Category: News

Dapog Manugsanlag (CON), Dapog Manugtuom (CAS), Dapog Manugpakas (CBM), and Dapog Manugsugba (COE) remain neck and neck as the four colleges secured five awards each in the eight competitions held across various categories—including essay writing, poetry writing, pagsulat ng sanaysay, pagsulat ng tula, extemporaneous speaking, oration, declamation, and storytelling. The results were announced, and winners were awarded on Jan. 28 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

Dapog Manuglagpang (COM) made a strong showing, sending out more representatives than in previous years. Their efforts paid off, as they emerged as one of the top-performing colleges with three awards. One participant even admitted to racing against time—juggling exams, supporting their team, and exploring campus buildings for the first time.

External campuses brought the heat as well. Dapog Manuglapwa (Pototan Campus) clinched first place in declamation. Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus) earned three awards, Dapog Manugkilaw (Janiuay Campus) took home two, and Dapog Manuglugaw (Lambunao Campus) secured one.

The 2025 University Days are now halfway through, but the festivities are far from over. Taga-West, busog na bala kita sa aton awards o gutom sa gihapon? Hala bira, magadigamo pa kita!

LITERARY WRITING:

ESSAY WRITING

1st – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

2nd – Dapog Manugmasa (CAF)

3rd – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

4. Dapog Manuglagpang (COM)
5. Dapog Manuglechon (COD)

POETRY WRITING

1st – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

2nd – Dapog Manuglagpang (COM)

3rd – Dapog Manugpaksiw (COL)

4. Dapog Manuglapay (COP)
5. Dapog Manuglugaw (Lambunao Campus)

PAGSULAT NG SANAYSAY

1st – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

2nd – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

3rd – Dapog Manugkilaw (Janiuay Campus)

4. Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)
5. Dapog Manuglapay (COP)

PAGSULAT NG TULA

1st – Dapog Manugmasa (CAF)

2nd – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

4. Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)
5. Dapog Manuglagpang (COM)

ENGLISH SPEECH:

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING

1st – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

2nd – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

3rd – Dapog Manugpaksiw (COL)

4. Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)
5. Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

ORATION

1st – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

2nd – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

4. Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)
5. Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

STORYTELLING

1st – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

2nd – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

4. Dapog Manugpangat (COC)
5. Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

DECLAMATION

1st – Dapog Manuglapwa (Pototan Campus)

2nd – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

3rd – Dapog Manugkilaw (Janiuay Campus)

4. Dapog Manuglechon (COD)
5. Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

Story by Jamaica Jade Senagonia/The Courier

Photos by April Macantan/The Courier

Dapog Manugtuom of the College of Arts and Sciences mastered the perfect blend of brainpower, strategies, and determination to serve a savory dish of victory as they reign supreme in this year’s Quiz Bowl competition on the third day of the University Days, defeating 15 other colleges and external campuses.

The team demonstrated a powerful combination of intellect and teamwork with members from, AB Political Science, BS Applied Mathematics, BS Chemistry, and BS Biology students; Morpheus Lei Yarra, Judel Ann Gallo, Ma. Amelia del Rosario, Renz Albert Sanchez, Sharlimar Faith Calimutan of the Dapog Manugtuom from the College of Arts and Science dominated the said competition, correctly answering the diverse range of questions across fields including Science, Mathematics, Literature, and Social Sciences.

One of the participants, Judel Ann Gallo, said that it is their strategy that enabled them to win the competition stating that they have been reviewing way before the competition even during the vacation, and CAS having their own specializations gave them an advantage in the competition.

“Our strategy was that each of us—since, of course, CAS has its own specializations—we utilized that. One thing that really helped us win was that, from previous years, we observed that math is often a weakness for everyone, and no one could really answer the math questions. So, once you have someone on your team who is really strong in math, you’ll have an advantage. Luckily for us, we had someone from Applied Math in CAS, and I truly believe that was one key factor that helped us win,” Gallo shared.

