WVSU

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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-CBM’s Team Dungánan defends Service Category crown at BIDA 2025

    WVSU-CBM’s Team Dungánan defends Service Category crown at BIDA 2025

    Team Dungánan of the West Visayas State University College of Business and Management (WVSU-CBM) once again proved its edge on the national stage, clinching the Service Category championship at the 19th Business Idea and Development Award (BIDA) 2025. 

    The team, which represented CBM with a business paper on preserving heirloom dishes, successfully defended its 2024 title against contenders from Capiz State University and Our Lady of Fatima University.

    The back-to-back win underscores CBM’s commitment to both innovation and cultural preservation. This year’s BIDA drew more than 70 entries nationwide. From the pool, 32 teams advanced to the second level of screening, where participants submitted full business plans and video presentations. Only 15 were chosen as finalists to present on-site in Taguig City, competing in Service, Technology, Food, Non-Food, and Agriculture categories. 

    The Business Idea and Development Award, or BIDA, is an annual competition organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to recognize innovative and sustainable business ideas, products, technologies, and services, primarily from students.

    The program seeks to foster an entrepreneurial culture, support sustainable economic growth in the Philippines, and encourage youth to develop creative solutions for national development. Team Dungánan was composed of Kisha Antoniette Hojilla (BSBA FM), Thomas Edward Segundera (BSHM), Kyle Cabaobao (BSBA FM), Joriel Agustina Marie Alvarez (BSTM), and John Richard Inorino (BSCM).

    Guiding them throughout the competition were coaches Nichol John J. Raymundo and Maria Corazon M. Samorin. The win solidifies CBM’s standing in national competitions, highlighting the college’s drive to develop future leaders who can create socially relevant and sustainable business ideas.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

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  • WVSU, DOST launch innovation projects to boost science and technology in Western Visayas

    WVSU, DOST launch innovation projects to boost science and technology in Western Visayas

    West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6, launched a series of DOST-supported innovation projects on September 16, 2025, at the university’s Business Incubator Nurturing Homegrown Innovations (BINHI) Building. 

    The initiative introduces four major projects designed to empower Western Visayas through technological advancement: the Center for Digital Transformation for Governance (CDx), which supports local government units in adopting digital solutions; the Advanced Manufacturing Center, a satellite laboratory that provides access to emerging prototyping and manufacturing technologies; Project SARAI, which offers science-based tools to help farmers adapt to climate change; and Project SENTINEL, a disaster preparedness program that integrates real-time weather data, emergency reporting, and energy-efficient lighting. 

    In his welcome remarks, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz highlighted the collective impact of the projects. “These programs are like elements coming together to form a powerful core—one that will fuel meaningful change across our nation. They are part of our promise to our students, our faculty, our communities, and our future,” he said. 

    DOST Region 6 Director Engr. Rowen Gelonga praised the timeliness of the launch, noting its benefits for startups and industries in the region. “I cannot contain my happiness and excitement that all of us are here, and we are very upbeat of the future of the region because of the partnership with the university,” he said. 

    DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Usec. Sancho Mabborang encouraged industries to maximize the opportunities brought by the new facilities. “I’d like to see that your local industry will benefit from [these] facilities. Salamat po sa inyo, and please continue doing what you are doing, and we hope that more projects can be established here in Region 6,” he added. 

    Support messages were also delivered by regional directors from partner agencies, including Dir. Arceo Casing Jr. of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region 6, Dir. Juan Jovian Ingeniero of the Department of the Interior and Local Government Region 6, and Engr. Reynaldo Sy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology Region 6. Their messages underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in advancing digital governance, inclusive planning, and regional innovation. 

    After the program, participants were given a short overview of the projects’ background and objectives, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to inaugurate the third floor of the BINHI TBI Building. Guests also toured the facilities and engaged in networking sessions to explore potential collaborations. 

    Among the officials present were Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, WVSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; Dr. Ma. Beth Concepcion, Dean of the College of Information and Communications Technology and project lead of CDx; and Dr. Arnel Secondes, Director of the Knowledge, Technology Transfer, and Business Development Center (KTTBDC), along with other university officials, faculty, and students. Representing DOST were Undersecretary Leah Buendia for Research and Development, and Engr. Robert Dizon, Executive Director of the DOST Metals Industry Research and Development Center. 

    The launch concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony inaugurating the third floor of the BINHI TBI Building as a new hub for science and technology innovation in Western Visayas. 

