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STUDENT IUIS (Main Campus)

Category: News

  • DevCom faculty, students presents K-pop research at 10PKSS in UP Diliman

    DevCom faculty, students presents K-pop research at 10PKSS in UP Diliman

    Analyzing the intersectionality of Korean pop and youth civic engagement, a research team from the Development Communication Division of the WVSU College of Communication presented their research “From stans to active citizens: Spaces and motivations for civic (re)engagement in K-pop fandoms in the Philippines” at the 10th Philippine Korean Studies Symposium (10PKSS) last April 28-29, 2025 at the University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.

    Joesyl Marie D. Aranas, faculty of DevCom Division, worked with third-year development communication students, Lyann Marie S. Española and Sarah Margaret G. Gavile, to make sense of the growing youth civic disengagement and apathy among the current generation. The study posits that today’s young people didn’t lose their civic sensibilities; it merely shifted to new modes.

    The research team, all fans of Korean pop music and culture, looked into one of the most novel and emerging spaces where young people practice their active citizenship, “fandom-driven civic engagements.” This is where members of K-pop fandoms launched donation drives during national emergencies, volunteered in environmental and education causes, and supported advocacies for social change.

    The study identified the type and level of civic engagement conducted by Philippine fandoms, focusing on initiatives of Philippine-based BTS ARMYs, and mapped these efforts into the existing civic engagement space. They also explored what motivates fandoms to conduct these civic actions. Furthermore, the study supports the recommendations of various existing literature that calls for the redefining and reconceptualizing of youth civic engagement and active citizenship.

    This study is a product of a research mentoring program fostered by the College of Communication’s Development Communication Division and the WVSU Development Communicators’ Society.

    “These collaborative research efforts of our faculty and students have demonstrated the impact that comes when students are empowered to explore the topics that genuinely matter to them. We plan on harnessing and exploring more of that, given how multidisciplinary communication research can be,” said Dr. Rona Dhel Alingasa, dean of the College of Communication.

    This international symposium was organized by the UP Korean Research Center and sponsored by the Korean Foundation.

    Text by Joesyl Marie Aranas
    Photo by UP Korean Research Center and UP Department of Linguistics

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  • WVSU employees enjoy pampering services in Labor Day celebration

    WVSU employees enjoy pampering services in Labor Day celebration

    Employees of West Visayas State University (WVSU) took a well-deserved break from their daily routines as they enjoyed a variety of wellness and self-care services during the “Araw ng Pagpapahalaga sa mga Empleyado ng WVSU”, held on May 2, 2025, at Room 102 of the College of Medicine. 

    In celebration of Labor Day, non-teaching staff indulged in free pampering services including massages, foot spas, manicures, pedicures, and haircuts. A total of 27 employees availed themselves of massage services, 64 received manicure and pedicure treatments, and 19 opted for haircuts.

    In addition to these services, 57 lucky employees were awarded cash prizes during raffle draws as part of the celebration.

    Adding to the festive atmosphere was a talent show that brought energy and excitement to the venue. The activity was part of WVSU’s continuing commitment to employee well-being and appreciation, in line with the nationwide observance of Labor Day. 

    Text by JA Temelo/PAMCO
    Photos by OVPAF 

    #WVSUexcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations

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  • WVSU, NCIP, LGU Calinog sign MOA to advance Indigenous Peoples Education

    WVSU, NCIP, LGU Calinog sign MOA to advance Indigenous Peoples Education

    In a historic move to promote Indigenous Peoples (IP) education and cultural preservation, West Visayas State University (WVSU) Calinog Campus, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region VI, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calinog officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, May 6, 2025.

    The MOA signing ceremony was led by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, NCIP Regional Director for Regions VI and VII Princess May Alcarde-Oral, and Mr. Renato Casinao, Indigenous Peoples Focal Person and Executive Assistant, who represented the LGU of Calinog.

    Under the agreement, WVSU Calinog Campus, NCIP Region VI, and LGU Calinog will collaboratively design academic programs that reflect the cultural identities and traditional wisdom of indigenous communities. The integration of indigenous perspectives into the curriculum is seen as a transformative step toward a more inclusive and contextually relevant education system. A specialized program for Indigenous Peoples Education is also planned to further institutionalize this approach.

    The partnership also emphasizes the importance of research and documentation, with the three parties committing to joint studies focusing on indigenous traditions, environmental practices, and sustainable development. NCIP will play a key role in providing cultural oversight and legal guidance to ensure respect for IP rights and heritage throughout the process.

