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  • WVSU honors dedicated service, excellence at PRAISE 2026

    WVSU honors dedicated service, excellence at PRAISE 2026

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized faculty, staff, administrators, researchers, and retirees from its main campus, satellite campuses, and Medical Center during the WVSU Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) 2026 held June 15 at Sotogrande Hotel at Green Meadows, Iloilo.

    Carrying the theme “Taga-WEST Legacy: Standing Strong in Service, Honoring Dedication and Inspiring Excellence,” the annual event celebrated members of the University community whose commitment and contributions have helped advance WVSU’s vision, mission, and goals.

    Awards conferred during the ceremony included the Presidential Service Award, Retirement Award, University Service Award, Administrative Service Award, Loyalty Award (Bronze Pin for 10 years, Silver Pin for 20 years, and Gold Ring for 30 years), and Outstanding Researchers Award.

    Former Commission on Higher Education Chairperson and WVSU Board of Regents member Dr. Julian Prospero “Popoy” de Vera III delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individuals whose years of service have strengthened the institution.

    “Today, through PRAISE, we recognize individuals who have demonstrated loyalty, service, excellence, and outstanding achievement,” de Vera said.

    “All of them have devoted the best years of their lives to WVSU. They are the men and women who practice excellence, discipline, and innovation and are committed to quality in their work every day, every week, and every year.”

    He also underscored the role of the entire WVSU community in sustaining the University’s legacy and contributing to nation-building.

    “Many problems beset our nation, but there is hope. Here in Iloilo City and throughout Region VI, there is hope as long as our awardees today, along with all our administrators, faculty, staff, students, and alumni, work together to build and sustain the Taga WEST legacy—a legacy defined by strong service, dedication, and excellence.”

    In his message, University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz paid tribute to the awardees and thanked them for their years of service to the institution.

    “Today, we pay tribute to those who have contributed their time, loyalty, and dedication to duties to our beloved institution… For 124 years, we have built a legacy. And this legacy is not seen in its physical structure, medals, or recognitions — it is made up of people like you, who chose every day to show up, to serve, to go the extra mile, and to be part of something bigger than yourselves… Madamo gid nga salamat to each one of you.”

    Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, chairperson of PRAISE 2026, welcomed the awardees and guests, while Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Julius B. Undar delivered the closing remarks.

    Representing the honorees, Retirement and Administrative Service Award recipient Dr. Mary Josephine Bautista delivered the response, expressing gratitude on behalf of the awardees for the recognition and the opportunity to serve the University.

    The annual PRAISE program recognizes productive, innovative, exemplary, and ethical service among University personnel, reaffirming WVSU’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, dedication, and public service across the institution.

  • WVSU advances employee healthcare awareness through PhilHealth YAKAP orientation

    WVSU advances employee healthcare awareness through PhilHealth YAKAP orientation

    Nearly 300 employees from the different campuses of West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the WVSU Medical Center participated in an online orientation on the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) on June 15 via Zoom.

    The activity, spearheaded by the Office of the Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences under Vice President Dr. Victorino F. Salcedo III, formed part of WVSU’s efforts to promote accessible healthcare services and maximize the health benefits available to university personnel in line with the celebration of its 124th Founding Anniversary.

    In his opening remarks, Salcedo underscored the importance of empowering employees with knowledge about government health programs and announced the university’s initiative to conduct an onsite PhilHealth YAKAP registration drive on June 16 and 17.

    YAKAP, or Yaman ng Kalusugan Program, is PhilHealth’s primary care program designed to help Filipinos maintain good health through regular consultations, early disease detection, laboratory services, medicines and preventive care. Through accredited YAKAP clinics, members and their dependents can access primary healthcare services aimed at preventing illnesses from progressing into more serious conditions.

    During the orientation, Dr. Mary Ellen Grace Bolido, medical specialist III of the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Section of PhilHealth Regional Office VI, provided a comprehensive discussion on the program’s features, enrollment process and benefits available to members.

    A significant portion of the discussion focused on the PhilHealth GAMOT benefit, or Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment, which provides eligible beneficiaries with access to up to ₱20,000 worth of medicines annually. The package currently covers 75 medicines commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, infections, heart diseases and other chronic illnesses. Members enrolled in a YAKAP clinic may avail themselves of these medicines through accredited GAMOT providers upon proper consultation and prescription.

