The rhythmic pulse of poetry and the soulful strains of Ilonggo melodies filled the New Academic Building (NAB) quadrangle of West Visayas State University (WVSU) on Jan. 27, as some 600 alumni and faculty from across generations gathered for a night of nostalgia and tradition. The cultural showcase marked the start of the 2025 University Days, a heartfelt reunion underscoring shared heritage and enduring bonds.
The event, part of the WVSU Alumni Homecoming, carried the theme “Kilit-anay sa West,” a phrase that translates to “Reuniting at West.” For many alumni, it was more than just a homecoming-it was a return to the moments that shaped their lives. Poets, musicians, and old friends came together, their voices blending in a celebration of the institution’s rich legacy.
Anchored in the broader theme, “Digamo sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” alumni took to the stage, their verses and songs bridging past and present.
Dr. Eleonora Padilla, a faculty of the College of Arts and Sciences in the WVSU main campus set a high poetic bar with her witty reflections on the university’s journey, blending fond memories with a recognition of its triumphs. Prof. Frank Bebit, also a WVSU faculty member, captivated the crowd with a stirring tribute to WVSU’s tradition of excellence, a legacy that, he said, helped shape the paths of many graduates. Meanwhile, College of Communications Prof. Raffy Galan’s impromptu yet compelling narrative had the audience erupting in laughter and admiration as he wove tales of the university’s most distinguished alumni.
A highlight of the evening was the Folksong Competition, where performers evoked a deep sense of local pride. Mr. Ryan Calica’s rendition of “Iloilo, Banwang Pinalangga” transported listeners to the golden days of Ilonggo heritage, while Mr. Angelou Deloguines charmed the crowd with his playful take on “Inday.” The competition was more than just a showcase of talent-it was a celebration of culture, tradition, and the timeless power of music to unite people.
For many attendees, the homecoming was an emotional reunion decade in the making. Mrs. Marie Evyleen Larsen, an alumna from High School Batch 1985, expressed her joy at reconnecting with classmates from different parts of the world. “It’s amazing to see familiar faces after so many years. The event truly brought us back to the heart of our youth,” she said.
For Mr. Evaristo Buaya, a 1975 graduate, the gathering was nothing short of a milestone. “After 50 years, we finally got to see each other in person,” he said, recalling both the struggles and joys of college life. “We may have kept in touch online, but nothing compares to sharing stories face-to-face.”
The evening’s festivities were complemented by a spread of Ilonggo cuisine, allowing alumni to indulge in the familiar flavors of home. For many, each bite was a reminder of cherished moments spent in the university’s halls.
More than just a reunion, the WVSU Alumni Homecoming was a bridge between past and present, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the unbreakable bond between the university and those who once called it home.
Story by Angela Acanto and Mary Lynette Trio/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa
Photos by Vinson Miguel Jalandoni and Samantha Reign Hallares/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa
