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STUDENT IUIS (Main Campus)

Category: News

  • WVSU continues global outreach with two faculty members set for 2025 World Korean Educators Conference in Seoul

    WVSU continues global outreach with two faculty members set for 2025 World Korean Educators Conference in Seoul

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to enhance its global academic presence as two faculty members from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)—Professor Ree Ran Park and Arizza Julia Inocencio—are set to represent the King Sejong Institute Iloilo and the Philippines at the 2025 World Korean Educators Conference (세계한국어교육자대회) to be held from July 21 to 24 in Seoul, South Korea.

    This prestigious international conference is hosted annually by the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF) under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of South Korea. It gathers Korean language educators from around the world to share best practices, discuss pedagogical innovations, and promote global collaboration in Korean language education.

    Both Professor Park and Ms. Inocencio, who is also a proud alumna of the Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages program, currently serve as Korean language instructors under CAS. The King Sejong Institute Iloilo is a flagship cultural and language initiative of the college, established to advance Korean language education and foster cultural appreciation in the region.

    This is not the first time WVSU has gained international recognition in this arena. In August 2024, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, represented the university at the 2024 edition of the same conference.

    WVSU was formally designated as a King Sejong Institute in 2024, officially joining South Korea’s international network of institutions promoting Korean language and culture around the world.

    Through sustained global engagements such as this, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, international collaboration, and cross-cultural education—raising the Philippine flag proudly on the world stage.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU Unveils Cooperative Landmark on 45th Anniversary of Multi-Purpose Cooperative

    WVSU Unveils Cooperative Landmark on 45th Anniversary of Multi-Purpose Cooperative

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) marked the 45th founding anniversary of its Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) with the unveiling of a commemorative landmark today, July 2, 2025.
     
    The newly installed marker stands beneath a prominent acacia tree, across Rizal Hall and beside the College of Medicine Gym.
     
    The ceremony featured the blessing of the site, followed by messages of support from WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and Chief Administrative Officer Julius Undar.
     
    Dr. Noeni Nepomuceno, one of the cooperative’s founding members, also spoke, expressing gratitude to the WVSU community for its sustained support and collaboration over the years.
     
    The landmark serves as a symbol of the MPC’s enduring commitment to service and partnership within the WVSU community for nearly half a century.
     
    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels
    #WVSU

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  • Academic partnership brings four Penn State Medical Students to WVSU for global immersion program

    Academic partnership brings four Penn State Medical Students to WVSU for global immersion program

    Four medical students from Pennsylvania State University officially began their Global Health Scholars Pathway (GHSP) immersion today, June 30, at West Visayas State University (WVSU), marking the start of a collaborative international program aimed at strengthening global medical education and cross-cultural healthcare learning.

    The visiting students—Madison Scopano, Jacob Berry, Eva Eleftheriadis, and Jaybee Diones—are accompanied by their faculty site lead, Dr. Jasmin Gange Lagman, Associate Professor at Penn State and an alumna of the WVSU College of Medicine.

    The three-week immersion program, which runs from June 30 to July 19, 2025, commenced with a courtesy visit to Dr. Victor Amantillo, Dean of the WVSU College of Medicine, followed by a tour of the college. The group also paid a visit to WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, who welcomed them and expressed the university’s enthusiasm for this new chapter in global academic cooperation.

    This visit is part of a larger partnership between Penn State and WVSU, established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year on January 1, 2025.

    The program is designed to expose future medical professionals to diverse health systems, community-based practices, and health economics in a global setting.

    Additionally, the program is coordinated by Dr. Eunice Sermonia and Dr. Charmaine Malata, who are overseeing the students’ university-related activities and ensuring a smooth and enriching academic and cultural experience.

    The Global Health Scholars Pathway is a unique and innovative program that integrates global health education into the medical curriculum at Penn State. It provides students with two immersive international experiences: the first focused on community immersion and development of a health project, and the second, in the students’ senior year, dedicated to clinical engagement in the same setting.