    The orientation concluded with a productive open forum where employees, faculty members and physicians from the WVSU Medical Center actively raised questions regarding enrollment procedures, eligibility requirements, implementation processes and the practical application of YAKAP and GAMOT benefits.

    The exchange provided participants with greater clarity on the program’s provisions and addressed various concerns related to enrollment, availment and healthcare access. The onsite enrollment activity will be held at the Administration Building Lobby on June 16 and 17 during office hours, beginning after the university’s opening ceremonies for its founding anniversary celebration. The registration drive aims to provide university personnel with convenient access to enrollment and the program’s healthcare benefits.

    Through initiatives such as the YAKAP orientation and onsite enrollment drive, WVSU continues to strengthen its commitment to employee welfare by promoting health awareness, preventive care and access to essential healthcare services.

  • WVSU chemistry student earns national startup pitching recognition

    WVSU chemistry student earns national startup pitching recognition

    A West Visayas State University student entrepreneur secured national recognition after leading a biotechnology startup to a podium finish in a nationwide innovation competition focused on sustainable technologies.

    Sheenlou Eian M. Bartolome, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Chemistry student from the College of Arts and Sciences, was named First Runner-Up in the College Category of DisruptorX 2026 held May 25 at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.

    Representing CARBNØ Biotech, a student-led startup incubated under the Business Incubator Nurturing Home-Grown Innovations (BINHI) Technology Business Incubator, Bartolome competed against hundreds of student innovators, researchers, and startup founders from across the country.

    The competition, organized by Serial Disruptors in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Oro Trade and Investment Promotion Center, serves as a national platform for technology-driven solutions addressing societal and environmental challenges.

    From 305 applicants nationwide, CARBNØ Biotech advanced to the Top 10 National Finalists before earning the First Runner-Up distinction during the National Demo Day.

    The startup presented a biotechnology-based innovation that utilizes marine-derived biomaterials as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. The technology integrates biodegradable materials into functional systems designed to support environmental sustainability while advancing developments in materials science and applied chemistry.

    Bartolome said the recognition highlights the potential of student-led scientific innovation to address pressing environmental concerns through research and technology.

    The project supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation, decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and life below water.

    The achievement underscores WVSU’s continuing commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship by empowering students to transform scientific knowledge into solutions with real-world impact.

    Through initiatives such as BINHI, the University continues to cultivate innovators whose work contributes to sustainable development and strengthens the role of higher education institutions in advancing science-based solutions for local and global challenges.

  • WVSU College of Law celebrates third Commencement Exercises

    WVSU College of Law celebrates third Commencement Exercises

    The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Law marked a significant milestone as it held its Third Commencement Exercises on June 5 at the WVSU Cultural Center, conferring the degree of Juris Doctor upon its newest graduates.

    The ceremony gathered university officials, faculty members, families, and guests in recognizing the academic achievements of the graduating class and their readiness to enter the legal profession. Among those in attendance were His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., guest of honor and commencement speaker; First Lady Atty. Louise Araneta-Marcos, who served as an instructor of the graduating Class of 2026; and Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education and chair of the WVSU Board of Regents.

    In his welcome address, College of Law Dean Atty. Ian Thomas M. Besana congratulated the graduates and acknowledged the collective efforts of faculty members, families, and supporters who contributed to the students’ journey through legal education.

    Academic excellence and outstanding achievements were recognized during the presentation of awards and citations led by faculty member Atty. Regina Johanna V. Gustilo. The awards were conferred by President Marcos, First Lady Araneta-Marcos, Chair Agrupis, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, Besana, and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla.

    The candidates for graduation were subsequently presented by Besana before the formal conferral of the degree of Juris Doctor by Agrupis.

    Following the conferral of degrees, graduates received their academic hoods in a symbolic investiture ceremony led by the dean and assisted by family members. Diplomas were awarded by Villaruz and Dequilla.

