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 Panayana Cultural Group places second in regional Christmas choral tilt

    WVSU Panayana Cultural Group places second in regional Christmas choral tilt

    The WVSU Panayana Cultural Group clinched second place at the Ambahanon sa Pototan 2025 (Season 3) Chorale Competition on Dec. 19, showcasing musical excellence in a regional Christmas choral festival held in front of the Pototan Municipal Hall.

    Conducted by Ronnie A. Libutaque, the university choir stood out among four competing ensembles with a repertoire that blended traditional holiday themes and socially reflective music. Their performance featured “Diwa ng Pasko” by Ramon Tapales, arranged by Lucio San Pedro; “Bahay” by Gary Granada; and “Tuloy na tuloy pa rin ang Pasko” by Andrei Dionisio.

    The Ambahanon sa Pototan is a community-based choral competition organized by the local government of Pototan as part of its Christmas festivities. The event brings together school, church, and community choirs from across Western Visayas and neighboring regions to celebrate music, culture, and the spirit of the season.

    The Panayana Cultural Group’s strong showing underscored WVSU’s continuing commitment to cultural artistry and performance excellence, reinforcing the university’s presence in regional artistic platforms while fostering community engagement through music.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • WVSUFAAI launches 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with art exhibit at SM City Iloilo

    WVSUFAAI launches 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with art exhibit at SM City Iloilo

    The West Visayas State University Federated Alumni Association, Inc. (WVSUFAAI) officially kicked off activities for the 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with the launching and opening of an art exhibit at SM City Iloilo on Dec. 16, 2025.

    Dubbed a prelude activity to the Grand Jubilarian Alumni Homecoming set in January 2026, the exhibit runs until Dec. 20 and features works by alumni artists Joel Senina Adrias (WVSU–College of Education Batch 1976) and Joel Eugenio E. Ferraris (WVSU High School Batch 1976).

    The opening program included the National Anthem, opening prayer, and the WVSU Hymn, followed by words of welcome from Dr. Jonathan C. Glorial, director of WVSU Alumni Affairs. Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president, delivered the keynote message, underscoring the role of alumni engagement in sustaining the university’s legacy. A message was also delivered by Faculty Regent Shim Lester de Pio, president of the Federated Faculty Association.

    Ribbon-cutting rites were led by Mr. Jeremias Adrias, brother of artist Joel Adrias; Inesitas Lacson-Palermo, Former Alumni Queen 2023 (WVSU-COE Batch 1971); Dr. Ricky Magno, dean of the College of Education; and Shim Lester de Pio.

    Adrias presented a series of 20 circular-themed works, while Ferraris showcased one large acrylic piece alongside several other artworks. Ferraris also enhanced the exhibit with a multimedia component—a video loop featuring his artworks and artist interviews—displayed on a flat-screen monitor installed at the venue.

    Alumni from various jubilarian batches, including WVSU-COE Classes of 1971, 1976, 1991 and 1992, WVSU-CAS-1981, WVSU-CAF 1981 and 1986 attended the opening, reflecting strong intergenerational support for the homecoming buildup.

    The exhibit not only celebrates alumni creativity but also supports creative entrepreneurship, with selected artworks available for viewing. Serving as the event’s emcee was Prof. Bonifacio P. Gaverza.

    WVSUFAAI said the launching and exhibit set the tone for the 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming, highlighting unity, creativity, and sustained alumni involvement as the university prepares for its major alumni gathering early next year.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU opens Wellness Park to boost student recreation and campus well-being

    WVSU opens Wellness Park to boost student recreation and campus well-being

    West Visayas State University opened its Wellness Park on Dec. 17, 2025, providing students with a new on-campus space for recreation, sports and wellness activities.

    Also known as the Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (PESCAR) Court, the park was inaugurated with a prayer and blessing led by Rev. Fr. Jose Rex Jiloca, chaplain of the WVSU Medical Center.

    University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered a message highlighting the university’s commitment to promoting student well-being and active lifestyles through accessible and inclusive campus facilities.

    Following the message, Dr. Villaruz led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially opening the Wellness Park in the presence of key university officials, PESCAR faculty and staff. Intermission performances by the WVSU TeatroTayo, Irong-irong Dance Cultural Group and the PESCAR Sports and Wellness Club followed the ceremony.