    By choosing the Philippines—specifically WVSU—as one of the program’s international sites, this initiative not only fosters academic and cultural exchange but also reflects the growing global partnerships that shape the future of medical education.

    This visit is just the beginning of a promising long-term collaboration between WVSU and Penn State, with future cohorts of medical scholars expected to follow.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Tides of Talk, Waves of Change: WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors in Action for Sea Turtles

    Tides of Talk, Waves of Change: WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors in Action for Sea Turtles

    What began as a student initiative has grown into a movement of environmental hope and action. At the heart of this effort is Sanctuarium Maris, a sea turtle conservation project in Barangay Atabayan, Tigbauan, Iloilo—led by the DagYoung Student Ambassadors of West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society.

    Funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, this project is building bridges between science, sustainability, and the community. On June 28, these student leaders hosted “Conversations on Conservation”, a focus group discussion that reflected on the progress, challenges, and future of the initiative.

    A Safe Shore for Sea Turtles

    Barangay Atabayan is known as a vital nesting ground for sea turtles, with records of hatchlings as recent as 2020. But this coastal community also faces alarming challenges. From 2001 to 2011, 109 sea turtles were spotted—many of them injured or stranded. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued from fish traps or found along the coast. These figures paint a clear picture: the need for action is urgent.

    Youth at the Helm of Conservation

    WVSU’s DagYoung Student Ambassadors are at the forefront of this effort. Serving as the internationalization arm of the university’s International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), these students are not only raising awareness but are actively training as “first responders” in sea turtle protection. Chairperson Aihrich M. Toreres led the opening of the forum on behalf of Director Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csóka, emphasizing the role of student leadership in real-world impact.

    A Dialogue of Insights and Solutions

    The forum was designed not just to report outcomes, but to listen—to the volunteers, residents, and local leaders who share the responsibility of protecting the coast. Topics included TideWatch, a sharing of field observations and reflections; Bright Spots, which highlighted conservation wins; Rough Waters, where challenges and failures were discussed; and Echoes of Engagement, where volunteers and locals gave feedback on their experiences. The final session, Currents Forward, explored strategies to sustain the project long-term.

    A United Community Response

    The event was attended by key community figures, including Barangay Captain Hon. Edison T. Camiña, Hon. Julius E. Trafalgar, Hon. Rowena C. Torrechante, and SK Chair Peter Paul Cadabo. Their presence demonstrated strong local support and the growing awareness that sea turtle conservation is not a solo effort—it is a shared mission.

    Charting a Future for the Sea

    In his closing remarks, Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas reflected on the importance of continuity and shared responsibility. He underscored that while policies and programs help, it is the hearts and hands of people—especially the youth—that will sustain real change.

    WVSU continues to serve as a beacon of environmental leadership in the region. With Sanctuarium Maris, the university’s student leaders are setting an example of what passionate, community-rooted conservation can look like.

    As the sea turtles return to Tigbauan’s shores in the years to come, they will find more than just a natural sanctuary. They will find a community waiting, watching, and willing to protect.


    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU forges digital health alliance with New Zealand’s University of Otago

    WVSU forges digital health alliance with New Zealand’s University of Otago

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has entered into a new international partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Otago on June 27, 2025, in Dunedin, New Zealand.

    The agreement was signed by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and University of Otago Vice Chancellor Hon. Grant Robertson during the Philippine High-Level Mission to New Zealand organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

    The partnership focuses on collaborative research in digital health and medicine, faculty and student exchange programs, and the co-development of digital innovations aimed at enhancing healthcare systems and services. Both institutions expressed their commitment to working together in advancing global health outcomes through academic and technological collaboration.

    Dr. Villaruz emphasized that the partnership marks a significant step in WVSU’s pursuit of excellence and innovation in health sciences. He highlighted that the agreement not only supports the university’s research goals but also opens international pathways for students and faculty.

