Category: News

West Visayas State University (WVSU) honored the pre-service fourth year students from College of Education (COE) and the College of Physical Education, Culture, Arts, and Recreation (PESCAR) during the 2nd Teaching Internship Pinning and Completion Rites held earlier today at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The ceremony recognized 566 student teachers comprised of 456 from COE, and 110 from PESCAR.

As featured in the event, the distribution of certificates of completion were awarded to Bachelor of Special Needs Education (BSNED) Generalist Teaching Internship completers for the academic year 2024 to 2025.

The program included the pinning ceremony, the recitation of the practice teachers’ creed, and the induction of COE teaching internship officers.

Known as batch INARA, the ceremony concluded with the singing of the batch song, “Long Live” by Taylor Swift.

As they step into the world of teaching, the 566 pre-service teachers carry forward a strong tradition of excellence and a commitment to lifelong learning. This milestone marks the start of their journey as educators, ready to inspire and shape future generations.

By JA Temelo/PAMCO, with sources from SILAK Media

Photos by Wina de la Cruz/PAMCO

Over a thousand delegates—including student-athletes, coaches, faculty, and staff—from the seven West Visayas State University (WVSU) campuses participated in the opening ceremony of University Hinampang 2025, held earlier today.

The ceremony began with a foot parade from the WVSU Main Campus grounds, followed by a street dance competition judged in front of the Administration Building.

The opening program commenced at the Iloilo Sports Complex, where campus administrators, heads, and sports coordinators raised their banners and recognized their respective student-athletes as they took the oath of sportsmanship.

Dr. Celina Cordero-Gellada, Vice President of Medical and Allied Sciences and current OIC University President, reminded everyone of the true victory that lies in the University Hinampang.

“Remember that true victory lies in the effort, the friendships forged, and the memories made, so let us embrace each opportunity to challenge ourselves, uplift one another, and showcase the spirit of WVSU sportsmanship,” said Gellada.

Jerome P. Millan, WVSU Student Regent, emphasized the University’s dedication to a holistic development that included athletic performance.

“[Hinampang 2025] represents the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of our life, personal growth, teamwork and leadership,” said Millan.

Following the preliminaries was the cheer dance competition, featuring participants from the Janiuay, Himamaylan, and La Paz campuses. The program then concluded with a unity dance led by the Federated Student Council.

With the theme “PAGSIBOD 2025: Harnessing Growth, Celebrating Unity—A Journey of Progress through Sports,” University Hinampang 2025 aims to reignite passion for sports and foster unity as part of holistic growth, upholding the tradition of excellence among Taga-West.

By JA Temelo/PAMCO, with sources from SILAK Media

Photos by Wina de la Cruz/PAMCO

The 2025 DIGAMO sa West reached its boiling point as the week-long festivities drew to a close with a sizzling victory for Dapog Manugsanlag (College of Nursing), which executed a grand leap to the top of the leaderboard, securing the overall championship title.

The Home of the Topnotchers turned up the heat in the final stretch, dethroning the two-time defending champion, Dapog Manuglapay (College of PESCAR).

With a remarkable score of 375 points, the College of Nursing proved its dominance in the showdown of wit, artistry, and creativity, prevailing as a formidable force in the university.

Following closely behind with 359 points was Dapog Manugsugba (College of Education), while the Talent Center of the University, Dapog Manuglapay (College of PESCAR), climbed the rankings to claim third place with 325 points—thanks to their stellar performances in the musical and performing arts category.

Next in the rankings, Dapog Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences) secured fourth place with 320 points, while Dapog Manugpangat (College of Communication) rounded out the top five with 290 points.

As the final scores were tallied and the new champions celebrated, DIGAMO sa West 2025 proved to be the ultimate feast of the year—a chef’s kiss-worthy celebration.

Story by Grace Divine Salumag/The Mediator

Pubmat by Pagyuhum Publication

During Laro ng Lahi at West Visayas State University’s 2025 University Days celebration, inclusivity takes center stage as everyone, regardless of their role, gets a chance to participate. This year, the basketball court became an unexpected battleground for a team composed of campus security guards, including 54-year-old Rico Andrade, Security Guard I at WVSU-Main Campus.

