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STUDENT IUIS (Main Campus)

Category: International News

  • WVSU pushes global research network through Coventry University visit

    WVSU pushes global research network through Coventry University visit

    Officials from West Visayas State University (WVSU) are currently visiting Coventry University in the United Kingdom (UK) from May 19 to 22, 2025, to strengthen academic and research partnerships.

    The delegation, led by Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, WVSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, includes Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Campus Administrator of Calinog Campus, and Dr. Elias C. Olapane, Head of Research, Innovation and Development and Internationalization Coordinator.

    The visit is focused on fostering a robust exchange of knowledge and best practices in areas such as research-led teaching and learning, research commercialization, doctoral supervision, and the development of international linkages.

    Dr. Dimitar Angelov, Coventry University’s focal person for the WVSU partnership and lead of the “Digital Challenges and Opportunities in Education (including AI)” theme at the Research Centre for Global Learning, welcomed the delegates at Coventry University’s Priory Street campus.

    They also engaged in roundtable discussions with Prof. Carolyn Wynne, Director of Coventry University’s Doctoral and Researcher College, and Prof. Marina Orsini-Jones, lead of the “Equity and Equality in Education” theme.

    As part of the program, the WVSU delegation will attend a one-day research conference hosted by GLEA. The conference will allow the visitors to present their ongoing research and strengthen WVSU’s global academic presence. Dr. Olapane will discuss indigenous people and WVSU’s initiatives as an emerging research university in the Philippines. Dr. Gabinete will present research-led initiatives aimed at achieving food security, while Dr. Contreras will share insights on biological agents and financial literacy.

    The delegates toured several Coventry University facilities, including the Research Centre for Global Learning, the Institute for Creative Cultures, and the National Transport Design Centre (NTDC). The team also explored significant educational and cultural sites in the UK, such as the Coventry Transport Museum, Coventry Cathedral, and local art galleries, with additional visits planned in London.

    WVSU and Coventry University formalized their collaboration in 2023 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on research and academic exchange.

    This visit represents a significant step in realizing that partnership, aimed at fostering mutual growth and global academic engagement.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU, NCIP, LGU Calinog sign MOA to advance Indigenous Peoples Education

    WVSU, NCIP, LGU Calinog sign MOA to advance Indigenous Peoples Education

    In a historic move to promote Indigenous Peoples (IP) education and cultural preservation, West Visayas State University (WVSU) Calinog Campus, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region VI, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calinog officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, May 6, 2025.

    The MOA signing ceremony was led by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, NCIP Regional Director for Regions VI and VII Princess May Alcarde-Oral, and Mr. Renato Casinao, Indigenous Peoples Focal Person and Executive Assistant, who represented the LGU of Calinog.

    Under the agreement, WVSU Calinog Campus, NCIP Region VI, and LGU Calinog will collaboratively design academic programs that reflect the cultural identities and traditional wisdom of indigenous communities. The integration of indigenous perspectives into the curriculum is seen as a transformative step toward a more inclusive and contextually relevant education system. A specialized program for Indigenous Peoples Education is also planned to further institutionalize this approach.

    The partnership also emphasizes the importance of research and documentation, with the three parties committing to joint studies focusing on indigenous traditions, environmental practices, and sustainable development. NCIP will play a key role in providing cultural oversight and legal guidance to ensure respect for IP rights and heritage throughout the process.

    In line with community extension services, the agreement outlines the organization of cultural events, festivals, and workshops aimed at celebrating and preserving indigenous cultures. The establishment of community-based Sarantes, mobile education services, and an IP Village as a cultural and educational hub is also part of the long-term vision of the partnership.

    Capacity building and professional development will also be central to the collaboration. Educators, researchers, and community leaders will benefit from targeted training and workshops to enhance their skills in indigenous education and engagement. Resource-sharing mechanisms will be developed to support sustainable and collaborative project implementation.

    Also present during the signing were Dr. Rosario Clarabel Contreras-Leda, WVSU Calinog Campus Administrator; Dr. Marie L. Candy Celeste, Director of Academic Affairs; Dr. Elias A. Olapane, Calinog Research Head and Internationalization Coordinator; and Miss Dinna Joy P. Otayde, Peace Coordinator of Calinog Campus.