Gallo’s reflection on their strategy was followed by a personal moment of fulfillment, as she looked back on their previous second-place finish on the same competition last year.

“Since this is the second time na nag-join ako kag last year we were 2^nd, ka very fulfilling nga this year kami [College of Arts and Sciences] nagdaog,” Gallo added.

With the CAS taking the first place, the College of Nursing placed 2nd, and the Integrated Laboratory School claimed third place after winning the clincher round against the College of Medicine who settled on the 4th spot, while the College of Education secured 5th place.

Story by Gierson Bordon and Sophia Taton/ Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Knit Nicole Ivan Capiña and Rejena Abelarde Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

The Ilonggo Music Festival at West Visayas State University (WVSU) brought together alumni, students, and faculty for a celebration of tradition, creativity, and camaraderie during the 2025 University Days on its first day, Jan. 27, 2025.

The event opened with a heartfelt performance by the WVSU Panayana Cultural Group, featuring the National Anthem, a solemn prayer, and the WVSU Hymn. The performance set the stage for a program highlighting the university’s cultural heritage and strong sense of community.

University President Joselito F. Villaruz addressed the audience, emphasizing the institution’s growth, milestones, and the contributions of its alumni. His speech underscored WVSU’s dedication to academic excellence and its impact on the community, resonating with the gathered alumni.

The festival featured a “Binalaybay” (Poetry) competition, where five alumni showcased original pieces inspired by the theme “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities.” Their performances reflected personal experiences and collective memories, celebrating both individual artistry and the university’s literary tradition.

Following the competition, alumni reconnected over a lively barbecue party, rekindling old friendships, and sharing stories. Attendees praised the event as a meaningful opportunity to bond over shared experiences. “The food is well, okay na sakon ang food. Sa experience, learning kag achievement nga ma-acquire mo and ma-treasure for the rest of your life,” one alumna shared.

Another highlight was the Ilonggo Folksong Competition, where five contestants performed traditional Ilonggo songs with their own creative interpretations. Mr. Ryan Calica’s rendition of “Iloilo, Banwang Pinalangga” evoked nostalgia, while Mr. Angelou Deloguines energized the crowd with “Inday.” The performances celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Ilonggo music, blending tradition with contemporary expression.

The festival successfully blended cultural appreciation, nostalgia, and community spirit, offering a space for alumni to reflect on their university journey while celebrating WVSU’s lasting legacy. The event reaffirmed the strong ties between alumni and their alma mater, ensuring that Ilonggo music and tradition continue to thrive.

Story by John Paul Lopez and Meriel Faith Dumapit/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Vinson Miguel Jalandoni and Samantha Reigh Hallares/ Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

The rhythmic pulse of poetry and the soulful strains of Ilonggo melodies filled the New Academic Building (NAB) quadrangle of West Visayas State University (WVSU) on Jan. 27, as some 600 alumni and faculty from across generations gathered for a night of nostalgia and tradition. The cultural showcase marked the start of the 2025 University Days, a heartfelt reunion underscoring shared heritage and enduring bonds.

The event, part of the WVSU Alumni Homecoming, carried the theme “Kilit-anay sa West,” a phrase that translates to “Reuniting at West.” For many alumni, it was more than just a homecoming-it was a return to the moments that shaped their lives. Poets, musicians, and old friends came together, their voices blending in a celebration of the institution’s rich legacy.

Anchored in the broader theme, “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” alumni took to the stage, their verses and songs bridging past and present.

Dr. Eleonora Padilla, a faculty of the College of Arts and Sciences in the WVSU main campus set a high poetic bar with her witty reflections on the university’s journey, blending fond memories with a recognition of its triumphs. Prof. Frank Bebit, also a WVSU faculty member, captivated the crowd with a stirring tribute to WVSU’s tradition of excellence, a legacy that, he said, helped shape the paths of many graduates. Meanwhile, College of Communications Prof. Raffy Galan’s impromptu yet compelling narrative had the audience erupting in laughter and admiration as he wove tales of the university’s most distinguished alumni.

