Category: News

West Visayas State University (WVSU) launched its first-ever medical-dental mission during University Week on Jan. 29, providing accessible healthcare services to students, staff, and stakeholders.

The event, spearheaded by the Office of the Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences, featured various health services, including medical checkups, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology consultations, dental checkups, fasting blood sugar tests, and hepatitis B surface antigen screenings. A blood donation drive was also conducted in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross.

Dr. Celina Gellada, WVSU vice president for medical and allied sciences, expressed pride in the groundbreaking initiative.

“This is the first time a medical-dental mission was conducted during University Week,” Gellada said.

Services were spread across different venues. The College of Medicine’s Roxas Hall hosted the blood donation drive and OB-GYN consultations, while the University Clinic facilitated general medical checkups and pediatrics. The College of Dentistry focused on dental services.

She emphasized the mission’s importance in promoting a healthier campus workforce and community, noting how health concerns impact productivity.

“When an employee, student, or any family member is inflicted with a disease, everyone is affected. This medical mission is inclusive to other stakeholders as well,” she said.

Gellada extended gratitude to partner sectors and organizations, including the Order of Asclepius from the College of Medicine, the Philippine Red Cross, the College of Dentistry, and the University Health Services, for their collaborative efforts.

The medical mission continued until the afternoon to accommodate more beneficiaries, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering wellness and productivity within its community.

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

Some 100 beneficiaries, including West Visayas State University (WVSU) students, employees, and their dependents, availed themselves of free health services during a joint medical-dental mission conducted by the College of Medicine (COM), College of Dentistry (COD), and University Medical Center (UMC) on Jan. 28.

The mission, held as part of the 2025 University Days celebration, offered essential health screenings and consultations. Among the services provided were 100 fasting blood sugar (FBS) tests, 50 Pap smear exams, 50 eye checkups, and 80 dental checkups. Limited hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) screening was also conducted for healthcare workers and students from COM, the College of Nursing (CON), and COD.

The FBS and HbsAg screenings were conducted at the University Clinic, while the pap smear was performed at the COM clinical skills laboratory. On the other hand, the eye checkup was conducted at the Annex COM Building, and the dental checkup was held at the COD diagnostics room.

Mark Louie Jutay, an employee from the Office of the University Research Generating Project (URGP), expressed gratitude for the opportunity to receive much-needed health services.

“Programs like this are a big help to us employees. I rarely have the time or financial means to visit a dentist or get health checkups, so having this opportunity right here on campus is a huge relief,” Jutay said.

Dr. Celina C. Gellada, WVSU vice president for medical and allied sciences, emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare on campus.

“This mission demonstrates our collective commitment to the health and wellness of the WVSU community,” Gellada said.

Dr. Liza Assumpta M. Jover, COD dean, underscored the need to raise awareness about oral health through initiatives like the dental mission.

“This provides stakeholders with a chance to learn simple yet essential steps for dental care, contributing to better overall health and well-being,” Jover said.

Themed “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” the 2025 University Days celebration runs from Jan. 27 to 31.

Story by Franco Nodado/Vital Signs Publication, and Shaila Veronica Paris/Pagyuhum Publication

Photos by Franco Nodado/Vital Signs Publication, Shaila Veronica Paris and Aveghaile Jahzeiah Nabat/Pagyuhum Publication

Sa isang malamig at tahimik na silid-aklatan, tila nag-aapoy ang hangarin ng mga makata mula sa iba’t ibang kolehiyo at kampus ng West Visayas State University (WVSU) na ipamalas ang kanilang husay sa pagsulat. Isa sa mga natatanging kalahok ay si Vandrix Presbitero, isang mag-aaral sa ikalawang taon ng Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting (BAB), na buong puso’t dangal na kumatawan sa College of Communication (COC). Ang patimpalak na may temang “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Meaningful Growth and Opportunities” ay nagbigay-daan upang maipahayag ng mga estudyante ang kanilang saloobin sa pamamagitan ng sining, gaya na lamang ng pagsulat ng tula.

Sa likod ng malikhain niyang panulat, nakatago ang isang di-malilimutang alaala ng kabataan—mga romantikong akda at tula na nagsilbing pintuan sa mas malalim niyang pagmamahal sa pagsusulat. Ang mga akdang ito ang nagtulak sa kanya upang gawing sandigan ang pagsusulat, isang salamin ng kanyang pananaw sa buhay. Para kay Vandrix, ang pagsusulat ay higit pa sa mga salita—ito’y isang daan upang maipahayag ang damdaming mahirap bigkasin, isang daluyan ng emosyon at pananaw na puno ng lalim.

Ang mga alaala at inspirasyong ito ang siyang nagtulak sa kanya upang sumabak sa mas mataas na antas ng sining. Mula sa simpleng pagkahilig sa pagsusulat, naglakas-loob siyang sumali sa mga patimpalak, hanggang sa dumating ang araw na naging kinatawan siya ng kanyang kolehiyo sa isang prestihiyosong kompetisyon. Sa isang sulok ng silid-aklatan, tangan ang papel at panulat, tila may mahika sa kanyang mga kamay habang sinusulat niya ang kanyang obra.

Pinamagatan niyang “Alab ng Paso” ang kanyang piyesa, isang masalimuot ngunit makabagbag-damdaming alegorya. Ipinaliwanag ni Vandrix na ang paso ay sumisimbolo sa bawat estudyante, habang ang alab ay kumakatawan sa pagmamahal at determinasyon bilang mag-aaral.

Araw-araw, sa kabila ng mga pagsubok—pagod, puyat, at minsan pagkadismaya sa mga mabababang marka—patuloy pa ring bumabangon at sumusubok. Bilang mga estudyante mula sa West, madalas panghinaan ng loob, lalo na kapag nararamdamang hindi sapat ang mga pagsisikap. Ngunit ang mensahe ni Vandrix ay malinaw at buo: “Kapit lang.” Ang bawat salita sa kanyang tula ay paalala na huwag sumuko, kahit pa ang landas ay puno ng balakid.

Sa gitna ng kompetisyon, dama ang tensyon sa hangin—halo-halo ang emosyon ni Vandrix. May takot at kaba, ngunit higit sa lahat, nangingibabaw ang saya at pasasalamat. Para sa kanya, ang pagkakataong maging kinatawan ng College of Communication ay isang malaking karangalan, isang patunay na ang kanyang pagmamahal sa pagsulat ay may kakayahang humaplos ng puso at magbigay-inspirasyon sa kaniyang mga kapwa estudyante at kalahok.

Nang tanungin kung anong bahagi ng kanyang piyesa ang may koneksyon sa kanyang sarili, sinabi ni Vandrix na sinulat niya sa kaniyang papel ang tanong na, “Kaya ko ba?” Tinanong niya rin ang kanyang sarili nito. Subalit pursigido siya at malaki ang tiwala niya sa kanyang kakayahan. Paulit-ulit niyang sinasabi ang mga katagang “Kaya ko ja! Kaya ko ja!” Hindi lamang sa oras ng kompetisyon, kundi pati na rin sa pagharap niya sa mga pagsubok na binabato sa kaniya ng tadhana. Patunay lamang na anumang balakid ang ibigay ng mundo, hindi ito rason upang sumuko at magpatalo na lamang. Kagaya ni Vandrix, lahat ng suliranin ay kayang malagpasan basta’t magpursigi at patuloy na magtiwala sa sarili.

Saysay ni Kenea Hope Dellava, Leigh Diane Mandado, DV Heart Lozada, at Sherylyn Mae Bonotano Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Inedit ni Christine Joy Badinas

Mga larawan kuna ni Kenea Hope Dellava/ Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

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