    With these initiatives, WVSU and DOST aim to establish a stronger innovation ecosystem—empowering industries, supporting farmers, strengthening governance, and enhancing disaster resilience. The projects mark a significant step toward positioning Western Visayas as a model of science-driven growth and innovation in the country. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

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  • WVSU concludes 2025 Pag-iririmaw, hails College of Education overall champion

    WVSU concludes 2025 Pag-iririmaw, hails College of Education overall champion

    After a series of competitions against various colleges, the College of Education was crowned this year’s overall champion. 

    For the highlight, the Sambuwa sang mga Abilidadan took place at the WVSU Cultural Center, with the College of Education, College of Business and Management, and College of PESCAR emerging as the top three finalists for the final showdown. 

    The College of Education was declared the champion, followed by the College of PESCAR as first runner-up and the College of Business and Management as second runner-up. 

    In the Hugyaw Sayaw competition, special awards went to the College of PESCAR for best choreography and to the College of Nursing for best in costume and props. 

    Major awards included the College of PESCAR as champion, the College of Nursing as first runner-up, the College of Communication as second runner-up, and the College of Education as third runner-up. 

    Following the individual competition awards, overall ratings were announced, with the College of Education securing the top spot, the College of PESCAR as first runner-up, and the College of Nursing as second runner-up. 

    After the awards ceremony, students enjoyed a Band Night and DJ music, showcasing stylish yet personal outfits for a dress to impress segment of the event.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

     By WVSU PAMCO

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  • WVSU Holds Forum on Media, Women, and Climate Change

    WVSU Holds Forum on Media, Women, and Climate Change

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) held a lecture and forum titled “Media, Women, and Climate Change: Portrayals, Perspectives, and Politics” on Thursday, September 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the WVSU Rehearsal Room, Main Campus. 

    The event featured Dr. Ian Weber, an Australian journalist, writer, and novelist affiliated with Bond University and the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. 

    Organized by the Public Affairs and Marketing Communications Office (PAMCO), in partnership with the College of Education’s SILAK Media and Iloilo Art Life, the forum aimed to deepen understanding of how media representations intersect with issues of gender and climate change, and to foster dialogue among students on these pressing global concerns. 

    Student publications and partners from the Gender and Development Office were invited to participate, recognizing the relevance of the discussion to journalism, gender advocacy, and social awareness. 

    “What is the difference between diversity of media and diversity of opinion? If all the media present the same opinion, you’re only going to get one perspective,” Weber told participants as he emphasized the need for plurality in media discourse. 

    Students also posed thought-provoking questions about the ethical dilemmas they may face as journalists and communicators in the university. 

    The forum encouraged active participation and critical discussions among students, strengthening their awareness of the media’s role in shaping perspectives on women and the environment. 

    Weber also recently spoke before English majors in a special lecture on autobiographical literature held on September 9 at the Center for Foreign Languages – Rehearsal Room. The lecture, organized by the English Majors’ Organization in partnership with the English Language Teaching Division of the College of Education, explored heroism and anti-heroism in personal narratives. 

    Drawing from his autobiographical novel Apted Park and his 35 years of professional writing, Weber discussed how contradictions shape authentic storytelling and highlighted how deconstructive readings influence literary perspectives. 

    These back-to-back talks highlight WVSU’s commitment to shaping critical thinkers through bold conversations on literature, media, and global issues. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

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  • WVSU takes part in nationwide earthquake drill to boost disaster readiness

    WVSU takes part in nationwide earthquake drill to boost disaster readiness

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined the 3rd quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Sep. 11, 2025 at 4 p.m., in response to the Office of Civil Defense’s call to strengthen preparedness and resilience. 

    The activity was spearheaded by the University Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (UDRRM), led by Mr. Ian Van Sumagaysay, UDRRM director, in coordination with the university constituents. Faculty, students, and staff practiced the “duck, cover, and hold” procedure for one minute after the alarm, following prescribed earthquake response steps. 

    The quarterly drill is part of a nationwide initiative to promote a culture of safety and readiness in the face of earthquakes and other disasters. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

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  • Youth educators join forum with cast of ‘Quezon’ at WVSU

    Youth educators join forum with cast of ‘Quezon’ at WVSU

    Students and teachers from different schools gathered Monday afternoon at West Visayas State University Cultural Center for MLQ: Mga Lingering Questions on Leaders, Legacy, and Liberty, a Youth and Educators Forum featuring the cast and creators of the upcoming historical film Quezon. 