    This partnership reflects a strong commitment to equity in education, cultural empowerment, and sustainable community development, marking a new chapter in the recognition and integration of Indigenous Peoples’ heritage within academic and local governance frameworks.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU Calinog Students wrap up UTM exchange with presentations and performances

    WVSU Calinog Students wrap up UTM exchange with presentations and performances

    Johor Bahru, Malaysia – May 2, 2026 — Two fourth-year education students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) – Calinog Campus, Nessie Pañada and Benjamin Copita, Jr., marked the culmination of their student exchange program at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) with a presentations and performances during the official closing ceremony held today.

    Pañada, a Bachelor of Elementary Education student, and Copita, a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English, shared what they learned during the program in their presentation on “Teaching Strategies and Methodologies,” where they discussed how they created comfortable and inclusive classroom environments, integrated digital tools such as Kahoot, My Line, and 2D/3D animations in instruction, and utilized QR codes for both attendance and student activities. They also reflected on their experience observing feedback sessions with student researchers, which enriched their perspective on educational practices.

    Their experience extended beyond the classroom. Pañada and Copita engaged in Malaysian cultural activities including the Malam Kebudayaan Pesta Tanglung 2025, Language Academy’s Hari Raya Celebration, and various events organized by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. These activities allowed them to interact closely with UTM students, fostering meaningful cross-cultural exchanges.

    As part of their lesson planning and teaching practice, both students designed and delivered lessons that were responsive to student needs. They leveraged technology throughout the instructional process—from warm-up activities to lesson conclusions—demonstrating innovation and adaptability in their approach.

    They also participated in international seminars and research presentations, where they gained deeper insight into emerging trends in global education, including Participatory Action Research and the role of Artificial Intelligence in teaching. Observing graduate students’ research further broadened their understanding of academic standards and research practices in both Malaysia and the Philippines.

    This exchange program is a result of the university’s expanding internationalization efforts. It is recalled that in July 2024, a delegation from WVSU—led by University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Calinog Campus Administrator Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, International and Local Linkages Director Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, and Calinog Research Head Dr. Elias Olapane—visited UTM to strengthen institutional collaboration.

    The program affirms WVSU’s commitment to fostering international linkages and providing students with global learning opportunities that enhance both their academic and cultural perspectives.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • The French Connection: Enzo Muñoz wraps up Teaching and Cultural Internship at WVSU

    The French Connection: Enzo Muñoz wraps up Teaching and Cultural Internship at WVSU

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to pave the way for global collaboration and cultural exchange through its international internship program, as it honored Mr. Enzo Muñoz during the closing ceremony of his internship at the university.

    Mr. Muñoz, a French education intern from the Master Métiers de l’Enseignement, de l’Éducation et de la Formation (MEEF) program at INSPÉ de Toulouse, Université Toulouse II, France, spent two months under the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) of WVSU.

    Throughout his stay, Mr. Muñoz conducted French classes for journalism students, led crash courses on French language and culture across external campuses, and actively engaged with the university’s internationalization projects.

    “I was given this opportunity to do my internship here at West, specifically under ILLO, I taught French to journalism students, handled crash courses, and was exposed to internationalization projects. I’d like to thank Ma’am Edel for trusting me and giving me complete pedagogical freedom. I was able to share my knowledge and culture with the students—and they also taught me about theirs. It was truly an enriching experience”, he said.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, warmly welcomed attendees and extended her heartfelt thanks to Mr. Muñoz for his passion, dedication, and the international perspective he brought to the university.

    Faculty members who worked closely with Mr. Muñoz also shared their experiences. Dr. Joyce Colon, faculty from College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) commended his insightful contributions during her Reading in Philippine History class. Prof. Raffy Galan, faculty member from College of Communication (COC) praised Enzo’s openness to learning and cultural immersion as he participated in a Hiligaynon class, demonstrating his eagerness to connect with the local community.

