Category: International News

Continuing its streak of global recognition, West Visayas State University (WVSU) marked another milestone as two of its faculty members represented the university and the King Sejong Institute Iloilo at the 2025 World Korean Educators Conference (세계한국어교육자대회) held from July 21 to 24 at The Shilla Seoul, South Korea.

Professor Ree Ran Park and Ms. Arizza Julia Inocencio, both Korean language instructors under the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), joined over 300 Korean language educators from 49 countries in the annual international gathering hosted by the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF) under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of South Korea. The conference aimed to promote excellence and innovation in Korean language education and strengthen international collaboration across King Sejong Institutes worldwide.

At the opening ceremony, South Korea’s First Lady Kim Hea Kyung delivered a video message emphasizing the growing global impact of Korean language and culture.

“Thanks to the dedication and hard work of King Sejong Institute teachers, the seeds of the Korean language and culture have spread across the globe,” she said, recognizing the educators’ role in fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Now on its 17th year, the conference featured specialized training sessions on Korean language pedagogy, including updates on the Sejong Korean Assessment (SKA), adaptive i-SKA tools, and effective strategies for classroom instruction and cultural engagement.

Participants also shared model teaching cases and explored emerging technologies and trends in language education.

Ms. Inocencio, a graduate of WVSU’s BA in Foreign Languages, and Professor Park are at the forefront of the university’s efforts to strengthen Korean language education in the region through the King Sejong Institute Iloilo, which was officially designated in 2024.

This is not the first time WVSU has made its mark at the World Korean Educators Conference. In 2024, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, represented the university at the same global event.

By continuously engaging in international academic and cultural platforms, WVSU strengthens its role as a center of global learning in Western Visayas, advancing both language education and cultural appreciation through the strong support of its faculty and international partners.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to strengthen its commitment to deliver quality education by actively participating in the 19th ASEAN University Network Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Tier 2 Training held from July 17 to 23, 2025, at the Universiti Malaya, Malaysia.

Representing WVSU were Dr. Dolly Rose F. Temelo, faculty member of the College of Arts and Sciences, and Dr. Madonna S. Palmes, Dean of the College of Nursing. Their participation was further supported by Dr. Alona M. Belarga, Director of Instruction, underscoring WVSU’s strong collaboration with the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).

The Tier 2 training provided participants with a unique opportunity to observe a live AUN-QA assessment process and engage in the development of a Self-Assessment Report (SAR) alongside delegates from other ASEAN universities. This experience was especially valuable for those who had previously completed the Tier 1 training, further deepening their understanding and application of quality assurance principles in higher education.

Key highlights of the training included:

• In-depth review of AUN-QA Programme Assessment Version 4.0
• Overview of Higher Education and Quality Assurance frameworks in key ASEAN countries
• Exploration of AUN-QA Assessor Competencies, focusing on ethics and cultural sensitivity through case studies
• Application of the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) approach to AUN-QA assessment
• Guidance on Desktop and Site Assessment procedures, including reporting mechanisms

More than just a training program, the event served as a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and networking among quality assurance practitioners in Southeast Asia. It successfully met participants’ expectations by fostering a supportive environment where best practices were exchanged and shared values were reinforced—paving the way for continuous quality improvement across ASEAN higher education institutions.

Through sustained engagement with international quality assurance initiatives like AUN-QA, WVSU reaffirms its dedication to academic excellence and its active role in advancing educational standards across Southeast Asia.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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To strengthen cultural diversity and global education, West Visayas State University-Center for Teaching Excellence (WVSU-CTE) officially launched its first Multilingual Compendium at CTE Main Hall on July 15, 2025.

With the theme, “Education Without Borders: A Global Exchange of Basque and Filipino Insights” and “Bridging Cultures: Presentation of the Multilingual Compendium,” the event aimed to foster international collaboration by connecting diverse communities through education.

“Here in West Visayas State University, our pursuit of internalization is not merely about exchanging knowledge or gaining global prestige. It is driven by a deeper purpose to discover ourselves through fresh and different ties, to see what we have become and what we might get to be. It is about expanding perspectives to understand not only others but our place in this world,” said Dr. Joselito Villaruz, WVSU president.

The project was led by WVSU-CTE under the supervision of the CTE Director, Dr. Antoniette Cortez, in partnership with two Spanish interns, Mertxe Mendibe Lazaro and Maria Pilar Arraiz Torre, who stayed in the university for six months, conducting research, joining community immersions, and developing a multilingual compendium.

