Category: International News

His Excellency Lee Sang-hwa, Ambassador of the Republic of South Korea to the Philippines, met with officials of West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the King Sejong Institute Iloilo (KSI Iloilo) today, strengthening academic and cultural ties between South Korea and the Philippines.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Joy H. Pantino, Director of KSI Iloilo; Dr. Alexander J. Balsomo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Prof. Saturnino Luke A. Sobrevega, Associate Dean of CAS; Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office; Ms. Arizza Julia Inocencio, faculty member from the WVSU–Department of Language Studies; Ms. Krizza S. Cañete, Project Manager of KSI Iloilo, along with other faculty members and staff from CAS and KSI Iloilo.

Discussions focused on KSI Iloilo, formally established in 2025 through a Memorandum of Agreement between WVSU and the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF). Professor Ree Ran Park played a key role in helping bring the Institute to life after a six-month trial program in 2024 that drew strong participation from students, professionals, and cultural enthusiasts. Since then, the Institute has offered Korean language and culture classes, as well as activities such as Chuseok celebrations, Korean speech contests, and traditional craft workshops.

The meeting also emphasized strengthening academic collaboration, expanding Korean language education, and promoting cultural exchange programs between South Korea and the Philippines, including joint activities, faculty engagement, and student-centered initiatives. It further highlighted WVSU’s role in advancing Korean language and cultural education in the region.

To note, last November 25, 2024, Kim Hyon Du, Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of South Korea to the Philippines, delivered a special lecture at WVSU in celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and the Philippines.

The visit of Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa reflects the enduring friendship between South Korea and the Philippines and reinforces a shared commitment to academic cooperation, cultural exchange, and the continued strengthening of bilateral relations.

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Reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainable finance, West Visayas State University (WVSU) completed the three-day introductory training held from January 23 to 25 2026 under Work Package 2 of the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) Project Green Finance: Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Growth in Southeast Asia, at the Faculty of Economic Sciences, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania.

On Day 1, President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Legal Entity Appointed Representative (LEAR), presented the Philippine country and institutional report, outlining WVSU’s preparedness and strategic direction in implementing micro-credentials aligned with European Union (EU) frameworks. His presentation emphasized the university’s capacity to adopt innovative credentialing systems that respond to evolving academic and industry demands.

Building on this, Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Project Manager from the College of Business and Management, examined the Green Finance landscape in the Philippines, outlining key national policies, regulatory developments, and emerging market needs that shape the country’s sustainable finance ecosystem.

The training concluded with insights from Ms. Mia Guartilla, Junior Expert from the CBM, who shared WVSU’s experience in higher education–industry collaboration. Her presentation highlighted practical approaches to developing partnerships, internship programs, and co-designed academic initiatives that strengthen workforce relevance and foster industry engagement.

The three-day training reinforced WVSU’s role in advancing outcomes-based, industry-responsive green finance micro-credentials, while strengthening institutional capacity in sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration under the Erasmus+ framework.

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Advancing global efforts in sustainable finance, West Visayas State University (WVSU) took part in the 1st Transnational Project Meeting of the Erasmus+ CBHE project Green Finance: Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Growth in Southeast Asia, held on January 22, 2026 at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania.

President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Legal Entity Appointed Representative (LEAR), led the team alongside Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Project Manager, and Ms. Mia Guartilla, Junior Expert from the College of Business and Management.

The meeting marked the official launch of the project and served as a critical platform for aligning international partners on the project’s strategic direction. Key discussions focused on the project background and rationale, work breakdown structure, project management framework, and dissemination strategies.

Partners also reviewed first-year activities and deliverables, mobility implementation plans, and financial and reporting requirements, ensuring a coordinated and effective execution of project goals.

This milestone gathering brought together academic institutions and experts from the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Romania, Poland, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

Highlights of the event included an institutional welcome session, in-depth planning of the project roadmap, a workshop on mobility and collaboration opportunities, and a cultural immersion tour of historic downtown Sibiu, fostering stronger cross-cultural and institutional partnerships.

Through its participation in this Erasmus+ initiative, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to outcomes-based education and sustainability-driven academic innovation under the Erasmus+ framework.

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed the 12th batch of pre-service student teachers under the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA-Teacher) Project during a welcome ceremony held today at the university board room.