    Representing the graduating class, Jeremiah Davidson D. Yanson and Faith E. Montalban delivered the graduates’ response, reflecting on their experiences, challenges, and aspirations as future members of the legal profession.

    The graduating batch also presented an audio-visual tribute honoring First Lady Araneta-Marcos, who had served as their instructor since joining the College of Law faculty in 2022.

    A graduate’s prayer was led by Diana Michelle R. Consing, after which the graduates were formally inducted into the West Visayas State University Alumni Association by Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, president of the alumni association.

    One of the highlights of the ceremony was the commencement address delivered by President Marcos. Introduced by Villaruz, the President addressed the graduates, university officials, and guests, offering words of encouragement as the newest members of the legal profession prepared to embark on their careers.

    A plaque and token of appreciation were presented following the commencement address, with Villaruz and Besana leading the recognition.

    As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, the ceremony served as both the culmination of years of rigorous legal education and a call to uphold the principles of integrity, service, and excellence that define the WVSU College of Law.

  • WVSU confers 405 graduate degrees in 2026 Graduate School Commencement Exercises

    WVSU confers 405 graduate degrees in 2026 Graduate School Commencement Exercises

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) celebrated advanced academic achievement as it conferred degrees upon 405 graduates during its 2026 Graduate School Commencement Exercises held June 5 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

    The graduating class consisted of 262 graduates from the Graduate School and 143 graduates from the University Distance Education program, reflecting the university’s continuing efforts to expand access to advanced and flexible learning opportunities for professionals and lifelong learners.

    Among the colleges offering graduate programs, the College of Education produced the largest number of graduates with 353, accounting for nearly four-fifths of all Graduate School graduates. The College of Business and Management followed with 23 graduates, while the College of Arts and Sciences produced 15. The College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts, and Recreation graduated eight students, the College of Nursing had five graduates, and the College of Communication produced one graduate.

    Serving as commencement speaker was Hon. Regent Atty. Jobert A. Peñaflorida, private sector representative to the WVSU Board of Regents. Addressing the graduates, he challenged them to view their degrees not merely as academic credentials but as tools for meaningful leadership, innovation and service in their respective professions and communities.

    A plaque of appreciation was presented to Peñaflorida by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, assisted by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Aarcel Vinz D. Agudo, chair of the University Senior Curriculum Council.

    The candidates for graduation were formally presented by their respective deans before Hon. Chair Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, chair of the WVSU Board of Regents and chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education, formally conferred the degrees. Master’s and doctoral graduates were likewise hooded by the vice presidents and their thesis advisers during the ceremony, signifying the completion of their advanced academic training and entry into a community of scholars and professionals. Diplomas were subsequently distributed by Villaruz and the University vice presidents, assisted by University Registrar Mardy A. Ledesma.

    The graduates were subsequently inducted into the WVSU Federated Alumni Association by its president, Hon. Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, formally welcoming them into the university’s network of alumni and professionals.

    Representing the graduating class, Dr. Gemma Quintana, Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education major in Mathematics, delivered the graduates’ prayer, offering gratitude for the academic journey and the support that enabled the graduates to reach this milestone.

    The commencement exercises marked the culmination of years of advanced study, research and professional development. For the graduates, the ceremony signified not only the completion of postgraduate education but also a renewed purpose to applying their expertise in service of their professions, communities and society.

  • WVSU graduates 1,441 students, honors 1,060 Latin awardees in 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Exercises

    WVSU graduates 1,441 students, honors 1,060 Latin awardees in 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Exercises

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) Main Campus celebrated a milestone of academic excellence as it conferred degrees upon 1,441 baccalaureate graduates during its 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Exercises held June 4 at the WVSU Quezon Hall Grounds.

    Of the total graduates, 1,060 earned Latin honors, representing nearly three-fourths of the graduating class. The honorees included 23 summa cum laude graduates, 572 magna cum laude graduates and 465 cum laude graduates, underscoring the university’s continued commitment to academic excellence across disciplines.

    Leading in the number of graduates was the College of Education with 417 graduates, followed by the College of Arts and Sciences with 277 and the College of Business and Management with 241. The College of Information and Communications Technology produced 177 graduates, while the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation had 122. The College of Communication and College of Nursing contributed 118 and 89 graduates, respectively.