    The forum, held Sept. 8 from 1 to 5 p.m., combined dialogue on history and civic responsibility with a 10-minute special preview of the film directed by Jerrold Tarog. Acclaimed actor Jericho Rosales, who plays former President Manuel L. Quezon, headlined the panel alongside veteran stage and screen actor Bodjie Pascua, who portrays Raymundo Melliza, Iloilo’s second governor during the American occupation.

    They were joined by award-winning actress Therese Malvar, who plays Nadia Hernando, and Daphne Chiu-Soon, president and COO of TBA Studios, the production company behind the film. WVSU Film Society and the WVSU University Student Council played a crucial role in bringing this event to the University as organizers for this leg of the Bayaniverse forum. Historian Alvin Campomanes gave the participants an in-depth discussion on Manuel L. Quezon’s life as a statesman and as a Filipino. He also discussed Quezon’s major political and presidential decisions that continue to influence the nation today.

    The cast shared their reasons for accepting their respected roles and shared their preparations for the film and the significance of their historical figures they portrayed, director Jerrold Tarog, through a message, called upon the viewers and the students to be discerning and be critical of our political landscape, and Chiu-Soon underscored TBA Studios’ commitment to telling stories that both educate and entertain. 

    The gathering at WVSU is part of Dakila Collective, Active Vista, and TBA Studios’ educational roadshows to promote Quezon and strengthen historical awareness among the youth. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

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  • Art and Medicine Merge at 50th Balik Roxas Hall

    Art and Medicine Merge at 50th Balik Roxas Hall

    The three-day Alumni Homecoming of the West Visayas State University College of Medicine officially opened today, July 9, kicking off a series of events that will run until July 11. The celebration features an art exhibit, wellness dance, foot parade, social gatherings, and will culminate in a Grand Alumni Night at the Iloilo Convention Center. 

    Headlining Day One is an art exhibit at Quezon Hall, which showcases the creative expressions of WVSU College of Medicine alumni through painting and photography. Now on its second year, the exhibit follows the successful turnout of last year’s show. 

    Dr. Jofel Isidro, President of the College of Medicine Alumni Association, encouraged fellow alumni to take part in this golden milestone. “It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to celebrate the 50th year of the College,” he said. 

    WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz led the formal opening of the exhibit and commended the featured works as a “remarkable collection of stories, creativity, and shared journeys.” 

    This year’s Balik Roxas Hall carries the theme, “Golden Touch, Global Impact — 50 Years of WVSU-COM Excellence,” in tribute to five decades of medical achievement and alumni pride. The exhibit at Quezon Hall is open to the public from July 9 to 11. 

    For more details, visit the official Facebook page of Balik Roxas Hall: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571692686802 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels
    #WVSU 

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  • Academic partnership brings four Penn State Medical Students to WVSU for global immersion program

    Academic partnership brings four Penn State Medical Students to WVSU for global immersion program

    Four medical students from Pennsylvania State University officially began their Global Health Scholars Pathway (GHSP) immersion today, June 30, at West Visayas State University (WVSU), marking the start of a collaborative international program aimed at strengthening global medical education and cross-cultural healthcare learning.

    The visiting students—Madison Scopano, Jacob Berry, Eva Eleftheriadis, and Jaybee Diones—are accompanied by their faculty site lead, Dr. Jasmin Gange Lagman, Associate Professor at Penn State and an alumna of the WVSU College of Medicine.

    The three-week immersion program, which runs from June 30 to July 19, 2025, commenced with a courtesy visit to Dr. Victor Amantillo, Dean of the WVSU College of Medicine, followed by a tour of the college. The group also paid a visit to WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, who welcomed them and expressed the university’s enthusiasm for this new chapter in global academic cooperation.

    This visit is part of a larger partnership between Penn State and WVSU, established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year on January 1, 2025.

    The program is designed to expose future medical professionals to diverse health systems, community-based practices, and health economics in a global setting.

    Additionally, the program is coordinated by Dr. Eunice Sermonia and Dr. Charmaine Malata, who are overseeing the students’ university-related activities and ensuring a smooth and enriching academic and cultural experience.

    The Global Health Scholars Pathway is a unique and innovative program that integrates global health education into the medical curriculum at Penn State. It provides students with two immersive international experiences: the first focused on community immersion and development of a health project, and the second, in the students’ senior year, dedicated to clinical engagement in the same setting.