Since joining the university in 2013, Andrade has suited up for the basketball team every year. During their recent game against WVSU-Lambunao Campus, he played as the team’s center—a position that demands strength and stamina. Despite facing younger and more agile opponents, Andrade embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.

“Maka pa balhas lang, okay na ko,” Andrade said, smiling as he described how sweating it out on the court was enough of a victory for him.

The biggest hurdle, he admitted, was the age gap. “Budlay kay puro bata mga kontra namon,” he shared. Still, their perseverance paid off as the Main Campus secured an overall victory, proving that experience and determination can triumph over physical disadvantages.

Beyond the competition, Andrade emphasized the importance of staying fit, particularly for security personnel. “Mayad gid sa amon ni nga mga guwardiya. Dapat physically fit kami,” he said, highlighting how physical activity benefits their ability to perform their duties efficiently.

As the final buzzer sounded and the crowd erupted in cheers, it was clear that the game was more than just a sporting event. Andrade and his teammates demonstrated the university’s commitment to inclusivity, where even those working behind the scenes have a chance to be part of WVSU’s cherished traditions.

During University Days 2025, WVSU proved that inclusivity is not just a principle but a lived experience, ensuring everyone, regardless of their role, gets their moment in the spotlight.

Story by Dwiniane Keith Escoltor and Hazelyn Aliboso/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Dwiniane Keith Escoltor/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

The West Visayas State University grandstand came alive with electrifying energy as 12 colleges and campuses fiercely competed in the highly anticipated Battle of the Bands on Jan. 31, the culminating event of this year’s University Days celebration.

Each band performed one slow and one fast song, showcasing their musical versatility and creativity. The crowd was treated to a vibrant mix of genres, with performances including “Rolling in the Deep,” “Isang Linggong Pag-ibig,” and “Ang Buhay Ko.”

The atmosphere was electric as the audience cheered, sang along, and danced to the performances. John Vall Moreno, a student from Himamaylan City Campus, described the event as heartwarming.

“Ang experience ‘ko gid diri sa Battle of the Bands is ka-warm gid sang environment, especially sang mga Taga-West. Makita mo gid nga full support sila sa ila mga banda kag representatives. Ma-feel mo gid nga ga-vibe sila sa kanta, rock, music, and all,” Moreno said.

After a high-energy competition, Himamaylan City Campus emerged as the champion, followed by the College of PESCAR as first runner-up. The College of Nursing, Pototan Campus, and Integrated Laboratory School secured second, third, and fourth runner-up positions, respectively.

Special awards were also given to individual performers. Himamaylan City Campus swept most of the honors, winning Best Vocalist, Best Guitarist, and Best Bassist. The College of Information and Communications Technology earned the Best Drummer award, while the College of PESCAR was recognized for Best Keyboardist.

The event not only highlighted the musical talent of the university but also fostered a sense of community as students, faculty, and staff came together to celebrate the power of music. The competition proved to be a memorable highlight of University Days, leaving attendees eager for next year’s festivities.

Story by Kim Sualibios, Ryan Joy, Portillo, and Shianne Michael Dela Peña/Dynamics Publication

Photos by Rhenel Villaluna and Mark Stephen Dellavan/Dynamics Publication

Amid the vibrant hues of green, red, white and blue, one color stood out. A striking shade of magenta, adorned with thousands of crystals, shimmered under the lights of the Iloilo Convention Center. At its center was the belle of the ball—this year’s West Visayas State University Alumni Queen, Janet Castillo Morata.

As she turned to greet her interviewers, an air of grace and confidence surrounded her, yet her warm smile quickly bridged the gap between formality and familiarity. Without hesitation, she welcomed the conversation, exuding the charm and charisma that have defined her journey from WVSU to success abroad.

Morata embodies the transformative power of perseverance and hard work. From humble beginnings in the Philippines to managing a successful caregiving business, nursing homes and hospitals in Tampa, Florida, her journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Amid the lively chatter of the alumni gathering, she reflected on her years at WVSU with fondness and nostalgia.

A proud alumna of the College of Education, Class of 1990, Morata humorously admitted that she never initially aspired to become an educator. However, she pursued a degree in elementary education to honor her parents, both educators themselves. Though reluctant at first, she grew to love the field, crediting her classmates and the university’s unique academic environment for making her college years unforgettable.

