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STUDENT IUIS (Main Campus)

Category: International News

  • WVSU Strengthens International Research Collaboration Through Green Carbon Project Monitoring Visit

    WVSU Strengthens International Research Collaboration Through Green Carbon Project Monitoring Visit

    West Visayas State University welcomed representatives from Green Carbon Inc. and Mitsubishi Motors Japan on July 28, 2026 for a project monitoring visit under the Green Carbon-WVSU initiative, which promotes greenhouse gas reduction in rice production through the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) approach.

    The visit featured project updates and meetings with the research team led by Dr. Maria Lea Escantilla-Lebuna, director of the Environmental Resource Management Office (ERMO), followed by courtesy calls with Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation Dr. Greta G. Gabinete and Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris. The delegation also conducted field monitoring activities in Dingle, Pototan, and Lambunao.

    The initiative reinforces WVSU’s commitment to advancing climate-smart agriculture through research, innovation, and strategic partnerships for sustainable development.

  • WVSU, Japan Foundation Manila strengthen partnership for international Japanese language conference

    WVSU, Japan Foundation Manila strengthen partnership for international Japanese language conference

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) strengthened its international academic partnerships as it welcomed officials from The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) and the University of the Philippines Asian Center for a courtesy visit and ceremonial signing of a Letter of Agreement (LOA) on July 27 at the WVSU Boardroom.

    The signing formalized the collaboration for the upcoming international conference, “Japanese Beyond Words,” which WVSU’s Department of Language Studies under the College of Arts and Sciences will host in partnership with The Japan Foundation, Manila and the UP Asian Center on Sept. 25 to 26, 2026. The conference will coincide with the 41st Philippine Nihongo Teachers’ Forum and will be held at the QH Building.

    The ceremony followed an ocular inspection of the conference venue and discussions on logistical and program preparations. Representatives from the partner institutions also met with University officials to strengthen coordination and reinforce their shared commitment to advancing Japanese language education and international academic collaboration.

    Leading the delegation from The Japan Foundation, Manila were Deputy Director Yuta Kaneko, Senior Japanese Language Education Adviser Yuko Fujimitsu, Program Coordinator for Global Partnership, Arts and Culture, and Japanese Studies Ma. Jasmine Ray Latina, Nihongojin Support Team Program Coordinator Jan Jesster Lanting Carpio, and Karl Ian Cheng Chu from the UP Asian Center.

    The Japan Foundation, Manila emphasized that the visit was intended in preparation for the conference and to deepen the partnership and friendship between the institutions while reaffirming their commitment to promoting Japanese language education in the Philippines.

    The Department of Language Studies initiated the partnership through the ceremonial LOA signing, recognizing the collaboration as a key milestone in ensuring the successful staging of the international conference and expanding WVSU’s global academic engagements.

    The partnership supports WVSU’s continuing internationalization efforts by fostering cross-cultural understanding, promoting language education, and creating opportunities for academic exchange with international institutions. The initiative advances the University’s commitment to producing globally engaged graduates while contributing to Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

  • WVSU BLIS researchers present AI-powered heritage studies at Singapore conference

    WVSU BLIS researchers present AI-powered heritage studies at Singapore conference

    Students, alumni, and faculty members of the Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) program under the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) of West Visayas State University (WVSU) flew to Singapore to present their research through oral and poster presentations at a regional gathering of researchers and heritage professionals, held at the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), from June 24 to 26, 2026.

    The WVSU delegation joined researchers and heritage professionals from across the region for a three-day program combining scholarly presentations with hands-on tutorials on emerging AI technologies.

    The full program was designed to build regional research capacity in AI-assisted heritage work through the workshop covering hands-on tutorials on knowledge graphs, graph databases, and graph visualization, API development using Python/Flask to integrate databases, the web, and AI services such as GPT-5, including converting natural language queries into database query languages and summarizing search results, video analysis (using dance videos as a case study) and applications of generative AI and embedding vectors in information extraction and Retrieval-Augmented Generation.