The ceremony introduced two practice teachers from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD), Indonesia—Qurrota A’yun and Najwa Lelya Mawarda—who will complete their teaching internship at the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School from January 14 to February 10, 2026.

In his welcome message, Dr. Ricky M. Magno, Dean of the College of Education, highlighted the value of international collaboration in teacher education.

“This collaboration stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when institutions come together with a shared vision for excellence in teacher education. To our pre-service teachers, you are not merely participants in a program; you are ambassadors of your country, bringing with you hope, culture, and compassion,” he said.

Prof. Mary June Pineda, Director of the Integrated Laboratory School, expressed her support for the visiting practice teachers and underscored the school’s commitment to providing a nurturing learning environment.

An overview of the internship program was presented by Dr. Cheryl Lyn Delgado, Chair of the Division of Secondary Teacher Training, who outlined the academic and teaching components of the SEA-Teacher engagement.

Messages of welcome were also delivered by student leaders Jesrael G. Amor, Chairperson of the English Majors’ Organization, and Arnel F. Gubatanga Jr., Chairperson of the Circle of Mathematicians, emphasizing student involvement and cultural exchange.

The program concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, who reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and promoting global competence among future educators.

The SEA-Teacher Project continues to serve as a platform for cross-cultural learning and professional growth, reinforcing WVSU’s dedication to internationalization in teacher education.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), continues to advance international cooperation and youth-led environmental advocacy through sustained engagement with the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia.

On November 20, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, together with Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin, Information Officer I, met with Mr. Amir Hamdane, Chargé de Coopération Technique and Development Cooperation Officer of the Service de Coopération et d’Action Culturelle. The meeting explored academic, cultural, and development partnerships, including initiatives under the Sanctuarium Maris Project, a French Embassy–funded marine conservation project implemented by WVSU that focuses on the protection of sea turtles, a globally threatened species vital to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

Further strengthening institutional and student engagement, officers of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA)—Chairperson Aihrich M. Toreres, Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas, and Education and Training Coordinator Amabela Fiona Le B. Benid—paid a courtesy visit to the French Embassy on December 4, reinforcing collaboration on youth participation, environmental action, and internationalization, particularly in support of community-based sea turtle conservation initiatives. Through sustained collaboration with the French Embassy, WVSU continues to strengthen its internationalization efforts by empowering students, fostering cross-cultural engagement, and advancing globally relevant initiatives in environmental sustainability and marine conservation.

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) has been officially approved as a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), following the endorsement of its Networks Strategy Council on December 15, 2025.

The milestone affirms WVSU’s sustained commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research, instruction, policy engagement, and community-based initiatives.

Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU UN SDSN Focal Person, said the membership enhances the university’s role in promoting evidence-based, inclusive, and locally grounded solutions to development challenges. He added that it also opens wider opportunities for international collaboration toward building sustainable and resilient communities.

The three-month application process was completed through close collaboration with Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla and University Planning and Development Office Director Dr. Reymund B. Flores. According to Dr. Lachica, the approval reflects WVSU’s strong and comprehensive institutional portfolio and its consistent engagement in sustainable development initiatives.

The SDSN is a global network of more than 2,000 institutions worldwide that promote high-quality education and research for sustainable development, support governments in addressing SDG-related challenges, and initiate solution-oriented programs, including long-term development pathways.

In 2022, the university, through the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), formally promoted the inclusion of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in the objectives, posters, banners or tarpaulins, programs, and invitations of all WVSU activities and events. This initiative applied to academic, extension, research, and student-led programs across colleges, campuses, and units.

Under the policy, organizers are encouraged to explicitly state the applicable SDG or SDGs in the objectives of their activities and visibly integrate the official SDG logos in all information and promotional materials. The move aimed to deepen awareness of the 17 interlinked global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a blueprint for achieving a more sustainable and inclusive future by 2030.

With its inclusion in the SDSN, WVSU strengthens its position in the global sustainability community and reinforces its commitment to contributing knowledge-driven solutions for inclusive and sustainable development.

West Visayas State University (WVSU) receives recognition today at the Commission on Higher Education’s Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. The university marks its fourth consecutive year being honored for outstanding achievements in internationalization and contributions to global higher education.