With an easygoing nature, Morata approached college life with optimism rather than pressure. Academic rankings were never her priority. Instead, she valued experiences and the joy of living in the moment. “West shaped me differently,” she said, emphasizing how her alma mater instilled resilience and determination—qualities that would later define her career path.

After graduation, Morata began teaching in a remote village, but life had other plans. She soon found herself in the field of caregiving—a drastic shift from education. Despite the change, she carried with her the lessons of hard work and adaptability from WVSU. Today, she ensures quality care for others while making a name for herself in a foreign land.

Though she describes herself as informal and lighthearted, her eyes gleamed as she recalled her carefree college days—days that unknowingly laid the foundation for her personal and professional growth. “You can’t be easygoing if you want a bright future,” she reflected. Her journey, marked by unexpected twists, has become an inspiration. Now, she is committed to giving back to the community that shaped her while setting her sights on even greater opportunities ahead.

Morata’s story is a reminder that success is not always a straight path. Sometimes, it is about embracing challenges, working hard and shaping dreams into reality—wherever life leads.

Story by Joannah Mekaela Jamela, Trixie Ningas, and Hazelyn Aliboso/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

Photos by Dwiniane Keith Escoltor/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

The sound of roaring applause and cheers echoed through the West Visayas State University Cultural Center on the afternoon of January 29, as the long-awaited Lip-Sync Battle reimagined some of the most electrifying and much-admired musicals, showcasing the exceptional talents of Taga-West students.

With the audience eagerly awaiting the theatrical flair of their representatives, Federated Student Council Board Member Jan Michael Alayon set the tone for the event, saying, “This afternoon, we are not just here to watch people perform; we are here to witness passion, creativity, and the power of music [that] brings people together.”

Seated in the front row were the esteemed panel of judges—the award-winning choreographers Jacob Confesor, Reynaldo Susbilla Jr., and Crisanto Sorsano Jr., who had the challenging duty of evaluating the neck-and-neck performances of the 14 contending groups.

The competition kicked off with Dapog Manugbulad (Calinog Campus), who graced the stage with a spine-tingling rendition of The Phantom of the Opera. Their dramatic and powerful performance set the stage for what would be an unforgettable event during this year’s University Days celebration.

The atmosphere quickly turned into a spectacle of awe and laughter as Dapog Manugpangat (COC) brought a witty twist to the popular Disney musical Frozen. Their Pinoy-style antics and comedic timing had the entire venue bursting with cheers, creating a fun-filled vibe.

Meanwhile, Dapog Manuglechon (COD) took the audience on a nostalgic journey through ABBA’s greatest hits with their medley of the classic Mamma Mia! Their vibrant costumes and engaging stage presence had the crowd singing along with the timeless tunes.

Dapog Manugsugba (COE), on the other hand, stunned the crowd with a creative parody of the iconic 90s hit Ang Huling El Bimbo, which took a bold twist to deliver a powerful message about the importance of supporting education. Their energetic performance, coupled with a meaningful social commentary, resonated with the audience.

Dapog Manugsanlag (CON) took over the stage with their striking props and visuals, set in the heart of the jungle for their own version of The Lion King. Following that, Dapog Manugpakas (CBM) bewitched the audience with their enthralling performance of Wicked. When the mega-hit song Defying Gravity played, it was nothing short of magical, with the crowd singing their hearts out to the melody.

As the competition drew to a close, the cheers from the crowd and the thunderous applause were deafening. It was a true celebration of the power of music and self-expression.

Story by Grace Divine Salumag/The Mediator

Photos by Grace Divine Salumag/The Mediator

West Visayas State University (WVSU) upheld its tradition of excellence as students from various colleges and external campuses showcased their talents like master chefs refining their craft during the second and third days of the 2025 University Days.

From group performances to visual arts and speech competitions in English, Filipino, and Hiligaynon, the events offered a feast of creativity-each performance and presentation meticulously crafted, much like a gourmet dish prepared with precision and passion.

The competitions highlighted not only the students’ technical skills but also their dedication to their respective crafts, reinforcing WVSU’s commitment to fostering talent and innovation.