“I think in a globalized world, it is important to have this multilingual compendium to build bridges between different cultures, so we can communicate and get close with each other,” said Lazaro emphasizing the significance of the project.

“Aside from having the difficulty in translating the things that don’t exist in our language, it would be working online. I like meeting new people and maybe it would have been better to meet them in person, work alongside [them], and get to know them. Maybe it would be productive and enriching,” said Torre.

Assisting the project were fourth year Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English students and third year Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) students, who helped the interns with translation and layouting.

“It is overwhelming and satisfying that what I created will be a part of a big project, helping the users to easily understand the content of the compendium,” said Yoj Chiva, BEED student and the illustrator of the compendium.

The multilingual compendium is a collection of different categories such as Alphabet, numbers, plants, fruits, basic greetings, songs, etc, — presented in five languages: Basque, Spanish, Hiligaynon, Filipino, and English.

The project highlights WVSU-CTE’s goal of advancing education and promoting linguistic diversity and global citizenship across the classrooms. Copies will be made available online and will be announced through the WVSU-CTE page.

By Yehlette B. Martin/SILAK MEDIA

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) concluded the six-month internship of two Spanish interns, Mertxe and Pilar, from the Basque Government’s Global Training Grant Program through a culminating event titled “Education Without Borders: A Global Exchange of Basque and Filipino Insights and Bridging Cultures: Presentation of the Multilingual Compendium” today, July 15, at the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) Hall.

The two interns arrived on January 22, 2025, and were detailed at the Center for Teaching Excellence under the supervision of Dr. Antoniette D. Cortez, CTE Director. Throughout their deployment, Mertxe and Pilar actively engaged in teaching, research, and intercultural exchange activities that fostered academic collaboration and strengthened cultural understanding between the Philippines and the Basque Country.

WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered the opening message, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships in enhancing the quality of higher education and preparing students to become globally competent citizens. He acknowledged the role of programs like this in bridging cultures and enriching academic experiences.

Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, provided an overview of the internship program and recognized the dedication and contributions of the interns to the university’s academic environment. She lauded their initiative in supporting faculty and engaging with students across various learning platforms.

One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of the Multilingual Compendium—an academic output developed by the Interns together with the BSED 3A and BEED 2B students from the College of Education during their six-month stay. Mertxe and Pilar also showcased their individual research projects and e-portfolios, which reflected their growth and productivity during their internship. They shared insights on their experiences living and working in the Philippines and offered recommendations for enhancing future internship programs.

WVSU faculty members Dr. Aris C. Larroder and Dr. Joyce Colon also shared their impressions, noting how the interns contributed positively to their respective departments and helped advance the university’s internationalization agenda. They emphasized that the presence of international interns enriched the university’s academic landscape and brought fresh perspectives into classrooms and research discussions.

Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort between WVSU and the Basque Government, reiterating the university’s firm commitment to fostering global linkages and advancing international learning opportunities for students and faculty alike.

In her closing message, Dr. Cortez stressed the importance of unity in driving internationalization forward. “As we continue to expand our international efforts, may we come together as a unified force rather than allowing divisions over program ownership to fragment our progress. The more avenues we open and the richer the diversity of programs we offer, the better prepared our students will be to thrive as true global citizens,” she said.

The internship program stands as a reflection of WVSU’s proactive response to global educational challenges and its commitment to cultivating a learning environment rooted in excellence, inclusion, and international collaboration.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) participated in the Strategic Capacity Building for Global University Rankings: Advancing WURI, THE, and QS Performance, organized by the Commission on Higher Education – Region VI and Negros Island Region (CHEDRO VI & NIR) at the University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos (UNO-R) on July 14-15, 2025.

The two-day workshop gathered representatives from 27 higher education institutions (HEIs) across Region VI and NIR.

WVSU was represented by Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office; Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, Director of the University Extension and Development Center (UEDC); Ms. Christine Liz Jimenea and Ms. Vibian Cabagua from the Quality Assurance (QA) Office.

The program commenced with a welcome message from Rev. Fr. Amadeo C. Lucero, OAR, UNO-R Vice President for Administration, and CHEDRO VI and NIR Regional Director Raul C. Alvarez Jr.

The capacity-building program featured expert-led workshops that focused on three major global ranking frameworks. Dr. Joean Escober from Central Philippines State University discussed the methodology and significance of the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship, social responsibility, and institutional adaptability.

