Category: University Days

Hanging on to their last chance to impress Taga-Wests during the culmination of this year’s University Days, several bands vied for a podium finish in this year’s Battle of the Bands competition at the WVSU Grounds, Jan. 30.

As one of the highly-anticipated contests in the yearly University Days, the participating bands representing their campuses and colleges did not disappoint the crowd with their musical numbers—ranging from all-time favorite songs like “Himala” by Rivermaya; “Bang Bang” by Ariana Grande, Jessie J, and Nicki Minaj; “Mundo” by IV of Spades; and “Basang-basa sa Ulan” by Aegis.

After an electrifying three-hour-long spectacle of talent, the College of Nursing emerged as the Champion, followed by last year’s champion Himamaylan City Campus at second place, and College of PESCAR at third, with the College of Education and Pototan Campus following at fourth and fifth spots respectively.

For the special awards, two ensembles went on neck-and-neck: Himamaylan City Campus winning the Best Guitarist, Best Bassist, and Best Drummer while the College of PESCAR snatching the Best Keyboardist and Best Vocalist.

Despite experiencing delays in the events due to unforeseen circumstances, this year’s Battle of the Bands competition left the crowd electrified, which continued even after the event during the WVSU Night.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Abbygale Hope Abasolo & Amiel Roy Zaulda/ Pagyuhum Publication

Photos by Benz Nicolf Casador, Circo Lawrence Dumaicos, & Aryhan Kate Patrona/ Pagyuhum Publication

The sounds from the speakers echoed louder, and the sharpness of voices flowing through the microphones was strongly felt as the West Visayas State University (WVSU) community witnessed the first-ever Radio Broadcasting Competition of the 2026 University Days on Friday afternoon, January 30, at the WVSU Audio-Visual Hall.

Nine (9) colleges and satellite campuses of the university showcased and raised their banners high, demonstrating their skills and competence in journalism and on-air news broadcasting. Among the contenders in the competition were WVSU Pototan Campus (Tribu Algao), College of Communication (Tribu Delan), College of Business and Management (Tribu Mayari), College of Education (Tribu Hanan), College of Arts and Sciences (Tribu Adlaw), College of Nursing (Tribu Haliya), WVSU Janiuay Campus (Tribu Mapatar), WVSU Himamaylan City Campus (Tribu Libulan), and the College of PESCAR (Tribu Dalikmata).

In an interview, John Paul Guerra, a former Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) Radio Broadcasting Qualifier and a third-year Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies student from Tribu Libulan of WVSU Himamaylan City Campus, shared his excitement about the competition and his experience as a member of their radio news team representing their campus.

“Actually, when I entered West [Visayas State University], isa gid sa mga gina-look forward ko nga competition amo ang Radio Broadcasting. But sad to say, sang first year ko, wala pa ini ginahimo. Sang second year naman, nag-asa gid ako, pero wala pa gid gihapon. But in God’s will, natabo na gid ini—nga daw ka-miss man bala sa feeling. and it felt great, actually. The tension, ang kakulba, kag ang kasadya during our performance were all worth it gid ya, kag indi gid ini mabayluhan sang bisan ano nga bagay,” Guerra said.

At the last day of the Bana-ag sa West celebration on Friday, January 30, the winners from the Individual, Group, and Major Awards were also recognized. Darlen Miranda of the College of Nursing (Tribu Haliya) received the Best News Presenter award. LJ Orpheus Soriano and Lourlene Mondejar, also from Tribu Haliya, were named Best Anchors. The same college also bagged the Best Technical Application and Best Script awards. Meanwhile, the College of Communication (Tribu Delan) won Best in Infomercial.

Tribu Dalikmata of the College of PESCAR placed as 4th Runner-Up, followed by the College of Education (Tribu Hanan) in 3rd Runner-Up. Tribu Libulan of WVSU Himamaylan City Campus secured the 2nd Runner-Up position, while Tribu Delan of the College of Communication finished as 1st Runner-Up. Emerging as the champion of the inaugural Radio Broadcasting Competition was Tribu Haliya of the College of Nursing.

As the competition marked its first year, the Radio Broadcasting Competition aimed to provide student broadcasters a platform to hone their skills in on-air journalism, teamwork, and technical application. With its successful first run, the university envisions the competition as a continuing and expanding event in the coming years, strengthening campus journalism and nurturing future media professionals among the Taga-West.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-Up by Jeff Brian Caña, The Mediator
Photos by Matthew Immanuel Sayman, Ken Torres, The Mediator

Short scenes left lasting impressions as 10 colleges brought original plays to the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Cultural Center stage on the evening of Jan. 29, 2026 as part of the Day 3 activities of the 2026 University Days.

Student groups from various colleges presented original plays lasting 5 to 10 minutes. These showcased diverse stories addressing the impact of social media on youth, family unity, Filipino values, and other relevant issues affecting contemporary young people.

With genres ranging from drama to comedy, the performances reflected the creativity and talent of the Taga-West community.

Performances were evaluated based on acting, directing, technical design, and overall play quality. Criteria focused on the interpretation of material, use of space, technical execution, and the effectiveness of storytelling in engaging the audience.

The theatrical showcase brought the third day of festivities to a close as the university celebration heads into its final day.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Jurish Pauleen Hitalia, ICON Publication
Photos by Meryll Klaryze Polaron, ICON Publication

Showcasing the depth and reach of student leadership, Tribu Adlaw of the College of Arts and Sciences emerged champion of the 2026 Banggianay after a hard-fought finals against Tribu Haliya of the College of Nursing.

The two teams debated whether to reverse and set aside the 2023 WVSU Student Court rulingon term limits, with Tribu Adlaw on the affirmative and Tribu Haliya on the negative.

Opening the debate, necessity speaker Joe Allen Marañon argued that the ruling was erroneous for imposing candidacy restrictions not found in the Student Constitution.

“The law is permissive, not prohibitive,” Marañon said, stressing that election rules should encourage democratic participation among students.

Tribu Haliya defended the ruling as a necessary interpretation of a vague constitutional provision, citing its continued application across the past three elections and student administrations.

Beneficiality speaker Kristine Kaye Serra countered that the ruling limits students’ freedom to choose their leaders and creates gaps in student governance, particularly the second-year leadership gap.

Practicability speaker EJ Gatila added that the proposal was feasible and well within the Student Court’s power of judicial self-correction.

In rebuttal, Serra reinforced the team’s main arguments and concluded her speech with, “It is our side that has truly shined the brightest.”

After deliberation, the adjudicators ruled in favor of Tribu Adlaw, with Angelie Marie Garrido, Non-necessity Speaker of Tribu Haliya, taking both Best Speaker and Best Debater honors in the finals, officially concluding the 2026 Banggianay.

The following are the individual awards from the semi-finals:

Match 10 (CAS vs PESCAR)
Best Speaker – Kristine Kaye Serra, Beneficiality Speaker (CAS)
Best Debater – Kristine Kaye Serra, Beneficiality Speaker (CAS)

Match 11 (CON vs COE)
Best Speaker – Jeff Emmanuel Sambrano, Practicability Speaker (CON)
Best Debater – Jeff Emmanuel Sambrano, Practicability Speaker (CON)

Here are the overall standings of the colleges for this year’s Banggianay:

3rd Runner-up – Tribu Hanan (COE)
2nd Runner-up – Tribu Dalikmata (COP)
1st Runner-up – Tribu Haliya (CON)
Champion – Tribu Adlaw (CAS)

The team was also backed by researchers Jafra Jul Siruelo, Samantha Lourdes Baniel, and Mag Jey Aribal,whose support proved vital to their success.

As the event concluded, Serra shared in an interview that the victory was fulfilling and credited the success to the collective effort of the team and their researchers, emphasizing that the achievement would not have been possible without their support.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write up by Tracy Anne Freires/The Courier
Photos by Cassandra Alexa Ciasico/The Courier

Seventeen teams composed of four students from different colleges and campuses of West Visayas State University (WVSU) competed in the Quiz Bowl Competition as part of the 2026 University Days (U-Days), held on January 30 at the Research and Extension Building of the College of Law from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

The event opened with remarks from Prof. Obed Joy Gaitan, contest adviser, who encouraged participants to “FEAR—Face everything and rise”. The Quiz Bowl consisted of ten questions per round, namely the Beginner, Intermediate, Difficult, and Advanced round with one point, two points, three points, and five points worth each question respectively.

The subjects covered were Mathematics, Science, Hiligaynon, Literature, and Social Sciences. Representatives from different departments answered by raising their whiteboards after the timer ended.

Faculty members who prepared the questions were recognized during the program and were awarded certificates of appreciation for their contributions.