    The ceremony also featured messages from ILLO staff, as well as fellow international interns Mertxe and Pilar from the Basque Country, Spain. Both shared their experiences collaborating with Enzo, reflecting on the cross-cultural connections they formed during their time at WVSU.

    Students of the French language courses expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Muñoz’s creative, interactive teaching style. Members of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors acknowledged how the internship helped strengthen cultural bridges and fostered international understanding.

    With programs like this, WVSU continues to make opportunities for intercultural learning and solidify its commitment to becoming a globally engaged institution—truly living up to its promise of building “The French Connection” and beyond.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Perspective from the Ground: WVSU forum highlights responsible reporting and resilience

    Perspective from the Ground: WVSU forum highlights responsible reporting and resilience

    West Visayas State University is currently holding a forum titled “Perspectives from the Ground: Building Resilience, Positive Responses through Responsible Reporting” at the WVSU Board Room today, April 30, 2025.

    Organized by the International and Local Linkages Office, in partnership with the third-year Bachelor of Arts in Journalism students of the College of Communication (COC) and the Center for Peace Education, the forum features speakers from diverse fields sharing real-world experiences and insights on ethical journalism, peacebuilding, and community resilience.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office and a professor of Peace Journalism, welcomed the participants by highlighting the crucial role of media in shaping public perception and advancing peace, especially in times of crisis. She stressed the need for future journalists to ground their reporting in empathy, accuracy, and social responsibility.

    “In a world increasingly marked by conflict, division, and misinformation, the role of peace journalism has never been more critical. This approach challenges us to go beyond headlines, to explore the deeper causes of conflict, and to give voice to those often left unheard. It reminds us that journalism is not just about reporting events—it is also about how we report them, and the impact our words have on peace, understanding, and unity”, she said.

    The forum features a diverse panel of speakers with expertise grounded in real-world experience. Among them are Ms. Alexia Galera, a Bachelor of Secondary Education student from WVSU-Janiuay Campus; Atty. Ariel I. Ballega, Information Technology Officer I at the Department of Education in Negros Occidental; PMAJ Shiela Mae A. Sangrines, spokesperson for the Iloilo City Police Office; and Mr. Moshe Jobel Aranas, a videographer, editor, and documentarist.

    An open floor discussion provides participants the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers, deepening the conversation on the role of journalism in addressing conflict, promoting understanding, and responding to crises with accuracy and empathy. Mr. Ramon Belleno III, faculty member of WVSU’s College of Arts and Sciences, and Mr. Gierson Bordon, BAJ Student, serves as the reactor for the event, offering reflections and insights on the themes discussed.

    The forum underscores WVSU’s continued commitment to peace education and journalistic integrity, empowering future communicators to become responsible storytellers and agents of positive change.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Sustainability Without Borders: Interns from Spain and France spark environmental conversations in Capiz

    Sustainability Without Borders: Interns from Spain and France spark environmental conversations in Capiz

    Roxas City, Capiz – April 29, 2025 — A convergence of international insights and local commitment marked the Symposium and Open Dialogue on Environmental Sustainability. International interns from West Visayas State University—Mertxe and Pilar from Basque, Spain, and Enzo from Toulouse, France—shared lessons from global environmental governance models and their relevance to Capiz’s ongoing sustainability efforts.

    Opening Messages and Institutional Support

    The symposium opened with a welcome address by Mr. Ronald Allan F. Cullo, Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Capiz. He emphasized the urgency of climate resilience and expressed gratitude for the knowledge exchange enabled by the presence of the international interns.

    Dr. Antoniette Cortez, Director of the WVSU Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE), delivered an empowering message on the critical role of educators in fostering environmental consciousness. She called for academic institutions to take the lead in developing future stewards of the environment.

    Forum on Environmental Literacy and Community Empowerment

    A key highlight of the symposium was the in-depth dialogue on environmental literacy, where both international and local voices stressed the need to embed sustainability education in formal curricula and community engagement programs.

    The interns praised their experience in Capiz, noting the province’s potential for innovative environmental action through strengthened community participation and educational reform. Their testimonies underscored that informed citizens are essential to successful environmental governance.