    In line with community extension services, the agreement outlines the organization of cultural events, festivals, and workshops aimed at celebrating and preserving indigenous cultures. The establishment of community-based Sarantes, mobile education services, and an IP Village as a cultural and educational hub is also part of the long-term vision of the partnership.

    Capacity building and professional development will also be central to the collaboration. Educators, researchers, and community leaders will benefit from targeted training and workshops to enhance their skills in indigenous education and engagement. Resource-sharing mechanisms will be developed to support sustainable and collaborative project implementation.

    Also present during the signing were Dr. Rosario Clarabel Contreras-Leda, WVSU Calinog Campus Administrator; Dr. Marie L. Candy Celeste, Director of Academic Affairs; Dr. Elias A. Olapane, Calinog Research Head and Internationalization Coordinator; and Miss Dinna Joy P. Otayde, Peace Coordinator of Calinog Campus.

    This partnership reflects a strong commitment to equity in education, cultural empowerment, and sustainable community development, marking a new chapter in the recognition and integration of Indigenous Peoples’ heritage within academic and local governance frameworks.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU Drop-in Center showcases sports and summer fun at open house

    WVSU Drop-in Center showcases sports and summer fun at open house

    The West Visayas State University Drop-in Center hosted its “Sports and Splash” Open House on April 30, offering children a day of active play and colorful summer celebration.

    The Open House was a whole-day event held at the WVSU Rehearsal Hall. The event featured sports activities, dynamic games, and a lively dance presentation aimed at promoting physical fitness and social engagement.

    Children arrived in sporty outfits and later switched to bright summer attire as they embraced the spirit of the season. 

    Center officials highlighted the importance of face-to-face interaction in early childhood, noting that in-person activities help build confidence, social skills, and peer connections. Families capped off the day with a shared potluck, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. 

    The Drop-in Center will hold its Moving-up Ceremony on May 26, 2025. 

    By: DO Callosa/PAMCO

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  • College of Communication explores citizen-centered media at forum

    College of Communication explores citizen-centered media at forum

    The College of Communication hosted the “Citizentric Communication Forum: Current State of Philippine Community Media and Reporting” on May 2, 2025, highlighting evolving trends in media and content creation that journalists and creators can apply to their work. This was a whole-day event that took place at the WVSU Rehearsal Hall.

    Leading the discussion was Voltaire Tupaz, co-founder and executive director of Fyt Media, who emphasized a community-centered approach to producing and broadcasting information.

    The forum introduced the FEET framework—Factual, Ethical, Emotional, and Timely—as a guide for responsible journalism and impactful storytelling in today’s fast-changing media landscape.

    Students also participated in a hands-on workshop where they presented infographics, posters, and video outputs, receiving constructive feedback from Tupaz.

    The event aimed to equip future media practitioners with practical tools to strengthen their creative work and meet the shifting demands of modern journalism.

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  • WVSU celebrates employees with wellness day and raffle on Labor Day

    WVSU celebrates employees with wellness day and raffle on Labor Day

    West Visayas State University honored its employees in celebration of Labor Day on May 2, 2025, at Room 102 of the College of Medicine Building. With the theme “Araw ng Pagpapahalaga para sa mga Empleyado”, the event highlighted the workforce’s vital role in sustaining the university’s tradition of excellence.

    Employees enjoyed free haircuts, massages, and wellness services throughout the day, along with a simple lunch gathering and a raffle draw. In a brief message, WVSU Administrator Julius P. Undar thanked the workforce for their daily efforts and underscored their contribution to the university’s continued success.

    Employees also shared words of appreciation for one another and for the university’s ongoing support. The celebration served as a meaningful tribute to the people who drive the university forward. 

    By: DO Callosa/PAMCO 

    #LaborDay2025 #WVSUCares

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  • WVSU Calinog Students wrap up UTM exchange with presentations and performances

    WVSU Calinog Students wrap up UTM exchange with presentations and performances

    Johor Bahru, Malaysia – May 2, 2026 — Two fourth-year education students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) – Calinog Campus, Nessie Pañada and Benjamin Copita, Jr., marked the culmination of their student exchange program at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) with a presentations and performances during the official closing ceremony held today.