After the final round, the College of Nursing secured first place, followed by the College of Arts and Sciences in second place and the College of Medicine in third place. The Integrated Laboratory School placed fourth, while Janiuay Campus finished in fifth place.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026 #OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write up by Tricia Jane A. Santorce & Helen Natalie D. Bolivar/The Blue Quill

Photos by Ivette D. Clementir/The Blue Quill

The 2026 University Days broadcast competitions highlighted both the emergence of new champions and the sustained excellence of established contenders, as colleges vied for top honors in the Newscasting and Radio Drama categories on Day 4, January 30, at the COC Building.

The events underscored the university’s growing culture of media practice and performance across disciplines.

In the Newscasting Category, the College of Nursing emerged as champion, marking a breakthrough victory after years of competition. The College of Communication, which entered the contest as back-to-back champion and eyeing a third straight title, placed fifth in this year’s results. Completing the rankings were the College of Education in second place, Lambunao Campus in third, and the College of Arts and Sciences in fourth.

The College of Nursing’s championship was led by Francis Immanuel Fuentespina, who improved on his second-place finish last year to finally secure the top spot. His return and strong showing contributed to the college’s first-place finish, signaling steady growth and competitiveness in campus broadcast journalism.

Despite the setback in newscasting, the College of Communication proved its enduring excellence in broadcast arts as it continued to reign supreme in the Radio Drama Competition, clinching its fourth championship title in the annual University Days. The College of Nursing placed second, followed by the College of Arts and Sciences in third, College of PESCAR in fourth, and the College of Agriculture and Forestry in fifth.

The Radio Drama victory reflects the College of Communication’s continued strength in creative audio production, highlighting its training in storytelling, performance, and technical execution.

This year’s UDays broadcast competition showcased not only rivalry but also resilience, growth, and excellence among colleges highlighting the breadth of talent and commitment to media practice across the university.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Gierson Bordon/The Mediator
Photos by Ken Torres and Matthew Immanuel Sayman/The Mediator

Student musicians and vocalists from various campuses and colleges of West Visayas State University (WVSU) showcased their talents in the Musical Category on the third day of the University Days celebration, held at the WVSU Cultural Center on January 29.

The program commenced at 8:30 a.m., with approximately 14 to 17 participants representing their respective departments in each contest. The first category featured was Solo Instrumental, where each contestant performed using their chosen instrument—the guitar.

This was followed by the Vocal Solo Classical category, with performers rendering Filipino classics such as “Nasaan Ka, Irog” and “Dandansoy.” The competition then moved to the Vocal Solo Pop category, where contestants delivered popular Pinoy Pop (P-Pop) songs, including “Amakabogera” and “Araw Gabi.”

The final segment of the musical competitions featured 14 pairs competing in the Vocal Duet Pop category, concluding the series of performances under the Musical Category.

Aligned with this year’s University Days theme, “BANAAG sang West: Celebrating Our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations,” the event highlighted how musical artistry unites the WVSU community. Through their performances, students demonstrated how creativity, cultural tradition, talent, and excellence continue to be passed on across generations.

The competition concluded at around 1:45 p.m., paving the way for the remaining categories scheduled for the afternoon.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Helen Natalie D. Bolivar & Tonette Mari S. Jamero/The Blue Quill

Photos by Markey Jaims L. Arboleda/The Blue Quill

West Visayas State University (WVSU) – Office of the Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences (OVP-MAS), in collaboration with the College of Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Dentistry, Department of Radiologic Technology, WVSU Medical Center, and University Health Services, spearheaded a University Health Outreach Program at WVSU Main Campus, yesterday, Jan. 29 as part of the 2026 University Days.

The program benefited the residents of Brgy. Montinola, Jaro and WVSU employees, faculty, and students, totaling to more than a hundred beneficiaries.

The Nursing Building served as the avenue for medical checkups, laboratory exams, pharmacy, and PhilHealth YAKAP registrations, while volunteer dentists from the college faculty and Philippine Dental Association-Iloilo Chapter, assisted by the Pre-Clinical Committee, performed free dental consultation, dental X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleaning), fluoride application, and dental extractions at the Dentistry Building.

Simultaneously, the Philippine Dental Students Association (PDSA)-WVSU Chapter held a series of dental health talks, and the WVSU-CON faculty presented a simultaneous seminar on breast cancer and breast self-examination demonstration at their respective buildings.

Sophia Talamera, President of WVSU-COD Pre-Clinical Committee, emphasized that offering free medical and dental services falls upon one’s duty as “Iskolars ng Bayan.” Likewise, she remained enthusiastic that more communities will benefit from such initiatives in the future, starting from those close to WVSU.