    Delivering the commencement address was Hon. Jed Patrick E. Mabilog, undersecretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and a member of the WVSU Class of 1987. Addressing the graduates, he emphasized that leadership is defined not by titles or positions but by character, courage and service, reminding the Class of 2026 that integrity remains the foundation of meaningful leadership.

    A plaque of appreciation was presented to Mabilog by WVSU President Joselito F. Villaruz, assisted by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Aarcel Vinz D. Agudo, chairperson of the University Senior Curriculum Council.

    The seven undergraduate colleges formally presented their candidates for graduation through their respective deans before Villaruz conferred the degrees. The distribution of diplomas was assisted by University Registrar Mardy A. Ledesma.

    In recognition of their academic achievement, qualified awardees were granted the Honor Graduate Eligibility by a representative of the Civil Service Commission Regional Office VI.

    The graduates were likewise inducted into the WVSU Federated Alumni Association by its president, Hon. Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, officially welcoming them into the university’s growing community of alumni.

    Adding a reflective moment to the ceremony, Louise Angelika P. Pahilanga, summa cum laude graduate of the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program and recipient of the Most Outstanding Graduate in Academics award, delivered the graduates’ prayer on behalf of the Class of 2026.

    As the graduates crossed the commencement stage, the numbers reflected more than academic achievement. The new degree holders represented years of perseverance, scholarship and service, joining the ranks of WVSU alumni prepared to contribute to their professions, communities and the nation.

  • Teen’s bold message to Army chief brings soldier-father home for her big day

    Teen’s bold message to Army chief brings soldier-father home for her big day

    By Hazel P. Villa

    On the eve of her recognition day on June 2, Unah Gabrielle Robante did what many daughters of soldiers quietly wish they could do. She took a chance.

    Knowing that her father, Staff Sergeant Mark Anthony P. Robante, 41, might miss yet another school milestone because of duty, the West Visayas State University Integrated Laboratory School completer sent a Facebook message to no less than the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete.

    Her reason was simple: Lt. Gen. Nafarrete was not only the guest speaker for the June 3 University Recognition Program. He was also an alumnus of the same school and, like her father, a soldier.

    “I just shot my shot,” Unah later said, explaining that she had read posts about Nafarrete being a product of ILS. She told him that her father had been in the service for more than 20 years and that his work often kept him away from family occasions.

    Her message reached the right heart.

    During his speech at the University Recognition Program on June 3, Lt. Gen. Nafarrete shared that he learned of Unah’s situation through Brig. Gen. Von Albert M. Sumergido, a former colleague of Robante. Upon hearing the story, the Army chief said Robante should be allowed to go home and attend his daughter’s awarding.

    So, on a day filled with medals, certificates, and proud parents, Unah received something no plaque could replace: her father’s presence.

    “I would really like to thank Lt. Gen. Nafarrete for giving me the opportunity to spend this special day with my father,” Unah said, her voice breaking. “His duty as a soldier for more than 20 years often keeps him away from us, from his family. But now that he’s here, I’m just really grateful and blessed.”

    For Filipino families, graduation season is never just about awards. It is about sacrifice finally finding a seat in the audience. It is about fathers who come home from assignments, mothers who keep the household steady, and children who carry the weight of absence with grace.

    Robante admitted he had not been sure he could attend. He had just been transferred to a new unit and was still adjusting. He had told his daughter he would come home “if there was a chance,” but he could not promise.

    That chance came through a daughter’s courage.

    At the recognition rites, Unah was honored as Rank 1 with High Honors and A.B. Dofitas Most Outstanding Completer. She was also a recipient of the Rotary Award for Academic Excellence, an Outstanding Students of Iloilo Top Circle Awardee from JCI Regatta, and recipient of awards in language arts, community service, forensics, sports, visual arts, scouting, and student council service.

    But her most emotional achievement that day may have been bringing her father home.

    “I understand that his line of work often requires him to keep others first,” Unah said. “But that doesn’t hinder the fact that he has really been a great part and great influence in my upbringing.” Then, in words many children of uniformed personnel know by heart, she added: “Thank you, Pa, for everything.”