Dr. Warlito S. Caturay Jr., Chief of the Office of Media and Public Affairs at Silliman University, conducted an in-depth session on the QS Asia University Rankings, emphasizing the metrics of international visibility and academic reputation.

For the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, the session was led by Dr. Anna May Zerrudo and Prof. Sharlene G. Gotico, both from Central Philippine University’s Quality Assurance Office, who presented strategies aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, OIC Chief Education Program Specialist and CHEDRO VI’s Internationalization (IZN) Focal Person, capped the event with her closing message, calling on HEIs to take bold and strategic steps toward global competitiveness.

Throughout the two-day program, participants engaged in hands-on workshops and interactive discussions that deepened their understanding of how to navigate and leverage global rankings. The event also underscored critical insights, such as the limitations of relying solely on reputational metrics, the need to balance research and teaching, and the increasing importance of innovation, sustainability, and local relevance in higher education assessment.

By actively taking part in these dialogues and trainings, the university continues to position itself as a forward-looking institution ready to embrace the evolving standards of international higher education.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) strengthened its commitment to internationalization as it participated in the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) International Week 2025 – Educational Fair on July 11, 2025, held at Paradise Garden Resort Hotel and Convention Center in Boracay, Malay, Aklan.

The event brought together local and international higher education institutions (HEIs) in a celebration of global collaboration and academic exchange.

With the theme “Connecting Cultures, Inspiring Futures,” the event featured educational presentations, networking opportunities, and exploratory meetings that served as a platform for strengthening internationalization initiatives among participating institutions.

Representing WVSU were Prof. Mary Ann V. Alvarez, Internationalization Coordinator of the Janiuay Campus; Prof. Jason P. Amar, Internationalization Coordinator of the Himamaylan City Campus; and Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin, Information Officer I. The university delegates took part in various engagements including presentations from international HEIs, one-on-one institutional dialogues, and exploration of collaboration opportunities with local, national, and international academic institutions.

The WVSU team also participated in booth visits and discussions aimed at initiating future partnerships in academic programs, research, and student mobility. These interactions provided a valuable platform to promote WVSU’s internationalization goals and establish potential linkages with institutions abroad.

Through its active involvement, WVSU reaffirms its strong commitment to global engagement and collaboration as it continues to pursue academic excellence and international recognition.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) has secured Rank 187 in the prestigious World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025, placing it among the Global Top 400 Innovative Universities.

This achievement reflects a notable rise from its 210th position in 2024, underscoring WVSU’s sustained dedication to fostering innovation, enhancing student engagement, and expanding international collaboration.

In addition to its overall ranking, WVSU earned recognition in three specialized categories within the WURI Top 100:

• Rank 20 in Student Mobility and Openness (A2) Program Name: E-BRIDGE: Intercultural Digital Learning Proponent: Dr. Antoniette D. Cortez
• Rank 36 in Student Support and Engagement (A1) Program Name: Project E-Hustisya Proponents: Atty. Pauline Grace B. Alfuente and Atty. Regina Johanna V.Gustilo
• Rank 91 in Culture/Values (B4) Program Name: Personality Enhancement Activities (PEA) Program Proponents: Dr. Marie Rosette Cainday and Dr. Bella Antonia Lorilla.

The 2025 WURI evaluation covers 16 categories, reflecting a comprehensive approach that goes beyond traditional academic metrics. The ranking system focuses on universities’ innovative capacities, practical contributions to industry and society, and their responsiveness to global challenges.

WVSU’s improved standing in this global ranking highlights its commitment to advancing education that aligns with evolving societal needs and international standards.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to enhance its global academic presence as two faculty members from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)—Professor Ree Ran Park and Arizza Julia Inocencio—are set to represent the King Sejong Institute Iloilo and the Philippines at the 2025 World Korean Educators Conference (세계한국어교육자대회) to be held from July 21 to 24 in Seoul, South Korea.

This prestigious international conference is hosted annually by the King Sejong Institute Foundation (KSIF) under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of South Korea. It gathers Korean language educators from around the world to share best practices, discuss pedagogical innovations, and promote global collaboration in Korean language education.

Both Professor Park and Ms. Inocencio, who is also a proud alumna of the Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages program, currently serve as Korean language instructors under CAS. The King Sejong Institute Iloilo is a flagship cultural and language initiative of the college, established to advance Korean language education and foster cultural appreciation in the region.

This is not the first time WVSU has gained international recognition in this arena. In August 2024, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, represented the university at the 2024 edition of the same conference.

WVSU was formally designated as a King Sejong Institute in 2024, officially joining South Korea’s international network of institutions promoting Korean language and culture around the world.

