WVSU

Tag: 11

MAKE CITIES AND HUMAN SETTLEMENTS INCLUSIVE, SAFE, RESILIENT AND SUSTAINABLE.

The world’s population is constantly increasing.To accommodate everyone, we need to build modern, sustainable cities. For all of us to survive and prosper, we need new, intelligent urban planning that creates safe, affordable and resilient cities with green and culturally inspiring living conditions.

  • WVSU, Silla University conclude global innovation series; CON team tops final pitch

    WVSU, Silla University conclude global innovation series; CON team tops final pitch

    Bridging the 2,500-mile distance between Iloilo and Busan, West Visayas State University (WVSU) successfully concluded its intensive three-session international series, conducted online, “Global Education Innovation for Sustainable Cities: Busan-Iloilo Collaboration,” on April 28, 2026. The program, a landmark collaboration with South Korea’s Silla University, culminated in a high-stakes pitch competition where the College of Nursing (CON) emerged as the grand champion. The activity was facilitated by the Offices of the Instruction, Vice President of Academic Affairs, University Extension and Development Center, and the Directors of Academic Affairs.

    A Vision of Internationalization

    The series opened in February with a powerful message from University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, who underscored WVSU’s commitment to elevating the university to global academic standards. Under the guidance of the Office of Instruction led by Dr. Alona M. Belarga, the program immersed university faculty in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically focusing on Quality Education (SDG 4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).

    The Road to Innovation: From Busan to Iloilo

    The collaboration was structured as a three-session intensive series spanning February to April 2026. Keynote lectures from Wootak Jung (Former Director, UNESCO Asia-Pacific), Hyunkyu Oh (Former Busan City Councilor) and Dr. Ricky Becodo (Director of WVSU Extension and Development Center) provided the strategic foundation. Teams were later trained in “Storytelling-Based Approaches’ and & Living Lab”; methodologies by Silla University’s Prof. Eunhwa Lee and Prof. Hayoung Shin, turning theoretical global concepts into practical solutions tailored for the Ilonggo context.

    The Final Pitch: A Battle of Specialized Brilliance

    The final session served as the “moment of truth,” where seven teams from the Main and Satellite campuses defended their visions. The results showcased the diverse expertise of the “Taga-West community:

    • 1st Place: College of Nursing (CON) – Represented by Prof. Sheila Beliran, Dr. Madonna Palmes, and Prof. Febray Lapidante, the team took the top spot with their proposal, “Project CON-CARE: Clinical Outreach and Nursing-Led Community Assessment for Resilience Empowerment” Their project masterfully integrated public health strategies with urban resilience.

    • 2nd Place: College of Communication (COC) – Presented by Dr. Rona Dhel Alingasa, Dr. Louis Placido Lachica, Prof. Joesyl Marie Aranas, Dr. Ricky Abaleña III, and Dr. Shiela Mae Quero), the project “MAGSAYSAY PREPARADO: A Communication-Driven Behavior Change Intervention for Enhancing Disaster Preparedness in Barangay Magsaysay Village, La Paz, Iloilo City”; stood out for its focus on communication-driven behavior change, creating a critical bridge between awareness and survival in flood-prone urban barangays.

    • 3rd Place: College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) – Led by Dr. Michael Victor Gonzales, Dr. Belinda Leonida, Dr. Anthony Leal, and Mr. Nico Mambusadathe, the team’s initiative “Optimizing Residential Waste Valorization Pathways: A WVSU-CAF Initiative Based on Community Waste Profiling and Food Security Needs,” offered a vital solution for community waste management while simultaneously addressing local food security.

    The “One WVSU” spirit was further solidified by the participation of WVSU-Calinog, Himamaylan City, Janiuay, and Pototan. These campuses brought vital provincial perspectives to the global stage, ensuring that the innovation dialogue reached every corner of the region.

    Further, the activity became more meaningful due to the special participation of the College of Communication – Graduate School Students.