    With this new partnership, WVSU continues to position itself as a leader in global health education and digital transformation.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU named Heritage Awardee at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night

    WVSU named Heritage Awardee at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) is honored as a Heritage Awardee by the Iloilo City government at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night, held on June 26, 2025, at Diversion 21 Hotel, Mandurriao. 

    The awarding ceremony, organized by the Iloilo City Local Culture and Arts Council – Committee on Cultural Heritage Conservation, is part of the city’s extended celebration of the National Heritage Month. It recognizes the groups, institutions, and individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of local culture and heritage. 

    Dr. Mary Ann Dela Vega, Project Leader of the WVSU–Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG), is set to receive the award with the WVSU-CMPG team composed of the following key figures: Project Consultants: Joyce Christine D. Colon, Dr. Greta GabineteStudy Leaders: Dr. Rey Tantiado, Prof. Clyde Larroder, Ms. Kristine Joy Maquiliao, Ms. Jogie Marie Lenaugo, Mr. Henry John PrioLanguage Editor: Dr. Hazel P. Villa Photo and video documentation of the team’s work will be featured at the event, showcasing WVSU’s enduring impact on cultural heritage advocacy in the region. 

    This award highlights the University’s mission of developing lifelong learners empowered to generate knowledge and technology, and transform communities as agents of change. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels#WVSU

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  • WVSU-Janiuay Campus Secures CHED Permit to Offer BS Radiologic Technology Program

    WVSU-Janiuay Campus Secures CHED Permit to Offer BS Radiologic Technology Program

    West Visayas State University – Janiuay Campus proudly announces that its Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology program has been granted permission to operate its first and second-year levels for Academic Year 2025–2026, through Government Permit R6 No. 7, series of 2025, issued by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). 

    The introduction of this program was first unveiled by University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz during his State of the University Address earlier this year, as part of WVSU’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare sector and providing students with more pathways into medical careers. 

    While the permit is valid for AY 2025–2026 only, this milestone reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to expand its academic offerings in the medical and allied health fields—anchored in its core values of creativity, innovation, and service. Congratulations to the WVSU-Janiuay Campus community, especially its dedicated faculty and staff, for this significant achievement. 

    Text by Wina de la Cruz, with sources from WVSU – Janiuay Campus FB Page 

    #WVSUexcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations

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  • WVSU earns first-ever spot in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

    WVSU earns first-ever spot in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

    For the first time in its history, West Visayas State University (WVSU) has earned a place in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, marking a major milestone in its global journey toward academic excellence and sustainable development. 

    The university’s inclusion in the 2025 rankings was formally recognized during “Ranked & Recognized: A Celebration of PHEIs,” a national event organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and held at the CHED Central Office Auditorium in Quezon City on June 24, 2025. Representing the university at the ceremony was Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs. 

    The Impact Rankings assess universities worldwide based on their contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). WVSU ranked 1501+ overall, joining a select group of institutions recognized for advancing inclusive, sustainable, and transformative education. 

    WVSU made notable marks in several key SDGs:
    ✅ SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Ranked 1001–1500✅ SDG 4: Quality Education – Ranked 1501+
    ✅ SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Ranked 1001+
    ✅ SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Ranked 1501+ With 113 public and private HEIs recognized in the country, WVSU is also one of only six higher education institutions in Western Visayas commended for this achievement. 

    This international recognition underscores WVSU’s commitment to its institutional vision of transforming generations through education that is both globally relevant and locally responsive. As it continues to grow its impact, WVSU affirms its role as a forward-moving state university driving progress within and beyond national borders.

    #WVSUexcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations 

    Text by PAMCO

    Photos from VPAA, CHED

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  • CHED rolls out CMO 3 at WVSU to streamline SUC”s International travel in Region VI

    CHED rolls out CMO 3 at WVSU to streamline SUC”s International travel in Region VI

    To advance global engagement in higher education, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) officially rolled out the updated CMO No. 3, Series of 2025, at West Visayas State University (WVSU) on June 23, featuring Mr. Renz Giorgio Tibigar of the CHED International Affairs Service.