Here is a flavorful serving of the official top five rankings from the different competitions, each as carefully crafted as a signature dish in this grand feast of talent:

ENGLISH SPEECH CATEGORY

CHARACTER IMPERSONATION

1st Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglapay (COP)

4th Place – Dapog Manuglupak (ILS)

5th Place – Dapog Manuglugaw (Lambunao Campus)

FILIPINO AND HILIGAYNON SPEECH CATEGORY

TALUMPATI

1st Place – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

2nd Place – Dapog Manuglechon (COD)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

4th Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

5th Place – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

DAGLIANG TALUMPATI

1st Place – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

2nd Place – Dapog Manuglugaw (Lambunao Campus)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

4th Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

5th Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

DEKLAMASYON SA FILIPINO

1st Place – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglupak (ILS)

4th Place – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

5th Place – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

PAGKUKWENTO

1st Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugbusa (CICT)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglapay (COP)

4th Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

5th Place – Dapog Manuglagpang (COM)

BINALAYBAY

1st Place – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

2nd Place – Dapog Manuglugaw (Lambunao Campus)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglupak (ILS)

4th Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

5th Place – Dapog Manuglagpang (COM)

SUGILANON

1st Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

4th Place – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

5th Place – Dapog Manugkilaw (Janiuay Campus)

VISUAL ARTS CATEGORY

TRADITIONAL PAINTING

1st Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglugaw (Lambunao Campus)

4th Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

5th Place – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

PHOTO CONTEST

1st Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugbusa (CICT)

4th Place – Dapog Manugpangat (COC)

5th Place – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

CHARCOAL AND PENCIL DRAWING

1st Place – Dapog Manugbusa (CICT)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

4th Place – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

5th Place – Dapog Manugmasa (CAF)

ON-THE-SPOT POSTER MAKING

1st Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

2nd Place – Dapog Manuglapay (COP)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

4th Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

5th Place – Dapog Manugbusa (CICT)

DIGITAL ART PAINTING

1st Place – Dapog Manugbusa (CICT)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglagpang (COM)

4th Place – Dapog Manugtuom (CAS)

5th Place Dapog Manuglupak (ILS)

GROUP CATEGORGY

SHORT AND SWEET PLAY

1st Place – Dapog Manuglapay (COP)

2nd Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

3rd Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

4th Place – Dapog Manugpakas (CBM)

5th Place – Dapog Manugkilaw (Janiuay Campus)

LIPSYNC BATTLE

1st Place – Dapog Manugsugba (COE)

2nd Place – Dapog Manuglechon (COD)

3rd Place – Dapog Manuglapay (COP)

4th Place – Dapog Manugsanlag (CON)

5th Place – Dapog Manugbati (Himamaylan City Campus)

The awarding ceremony on Jan. 30 at the university’s Cultural Center capped off the Sulong Film Festival, celebrating the exceptional talent and dedication of the participants.

As the final day of University Days neared, excitement reached a fever pitch. Colleges and external campuses had an insatiable appetite for victory, eagerly awaiting the results in musical performances, newscasting, radio drama, and dance competitions-each event a carefully crafted course in this grand banquet of talent.

Story by John Gabriel Nietes, Kurson Lapating, and Angel Zamora/Dynamics Publication

Photos by LINK.exe

Dapog Manuglagpang (College of Medicine) ate and left no crumbs as the trio of Maio Vendell Sabidong, Patrick John Benedict Limos, and Earl Cedric Lagapa toppled last year’s champions, Dapog Manugtuom (College of Arts and Sciences), in their fight to the top spot of Banggianay 2025.

In this ultimate battle of wits and words, the two best teams argued whether the mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) should be revived as outlined in Senate Bill 2034. Dapog Manuglagpang served on the affirmative side, while Dapog Manugtuom was on the negative side.

The finals round was opened by USC Councilor and University Days event chairperson Rixfel Aperong. She emphasized the value of debates in challenging personal beliefs and encouraging exploration of new ideas – a key indicator of someone’s knowledge of a certain topic.

The debate was opened with Manuglagpang’s necessity speaker, Maio Vendell Sabidong, who called for a “safer, stronger and more prepared Philippines” as he outlined how tensions with China along with the sheer number of disasters the country faces necessitate the training, discipline, and civil service that ROTC provides.

In response, Dapog Manugtuom’s necessity speaker, Kyla Mae Yapendon countered with her own set of arguments against Mandatory ROTC. She argued that our national defense encompasses more than just military training, further adding that Mandatory ROTC should only be reinstated in response to extreme societal needs. Instead, she proposed that we need modern military equipment – not mandatory ROTC.