Dr. Elizabeth Magallanes, Director of the Quality Assurance Office, and Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, receive the award on behalf of the university.

WVSU stands out as one of the leading Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) for strong performance in major global ranking platforms, including the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, 2026 QS World University Rankings–Asia, and the 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI).

2025 THE Impact Rankings

WVSU earns a spot in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, placing in the 1501+ overall bracket. The university gains recognition for contributions to key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

 • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being (1001–1500)

 • SDG 4 – Quality Education (1501+)

 • SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (1001+)

 • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals (1501+)

2026 QS Asia Rankings

WVSU strengthens its regional presence, placing 185th in Southeast Asia and within the 1201–1300 bracket in Asia in the 2026 QS World University Rankings–Asia.

2025 WURI Rankings

WVSU demonstrates a culture of innovation, climbing to Rank 187 in the 2025 WURI, rising from 210th in 2024. The university also secures top spots in three WURI Top 100 categories:

 • Rank 20 – Student Mobility & Openness (A2)

 • Rank 36 – Student Support & Engagement (A1)

 • Rank 91 – Culture/Values (B4)

In addition to its global recognition, WVSU advanced its commitment to quality education through a new partnership with CHED. Earlier today, President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CHED Secretary Shirley C. Agrupis to implement the Diploma in Teaching Program, reinforcing the university’s role in shaping competent educators for the nation.

Through these achievements and partnerships, WVSU continues to strengthen its international profile while advancing its mission of excellence, innovation, and sustainable development in higher education.

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Business and Management (CBM) advances its global engagement initiatives as it embarks on an academic and industry immersion program with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Malaysia from December 7 to 11, 2025.

CBM Dean Dr. Raymund Moreno, along with six faculty members and 11 students, was welcomed by UiTM Deputy Dean for Industry Linkages Prof. Dr. Chemah Tamby Chik.

A series of academic engagements follow as WVSU-CBM meets with UiTM’s Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Management (FHTM). Faculty members from both institutions participate in collaborative sharing sessions that highlight ongoing research, best practices, and academic insights. These sessions are complemented by a cultural showcase and networking lunch, providing avenues for deeper interaction. The delegation also tours the faculty facilities and library, gaining firsthand exposure to UiTM’s academic environment.

The delegation then proceeds with activities under the Faculty of Business and Management (FBM), which include a courtesy meeting with the dean, a guided tour of the FBM campus, and an international seminar hosted by the Institute of Business Excellence (IBE). Selected WVSU faculty members deliver 10-minute research presentations, featuring diverse academic disciplines and research outputs. Dr. Ma. Flora C. Collado serves as the keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of academic collaboration and global knowledge exchange.

UiTM highlights that the Malaysia Immersion Program aims to build stronger international collaborations, enrich research linkages, and provide meaningful global exposure to participating faculty members and students. The initiative also reflects the shared vision of both universities to promote academic excellence through cross-cultural learning and institutional partnerships.

Through this program, WVSU-CBM continues to expand its global footprint, strengthening its internationalization efforts and fostering impactful academic relationships beyond the Philippines.

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) has climbed to World Rank 521 in the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2025, placing 1st in Region VI, 18th in the Philippines, and 294th in Asia, solidifying its standing as one of the country’s leading sustainable universities.

Now on its 15th edition, the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings assessed 1,745 institutions from 105 countries, making it the world’s largest university ranking focused on sustainability performance. This year introduces the theme “Advancing Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education: Stories from Our Institutions and Communities,” highlighting how universities integrate sustainability in teaching, research, operations, and community engagement.

WVSU’s performance reflects its efforts across all six dimensions measured by UI GreenMetric—setting and infrastructure, energy and climate change, waste management, water conservation, transportation systems, and sustainability-focused education and research. These criteria, composed of 39 indicators, evaluate how universities manage their physical environment, implement green policies, conserve resources, reduce emissions, and embed sustainability into academic and community programs.

As WVSU continues to participate in the global UI GreenMetric network, its achievements contribute to broader national and international efforts to promote clean energy, climate action, sustainable development, and green innovation. The 2025 ranking offers both recognition and motivation for the university to enhance its programs and deepen its integration of sustainability within all aspects of institutional life.