    A tree-planting activity was held after the program, with university officials, faculty representatives, officers of the Board of Regents, and alumni leaders participating to replace trees removed during the construction of the facility.

    The Wellness Park features two basketball courts convertible into volleyball courts and two sepak takraw courts, which will serve as sports venues and outdoor activity spaces for students, faculty and staff, reflecting WVSU’s continuing efforts to provide more inclusive and improved campus facilities that support student welfare and overall well-being.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

  • WVSU earns membership in Global UN SDSN Network

    WVSU earns membership in Global UN SDSN Network

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has been officially approved as a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), following the endorsement of its Networks Strategy Council on December 15, 2025.

    The milestone affirms WVSU’s sustained commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research, instruction, policy engagement, and community-based initiatives.

    Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU UN SDSN Focal Person, said the membership enhances the university’s role in promoting evidence-based, inclusive, and locally grounded solutions to development challenges. He added that it also opens wider opportunities for international collaboration toward building sustainable and resilient communities.

    The three-month application process was completed through close collaboration with Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla and University Planning and Development Office Director Dr. Reymund B. Flores. According to Dr. Lachica, the approval reflects WVSU’s strong and comprehensive institutional portfolio and its consistent engagement in sustainable development initiatives.

    The SDSN is a global network of more than 2,000 institutions worldwide that promote high-quality education and research for sustainable development, support governments in addressing SDG-related challenges, and initiate solution-oriented programs, including long-term development pathways.

    In 2022, the university, through the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), formally promoted the inclusion of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in the objectives, posters, banners or tarpaulins, programs, and invitations of all WVSU activities and events. This initiative applied to academic, extension, research, and student-led programs across colleges, campuses, and units.

    Under the policy, organizers are encouraged to explicitly state the applicable SDG or SDGs in the objectives of their activities and visibly integrate the official SDG logos in all information and promotional materials. The move aimed to deepen awareness of the 17 interlinked global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a blueprint for achieving a more sustainable and inclusive future by 2030.

    With its inclusion in the SDSN, WVSU strengthens its position in the global sustainability community and reinforces its commitment to contributing knowledge-driven solutions for inclusive and sustainable development.

  • 4th Year in a Row: WVSU receives CHED ICONS Award in global rankings

    4th Year in a Row: WVSU receives CHED ICONS Award in global rankings

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) receives recognition today at the Commission on Higher Education’s Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. The university marks its fourth consecutive year being honored for outstanding achievements in internationalization and contributions to global higher education.

    Dr. Elizabeth Magallanes, Director of the Quality Assurance Office, and Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, receive the award on behalf of the university.

    WVSU stands out as one of the leading Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) for strong performance in major global ranking platforms, including the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, 2026 QS World University Rankings–Asia, and the 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI).

    2025 THE Impact Rankings

    WVSU earns a spot in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, placing in the 1501+ overall bracket. The university gains recognition for contributions to key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

     • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being (1001–1500)

     • SDG 4 – Quality Education (1501+)

     • SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (1001+)

     • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals (1501+)

    2026 QS Asia Rankings

    WVSU strengthens its regional presence, placing 185th in Southeast Asia and within the 1201–1300 bracket in Asia in the 2026 QS World University Rankings–Asia.

    2025 WURI Rankings

    WVSU demonstrates a culture of innovation, climbing to Rank 187 in the 2025 WURI, rising from 210th in 2024. The university also secures top spots in three WURI Top 100 categories:

     • Rank 20 – Student Mobility & Openness (A2)

     • Rank 36 – Student Support & Engagement (A1)

     • Rank 91 – Culture/Values (B4)

    In addition to its global recognition, WVSU advanced its commitment to quality education through a new partnership with CHED. Earlier today, President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CHED Secretary Shirley C. Agrupis to implement the Diploma in Teaching Program, reinforcing the university’s role in shaping competent educators for the nation.

    Through these achievements and partnerships, WVSU continues to strengthen its international profile while advancing its mission of excellence, innovation, and sustainable development in higher education.