    Pañada, a Bachelor of Elementary Education student, and Copita, a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English, shared what they learned during the program in their presentation on “Teaching Strategies and Methodologies,” where they discussed how they created comfortable and inclusive classroom environments, integrated digital tools such as Kahoot, My Line, and 2D/3D animations in instruction, and utilized QR codes for both attendance and student activities. They also reflected on their experience observing feedback sessions with student researchers, which enriched their perspective on educational practices.

    Their experience extended beyond the classroom. Pañada and Copita engaged in Malaysian cultural activities including the Malam Kebudayaan Pesta Tanglung 2025, Language Academy’s Hari Raya Celebration, and various events organized by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. These activities allowed them to interact closely with UTM students, fostering meaningful cross-cultural exchanges.

    As part of their lesson planning and teaching practice, both students designed and delivered lessons that were responsive to student needs. They leveraged technology throughout the instructional process—from warm-up activities to lesson conclusions—demonstrating innovation and adaptability in their approach.

    They also participated in international seminars and research presentations, where they gained deeper insight into emerging trends in global education, including Participatory Action Research and the role of Artificial Intelligence in teaching. Observing graduate students’ research further broadened their understanding of academic standards and research practices in both Malaysia and the Philippines.

    This exchange program is a result of the university’s expanding internationalization efforts. It is recalled that in July 2024, a delegation from WVSU—led by University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Calinog Campus Administrator Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, International and Local Linkages Director Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, and Calinog Research Head Dr. Elias Olapane—visited UTM to strengthen institutional collaboration.

    The program affirms WVSU’s commitment to fostering international linkages and providing students with global learning opportunities that enhance both their academic and cultural perspectives.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • The French Connection: Enzo Muñoz wraps up Teaching and Cultural Internship at WVSU

    The French Connection: Enzo Muñoz wraps up Teaching and Cultural Internship at WVSU

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to pave the way for global collaboration and cultural exchange through its international internship program, as it honored Mr. Enzo Muñoz during the closing ceremony of his internship at the university.

    Mr. Muñoz, a French education intern from the Master Métiers de l’Enseignement, de l’Éducation et de la Formation (MEEF) program at INSPÉ de Toulouse, Université Toulouse II, France, spent two months under the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) of WVSU.

    Throughout his stay, Mr. Muñoz conducted French classes for journalism students, led crash courses on French language and culture across external campuses, and actively engaged with the university’s internationalization projects.

    “I was given this opportunity to do my internship here at West, specifically under ILLO, I taught French to journalism students, handled crash courses, and was exposed to internationalization projects. I’d like to thank Ma’am Edel for trusting me and giving me complete pedagogical freedom. I was able to share my knowledge and culture with the students—and they also taught me about theirs. It was truly an enriching experience”, he said.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, warmly welcomed attendees and extended her heartfelt thanks to Mr. Muñoz for his passion, dedication, and the international perspective he brought to the university.

    Faculty members who worked closely with Mr. Muñoz also shared their experiences. Dr. Joyce Colon, faculty from College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) commended his insightful contributions during her Reading in Philippine History class. Prof. Raffy Galan, faculty member from College of Communication (COC) praised Enzo’s openness to learning and cultural immersion as he participated in a Hiligaynon class, demonstrating his eagerness to connect with the local community.

    The ceremony also featured messages from ILLO staff, as well as fellow international interns Mertxe and Pilar from the Basque Country, Spain. Both shared their experiences collaborating with Enzo, reflecting on the cross-cultural connections they formed during their time at WVSU.

    Students of the French language courses expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Muñoz’s creative, interactive teaching style. Members of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors acknowledged how the internship helped strengthen cultural bridges and fostered international understanding.

    With programs like this, WVSU continues to make opportunities for intercultural learning and solidify its commitment to becoming a globally engaged institution—truly living up to its promise of building “The French Connection” and beyond.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Perspective from the Ground: WVSU forum highlights responsible reporting and resilience

    Perspective from the Ground: WVSU forum highlights responsible reporting and resilience

    West Visayas State University is currently holding a forum titled “Perspectives from the Ground: Building Resilience, Positive Responses through Responsible Reporting” at the WVSU Board Room today, April 30, 2025.

    Organized by the International and Local Linkages Office, in partnership with the third-year Bachelor of Arts in Journalism students of the College of Communication (COC) and the Center for Peace Education, the forum features speakers from diverse fields sharing real-world experiences and insights on ethical journalism, peacebuilding, and community resilience.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office and a professor of Peace Journalism, welcomed the participants by highlighting the crucial role of media in shaping public perception and advancing peace, especially in times of crisis. She stressed the need for future journalists to ground their reporting in empathy, accuracy, and social responsibility.

