courage to pursue opportunities even before completing his undergraduate degree. As he begins his master’s studies, he carries with him the education and community that shaped his journey at WVSU.
Siosan likewise described the scholarship as the culmination of months of preparation, perseverance, and support from mentors, professors, fellow alumni, and classmates. Her journey reflects the University’s culture of mentorship, where alumni continue to inspire succeeding generations of students to pursue opportunities beyond national borders.
Their success further highlights the growing international footprint of the WVSU BA Foreign Language program, which continues to produce graduates who excel in global academic and professional arenas. It also reflects the University’s commitment to Transforming Generations by developing globally competitive graduates equipped with intercultural competence, academic excellence, and the confidence to contribute to the international community. -
WVSU opens Academic Year 2026–2027 with welcome ceremony, ASEAN Month kickoff
West Visayas State University (WVSU) officially opened Academic Year 2026–2027 during its first flag-raising ceremony for August held Monday, August 3, at Jubilee Park, with the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) leading the program under Dean Dr. Bonna S. Palma.
University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz welcomed returning and new students, faculty and staff as classes formally began, expressing optimism for the new academic year.
“I would like to welcome everyone to our new academic calendar year, 2026–2027. Welcome back to our continuing students and, for our new students, welcome to West Visayas State University,” Villaruz said. “I hope you’re going to enjoy your journey here at our University. To our staff and faculty, thank you so much for your commitment and your service to the University.”
The ceremony also marked the University’s observance of ASEAN Month. The International and Local Linkages Office reminded the University community that August commemorates the founding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Aug. 8, 1967, and encouraged students, faculty and staff to participate in the activities lined up under the University’s official calendar. This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Navigating Our Future Together,” reflecting the Philippines’ chairmanship of ASEAN in 2026 and its commitment to fostering regional unity, resilience, innovation and people-centered cooperation.
Also observed during the ceremony was the wearing of ASEAN-inspired attire by faculty and staff in compliance with the Civil Service Commission’s Revised Dress Code for government officials and employees, which prescribes ASEAN-inspired clothing on the first Monday of every month.
Leading the program, Palma welcomed the University community and acknowledged the presence of the University’s executive officials, college deans, faculty, staff and students. She highlighted two milestones for CAS as it opens the academic year: the pioneer batch of students under the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program and the preparation of the inaugural batch of Bachelor of Science in Chemistry graduates for the Professional Licensure Examination for Chemists.
Palma concluded the program by reciting her original poem, The First Bell, reflecting on new beginnings, shared aspirations and the collective journey of the WVSU community as it embarks on another academic year.
The program also featured trivia games organized by CAS, encouraging participation from students, faculty and staff as the University officially welcomed the start of the new academic year. -
WVSU strengthens food safety culture through cafeteria staff training
The West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its Hometel/Cafeteria and the University Resource Generation Program (URGP), conducted a Training Workshop on Food Safety, Hygiene, and Sanitation on July 30 at the WVSU Cafeteria to reinforce safe food handling practices and uphold quality service standards within the University.
The workshop equipped Hometel/Cafeteria personnel with updated knowledge on food safety, proper hygiene, and sanitation protocols essential to maintaining a safe and healthy dining environment for the WVSU community. The activity opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Ma. Elfleda R. Ecube, Director of the University Resource Generation Program, followed by the introduction of the resource speaker by Josephine B. Maquiling, Hometel/Cafeteria Manager.
Serving as the resource speaker was Dr. Kervin Marc D. Abioda of the College of Business and Management, who discussed key principles of food safety, personal hygiene, and sanitation practices in food preparation and service. Participants also engaged in an interactive learning activity that challenged them to identify potential safety hazards and appropriate preventive measures commonly encountered in the kitchen, reinforcing the practical application of the concepts discussed during the session.
The training concluded with an open forum that allowed participants to raise concerns and clarify best practices in food handling, followed by the awarding of certificates and a token of appreciation to the resource speaker. The activity highlighted the University’s commitment to continuous learning and professional development among its support personnel.
By strengthening the competencies of its cafeteria workforce, WVSU advances its core values of Excellence through adherence to high standards in food service operations, Creativity and Innovation by promoting proactive and practical approaches to workplace safety, and Service by ensuring the delivery of safe, hygienic, and quality food services that contribute to the health and well-being of the University community.