    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption

  • WVSU marks major milestone with Topping-Off of College of Law Building 2

    WVSU marks major milestone with Topping-Off of College of Law Building 2

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) reached a key milestone in its campus development with the topping-off of the College of Law (COL) Building 2 on Dec. 9, 2025. The ceremony marked the completion of the structure’s highest point, moving the project into its next construction phase.

    The facility forms part of the University’s efforts to expand academic spaces and meet the needs of its growing student community. The construction is being carried out in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office 6 (DPWH RO6) and Nationstar Development Corporation.

    COL Dean Atty. Pauline Grace Alfuente opened the program by underscoring the building’s role in strengthening legal education and expanding learning spaces for future law students. Associate Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana followed with an overview of the project’s planning, objectives and development since its groundbreaking.

    WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and DPWH Region 6 OIC Regional Director Engr. Jose Al Fruto also delivered messages during the program. Dr. Villaruz highlighted the long-term impact of the project, saying, “They are the future prosecutors, judges, public servants, advocates, and community leaders of Western Visayas, and they deserve a home worthy of their aspirations.”

    Dr. Villaruz, Engr. Fruto, and Sandro Tengco of Nationstar Development Corporation led the ceremonial topping-off, formally marking the structural completion of the building. Rev. Fr. Jose Rex Jiloca followed with a prayer of blessing and thanksgiving.

    The College of Law’s expansion began with its groundbreaking on Jan. 25, 2024. Upon completion, the new four-storey facility is expected to accommodate more than 100 law students and further advance the University’s commitment to providing modern, student-centered spaces that support professional preparation and public service.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

  • WVSU Dagyoung Student Ambassador drives global youth policy at the 13th NYP

    WVSU Dagyoung Student Ambassador drives global youth policy at the 13th NYP

    Showcasing West Visayas State University’s commitment to youth leadership and internationalization, Johnric G. Vargas—DagYoung Student Ambassador and Political Science student—represented Iloilo City and the entire Region VI as its lone delegate to the 13th National Youth Parliament (NYP) National Assembly held in Vigan City from November 18–20, 2025.

    The National Youth Parliament, a biennial policy-making convention mandated by Republic Act 8044 or the Youth in Nation-Building Act, brings together exceptional young leaders from across the Philippines to craft informed, future-oriented policy recommendations. Echoing WVSU’s global outlook, the NYP fosters a culture of international cooperation, policy innovation, and youth engagement aligned with global development agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and international mobility frameworks.

    Throughout the assembly, delegates examined youth issues through a global lens—economic empowerment, good governance, digital innovation, and greater mobility across cultures and borders—reflecting the increasingly interconnected role of youth in nation-building.

    Vargas took on major leadership responsibilities that highlight his capacity to engage in both national and international youth development work. He served as the National Cluster Chairperson on Economic Empowerment and Global Mobility, Regional Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Governance, and was elected Regional Convener for the 13th NYP. He likewise contributed to the Philippine Youth Development Plan – Regional Inter-Agency Committee (PYDP-RIAC), ensuring that Western Visayas’ priorities resonate with broader cross-regional and global youth development perspectives.

    Following the deliberations of the National Assembly, the 13th National Youth Parliament successfully passed key resolutions aligned with the 10 Centers of Youth Participation—selected from hundreds of proposals submitted by regional clusters nationwide. These recommendations strengthen youth involvement in governance, economic mobility, and strategic partnerships, echoing international best practices in policy-driven youth development.

    These resolutions will be formally transmitted to the Philippine Congress and the Executive Branch for appropriate legislative and executive action, reinforcing NYP’s role as a national platform contributing to policy systems comparable to youth parliaments and councils across Asia and beyond.

    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption

  • WVSU sets regional benchmark in UI GreenMetric 2025

    WVSU sets regional benchmark in UI GreenMetric 2025

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has climbed to World Rank 521 in the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2025, placing 1st in Region VI, 18th in the Philippines, and 294th in Asia, solidifying its standing as one of the country’s leading sustainable universities.

    Now on its 15th edition, the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings assessed 1,745 institutions from 105 countries, making it the world’s largest university ranking focused on sustainability performance. This year introduces the theme “Advancing Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education: Stories from Our Institutions and Communities,” highlighting how universities integrate sustainability in teaching, research, operations, and community engagement.