    The presentation focused on the “Updated Guidelines for Securing Authority to Travel Abroad for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across Region VI”, a vital framework aimed at streamlining foreign travel procedures, enhancing institutional accountability, and aligning international activities with national policy.

    Mr. Tibigar underscored the strategic role of International Relations Officers (IROs) in ensuring that all foreign travel requests are legitimate, necessary, and directly contribute to the university’s Strategic Internationalization Plan (SIP). He introduced the revised IAS Form 15, a crucial tool to evaluate and justify SUC travel requests. He also emphasized the importance of monitoring outcomes from international travel, such as joint research projects, improved student mobility, and strengthened linkages.

    To assist SUCs in assessing the legitimacy of invitations, CHED introduced a Toolkit on Red-Flagged Conferences and Organizations, continuously updated through the CHED-IAS platform. In line with transparency and integrity, Mr. Tibigar also reiterated that all trips partially or fully sponsored by private entities with pending transactions with SUCs are strictly prohibited.

    Another highlight was the clarification of exemptions from CHED travel clearance, which include CHED-funded initiatives, IAS-endorsed activities, and trips resulting from formal MOAs or MOUs. Also discussed were the transitionary provisions delegating travel processing functions from CHED Central to Regional Offices.

    The program concluded with Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, Officer-in-Charge and Chief Education Program Specialist and Internationalization (IZN) Focal Person of CHED Region VI, delivering the closing remarks, commending the collaboration among institutions and reiterating CHED’s full support for initiatives that champion internationalization in Philippine higher education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU hosts IRO oath ceremony, driving regional internationalization as council president

    WVSU hosts IRO oath ceremony, driving regional internationalization as council president

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) strengthened its role as a key driver of global academic engagement in Western Visayas as it hosted the Region VI International Relations Officers (IRO) Council Oath-Taking Ceremony today, June 23, at the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) hall.

    The ceremony gathered international relations officers from various higher education institutions across Western Visayas, all united under the shared vision of expanding the region’s global academic footprint.

    The event opened with warm welcome remarks from Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, WVSU Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation, who underscored the importance of regional unity and global engagement.

    “Today marks not just a ceremonial gathering but a declaration of our shared vision to elevate the international presence of our institutions,” Dr. Gabinete said.

    Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region VI, delivered an inspiring message during the program. He also led the oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the Region VI IRO Council.

    “The establishment of the IRO Council signals a strategic direction for Western Visayas. With the right leadership, collaboration, and commitment, our institutions can flourish in the global academic arena,” Dr. Alvarez said.

    Elected Officers of the Region VI IRO Council:

    • President: Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka (West Visayas State University)
    • Vice President for External Affairs: Ms. Jieza J. Napone (Iloilo Science and Technology University)
    • Vice President for Internal Affairs: Ms. Jennelyn A. Omadio (University of Antique)
    • Secretary: Dr. Marien A. Laureto (Capiz State University)
    • Assistant Secretary: Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice (Central Philippine University)
    • Treasurer: Dr. Jeanette G. Bayona (Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology)
    • Assistant Treasurer: Dr. Virmari S. Tan (John B. Lacson Maritime Foundation University)
    • Auditor: Dr. Manuel O. Malonisio (Aklan State University)
    • Business Manager: Dr. Mary F. Jane Tormon (Filamer Christian University)
    • PRO: Mr. John Paul P. Mondejar (University of San Agustin)


    The officers were first elected during the event “Activating Linkages: International Relations Officers Convergence” last May 27, 2025 at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST). The convergence served as the official launching of the Region VI IRO Council, a body envisioned to lead coordinated internationalization efforts across Western Visayas’ higher education institutions.

    As the council President, Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka is expected to steer the council toward fostering regional collaboration, sharing global best practices, and initiating cross-institutional projects aimed at enhancing the international standing of Region VI’s academic institutions.

    Today’s ceremony signifies not only the beginning of a leadership term but the dawning of a stronger, united front in positioning Region VI as a key player in global education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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