    By choosing the Philippines—specifically WVSU—as one of the program’s international sites, this initiative not only fosters academic and cultural exchange but also reflects the growing global partnerships that shape the future of medical education.

    This visit is just the beginning of a promising long-term collaboration between WVSU and Penn State, with future cohorts of medical scholars expected to follow.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Tides of Talk, Waves of Change: WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors in Action for Sea Turtles

    Tides of Talk, Waves of Change: WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors in Action for Sea Turtles

    What began as a student initiative has grown into a movement of environmental hope and action. At the heart of this effort is Sanctuarium Maris, a sea turtle conservation project in Barangay Atabayan, Tigbauan, Iloilo—led by the DagYoung Student Ambassadors of West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society.

    Funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, this project is building bridges between science, sustainability, and the community. On June 28, these student leaders hosted “Conversations on Conservation”, a focus group discussion that reflected on the progress, challenges, and future of the initiative.

    A Safe Shore for Sea Turtles

    Barangay Atabayan is known as a vital nesting ground for sea turtles, with records of hatchlings as recent as 2020. But this coastal community also faces alarming challenges. From 2001 to 2011, 109 sea turtles were spotted—many of them injured or stranded. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued from fish traps or found along the coast. These figures paint a clear picture: the need for action is urgent.

    Youth at the Helm of Conservation

    WVSU’s DagYoung Student Ambassadors are at the forefront of this effort. Serving as the internationalization arm of the university’s International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), these students are not only raising awareness but are actively training as “first responders” in sea turtle protection. Chairperson Aihrich M. Toreres led the opening of the forum on behalf of Director Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csóka, emphasizing the role of student leadership in real-world impact.

    A Dialogue of Insights and Solutions

    The forum was designed not just to report outcomes, but to listen—to the volunteers, residents, and local leaders who share the responsibility of protecting the coast. Topics included TideWatch, a sharing of field observations and reflections; Bright Spots, which highlighted conservation wins; Rough Waters, where challenges and failures were discussed; and Echoes of Engagement, where volunteers and locals gave feedback on their experiences. The final session, Currents Forward, explored strategies to sustain the project long-term.

    A United Community Response

    The event was attended by key community figures, including Barangay Captain Hon. Edison T. Camiña, Hon. Julius E. Trafalgar, Hon. Rowena C. Torrechante, and SK Chair Peter Paul Cadabo. Their presence demonstrated strong local support and the growing awareness that sea turtle conservation is not a solo effort—it is a shared mission.

    Charting a Future for the Sea

    In his closing remarks, Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas reflected on the importance of continuity and shared responsibility. He underscored that while policies and programs help, it is the hearts and hands of people—especially the youth—that will sustain real change.

    WVSU continues to serve as a beacon of environmental leadership in the region. With Sanctuarium Maris, the university’s student leaders are setting an example of what passionate, community-rooted conservation can look like.

    As the sea turtles return to Tigbauan’s shores in the years to come, they will find more than just a natural sanctuary. They will find a community waiting, watching, and willing to protect.


    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU named Heritage Awardee at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night

    WVSU named Heritage Awardee at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) is honored as a Heritage Awardee by the Iloilo City government at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night, held on June 26, 2025, at Diversion 21 Hotel, Mandurriao. 

    The awarding ceremony, organized by the Iloilo City Local Culture and Arts Council – Committee on Cultural Heritage Conservation, is part of the city’s extended celebration of the National Heritage Month. It recognizes the groups, institutions, and individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of local culture and heritage. 

    Dr. Mary Ann Dela Vega, Project Leader of the WVSU–Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG), is set to receive the award with the WVSU-CMPG team composed of the following key figures: Project Consultants: Joyce Christine D. Colon, Dr. Greta GabineteStudy Leaders: Dr. Rey Tantiado, Prof. Clyde Larroder, Ms. Kristine Joy Maquiliao, Ms. Jogie Marie Lenaugo, Mr. Henry John PrioLanguage Editor: Dr. Hazel P. Villa Photo and video documentation of the team’s work will be featured at the event, showcasing WVSU’s enduring impact on cultural heritage advocacy in the region. 

    This award highlights the University’s mission of developing lifelong learners empowered to generate knowledge and technology, and transform communities as agents of change. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels#WVSU

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