    WVSU’s performance reflects its efforts across all six dimensions measured by UI GreenMetric—setting and infrastructure, energy and climate change, waste management, water conservation, transportation systems, and sustainability-focused education and research. These criteria, composed of 39 indicators, evaluate how universities manage their physical environment, implement green policies, conserve resources, reduce emissions, and embed sustainability into academic and community programs.

    As WVSU continues to participate in the global UI GreenMetric network, its achievements contribute to broader national and international efforts to promote clean energy, climate action, sustainable development, and green innovation. The 2025 ranking offers both recognition and motivation for the university to enhance its programs and deepen its integration of sustainability within all aspects of institutional life.

  • WVSU-ILS students named ‘mayor’ and City Legal Officer in Rotary Club of Iloilo City’s Boy’s and Girls’ Week 2025

    WVSU-ILS students named ‘mayor’ and City Legal Officer in Rotary Club of Iloilo City’s Boy’s and Girls’ Week 2025

    Two students from West Visayas State University-Integrated Laboratory School (WVSU-ILS) were among this year’s top honorees in the Boys’ and Girls’ Week 2025 celebration organized by the Rotary Club of Iloilo City, in partnership with the Department of Education, SM City Iloilo, and the City Government of Iloilo.

    Helen Natalie Dime Bolivar, a Grade 10-Jupiter student, was declared Mayor, while her classmate Unah Angel Gabrielle Robante was assigned to the Office of the City Legal Officer. Both represented WVSU-ILS with distinction under the mentorship of Sir Angelou Deloguines.

    The Boys’ and Girls’ Week, themed “Unite for Good,” aims to cultivate youth leadership, civic engagement, and public service among young Ilonggos. During the weeklong program scheduled from Oct. 20 to 26, the selected student officials will assume their respective duties alongside Iloilo City officials and participate in various civic and leadership activities. The celebration will open with a foot parade from the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, followed by a transition ceremony at the Iloilo City Hall Grounds, and an exhibit and ribbon-cutting at SM City Iloilo.

    The awarding ceremony, held today, Oct. 14, 2025, at SM City Iloilo, was one of the highlights of the celebration. The 52 qualified participants officially received their assigned positions as mayor, vice mayor, councilors, and department heads, marking the culmination of a selection process that began in August.

    The competition started with a written examination on Aug. 16 at Assumption Iloilo, which drew 122 participating schools. From there, 52 schools advanced to the interview round held on Sept. 13 at Jubilee Hall.

    Bolivar also performed during the intermission of the Announcement of Positions program, showcasing the WVSU-ILS students’ active involvement in the event. She is the third WVSU-ILS student to earn the title of “girl mayor” in the city’s Boys’ and Girls’ Week history, following Jennifer Javier in 1990 and Lady Ochel Espinosa in 1999.

    The Rotary Club of Iloilo City facilitates the annual Boys’ and Girls’ Week to foster civic consciousness, leadership, and social responsibility among the youth.

    The recognition of Bolivar and Robante underscores WVSU-ILS’s strong culture of leadership and excellence, reflecting the university’s mission to nurture future leaders committed to service, creativity, and innovation.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
  • Dagyoung Student Ambassadors foster global citizenship through SDGs workshop

    Dagyoung Student Ambassadors foster global citizenship through SDGs workshop

    DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA) from various colleges of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) main campus took part in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) workshop during SYNC: Shaping Youth, Nurturing Connections held on October 10 at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU Focal Person for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN) initiatives, served as the resource speaker for the session.

    He discussed the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their significance in addressing issues such as poverty, education, equality, and climate change. Dr. Lachica also emphasized how student ambassadors can contribute by integrating SDG-oriented values and communication into their campus and community initiatives.

    One of the highlights of the session was the “Rank the Goals” workshop, where participants formed small groups and ranked the 17 SDGs according to what they believed were the most urgent for today’s generation. Each group presented their top three priorities, which led to meaningful exchanges of ideas on pressing youth and global concerns.

    The ambassadors also shared personal insights on which goals resonated with them most and why they believe these goals must be addressed in today’s world.

    Through the workshop, the DSAs strengthened their understanding of global issues and reaffirmed their commitment to becoming advocates of sustainable change—living out the essence of youth leadership with purpose and responsibility.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption
    No Caption