    For his part, Robante thanked his daughter for never neglecting her studies despite his absence. “Bisan less ang time ko sa ila, wala siya gapabaya sa pagtu-on (Even though I don’t have much time for them, she never neglected her studies,” he said.

    This school year, Unah will move on to senior high school at Hua Siong College of Iloilo that offered her both academic and sports scholarships. For college, she hopes to return to WVSU to take up nursing.

    But before the next chapter begins, she will have this story to keep: the night she messaged an Army general, the morning her father came home, and the recognition day that became, above all, a family reunion.

    A FATHER’S PRESENCE. Unah Gabrielle R. Robante, Rank 1 and With High Honors completer of West Visayas State University Integrated Laboratory School in Iloilo City, shares her recognition day with her father, SSG Mark Anthony P. Robante, and younger brother, Mark Angelo Gabriel. Robante was able to come home for the June 3 awarding after Unah boldly messaged the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, hoping her father could witness her milestone.
    A MESSAGE ANSWERED. Unah Gabrielle R. Robante stands with her father, SSG Mark Anthony P. Robante, and Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, after the speech of the General at the WVSU University Recognition Program. Nafarrete, himself an alumnus of WVSU Integrated Laboratory School, helped make it possible for Robante to attend his daughter’s awarding after learning of Unah’s appeal.
    HOME FOR HER BIG DAY. SSG Mark Anthony P. Robante, Ma. Socorro R. Robante, their children Unah Gabrielle and Mark Angelo Gabriel, Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, WVSU President Joselito F. Villaruz, and Brig. Gen. Von Albert M. Sumergido gather after the June 3 WVSU University Recognition Program. Sumergido brought Unah’s story to Nafarrete, who said the soldier-father should be allowed to come home and witness his daughter’s achievement.
  • WVSU graduating students mark academic milestone through faith-centered gatherings

    WVSU graduating students mark academic milestone through faith-centered gatherings

    Graduating students of West Visayas State University (WVSU) Class of 2026 participated in separate faith-centered gatherings on June 4 as part of the University’s commencement activities, reflecting on their academic journey and preparing for the next chapter of their lives through prayer, thanksgiving, and spiritual reflection.

    Held simultaneously at the WVSU Cultural Center and the College of Medicine Auditorium, the Baccalaureate Mass and Eucharistic Celebration for Catholic graduates and the Baccalaureate Service for non-Catholic graduates provided members of the Class of 2026 an opportunity to gather in their respective faith communities ahead of the University’s recognition and commencement ceremonies.

    The two events were organized by the College of Nursing in partnership with its faith-based student organizations, namely the Catholic Student Nurses Association and the Nurses Christian Fellowship-WVSU Chapter.

    Carrying the theme “Faithful Hearts, Guided Futures,” the Baccalaureate Mass and Eucharistic Celebration brought together Catholic graduates for a morning of worship and thanksgiving at the WVSU Cultural Center. The liturgical celebration followed the traditional order of the Mass, including the Liturgy of the Word, homily, offertory, Holy Communion and the blessing of graduates.

    Dr. Celina Cordero-Gellada, dean of the College of Medicine, delivered the first reading, while representatives from the University’s colleges led the Prayers of the Faithful, offering petitions for the graduates, their families, the University and the communities they will serve.

    The celebration concluded with a special blessing for the graduates, emphasizing the values of faith, service and stewardship as they prepare to enter their chosen professions.

    Meanwhile, non-Catholic graduates gathered at the College of Medicine Auditorium for the Baccalaureate Service themed “Faithful Beginnings, Fruitful Endings.” The program featured worship songs, scripture reading, prayer and personal testimony, creating a space for reflection and gratitude as graduates looked back on their years at the University.

    A special number by the Nurses Christian Fellowship Chorale highlighted themes of compassion, purpose and service, while Rev. Danny Balm Escobar, senior pastor of Doane Baptist Church, delivered the graduation message, encouraging graduates to remain steadfast in their values and convictions as they pursue their future endeavors.

    The service also included a message to the graduates from Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension, who conveyed the University’s congratulations and encouragement to the graduating class. A response from the graduates followed, expressing appreciation for the support and opportunities that shaped their academic experience.