    Two WVSU-CICT papers were selected for oral presentation. They presented a full slate of 14 research and project presentations from researchers and heritage professionals across the ASEAN region. The first, “Digitizing and Visualizing the Traditional Ilonggo Komposo,” explored efforts to digitize and map the Komposo, a traditional narrative song form of Western Visayas. It was presented by Prof. Stephen Alayon, co-authored by Joshua Kyle M. Lachica, James Francis Jereh E. Llabore, Tomme Wellart A. Marcelo, Joseph M. Yap, and Manuela R. Losanes. The second, “Zarzuela, Comedia, Teatro, Drama, Opera, Film and Cinema in the Makinaugalingon Newspaper (1913-1941): A Knowledge Graph Approach,” examined how the Hiligaynon newspaper Makinaugalingon documented the region’s performing arts scene in the early 20th century from zarzuela and comedia to the earliest film screenings using knowledge graph methods to trace connections across decades of coverage. This was presented by Earl Scarlet G. Chavez, and Shane Abigail C. Abido, under the guidance of Manuela R. Losañes, and Stephen B. Alayon.

    The group also presented poster presentations at the conference, applying knowledge graph construction and AI-enhanced Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) analysis to various facets of Panay’s history and heritage. In the context of WVSU’s research, this means that historical newspaper archives, thesis records, and heritage documentation can be queried in plain language, with the AI grounding its answers in the digitized sources rather than relying on guesswork. This makes decades of Ilonggo history significantly more searchable for both scholars and the general public. The poster presentations were:

    • “Knowledge Graph and Propaganda Analysis of Panay Shu-ho (1943) and Panay Times (1943- 1944) Multilingual Newspapers during the Japanese Occupation in Panay Island, Philippines”, by Shennah Faith G. Berbaña, Arabella Fatima L. Tejwani, Manuela R. Losañes, Stephen B. Alayon
    • “AI-Enhanced Bibliometric Profiling of Graduate Theses and Dissertations: A Knowledge Graph and RAG-Based Analysis of a State University in the Philippines” by Winnie Boy Sina-on, Manuela R. Losañes, Stephen B. Alayon, Elra Di M. Madalogdog, Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Regin A. Cabacas, Shem Durst Elijah B. Sandig
    • “Mapping and Visualizing X-Linked Dystonia Parkinsonism (‘Lubag‘), a Rare Disorder Endemic to Panay Island, Philippines” by Juliana Marie A. Jabagat, Francis Ken L. Payunan, Julius V. Suganob, Paolo G. Hilado, Manuela R. Losañes, Stephen B. Alayon
    • “Tracing the Legacy: An Exploration of Magdalena Jalandoni’s Works Across Libraries, Archives, and Museums” by Abby Gail C. Alarcon, April Aireen Y. Saenz, Elra Di M. Madalogdog, Manuela R. Losañes, Stephen B. Alayon
    • “A Knowledge Graph on Women as Published in Hiligaynon Newspaper Makinaugalingon (1913-1941, 1946, 1953)” by Stephen B. Alayon, Manuela R. Losañes, Melgie G. Pacardo, Catleya S. Ferro, Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Regin A. Cabacas, Paolo G. Hilado, Mark Joseph J. Solidarios, Pilar M. Martinez

    Taken together, the six posters and two oral papers reflect a sustained research program at WVSU applying knowledge graphs and AI to Ilonggo newspapers, literature, performing arts, medical heritage, and institutional records. The Singapore trip underscores the growing recognition of WVSU’s BLIS program and its faculty-led research initiatives under Stephen B. Alayon, as a hub for applying artificial intelligence to the preservation and study of Western Visayas’ cultural and historical record. From long-forgotten zarzuela reviews to the songs of the Komposo, from wartime propaganda in occupation-era newspapers to the medical heritage of a rare regional disorder, the researches presented reflects a university deeply invested in ensuring that Panay’s history remains a part and parcel of the Philippines as a nation, making them accessible for generations to come.

  • WVSU broadens its international reach in the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026

    WVSU broadens its international reach in the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026

    Strengthening its commitment to internationalization and sustainable development, West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined higher education leaders, policymakers, and development partners from around the world at the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026 held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from June 22 to 25, 2026.

    Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, represented the university in the international gathering, engaging in networking opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and discussions on innovative approaches to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    “Attending the GSDC provided me a deeper understanding on how WVSU can harmonize what we have been doing to contribute to the SDGs.

    We need to strengthen and pursue more impactful services to our community as we empower lifelong learners as agents of value — our way of transforming society.