    Global Scrutiny and Academic Excellence

    The proposals were scrutinized by a distinguished panel that bridged academic theory and government policy:
    • Prof. Lee Eun Hwa: Dean of the Graduate School at Silla University
    • Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla: WVSU Vice President for Academic Affairs
    • Dr. Greta G. Gabinete: WVSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension
    • Ms. Febie S. Ibojos: Vice Chair of the Iloilo Provincial Social Development Committee

    The Path Forward

    In the closing ceremony, the university leadership signaled that these proposals are not merely academic exercises but blueprints for the future of the region. As WVSU continues to expand its global footprint, this partnership with Silla University serves as a testament to what can be achieved when local ingenuity meets international collaboration.

    For the winners and participants, the Busan-Iloilo journey has set a new benchmark for excellence, proving that the ‘Taga-West’ community is ready to lead the world in sustainable urban innovation.

  • WVSU rises to rank 137 in WURI 2026, breaks into global top 500 innovative

    WVSU rises to rank 137 in WURI 2026, breaks into global top 500 innovative

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has secured Rank 137 in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, placing it among the Global Top 500 Innovative Universities.

    This marks a significant rise from its 187th position in 2025, highlighting the university’s continued commitment to innovation, quality assurance, enhanced student engagement, and strengthened international collaboration.

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

    * 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)

    The World University Rankings for Innovation evaluates universities based on innovation, practical impact, and responsiveness to global and societal challenges, rather than traditional academic metrics.

    WVSU’s improved standing reflects its continued commitment to advancing education that is innovative, socially responsive, and aligned with global standards.

  • WVSU NSTP students lead outreach for rescued dogs through ‘Project Pawsitive’

    WVSU NSTP students lead outreach for rescued dogs through ‘Project Pawsitive’

    Students under the National Service Training Program–Civic Welfare Training Service (NSTP-CWTS) of West Visayas State University conducted an outreach activity for rescued dogs on May 1, 2026, at the Ilonggo Aspin Shelter, promoting compassion, animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.

    Dubbed Project Pawsitive, the initiative was carried out by CWTS Class G, facilitated by Ms. Feanna B. Vito, with student volunteers from Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting (BAB 1A), Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BAJ 1A) and Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM 1A).

    As part of their community engagement, the students donated dog food, eggs and other essential supplies to support the shelter’s daily operations. They also spent time interacting with and caring for the rescued aspins, giving the animals attention and socialization.

    The activity aimed to deepen students’ understanding of animal welfare while encouraging empathy and kindness toward animals. Shelter representatives also emphasized responsible pet ownership and promoted the advocacy “Adopt, don’t shop” among participants.

    Project Pawsitive highlights WVSU’s continued efforts to engage students in community-based initiatives that extend care not only to people but also to animals.

  • WVSU hosts BIZCON 2026, spotlights Ilonggo gastronomy through innovation talks

    WVSU hosts BIZCON 2026, spotlights Ilonggo gastronomy through innovation talks

    West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its College of Business and Management (CBM), hosted the 3rd BIZCON on Mar. 27-28 at the WVSU Cultural Center, with the second day focusing on innovation talks that highlighted Ilonggo gastronomy as a driver of enterprise and creative development.

    Carrying the theme “Taste, Tradition, Transformation: Gastronomy Driving Ilonggo Innovation,” the convention gathered students, faculty, and industry practitioners to explore how local cuisine can shape sustainable businesses and strengthen regional identity.

    Industry experts led discussions on topics such as sustainable SME financing, culinary branding, and food tourism. Invited speakers included Prof. Ts. Dr. Shafinaz Binti Ismail, Chef Tibong Jardeleza, Ms. Natalie Lim, Chef Cidj Jalandoni, and Mr. Daniel Agan, who shared insights on scaling local enterprises and positioning Ilonggo products in competitive markets.

    The talks provided participants with practical perspectives on bridging academic knowledge with industry demands, encouraging innovation rooted in local culture and resources. The program concluded with engagement activities and an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding participants.

    The innovation talks followed a series of competitions held on the first day of the convention, including the Ilonggo Cuisine Innovation Showdown, business pitching, table skirting with centerpiece making, and food itinerary development.

    Through BIZCON 2026, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural appreciation, equipping students and stakeholders to develop sustainable, homegrown solutions for regional growth.