    Sectoral Updates from Environmental Leaders

    Local environmental officials offered comprehensive updates on Capiz’s sustainability programs. Moon Alinsangan, DMO I and head of the Information, Communication and Education/Climate Change Adaptation Section, highlighted awareness campaigns tailored for schools and barangays.

    For. Kiua Mariz Chavez-Penuela, EMS I and head of Forest Management Services, discussed current reforestation and biodiversity conservation projects.

    Agr. Reynald Dejapa, EMS I and head of Coastal Resource Management, detailed mangrove rehabilitation and marine protection efforts.

    Ma. Lyn L. Ronzales, EMS I and head of Pollution Control and Solid Waste Management, presented on waste reduction and community-based segregation initiatives.

    Grassroots Perspectives and Reflections

    Adding depth to the local dialogue, Jeff Finnagan Schwartz, a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, shared experiences from his community-based work in Capiz, reinforcing the message that sustainable change begins at the grassroots level.

    Dr. Harold O. Beunvenida, Director of the Capiz Ecology and Conservation Center, concluded the panel discussions by emphasizing the need to balance ecological protection with socio-economic development. He noted that learning from other regions, while anchoring solutions in local culture and context, is key to long-term sustainability.

    A Shared Path Toward Sustainability

    The exchange of ideas—enriched by the international interns’ global experiences—highlighted the universal nature of environmental challenges and the collective responsibility to address them through education, inclusive governance, and local empowerment.

    Participants capped off the event with a guided tour of the Capiz Provincial Park and the Philippine Native Tree Arboretum—symbols of the province’s dedication to biodiversity and ecological education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU, PIA VI forge partnership for sustainability, policy development, and civic engagement

    WVSU, PIA VI forge partnership for sustainability, policy development, and civic engagement

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the Philippine Information Agency Region VI (PIA VI) formally entered into a partnership today, April 25, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing held at the WVSU campus.

    The MOU was signed by Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of WVSU, and EnP Cheryl B. Amor, Regional Head of PIA VI. The collaboration aims to strengthen collaboration between the university and the government in promoting sustainability, policy development, and civic engagement among students, faculty, and staff.

    “This partnership with PIA VI represents our collective commitment to ensuring that the truth is not only accessible but also amplified in the right ways. We at WVSU believe in the transformative power of communication — to educate, to empower, and to inspire change” said Dr. Villaruz.

    Under the agreement, WVSU and PIA VI will implement joint projects, information drives, workshops, and forums aimed at raising awareness on government policies, sustainable practices, and civic responsibility. The initiative will also provide avenues for students and faculty to engage in public discourse and contribute to policy discussions.

    Also present during the ceremonial signing were Ms. Easter Anne Doza, Assistant Regional Head of PIA VI; Mr. Franz Remar Garion, Information Officer II of PIA VI; Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) of WVSU; and Prof. Lara Jeunesse Villaruel, faculty member of the College of Communication (COC).

    This strategic partnership marks a step forward in promoting responsive and responsible communication efforts, enhancing transparency, and supporting development goals across Western Visayas.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Cross-Border Cybersecurity in Focus as WVSU, UPU hold joint discussion

    Cross-Border Cybersecurity in Focus as WVSU, UPU hold joint discussion

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Universitas Potensi Utama (UPU) Indonesia held a virtual roundtable discussion on April 24, 2025, bringing together legal and technology experts to address the rising threat of cybercrime in Southeast Asia and explore solutions through cybersecurity tools and legal reforms.

    The session, held shortly after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two universities.

    The roundtable featured Dr. Budi Triadi, M.Kom, from the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at UPU; Dr. Mujib Medio Annas, M.Kn, from the Faculty of Law at UPU; Dr. Frank Elijorde from WVSU College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT); and Atty. Federic Loise Regencia from WVSU College of Law.

    At the heart of the discussion was the growing concern over the rise in cybercrime, especially online scams and identity theft, which have become increasingly prevalent across Southeast Asia. The experts shared insights into how technologies like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems are being deployed to detect digital anomalies, providing early warnings and improving incident response in both public and private digital infrastructures.