    I believe, WVSU has taken the right direction as we work to achieve our vision of becoming a global research university that shapes generations. Let this be our ‘why’ and as a result we are recognized.

    I thank and congratulate the taga-West for the dedication in their work and duties,” she said.

    The University’s participation comes as WVSU continues to gain international recognition for its sustainability initiatives. In the 2026 Sustainability Impact Ratings, WVSU was recognized among 1,501+ universities worldwide.

  • WVSU advances sustainability efforts in the 2026 impact rankings

    WVSU advances sustainability efforts in the 2026 impact rankings

    Strengthening its global presence, West Visayas State University (WVSU) earned recognition in the 2026 Sustainability Impact Ratings, ranking among 1,501+ universities worldwide, highlighting its internationalization efforts and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The 2026 rankings evaluated 1,646 universities across 116 countries and territories, recognizing institutions that actively advance sustainable development through innovation, partnerships, and academic excellence.

    As WVSU continues to expand its global linkages and sustainability initiatives, it reaffirms its mission to produce globally competitive and socially responsible graduates who contribute to a more sustainable future.

  • WVSU Director joins ASEAN English Leadership Forum

    WVSU Director joins ASEAN English Leadership Forum

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) celebrates another international milestone as Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Journalism lecturer and Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, was selected to participate in the ASEAN English Leadership Forum held in Makati from June 3–7, 2026.

    Organized by the U.S. Department of State through the Regional English Language Office, and implemented by the American English Alumni Association of the Philippines, Inc. (AEAA-Philippines), the forum convenes 34 participants from 11 ASEAN member states to discuss English Medium Instruction (EMI), language policy, and regional educational collaboration.

    As a representative of WVSU, Ms. Subong-Csoka brings her expertise in journalism, internationalization, and academic leadership to the international platform by engaging in the research team, helping draft an ASEAN English Medium Instructoon framework policy research with leaders and researchers from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and her own country.

    Her participation being 1 of the only 5 Philippine delegates underscores WVSU’s commitment to global engagement, excellence in higher education, and strengthening partnerships that contribute to ASEAN integration and international academic development.

    Other Philippine delegates come from Philippine Normal University, Cebu Normal University, National Teachers College, and Ateneo de Davao University.

  • WVSU holds SEA Teacher Exit Conference for Indonesian exchange students

    WVSU holds SEA Teacher Exit Conference for Indonesian exchange students

    West Visayas State University recognized the completion of the teaching practicum of exchange students from Universitas Negeri Jakarta through the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA) Teacher Exit Conference held on May 28, 2026, at the WVSU Boardroom.

    The exchange students, who are taking Bachelor of Secondary Education majors in English and Mathematics at Universitas Negeri Jakarta, completed their practice teaching at the College of Education, gaining classroom experience at the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School and La Paz National High School.

    Dr. Rosemarie Felimon, associate dean of the College of Education, commended the SEA Teacher participants for successfully completing the program and highlighted their involvement in both academic and cultural activities during their stay. She noted that, apart from classroom teaching, the students also participated in national conferences and international seminars.

    “We hope that despite your short stay here in the Philippines, you have gained valuable skills and knowledge aligned with the goals of the SEA Teacher Program,” Dr. Felimon said, expressing hope for continued collaboration between Indonesia and the Philippines in advancing quality education.

    Faculty mentors from the English and Mathematics departments also shared feedback on the exchange students’ performance. Dr. Michael Caesar Tubal, Dr. Jonathan Glorial and Dr. Renato Herrera praised the students for their communication skills, patience and commitment in handling classes despite language differences.

    The Indonesian exchange students, Muhammad Fazl Andcaka Prawira, Rafi Ahmad Fakhri and Muhammad Syaiful Ikhwan, also shared their experiences as practice teachers in the Philippines, highlighting lessons gained from classroom teaching, seminar participation and cultural immersion in Western Visayas. Dr. Elias Olapane, College of Education IZN coordinator, thanked the students for choosing WVSU as their host institution and emphasized the university’s commitment to preparing globally competent educators equipped with both teaching expertise and cultural awareness.