  • WVSU shares transport arrangements, personnel updates in flag ceremony

    WVSU shares transport arrangements, personnel updates in flag ceremony

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) announced key personnel activities and transport arrangements during its flag-raising ceremony on Mar. 23 at Jubilee Park, led by the University Learning Resource Center headed by Dr. Elra Di M. Madalogdog.

    Among the announcements for the week is the annual general assembly of members of the University Non-Teaching Personnel Organization (UNPO), scheduled on Mar. 24. The activity, led by Ms. Joy Fullo, will also include the election of new UNPO officers.

    Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris reiterated the resumption of the compressed four-day work week and emphasized the availability of service vehicles for University and University Medical Center personnel in light of the transportation holiday declared on the day of the ceremony.

    Paris encouraged personnel to avail of the transport service, noting that return trips will be provided, with designated pick-up in front of the Administration Building at 7:15 p.m.

    The announcements form part of the University’s continuing efforts to ensure operational continuity and support for personnel amid evolving work arrangements.

  • WVSU visits Iloilo City Government to strengthen sustainable finance collaboration under Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE

    WVSU visits Iloilo City Government to strengthen sustainable finance collaboration under Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE

    In line with its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration, West Visayas State University (WVSU) visited the Iloilo City Government as part of its engagement under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) Project, GREEN FINANCE: Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Growth in Southeast Asia. The initiative seeks to enhance education, research, and policy engagement in sustainable finance and promote climate-responsive financial practices in the Philippines.

    The visit, led by Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Associate Professor V and Project Manager of the Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE initiative, aimed to introduce the project to the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions (LEDIP) Office and seek their endorsement to participate in the Stakeholders Survey. This collaboration ensures that local government policies, priorities, and opportunities are integrated into the design of modular and online micro-credential courses that WVSU will develop for sustainable finance education.

    Through this engagement, WVSU emphasizes the importance of aligning academic programs with city development goals, empowering local stakeholders and Ilonggos to adopt green and sustainable mindsets in finance. The initiative demonstrates a shared commitment to responsible investment, inclusive growth, and environmentally sound practices, reinforcing WVSU’s role as a leader in sustainability-driven higher education.

    Funded by the European Union, the Erasmus+ GREEN FINANCE project positions WVSU to bridge international expertise with local needs, ensuring that Iloilo City benefits from innovative and outcomes-based green finance initiatives.

    Photos by Iloilo City Government

  • Over 20,000 take WVSU admission exam across campuses

    Over 20,000 take WVSU admission exam across campuses

    A total of 20,944 applicants took the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Admission Examination on Mar. 8, as the University administered the test simultaneously across its campuses for prospective first-year students for Academic Year 2026-2027.

    Most examinees took the test at the WVSU Main Campus in La Paz, Iloilo City, which hosted 14,044 applicants. The campus also has the largest projected intake, with 1,575 slots for incoming first-year students.

    Across the University, WVSU expects to admit about 4,401 first-year students based on available program slots in its campuses.

    Applicants were also distributed among WVSU’s satellite campuses. The College of Agriculture and Forestry recorded 420 applicants competing for 190 slots. Calinog Campus had 715 applicants for 336 available slots, while Himamaylan Campus accommodated 1,175 examinees for 295 projected enrollees.

    Janiuay Campus recorded 1,440 applicants for 615 slots, Lambunao Campus had 1,600 applicants for 805 slots, and Pototan Campus hosted 1,550 applicants vying for 585 available slots.

    The examinees came from different parts of the country, reflecting the University’s growing reach and reputation as a preferred institution for quality higher education beyond Western Visayas.

    University officials expect to begin releasing examination results to applicants in April 2026.

  • WVSU and Silla University strengthen global synergy for urban innovation

    WVSU and Silla University strengthen global synergy for urban innovation

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) continues to expand its international footprint by deepening its collaborative relationship with Silla University, South Korea. The latest milestone, the “Busan-Iloilo Collaboration,” seeks to bridge local academic expertise with global sustainable solutions.

    Guided by the mission to develop life-long learners who serve as agents of community transformation, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz officially opened the landmark program, “Global Education Innovation for Sustainable Cities: Busan-Iloilo Collaboration.”

    In his welcome remarks, Dr. Villaruz emphasized the University’s critical role in fostering global engagement and transformative education to address the evolving needs of modern society.