    Dr. Elijorde emphasized the significance of real-time monitoring and threat detection through SIEM, stating that proactive systems are essential in combating the sophisticated methods employed by cybercriminals today. Dr. Triadi highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and intelligence-sharing, noting that cybercrime is a borderless threat that requires a unified approach among Southeast Asian nations.

    Legal frameworks for cybercrime in both the Philippines and Indonesia were also brought into focus. Dr. Annas and Atty. Regencia discussed the challenges in implementing and enforcing cybersecurity laws, particularly in communities with low digital literacy. They stressed the need for stronger legal education, public awareness campaigns, and inclusive digital policies that protect citizens without compromising access and convenience.

    The roundtable concluded with a renewed commitment to academic cooperation between WVSU and UPU. Both institutions expressed their intention to pursue joint research initiatives, policy recommendations, and outreach programs that will enhance cybersecurity and digital literacy in underserved communities.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU, UPU sign MoU to strengthen international academic ties

    WVSU, UPU sign MoU to strengthen international academic ties

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Universitas Potensi Utama (UPU) of Indonesia officially entered into a new academic partnership through a virtual Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony today, April 24.

    The online event brought together key officials from both institutions. WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “Advancing internationalization through joint collaboration between faculty and students highlights the essence of this partnership and WVSU’s commitment to going global”.

    Also present were Atty. Pauline Grace T. Buñol–Alfuente, Dean of College of Law (COL); Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Dean of the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT); Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO); and faculty members from CICT and COL, signaling a focused collaboration in the fields of legal education and information technology.

    The agreement aims to promote international academic exchange, research collaboration, joint conferences, faculty mobility, and shared curriculum development.

    Discussions are also underway for potential collaborations in the fields of Communication and Business.

    This MoU represents a step forward in WVSU’s continuing commitment to global engagement and cross-cultural academic growth.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU ILLO Director advances global education initiatives through Erasmus + Info Day for PH 2025

    WVSU ILLO Director advances global education initiatives through Erasmus + Info Day for PH 2025

    On April 15, 2025, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) of West Visayas State University (WVSU), attended the Erasmus+ Information Day for the Philippines 2025 at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Office in Quezon City.

    The session, organized by CHED in collaboration with the European Union (EU), aimed to raise awareness and promote greater participation of Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) in the Erasmus+ program.

    The event gathered International Relations Officers (IROs) from various PHEIs, offering a platform to learn from institutions that have successfully implemented Erasmus+ projects. These institutions shared practical insights and strategies on proposal development, partnership-building, program implementation, and evaluation. Their experiences served as a valuable guide for emerging and aspiring Erasmus+ participants, equipping attendees with real-world knowledge on how to navigate the program and leverage its benefits.

    Ms. Edel expressed optimism about WVSU’s future engagements with Erasmus+, highlighting the program’s potential to strengthen global partnerships and enrich academic experiences for both faculty and students. She noted that the session provided not only technical insights but also inspiration to pursue international opportunities that align with WVSU’s vision of academic excellence and internationalization.

    “The Erasmus+ programs provide opportunities for us in the academe to maximize our potentials, tap experts, and use our strengths to bring about change, with funding that assists in our efforts”, she said.

    Topics discussed during the session included Key Action 1 – Mobility of Individuals, which supports the mobility of students, educators, and staff for international learning and professional experiences. Key Action 2 – Cooperation Among Organizations and Institutions was also highlighted, particularly focusing on Cooperation Partnerships and Alliances for Innovation. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality and relevance of institutional activities, promote joint operations on a transnational level, and strengthen networks that support education and workforce development.

    Another key component discussed was the Jean Monnet Actions in the field of higher education. These actions support teaching and research in European Union studies worldwide, and may take the form of Modules, Chairs, or Centres of Excellence. These structures aim to develop expertise in EU-related subjects and foster multidisciplinary collaboration.

    The Erasmus+ Information Day for Philippines 2025 marked a significant step in reinforcing the Philippines’ presence in the global academic community, with CHED and the EU working closely to build the capacity of local institutions and empower them to thrive in the international education landscape.

    To note, WVSU is a recipient of the Erasmus+ grants for projects like FORTH, FAB, and CALOHEA.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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