A highlight of the evening was the Folksong Competition, where performers evoked a deep sense of local pride. Mr. Ryan Calica’s rendition of “Iloilo, Banwang Pinalangga” transported listeners to the golden days of Ilonggo heritage, while Mr. Angelou Deloguines charmed the crowd with his playful take on “Inday.” The competition was more than just a showcase of talent-it was a celebration of culture, tradition, and the timeless power of music to unite people.

For many attendees, the homecoming was an emotional reunion decade in the making. Mrs. Marie Evyleen Larsen, an alumna from High School Batch 1985, expressed her joy at reconnecting with classmates from different parts of the world. “It’s amazing to see familiar faces after so many years. The event truly brought us back to the heart of our youth,” she said.

For Mr. Evaristo Buaya, a 1975 graduate, the gathering was nothing short of a milestone. “After 50 years, we finally got to see each other in person,” he said, recalling both the struggles and joys of college life. “We may have kept in touch online, but nothing compares to sharing stories face-to-face.”

The evening’s festivities were complemented by a spread of Ilonggo cuisine, allowing alumni to indulge in the familiar flavors of home. For many, each bite was a reminder of cherished moments spent in the university’s halls.

More than just a reunion, the WVSU Alumni Homecoming was a bridge between past and present, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the unbreakable bond between the university and those who once called it home.

Story by Angela Acanto and Mary Lynette Trio/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Vinson Miguel Jalandoni and Samantha Reign Hallares/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) competing as “Dapog Manugtuom,” emerged as the champion in this year’s West Visayas State University (WVSU) University Days quiz bowl held Jan. 29 at the Research Building Function Hall.

The CAS team secured first place with a commanding 81 points, demonstrating consistent dominance across four rounds: beginner, intermediate, difficult, and advanced.

The College of Nursing’s “Dapog Manugsanlag” followed in second place with 63 points.

The battle for third place intensified as the College of Medicine’s “Dapog Manuglagpang” and the Integrated Laboratory School’s “Dapog Manuglupak” faced a nail-biting clincher round after tying at 62 points. “Dapog Manuglupak” ultimately emerged victorious.

Ma. Amelia Del Rosario of the champion team attributed their success to early preparation and strategic teamwork.

“A week before classes started, we already began reviewing the topics and answering practice questions. We also divided focus subjects among team members to be efficient. But the main ingredient behind our success is our teamwork,” Del Rosario said.

The event concluded with the awarding of winners, receiving resounding applause from spectators.

The quiz bowl showcased the academic excellence and competitive spirit of WVSU students while fostering camaraderie and friendly rivalry among participants.

Story by Maria Lorraine Callanga/The Innovator

Photos by Ena Kristelle De Nuevo/The Innovator

ILOILO CITY – A diverse cast of performers captivated a bustling crowd that filled the West Visayas State University’s Cultural Center to capacity on January 28 during the Character Interpretation Contest, as part of the University Week 2025 celebration. From festive cheers to thunderous applause, the audience was clearly enthralled by their dynamic portrayals.

The contest left a lasting impression on spectators, as each contestant emphasized the significance of raw emotions behind every character, giving justice to the competition’s true essence: to transform inspiration into reality.

“For me, I truly enjoyed and loved the performances,” said Mhara Joyce A. Castilla, a freshman from the College of Arts and Sciences, after expressing her satisfaction with the event. “Some parts were very entertaining, while others impressed me with the performers’ ability to accurately copy the characters.”

Helen Joy C. Dabucos, a freshman from the College of Agriculture and Forestry, shared a similar experience: “It was very inspiring to see the performers’ artistic sides truly exposed, especially the way they incorporated ad-libs into their performances.”