    WVSU College of Education students who recently completed their month-long SEA Teacher exchange at Universitas Negeri Jakarta also shared insights from their teaching experiences in Indonesia, underscoring the value of cross-cultural learning and academic exchange. The SEA Teacher Program reflects WVSU’s continuing efforts to expand international partnerships and provide students with meaningful global learning experiences that enhance professional growth, cultural understanding and classroom readiness.

  • WVSU highlights internationalization efforts at CHED Region VI IRO Convergence

    WVSU highlights internationalization efforts at CHED Region VI IRO Convergence

    At the 2nd International Relations Officers (IROs) Convergence of the Regional Office VI, held at the Central Administration Boardroom of Capiz State University – Main Campus with the theme “ACHIEVEing Impact-Driven Internationalization Strategies: International Relations Convergence”, WVSU was represented by the Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), Ms Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, who is also the President of the Western Visayas Council of IROs; Dr May Joy Fernandez, IZN coordinator of WVSU-Calinog Campus, and Mr. Christopher Palmares, IZN coordinator of the College of Nursing.

    Ms. Subong-Csoka delivered the accomplishment report of the University’s internationalization (IZN) initiatives and milestones.

    Ms. Mabel Gutierrez, the Officer-in-Charge Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED IAS, opened the program, stressing the importance of sustainable collaborations.

    Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer , Director IV and Director-in-Charge of CHED International Affairs Service, discussed the important role of the IROs in the higher education institutions, highlighting key qualities and skills. Dr. Ferrer also highlighted the relevant policies of the Commission that serve as guide for internationalization-related operations.

    Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, the Secretary of the Commission on Higher Education, emphasized that Internationalization is “no longer about sending students or faculty abroad or attending conferences” but rather creating transformative learning environments, expanding research collaboration and innovation, and sharing that Filipino learners are globally competent yet “grounded with our identity”.

    The 2nd International Relations Officers (IROs) Convergence gathered international relations officers from state universities and colleges, private higher education institutions, and local colleges in the region.

  • 5th Peace Education Forum at WVSU highlights its role in advancing global harmony

    5th Peace Education Forum at WVSU highlights its role in advancing global harmony

    Educators, students, researchers, and peace advocates gathered at the College of Education – NAB 110 of West Visayas State University on May 9, 2026 for the 5th West Visayas Peace Education Forum.

    Anchored on the theme “Blessed Victoria Diez Memorial Lecture: Openness and Dialogue,” the forum featured discussions on peacebuilding, dialogue, and education as foundations for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

    Dr. Rodgen M. Jabor, Peace Educator and Researcher, underscored the importance of education in cultivating empathy, responsible citizenship, and mutual understanding among communities.

    Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, emphasized that peace education plays a significant role in shaping future generations and fostering global understanding.

    “Peace education is the key in solving global problems. It is not an overnight solution, but if we teach our students at a young age about its value, we are creating a peaceful world one step at a time. As to internationalization, networking and forging partnerships will not prosper without peace,” she said.

    The forum also showcased research presentations from educators and students across Iloilo, promoting the exchange of peace education initiatives and best practices.

    Joint efforts of the WVSU – Center for Peace Education (CPE), ILLO, University Learning Resource Center, Department of Education Region VI, WVSU College of Education – Graduate School (Peace Education Class), and the Department of Guidance and Values Education made the activity possible.

  • WVSU rises to Rank 137 in WURI 2026

    WVSU rises to Rank 137 in WURI 2026

    West Visayas State University continues to gain global recognition for innovation and social impact after rising to Rank 137 in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, placing the University among the Global Top 500 Innovative Universities.

    From advancing inclusive and socially responsive programs to strengthening internationalization and student engagement, this achievement reflects the collective efforts of the entire WVSU community in pushing boundaries and creating meaningful impact beyond the classroom.

    WVSU also earned spots in several WURI Top 100 categories, including:

    Rank 8 Inclusive Social Innovation for the Underserved (C6)

    Rank 36 Student Mobility and Openness (A2)

    Rank 47 Future-Oriented Responses to Global Uncertainty and Geopolitical Risk (A7)

    Rank 83 SDG- and ESG-Based Responses to Past and Present Global Challenges (A8)

    As WVSU continues to expand its global footprint, this recognition affirms the University’s commitment to transformative education, innovation, and service for communities here and beyond.