    “In a world increasingly marked by conflict, division, and misinformation, the role of peace journalism has never been more critical. This approach challenges us to go beyond headlines, to explore the deeper causes of conflict, and to give voice to those often left unheard. It reminds us that journalism is not just about reporting events—it is also about how we report them, and the impact our words have on peace, understanding, and unity”, she said.

    The forum features a diverse panel of speakers with expertise grounded in real-world experience. Among them are Ms. Alexia Galera, a Bachelor of Secondary Education student from WVSU-Janiuay Campus; Atty. Ariel I. Ballega, Information Technology Officer I at the Department of Education in Negros Occidental; PMAJ Shiela Mae A. Sangrines, spokesperson for the Iloilo City Police Office; and Mr. Moshe Jobel Aranas, a videographer, editor, and documentarist.

    An open floor discussion provides participants the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers, deepening the conversation on the role of journalism in addressing conflict, promoting understanding, and responding to crises with accuracy and empathy. Mr. Ramon Belleno III, faculty member of WVSU’s College of Arts and Sciences, and Mr. Gierson Bordon, BAJ Student, serves as the reactor for the event, offering reflections and insights on the themes discussed.

    The forum underscores WVSU’s continued commitment to peace education and journalistic integrity, empowering future communicators to become responsible storytellers and agents of positive change.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Sustainability Without Borders: Interns from Spain and France spark environmental conversations in Capiz

    Sustainability Without Borders: Interns from Spain and France spark environmental conversations in Capiz

    Roxas City, Capiz – April 29, 2025 — A convergence of international insights and local commitment marked the Symposium and Open Dialogue on Environmental Sustainability. International interns from West Visayas State University—Mertxe and Pilar from Basque, Spain, and Enzo from Toulouse, France—shared lessons from global environmental governance models and their relevance to Capiz’s ongoing sustainability efforts.

    Opening Messages and Institutional Support

    The symposium opened with a welcome address by Mr. Ronald Allan F. Cullo, Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Capiz. He emphasized the urgency of climate resilience and expressed gratitude for the knowledge exchange enabled by the presence of the international interns.

    Dr. Antoniette Cortez, Director of the WVSU Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE), delivered an empowering message on the critical role of educators in fostering environmental consciousness. She called for academic institutions to take the lead in developing future stewards of the environment.

    Forum on Environmental Literacy and Community Empowerment

    A key highlight of the symposium was the in-depth dialogue on environmental literacy, where both international and local voices stressed the need to embed sustainability education in formal curricula and community engagement programs.

    The interns praised their experience in Capiz, noting the province’s potential for innovative environmental action through strengthened community participation and educational reform. Their testimonies underscored that informed citizens are essential to successful environmental governance.

    Sectoral Updates from Environmental Leaders

    Local environmental officials offered comprehensive updates on Capiz’s sustainability programs. Moon Alinsangan, DMO I and head of the Information, Communication and Education/Climate Change Adaptation Section, highlighted awareness campaigns tailored for schools and barangays.

    For. Kiua Mariz Chavez-Penuela, EMS I and head of Forest Management Services, discussed current reforestation and biodiversity conservation projects.

    Agr. Reynald Dejapa, EMS I and head of Coastal Resource Management, detailed mangrove rehabilitation and marine protection efforts.

    Ma. Lyn L. Ronzales, EMS I and head of Pollution Control and Solid Waste Management, presented on waste reduction and community-based segregation initiatives.

    Grassroots Perspectives and Reflections

    Adding depth to the local dialogue, Jeff Finnagan Schwartz, a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, shared experiences from his community-based work in Capiz, reinforcing the message that sustainable change begins at the grassroots level.

    Dr. Harold O. Beunvenida, Director of the Capiz Ecology and Conservation Center, concluded the panel discussions by emphasizing the need to balance ecological protection with socio-economic development. He noted that learning from other regions, while anchoring solutions in local culture and context, is key to long-term sustainability.

    A Shared Path Toward Sustainability

    The exchange of ideas—enriched by the international interns’ global experiences—highlighted the universal nature of environmental challenges and the collective responsibility to address them through education, inclusive governance, and local empowerment.

    Participants capped off the event with a guided tour of the Capiz Provincial Park and the Philippine Native Tree Arboretum—symbols of the province’s dedication to biodiversity and ecological education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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