Featuring 16 contestants, the competition provided a platform for the main and external campuses to showcase diverse personas, from heroic legends to misunderstood villains, exploring the artistic play of portrayal and the awareness of distinct personalities.

Representing the College of Communication, fourth-year Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting (BAB) major Lyka S. Sandiego, emphasized her enthusiasm for representing her college for the last year after participating in the event for the past three consecutive years.

“It was a fun and thrilling experience for me, but also overwhelming,” she said. “I will be leaving college life soon, and I just wanted to enjoy the moment of being here at West and performing for the crowd while representing my college.”

The character interpretation contest ran from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the results set to be announced at the Cultural Center along with the results of other competitions for the day. The results will also be posted on the official WVSU page.

Story by Elyza Cantomayor/The Innovator

Photos by Ena Kristelle De Nuevo

Student entrants showcased their oratory skills during the 2025 West Visayas State University (WVSU) U-Days English Speech Competition on January 28 at the New Academic Building Function Hall. The event, featuring storytelling and declamation, had contestants impressing the crowd with their creative renditions of various speeches.

The afternoon program commenced with storytelling, having a total of 14 contenders from various colleges and external campuses that captivated the audience with their powerful delivery of Leoncio P. Deriada’s story compilation.

Lance Enriquez from Dapog Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences) kicked off his rendition of The Dog Eaters by asking the audience, “What happens after happily ever after?” Reflecting on his performance, Enriquez shared, “This is actually my first time competing at this point of my life. It feels good. I hope you guys enjoyed it.”

The storytelling segment set the tone for the competition, exhibiting creativity and passion of each contestant as they brought Deriada’s stories to life.

Following on the same venue was the declamation contest, where 16 participants representing their departments and campuses took the stage to deliver original prose pieces, demonstrating their declamatory skills with shifting voices and characters that kept the audience locked in.

An orator from Dapog Manuglapwa (Pototan Campus), Aisha Gail Bebit, shared her favorite part in an interview after her performance: “It’s not about forcing pieces together; it’s about creating new ones.” This line is from her declamation piece, The Innovator’s Journey.

Aileish Kate Jaudian, a performer from the College of Information and Communications, pushed through nerves and a forgotten line during the execution of her composition, Fell from Grace. “The added pressure from the audience was scary,” she admitted, mentioning that she was still proud to represent Dapog Manugbusa.

The contestants were evaluated by a panel of professional and notable public speakers: Cynia Mirasol, Iris Lacuesta, and former WVSU Prof. Maria Eloisa Yap. Results were released on the same day at the WVSU Cultural Center.

Story by Rosema Kamsa and Abbygale Hope Abasolo/Pagyuhum Publication

Photos by Pagyuhum Publication

The Fair on Innovation, Research, and Extension Services (FIRES) 2025 marked its third year on Jan. 28 at West Visayas State University’s Research and Extension Building, showcasing exceptional works by faculty, students, and research partners.

The event, held on the fourth floor at 2 p.m., featured projects highlighting research, extension services, and innovations aimed at addressing societal challenges and fostering development.

In his opening remarks, West Visayas State University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the event’s importance in driving knowledge and creativity.

“This event showcases the outstanding work of our faculty, our students, and partners, highlighting the groundbreaking contributions that strengthen our university’s mission,” Villaruz said. He urged attendees to “remain committed to excellence, push the boundaries of knowledge, and inspire one another in our pursuit for development.”

Each presenter was given 10 minutes to explain their project’s purpose and functionality. The projects, many of which have received national and international recognition, highlighted the ingenuity and dedication of Taga-West researchers and innovators.

Student-led initiatives addressed pressing public concerns, demonstrating the transformative role of research in advancing economic and environmental sustainability.

FIRES 2025 concluded with renewed inspiration among participants, reaffirming the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in research, extension, and development.

