Category: International News

International collaboration in teacher education continues to grow as West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed the 11th batch of pre-service student teachers from Walailak University, Thailand under the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA-Teacher) Project on March 10 at the university board room.

The ceremony introduced four practice teachers from Walailak University—Mr. Patcharapon Jitprapai, Miss Ranchida Saengsri, Miss Apinya Meednui, and Miss Prompond Yoma—who will complete their teaching internship at the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School until April 7.

Delivering the welcome message on behalf of Dr. Ricky M. Magno, Dean of the College of Education, Dr. Rosemarie G. Felimon, Associate Dean, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in teacher education. She noted that the partnership reflects a shared vision among institutions to advance excellence in teacher preparation and reminded the visiting students that they serve as ambassadors of their country, bringing with them culture, knowledge, and compassion.

Prof. Mary June Pineda, Director of the Integrated Laboratory School, expressed her support for the visiting practice teachers and highlighted the school’s commitment to providing a nurturing learning environment that will support their professional growth during the internship.

The message was echoed by 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.

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.

Following the introduction, faculty members from Walailak University shared academic insights through presentations on Mathematics Education by Miss Pha-emah Chesa and Science Education by Dr. Nutt Tananimit, providing perspectives on teaching practices in Thailand.

The program concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Esperval Cezhar Cadiao, COE IZN Coordinator, who also visited Walailak University in Thailand on January 30 together with two WVSU COE practice teachers who participated in the SEA-Teacher exchange program.

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

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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A small space now carries a big mission at West Visayas State University (WVSU) as the Sea Turtle Nook was officially inaugurated on March 6, 2026, at the University Learning Resource Center—serving as a new symbol of hope for marine conservation and environmental awareness.

President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz described the Sea Turtle Nook as more than an installation. For him, it is a learning call—an invitation for students, educators, and visitors to recognize their shared responsibility in protecting marine ecosystems.

The initiative builds upon the Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project, launched in 2025 by the WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors together with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Young Journalists’ Society (YJS), with support from the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia. Since its launch, the project has worked closely with the coastal community of Brgy. Atabayan, Tigbauan, providing training on sea turtle biology, conservation practices, rescue protocols, and nest protection efforts.

Highlighting collaboration at the heart of the initiative, International and Local Linkages Office Director Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka shared that the Sea Turtle Nook represents the collective efforts of youth leaders, local communities, academic institutions, government agencies, and international partners united by a common goal—to safeguard marine life for future generations.

Community representative Mr. Peter Paul Cadano, SK Chairman of Brgy. Atabayan expressed gratitude for the partnership, describing the nook as a reminder that environmental protection begins with awareness and shared responsibility. Representing DENR Region VI, Ms. Jessie L. Reyes affirmed continued collaboration with WVSU, noting that marine conservation efforts in Western Visayas are entering a stronger and more hopeful chapter.

Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas emphasized that the Sea Turtle Nook is not a temporary exhibit but a lasting legacy—one that transforms education into action and inspires future generations of Taga-West to care for the environment beyond the classroom.

Through the Sea Turtle Nook, WVSU reinforces a simple yet powerful message: even small spaces can create waves of change for the planet.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University took part in the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community High-Level Forum 2026 on March 4, 2026 at The Peninsula Manila, joining regional leaders and stakeholders in discussions aimed at strengthening a resilient and people-centered ASEAN Community.

The forum was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which currently chairs the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community pillar under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.

Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, represented WVSU as part of the Philippine higher education delegation endorsed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Discussions focused on identifying actionable strategies to advance a resilient, cohesive, and people-empowered ASEAN while strengthening cooperation across the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars of the regional bloc.

Meanwhile, Mr. Johnric Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator of DagYoung Student Ambassadors, also attended the forum, representing the youth sector through the National Youth Commission. His participation highlighted the role of young leaders in shaping inclusive and future-ready pathways toward the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

Through its participation, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to international engagement and regional cooperation, contributing to ongoing conversations that aim to empower ASEAN citizens and strengthen collaborative solutions to shared challenges.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Welcoming opportunities for academic collaboration, Dr. Joselito Villaruz, president of West Visayas State University (WVSU), received a delegation of student interns from Philippine Normal University (PNU)- North Luzon on March 2, 2026, for the One-Month Local Student Exchange and Mobility Program (LSEMP) for teaching internships.

The visiting interns—BSED Major in Filipino students Erika Tagari, Jaezhalhy Laureta, and Fae De Guzman Cinco—are accompanied by their faculty mentor, Prof. Virgilio Reyes.

During their month-long stay, the interns will engage in classroom observations, teaching demonstrations, and collaborative activities with cooperating teachers to enhance their teaching experience and exchange best practices in teacher education.

The welcome activities were followed by a city tour in Iloilo City.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Highlighting its commitment to internationalization, West Visayas State University began the two-month academic engagement of French interns Eugénie Mouret and Maëlys Bourdin through an opening ceremony on March 2.

The interns were formally introduced to the university community during the flag ceremony, where faculty, staff, and students had the opportunity to welcome them as part of WVSU’s growing international exchange initiatives.

Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in “Teaching Abroad” at Université Toulouse – Jean Jaurès in France, the interns will focus on international cooperation, cultural diversity, and intercultural mediation as part of their internship program.

WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized that the program reflects the university’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration and preparing students to become globally competent and culturally responsive professionals.

Meanwhile, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoak, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, highlighted the importance of sustained global engagement initiatives that promote intercultural learning and cooperation.

This collaboration follows the successful internship of Mr. Enzo Muñoz, the first French intern at WVSU in 2025.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University continues to advance its internationalization efforts as it welcomed the 2nd batch of French interns, Eugénie Mouret and Maëlys Bourdin, on February 28 for a two-month academic engagement.

The interns, pursuing a Master’s degree in “Teaching Abroad” at Université Toulouse – Jean Jaurès in France, will focus on international cooperation, cultural diversity, and intercultural mediation.

They were received by Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office.

This collaboration follows the successful internship of Mr. Enzo Muñoz, the first French intern at WVSU in 2025.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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Opportunities for global study, research, and academic exchange were highlighted during the Fulbright Scholarship Information Session held on February 27 in partnership with the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) at West Visayas State University.

WVSU students and Internationalization (IZN) coordinators attended the activity as prospective scholars of the Fulbright Program, the flagship international educational exchange initiative of the United States government aimed at strengthening mutual understanding between Americans and people from other countries.

The Fulbright Program offers competitive grants for students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research abroad, with benefits that include tuition support, airfare, and living stipends.

Representatives from the Fulbright Secretariat led the session, including Ms. Rochelle Miguel, Program Officer, and Mr. Jan Derrick Pertez, Program Assistant of the Philippine-American Educational Foundation, along with Ms. Katrina Marie Florece, EducationUSA Graduate Adviser. They discussed application processes, eligibility requirements, and opportunities available to Filipino applicants.

Adding inspiration to the session, former Fulbright scholars Dr. Ricky Abaleña III, Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr., Mr. Reymund Lara, and Mr. Armando Jorge Quiroz IV, shared their experiences and insights, encouraging participants to pursue global academic engagement through the program.

The activity reflects WVSU’s continuing commitment to internationalization and academic excellence by connecting its academic community with global scholarship opportunities.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its Tourism students, DagYoung Student Ambassadors, and the International and Local Linkages Office, has taken on the role of Information Officers as Iloilo hosts the 49th High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration (HLTF-EI), which gathers high-ranking economic officials from ASEAN Member States, from February 25–28, 2026, in support of the Philippines’ hosting of the event.

Working alongside the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VI, WVSU personnel and student volunteers are assisting in the operation of information desks at official meeting locations and delegate accommodations, helping ensure smooth coordination and a warm welcome for ASEAN officials and participants.

This initiative supports the DOT Region VI in its leadership of the Committee on Tourism, Hospitality, Tours, Social Events, and Site Enhancement (CHTSESE), which plays a vital role in enhancing delegate services during ASEAN Senior Officials’ and Ministerial Meetings.

Aligned with the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship priorities — including digital economy cooperation, economic security, and expanded trade partnerships — WVSU’s participation reflects its commitment to service excellence.

This engagement also builds on the participants’ completion of the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training last February 6, equipping them to deliver globally competitive Filipino hospitality to international delegates.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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On February 23, West Visayas State University (WVSU) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Talent Circulation Base (INTACT Base), a collaborative initiative composed of National Chung Hsing University, Kun Shan University, and Cheng Shiu University, to strengthen international academic collaboration and expand opportunities for Filipino students to pursue higher education in Taiwan.

Representing the INTACT Base Taiwan-Philippines Iloilo Office were Ms. Krystl Lim, Deputy CEO; Ms. Lisa Huang, Project Manager; Ms. Michelle Diongco, Mandarin Teacher; and Ms. Cherisse Hope Gomez, Project Director.

WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the significance of the partnership in advancing the University’s mission of global engagement and talent development.

This commitment was echoed by Dr. Ma. Corazon M. Samorin, OIC Campus Administrator of WVSU Janiuay Campus, highlighting the campus’ support for international learning opportunities.

Through this agreement, both parties aim to support WVSU students who wish to continue their studies in Taiwan through the International Industrial Talents Education Special Program (INTENSE Program), which offers two years of advanced training under post-baccalaureate or master’s degree programs in Taiwanese universities, while also promoting Chinese language education and broader academic exchange.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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As part of its ongoing commitment to internationalization, four fourth-year students from West Visayas State University (WVSU)– Calinog Campus are participating in a student exchange program at Lovely Professional University in Phagwara, India from February 21 to March 23, 2026.

The student delegates are Vea T. Arsigono, Agnes Jhade Angelou A. Blanza, and Kenth A. Marquilencia from the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, along with Janelle Mae C. Corcino from the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics.

Through this exchange, WVSU continues to advance its internationalization agenda by fostering cross-cultural learning, academic collaboration, and global competence among its students.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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