    The initiative, conceptualized by Dr. Alona M. Belarga (WVSU Director of Instruction) and Prof. Eunhwa Lee (Dean of Silla University Graduate School of Education), establishes a high-level academic linkage with Busan, South Korea—a metropolitan leader renowned for progressive educational systems and sustainable urban development.

    Phase 1: Knowledge Exchange and Global Resilience (February 23-24, 2026)

    The first phase featured an intensive series of virtual lectures designed to strengthen the global competencies of WVSU faculty from both the Main and Satellite Campuses.

    The sessions opened with former UNESCO Director Mr. Wootak Jung, who advocated for Global Citizenship Education (GCED) as the linchpin for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Hyunkyu Oh, former Busan City Councilor, provided a deep dive into Busan’s 2040 Master Plan, illustrating how the city balances urban expansion with green conservation.

    To localize these perspectives, Dr. Ricky P. Becodo (WVSU Director for Extension) identified practical pathways for the community, including mobility as learning access and disaster resilience research.

    The second day focused on innovative pedagogy, with Prof. Eunhwa Lee introducing “Narrative Science” to empower students through storytelling, and Prof. Hayoung Shin exploring the “Living Lab” model.

    This framework marks a paradigm shift championed by the university leadership, transitioning WVSU from a traditional “Ivory Tower” to a Regional Innovation Hub that actively engages with regional urban challenges.

    Phase 2: From Theory to Implementation (April 28, 2026)

    The collaboration reaches its peak on April 28, 2026, with a faculty-led competitive showcase.

    Moving beyond theory, faculty members will present high-impact innovation proposals for quality instruction and engaged extension programs tailored to the needs of the community and its various sectors. These proposals will be evaluated by a panel of experts based on their potential to address urban sustainability.

    The top three presenters will be recognized with Certificates of Recognition during a formal Closing Ceremony, marking a milestone in the University’s effort to translate international academic theory into actionable local solutions.

    Strategic Alignment with the UN SDGs

    The Busan-Iloilo partnership—jointly organized by the Office of the Director of Instruction (DI), the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA), and the University Extension Office—serves as a practical manifestation of WVSU’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

    • SDG 4: Quality Education – Building institutional capacity and faculty expertise through international knowledge exchange.

    • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Adapting global best practices in urban planning to enhance local resilience.

    • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Establishing sustainable cooperation networks for future faculty and student exchange.

    By fostering these global connections under the leadership of Dr. Villaruz, WVSU continues to lead the way in transformative education, ensuring the University remains at the forefront of global innovation while staying deeply rooted in the service of the community.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels
    #TagaWest

  • WVSU disposes 3.3 metric tons of old records in first joint campus-wide initiative

    WVSU disposes 3.3 metric tons of old records in first joint campus-wide initiative

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) disposed of 3,330 kilograms of valueless records on March 4, 2026, in a university-wide activity that, for the first time, included its satellite campuses. 

    The disposal was led by the WVSU Records Office headed by Ms. Jeany Garque and forms part of the University’s continuing efforts to strengthen records management and ensure compliance with national government regulations.

    Records personnel from the main campus and members of the Records Management Improvement Committee from satellite campuses participated in the activity.

    Supervising the disposal was National Archives of the Philippines (NAP) representative Mr. Jhonley Joseph Item, Records Management Analyst II, who ensured that the activity followed national guidelines on the disposition of government records.

    Prior to disposal, the records were evaluated and identified as valueless or non-current documents that had already exceeded their prescribed retention periods under government records management guidelines. In government agencies, such records may be disposed of only after proper inventory, evaluation and authorization to safeguard accountability and transparency.

    The disposal was carried out through sale to NAP-accredited buyer D’Lacoste Enterprise, following standard procedures. 

    University officials said the joint participation of satellite campuses marks a milestone in institutionalizing uniform records management practices across WVSU.

    Through the initiative, WVSU aims to improve office efficiency, free up storage space, and reinforce responsible records lifecycle management while promoting good governance and compliance with national standards on public records administration.

  • WVSU demonstrates global service excellence at 49th High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration

    WVSU demonstrates global service excellence at 49th High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration

    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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