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STUDENT IUIS (Main Campus)

Category: News

  • 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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  • High-Level Mission to New Zealand sees Dr. Joselito Villaruz pursuing academic partnerships

    High-Level Mission to New Zealand sees Dr. Joselito Villaruz pursuing academic partnerships

    Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University (WVSU), is currently in New Zealand as part of the Philippine High-Level Mission organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), taking place from June 21 to 28, 2025 in the cities of Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin.

    The mission brings together key representatives from CHED and various higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines. Its primary goal is to expand international academic and research partnerships, particularly in the health sciences, as well as in other priority academic fields.

    This initiative provides an opportunity for Philippine delegates to visit and engage with leading universities and institutions in New Zealand. Through institutional visits, networking sessions, and collaborative dialogues, the mission aims to open new avenues for faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and international degree programs.

    Dr. Villaruz’s participation emphasizes WVSU’s commitment to global engagement and academic excellence. By actively taking part in international collaborations, WVSU continues to advance its role as a premier institution in health sciences and higher education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU Shines at 2025 PAEPI International Extension Congress in Siargao

    WVSU Shines at 2025 PAEPI International Extension Congress in Siargao

    Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte — June 12, 2025 In a shining moment of excellence and impact, West Visayas State University (WVSU) emerged as one of the top-performing institutions at the 2025 Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementors, Inc. (PAEPI) International Extension Congress, held in the scenic island of Siargao.

    With four major recognitions under its belt, WVSU proved once again that its extension work goes beyond boundaries—empowering communities, transforming lives, and championing innovation.

    With the congress theme “Embracing Science and Technology-Driven Extension Platforms for Sustainable and Inclusive Communities,” the event gathered thought leaders, researchers, and extension practitioners from across the Philippines and neighboring ASEAN nations to showcase transformative initiatives addressing today’s pressing development challenges. 

    WVSU took center stage in both paper and poster competitions with the following wins: 

    • 2nd Best Paper Award – Dr. Ricky P. Becodo for “Darag Native Chicken Production in Sara, Iloilo, Philippines: Strengthening Livelihoods and Resilience” (Entrepreneurship and Circular Economy category)
    • 2nd Best Paper Award – Prof. Sheila P. Beliran and Dr. Madonna S. Palmes for “Rays of HOPE: Empowering Caregivers, Transforming Community Health” (Health, Nutrition and Wellness category)
    •  3rd Best Paper Award – Dr. Virginia B. Parreñas of WVSU-Pototan Campus for “Residents’ Involvement in the Development of Competencies for Employment (RIDCE)” (Education and Development Studies category)
    • 3rd Best Poster Award – Dr. Julie Gay Blason- Quidato and Prof. Ma. Ernalyn B. Cepeda for “3P’s Program (Pagbulig Extension Project)”


    These recognitions underscore WVSU’s firm commitment to inclusive and evidence-based development. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative project design, and community-rooted solutions, the university continues to lead in shaping extension practices that matter. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels 

    By Dr. Ricky P. Becodo 

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  • WVSU, DOT Region VI sign MOA to train Aklan tour guides in Korean language

    WVSU, DOT Region VI sign MOA to train Aklan tour guides in Korean language

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VI formalized a partnership today, June 17, 2025, through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held at the WVSU Board Room. 

    The agreement launches the extension project titled “I Speak Foreign: Breaking the Language Barrier by Equipping the Tour Guides of Aklan with the Basic Korean Language Skill, Cultural Competence, and Ethics in Communication.” 

    The project aims to train local tour guides in Aklan in basic Korean, improve cultural understanding, and teach professional communication practices. This responds to the increasing number of Korean tourists in Boracay and the need for improved communication between them and local guides. 

    The event opened with a welcome message from Dr. Alexander Balsomo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), as he “hopes to see the impact and transition not only among our tour guides, but also towards the tourism community within the region”. 

    “Today marks not just the start of a project, but a deepening of a shared advocacy for accessible education and cultural understanding,” said Dr. Balsomo. 

    Dr. Joy Pantino, Chair of the CAS Department of Language Studies, presented the purpose of the project, and messages of support were given by WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and DOT Region VI Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez. 

    “May this partnership mark the beginning of more collaborative efforts in championing tourism excellence not just in Aklan, but in the greater Western Visayas region,” said RD Rodriguez. 

    The ceremony ended with closing remarks from Prof. Sheena Balinsoy, CAS Extension Coordinator. 

    The MOA marks a focused effort to support the tourism sector in Aklan by improving the skills of front-line workers. Through this initiative, WVSU and DOT Region VI aim to strengthen local capacity and improve the experience of foreign visitors. 

    #WVSUexcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations 

    By: JA Temelo/PAMCO

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  • WVSU strengthens partnership with Jeju National University on Digital Transformation (DX) for governance project

    WVSU strengthens partnership with Jeju National University on Digital Transformation (DX) for governance project

    Jeju Island, South Korea–West Visayas State University (WVSU) has significantly advanced its 17 years of long-standing partnership with Jeju National University (JNU) following a pivotal engagement with key officials from JNU’s Regional Innovation System and Education (RISE) initiative. This deepened collaboration centers on the ” Establishment of the Center for Digital Transformation for Governance” project at WVSU, a vital undertaking funded by the Department of Science and Technology-VI (DOST).


    This expanded partnership comes after a recent visit by WVSU delegates, who were part of the DOST-Western Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (WVCIEERD) international study mission to Jeju Island from June 16-20, 2025.


    Leading the WVSU team were Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Dean of the College of ICT and Project Leader of WVSU’s Center for Digital Transformation for Governance, and Mr. Shem Durst Elijah B. Sandig, a faculty member and researcher.


    A key highlight was their meeting with JNU President Eel-Hwan Kim, reaffirming the strong bond between the universities. They also met with Dr. Chul-Ung Kang, Vice President and Director of JNU-RISE, and Dr. Yung-Cheol Byun, a professor and director at JNU’s RIS Office for High-Intelligent Service.


    These discussions highlighted how WVSU’s digital transformation goals align with JNU’s RISE program, which focuses on regional development through technology. The goal is to boost digital transformation for governance and foster an innovation-driven Western Visayas, leveraging Jeju as a model of innovation.


    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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