    Both gatherings concluded with prayers and blessings for the graduates, underscoring the University’s recognition of faith as an important source of strength, guidance and inspiration throughout the educational journey.

    As the Class of 2026 prepares to receive their degrees, the simultaneous celebrations served as moments of thanksgiving and reflection, affirming the graduates’ accomplishments while encouraging them to carry forward the values they cultivated during their years at WVSU.

    Through the efforts of the College of Nursing and its student organizations, the gatherings provided graduates with meaningful opportunities to honor their faith traditions and celebrate the culmination of their academic pursuits alongside fellow members of the graduating class.

  • WVSU recognizes outstanding students in 2026 University Recognition Program

    WVSU recognizes outstanding students in 2026 University Recognition Program

    West Visayas State University honored its top-performing students and campus leaders during the University Recognition Program held June 3 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

    The day-long recognition rites featured separate ceremonies for academic and non-academic awardees, celebrating student excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and co-curricular engagement across the university’s colleges.

    Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete delivered the inspirational message during the academic awards ceremony, encouraging students to embrace a people-centered approach to leadership as they pursue their future endeavors.

    “True success is not solely defined by titles, ranks, or badges. It is measured by how you lead, collaborate with, and support people around you,” Nafarrete said.

    Drawing from his leadership experience, Nafarrete underscored the importance of valuing people as the foundation of any organization.

    “Whether in a military unit, corporate institution, or global enterprise, the heart of any organization is not steel, technology, or infrastructure; it is flesh and blood. It is the people who serve, sacrifice, and stand steadfast,” he said.

    He also reminded the awardees that meaningful progress begins with investing in others and fostering human development.

    “As you step into the world, remember that you cannot build a nation or drive global progress without first building up the people next to you. Safeguarding peace and prosperity begins by taking care of humanity,” he added.

    During the program, Louise Angelika P. Pahilang, the university’s Most Outstanding Student in Academics from the College of Information and Communications Technology, Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS), delivered a message on behalf of the awardees.

    The afternoon program also included the recognition of non-academic achievers and the oath-taking of the University Student Council officers for Academic Year 2026–2027.

    The annual University Recognition Program serves as the institution’s tribute to students whose achievements embody the university’s commitment to excellence, leadership, and service.

  • WVSU COE honors student achievers, LEPT top performers in Papuri 2026

    WVSU COE honors student achievers, LEPT top performers in Papuri 2026

    The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Education (COE) recognized its outstanding students, student leaders, and top-performing graduates during Papuri 2026, the college’s annual recognition program held June 2 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

    The ceremony celebrated excellence in academics, leadership, and service, reflecting the College’s continuing commitment to developing future educators who excel both inside and outside the classroom. Graduates who earned top marks in the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) were also recognized, underscoring COE’s strong tradition of producing high-performing teachers.

    Awards were presented by College of Education Dean Dr. Ricky M. Magno and Office of Student Affairs Dean Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, together with university and college officials.

    Serving as guest speaker was Prof. Dr. Reynaldo Galido Segumpan, professor and former dean of the City Graduate School of the City University of Malaysia, who challenged awardees to use their achievements in the service of others and to make a meaningful difference in their future classrooms and communities.

    “Awardees, you will have students who are frightened of failing; you will have colleagues who are on the edge of giving up. You will have communities that have been disappointed too many times to believe that help is coming. You will have children in your future classrooms who are one caring teacher away from a completely different life. Be the ‘hen’ for them. Not because it is glamorous, not because it earns you another award, but because this is how excellence lives beyond the ceremony,” Segumpan said.

    Drawing from lessons illustrated through various animals, he emphasized the values of perseverance, collaboration, and compassion in the teaching profession.

    “We have traveled through the animal kingdom today: the carabao, the honeybee, the ant, the elephant, the monarch butterfly, and the hen. In each of them, we have seen a truth about excellence that no textbook notes more clearly: no creature thrives alone. Every awardee in this room needs the people in this room,” he said.

    Papuri 2026 served not only as a celebration of achievement but also as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with excellence as students prepare to serve future generations of learners.