Patrick John Benedict Limos, Dapog Manuglagpang’s beneficialityspeaker, then took the podium to outline the clear benefits that reviving the program would have. He cited the country’s lack of preparedness in both national defense and disaster management, reinforcing Sabidong’s argument that ROTC would help with both.

He acknowledged the horrors and abuses the previous mandatory ROTC program caused but swiftly argued that due to current laws, like the Anti-Hazing Law and the Safe Spaces Act, as well as the built-in regulatory committee outlined within the bill, enough checks and balances are in place to prevent such tragedies from reoccurring.

In response to Limos’ beneficiality speaker, Gelou Jane Bea Alilay quickly rebutted, saying that current NSTP already addresses problems related to disaster preparedness, citing Red Cross volunteers. She also pointed out previous issues linked to the Mandatory ROTC such as physical abuse, hazing and discrimination. She further argued that NSTP provides more diverse options which are centered around peace, collaboration, and nation building.

The duo also went head-to-head in two interpellation rounds where, amidst a flurry of questions, Limos proved to be a tough nut to crack as he got Alilay to agree that the AFP’s numbers are not sufficient.

Manuglagpang’s practicability speaker Earl Cedric Lagapa hammered home their point as he highlighted how enforcing mandatory ROTC is not only feasible but supported, citing statistics and adding that it would streamline the allocation of resources due to the reduced number of programs.

“[Mandatory ROTC is] not a repeat of the past but a reformed and accountable program,” Lagapa declared.

As the last to speak, Vaness Langrio, Manugtuom’s practicability speaker, argued against the statements of Lagapa, stating that treaties were not existent back when World War II happened. She also challenged the reliability of the data presented by the affirmative side, citing a “more reputable” survey with 20,000 respondents which resulted in the majority opposing the revival of Mandatory ROTC.

Further, she said that reviving Mandatory ROTC is impracticable due to logistical problems, saying that Mandatory ROTC would only add to the administrative burden to responsible agencies once implemented. She concluded that the government should instead focus more on programs that could benefit our nation and our system.

The two faced off in a fast-paced interpellation round where Langrio questioned the program’s effectiveness and the affirmative’s confidence in the program, considering it will begin with pilot testing. Lagapa kept cool, pointing out how all laws begin with pilot testing, and it is not a lack of confidence an opportunity to improve and learn from past mistakes.

Langrio closed off the negative side’s arguments by pointing out the flaws in their opponents’ reasoning, particularly with them misinterpreting facts, ignoring current geopolitical contexts and possible priority misalignment.

Her speech echoed their bench’s call for a “diverse pathway to national service”, giving all students the right to choose.

“Choice without effectiveness is meaningless,” refuted Sabidong in his rebuttal speech as he dismantled the negative side’s arguments, affirmed their points and, despite having half their numbers, cinched the debate.

He closed the match with a final shot, saying, “In Banggianay 2025, we served the better dish.”

While Dapog Manuglagpang emerged victorious, Vaness Langrio of Dapog Manugtuom served as the match’s best speaker, while Maio Vendell Sabidong of Dapog Manuglagpang was named the best debater.

In addition, awards for the best speakers and debaters from the semi-finals were also presented. Below are the results:

Match 1 (COM vs. CON)

Best Speaker – Beatrice Yvonne Sorogon – Practicability Speaker (CON)

Best Debater – Patrick John Benedict Limos – Beneficiality Speaker (COM)

Match 2 (CAS vs. COC)

Best Speaker – Kyla Mae Yapendon – Necessity Speaker (CAS)

Best Debater – Kyla Mae Yapendon – Necessity Speaker; Gelou Jane Bea Alilay – Beneficiality Speaker (CAS)

Meanwhile, here are the overall standings of the 2025 Banggianay:

5th place – Integrated Laboratory School

4th place – College of Nursing

3rd place – College of Communication

2nd place – College of Arts and Sciences

1st place – College of Medicine

As the event wrapped up, Federated Student Council Secretary Keven Rizzo Sitjar expressed his hopes that future editions of Banggianay would return independently, incorporating both Oxford-Oregon and Asian Parliamentary debate formats.

Story by Paul Asi Hitalia and Jeraldine Miranda/The Courier

Photos by Cassandra Alexa Ciasico