Story by Jake Ramira/The Innovator

Photos by Sheldon Balinas/The Innovator

By the time the Agro-Industrial Fair opened its doors on January 27, marking the first day of University Days, colorful stalls bustled with enthusiastic patrons. Yet one stall stood noticeably different—not because it lacked appeal, but because it was nearly wiped clean. The Alimodian Agriculture Cooperative (Seven Cities) had already sold most of its produce, leaving the women running the booth with little else to do but relax.

 

Seated behind a tower of empty baskets, Virgie Aldamar, 60, and Imelda Catanus, 67, seemed pleasantly surprised by their swift success. It was only 1 p.m., yet they were already making calls back home to replenish their inventory. The demand spoke volumes about the quality of their produce.

 

“High-value crops,” they called them. Bell peppers, cabbages, carrots, tomatoes, string beans, sayote—everything had flown off the table by midday. All these vegetables were grown on their own land and nurtured through advanced farming techniques, including greenhouse cultivation, a new addition they built in March of last year.

 

Virgie and Imelda shared another innovation they swear by: Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) as a natural alternative to conventional fertilizers. These microorganisms, which include fungi, bacteria, and yeast found in soil and living organisms, not only speed up plant growth but also reduce toxic chemicals in the soil. They adopted this method after attending seminars hosted by the Korea International Cooperation Agency, which has partnered with the Department of Agriculture for three decades to strengthen Philippine agriculture.

 

For Virgie and Imelda, farming is both heritage and innovation. They’ve been vending vegetables as cooperative members for four years, but their farming roots go deeper. “Since then,” they answered simply when asked how long they’d been cultivating crops. They inherited their green thumbs from parents who farmed rice and corn fields.

 

Their produce is more than just a product of soil and rain—it’s a fusion of traditional wisdom and forward-thinking technology. Breaking away from chemical-heavy fertilizers, they believe, results in healthier crops and healthier lives.

 

Their success at the fair wasn’t just about their high-value crops, though. While other vendors leisurely set up their stalls, Virgie and Imelda were ready for business by 9 a.m., proving that the early bird truly does get the worm—and, in this case, gets to relax far earlier than the rest of the flock.

 

Story by Trixie Aurelia Ningas, Hazelyn Aliboso, Ryde Rendell Ponsaran, and Kaela Jamelo/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Trixie Aurelia Ningas

More than a ceremonial tradition, the annual State of the University Address (SUA) at West Visayas State University has become a platform for reflection, recognition, and goal-setting. This year’s address, delivered by President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz at the WVSU Cultural Center, struck a chord with the audience, eliciting both tears and inspiration with its focus on opportunity, growth, and education’s role in driving social change.

President Villaruz’s speech, delivered in a reflective, monologue-like style, not only highlighted the university’s achievements but also sparked conversations among students and faculty on the institution’s future direction.

Kurt Gamo, a second-year BS Computer Science student from the College of Information and Communications Technology, expressed excitement about the university’s growing international engagements. “What stood out to me was Dr. Villaruz’s emphasis on international affairs. It’s exciting for us students to have opportunities to learn from and exchange experiences with other universities abroad,” Gamo said.

The desire for global opportunities and a strong commitment to academic growth emerged as common themes among audience members. For Roberto Villanueva, a professor at the College of Law and College of Medicine and Chair of the WVSU Unified Research Ethics Review Committee, the president’s message was clear and ambitious.

“He gave us a comprehensive rundown of the university’s accomplishments and future plans. These plans are ambitious but achievable with the right support from the administration,” Villanueva said.

The SUA resonated deeply with students and faculty, highlighting a shared vision for growth, global engagement, and the transformative power of education. As the university continues to evolve, the address served as a rallying call for the community to actively shape their academic environment and contribute to the institution’s ongoing progress.

This year’s address also prompted students to reflect on their roles as active participants in WVSU’s narrative. As they navigate their academic journey, they are inspired to seize new opportunities and be catalysts for positive change.

Story by Frances Erica Salcedo, Reamae Velasco, and Gene Joy Gabasa/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Reamae Velasco