Through sustained global engagements such as this, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, international collaboration, and cross-cultural education—raising the Philippine flag proudly on the world stage.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Four medical students from Pennsylvania State University officially began their Global Health Scholars Pathway (GHSP) immersion today, June 30, at West Visayas State University (WVSU), marking the start of a collaborative international program aimed at strengthening global medical education and cross-cultural healthcare learning.

The visiting students—Madison Scopano, Jacob Berry, Eva Eleftheriadis, and Jaybee Diones—are accompanied by their faculty site lead, Dr. Jasmin Gange Lagman, Associate Professor at Penn State and an alumna of the WVSU College of Medicine.

The three-week immersion program, which runs from June 30 to July 19, 2025, commenced with a courtesy visit to Dr. Victor Amantillo, Dean of the WVSU College of Medicine, followed by a tour of the college. The group also paid a visit to WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, who welcomed them and expressed the university’s enthusiasm for this new chapter in global academic cooperation.

This visit is part of a larger partnership between Penn State and WVSU, established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year on January 1, 2025.

The program is designed to expose future medical professionals to diverse health systems, community-based practices, and health economics in a global setting.

Additionally, the program is coordinated by Dr. Eunice Sermonia and Dr. Charmaine Malata, who are overseeing the students’ university-related activities and ensuring a smooth and enriching academic and cultural experience.

The Global Health Scholars Pathway is a unique and innovative program that integrates global health education into the medical curriculum at Penn State. It provides students with two immersive international experiences: the first focused on community immersion and development of a health project, and the second, in the students’ senior year, dedicated to clinical engagement in the same setting.

By choosing the Philippines—specifically WVSU—as one of the program’s international sites, this initiative not only fosters academic and cultural exchange but also reflects the growing global partnerships that shape the future of medical education.

This visit is just the beginning of a promising long-term collaboration between WVSU and Penn State, with future cohorts of medical scholars expected to follow.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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What began as a student initiative has grown into a movement of environmental hope and action. At the heart of this effort is Sanctuarium Maris, a sea turtle conservation project in Barangay Atabayan, Tigbauan, Iloilo—led by the DagYoung Student Ambassadors of West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society.

Funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, this project is building bridges between science, sustainability, and the community. On June 28, these student leaders hosted “Conversations on Conservation”, a focus group discussion that reflected on the progress, challenges, and future of the initiative.

A Safe Shore for Sea Turtles

Barangay Atabayan is known as a vital nesting ground for sea turtles, with records of hatchlings as recent as 2020. But this coastal community also faces alarming challenges. From 2001 to 2011, 109 sea turtles were spotted—many of them injured or stranded. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued from fish traps or found along the coast. These figures paint a clear picture: the need for action is urgent.

Youth at the Helm of Conservation

WVSU’s DagYoung Student Ambassadors are at the forefront of this effort. Serving as the internationalization arm of the university’s International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), these students are not only raising awareness but are actively training as “first responders” in sea turtle protection. Chairperson Aihrich M. Toreres led the opening of the forum on behalf of Director Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csóka, emphasizing the role of student leadership in real-world impact.

A Dialogue of Insights and Solutions

The forum was designed not just to report outcomes, but to listen—to the volunteers, residents, and local leaders who share the responsibility of protecting the coast. Topics included TideWatch, a sharing of field observations and reflections; Bright Spots, which highlighted conservation wins; Rough Waters, where challenges and failures were discussed; and Echoes of Engagement, where volunteers and locals gave feedback on their experiences. The final session, Currents Forward, explored strategies to sustain the project long-term.

A United Community Response

The event was attended by key community figures, including Barangay Captain Hon. Edison T. Camiña, Hon. Julius E. Trafalgar, Hon. Rowena C. Torrechante, and SK Chair Peter Paul Cadabo. Their presence demonstrated strong local support and the growing awareness that sea turtle conservation is not a solo effort—it is a shared mission.

Charting a Future for the Sea

In his closing remarks, Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas reflected on the importance of continuity and shared responsibility. He underscored that while policies and programs help, it is the hearts and hands of people—especially the youth—that will sustain real change.

WVSU continues to serve as a beacon of environmental leadership in the region. With Sanctuarium Maris, the university’s student leaders are setting an example of what passionate, community-rooted conservation can look like.

As the sea turtles return to Tigbauan’s shores in the years to come, they will find more than just a natural sanctuary. They will find a community waiting, watching, and willing to protect.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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