Amidst the vibrant displays of colors and skills, this initiative served as a testament that excellence and competence also come in the form of community service—dedicating oneself in alleviating public woes.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications

Write-up by Rosema Kamsa, Shaila Veronica Paris, & Amiel Zaulda/Pagyuhum Publication

Photos by Aryanna Celebrar, Ciro Dumaicos, & Krizzle Caldera/Pagyuhum Publication; Dominic Maranon, Jericho Francesco Jandongan, Miles Tambanillo, & Ryzen John Blanco/The Lifeline Publication; Isabelle Viaje/Vital Signs Publication

West Visayas State University (WVSU) spotlighted the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education as Jose Jenil Demorito, assistant secretary of the Public Information Service of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Central Office, delivered the keynote lecture during the University Convocation on Jan. 28 at the WVSU Cultural Center, a major highlight of the 2026 University Days celebration.

Held under the theme, “Banaag sang West: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations,” the convocation gathered university officials, faculty, staff, students and alumni to reflect on the University’s mission of excellence, service and innovation amid emerging technological and social challenges.

In his lecture, Demorito described AI as both a “boon and a bane,” emphasizing that while technology can enhance teaching, learning and productivity, its ethical and responsible use remains crucial. He urged WVSU to lead in cultivating AI literacy, transparency and human-centered innovation, stressing that AI should empower educators and students rather than replace human judgment, creativity and empathy.

Demorito illustrated AI’s creative potential by presenting videos generated from archival photographs, offering a nostalgic journey through student life with his college batchmates. He also challenged the University to integrate AI thoughtfully across instruction, research and administration, promoting a culture of responsible use, academic integrity and continuous innovation.

A highlight of the convocation was the screening of “Ang Yab-ok Nangin Amon Napanag-iyahan”, produced by Madyaas Productions of the WVSU College of Information and Communications Technology, as part of the DAR PelikulAgraryo Film Festival 2025. The award-winning film, which placed second in the Best Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations category, showcased the students’ contribution to digital storytelling and agrarian reform advocacy, reflecting the University’s growing role in leveraging media and technology for social development.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, vice president for Administration and Finance, underscored the University’s enduring radiance, noting that WVSU’s “banaag” is a collective glow shaped by service, commitment, and shared purpose that continues to illuminate communities.

WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz formally introduced Demorito, highlighting his distinguished career in broadcast media, corporate leadership and public service, and emphasizing his homecoming as a proud alumnus of the University’s Mass Communications Class of 1984 and one of the Most Outstanding Alumni during the university’s centennial anniversary.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to shaping the nation’s future through excellence in instruction, research, and community engagement, calling on the academic community to nurture integrity, diligence, innovation, and compassion in service of the Filipino people.

The University Convocation formed part of the weeklong 2026 University Days celebration, reinforcing WVSU’s dedication to transformative education, ethical leadership and inclusive development in the digital age.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

Banaag sang West shone even brighter as more competitions were held on the second day of 2026 University Days on the afternoon of January 28. At the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Cultural Center, the Lip-Sync Battle brought out the best in each participating team’s creativity and talent, matched by the roaring cheers of supporters and attendees.

“I now feel excited to be part of something bigger, widening my talents and cherishing the memories I made with these people,” said Leigh Ush Violet Silvestre, one of the performing contestants from Tribu Mayari, College of Business and Management.

Competing teams in the Lip-Sync Battle were composed of 15 to 25 members who performed pop culture-inspired songs for three to five minutes, while others also touched on contemporary issues and trends in the country. As teams faced off head-on, each performed with full effort in their dances, props, and costumes, syncing their movements and expressions to capture the judges’ votes and the support of the audience.

Prince Lance Tuvilla, a second-year BSBA-FM student, expressed his reaction after witnessing the event. “I find it unique and very entertaining. It’s like you can’t get your eyes off of them (performers),” he said.

The contestants showcased intense energy throughout the competition, as the audience did not disappoint in lifting their spirits and igniting the atmosphere inside the venue. This overwhelming energy pushed the performers to innovate and improve year after year, keeping the audience engaged and the surprises coming.

The competition served as a platform for Taga-West to display their talent and expertise in lip-syncing, highlighting their competitive spirit and passion for performance. Their shared goal was to bring pride and glory to their respective campuses and colleges.

Winners will be announced later today, January 29, at the WVSU Cultural Center, along with the results of other University Week competitions.

#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications
Caption by Nicole Ponsoy, The Innovator
Photos by Ena Kristelle De Nuevo, The Innovator