WVSU

Tag: 14

CONSERVE AND SUSTAINABLY USE THE OCEANS, SEAS AND MARINE RESOURCES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

Healthy oceans and seas are essential to our existence.They cover 70 percent of our planet and we rely on them for food, energy and water. Yet, we have managed to do tremendous damage to these precious resources. We must protect them by eliminating pollution and overfishing and immediately start to responsibly manage and protect all marine life around the world.

  • WVSU broadens its international reach in the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026

    WVSU broadens its international reach in the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026

    Strengthening its commitment to internationalization and sustainable development, West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined higher education leaders, policymakers, and development partners from around the world at the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026 held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from June 22 to 25, 2026.

    Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, represented the university in the international gathering, engaging in networking opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and discussions on innovative approaches to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    “Attending the GSDC provided me a deeper understanding on how WVSU can harmonize what we have been doing to contribute to the SDGs.

    We need to strengthen and pursue more impactful services to our community as we empower lifelong learners as agents of value — our way of transforming society.

    I believe, WVSU has taken the right direction as we work to achieve our vision of becoming a global research university that shapes generations. Let this be our ‘why’ and as a result we are recognized.

    I thank and congratulate the taga-West for the dedication in their work and duties,” she said.

    The University’s participation comes as WVSU continues to gain international recognition for its sustainability initiatives. In the 2026 Sustainability Impact Ratings, WVSU was recognized among 1,501+ universities worldwide.

  • WVSU advances sustainability efforts in the 2026 impact rankings

    WVSU advances sustainability efforts in the 2026 impact rankings

    Strengthening its global presence, West Visayas State University (WVSU) earned recognition in the 2026 Sustainability Impact Ratings, ranking among 1,501+ universities worldwide, highlighting its internationalization efforts and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The 2026 rankings evaluated 1,646 universities across 116 countries and territories, recognizing institutions that actively advance sustainable development through innovation, partnerships, and academic excellence.

    As WVSU continues to expand its global linkages and sustainability initiatives, it reaffirms its mission to produce globally competitive and socially responsible graduates who contribute to a more sustainable future.

  • WVSU chemistry student earns national startup pitching recognition

    WVSU chemistry student earns national startup pitching recognition

    A West Visayas State University student entrepreneur secured national recognition after leading a biotechnology startup to a podium finish in a nationwide innovation competition focused on sustainable technologies.

    Sheenlou Eian M. Bartolome, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Chemistry student from the College of Arts and Sciences, was named First Runner-Up in the College Category of DisruptorX 2026 held May 25 at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.

    Representing CARBNØ Biotech, a student-led startup incubated under the Business Incubator Nurturing Home-Grown Innovations (BINHI) Technology Business Incubator, Bartolome competed against hundreds of student innovators, researchers, and startup founders from across the country.

    The competition, organized by Serial Disruptors in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Oro Trade and Investment Promotion Center, serves as a national platform for technology-driven solutions addressing societal and environmental challenges.

    From 305 applicants nationwide, CARBNØ Biotech advanced to the Top 10 National Finalists before earning the First Runner-Up distinction during the National Demo Day.

    The startup presented a biotechnology-based innovation that utilizes marine-derived biomaterials as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. The technology integrates biodegradable materials into functional systems designed to support environmental sustainability while advancing developments in materials science and applied chemistry.

    Bartolome said the recognition highlights the potential of student-led scientific innovation to address pressing environmental concerns through research and technology.

    The project supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation, decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and life below water.

    The achievement underscores WVSU’s continuing commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship by empowering students to transform scientific knowledge into solutions with real-world impact.

    Through initiatives such as BINHI, the University continues to cultivate innovators whose work contributes to sustainable development and strengthens the role of higher education institutions in advancing science-based solutions for local and global challenges.

  • 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.

  • A Space for the Sea: WVSU opens Sea Turtle Nook to inspire environmental stewardship

    A Space for the Sea: WVSU opens Sea Turtle Nook to inspire environmental stewardship

    A small space now carries a big mission at West Visayas State University (WVSU) as the Sea Turtle Nook was officially inaugurated on March 6, 2026, at the University Learning Resource Center—serving as a new symbol of hope for marine conservation and environmental awareness.

    President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz described the Sea Turtle Nook as more than an installation. For him, it is a learning call—an invitation for students, educators, and visitors to recognize their shared responsibility in protecting marine ecosystems.

    The initiative builds upon the Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project, launched in 2025 by the WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors together with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Young Journalists’ Society (YJS), with support from the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia. Since its launch, the project has worked closely with the coastal community of Brgy. Atabayan, Tigbauan, providing training on sea turtle biology, conservation practices, rescue protocols, and nest protection efforts.

    Highlighting collaboration at the heart of the initiative, International and Local Linkages Office Director Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka shared that the Sea Turtle Nook represents the collective efforts of youth leaders, local communities, academic institutions, government agencies, and international partners united by a common goal—to safeguard marine life for future generations.

    Community representative Mr. Peter Paul Cadano, SK Chairman of Brgy. Atabayan expressed gratitude for the partnership, describing the nook as a reminder that environmental protection begins with awareness and shared responsibility. Representing DENR Region VI, Ms. Jessie L. Reyes affirmed continued collaboration with WVSU, noting that marine conservation efforts in Western Visayas are entering a stronger and more hopeful chapter.

    Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas emphasized that the Sea Turtle Nook is not a temporary exhibit but a lasting legacy—one that transforms education into action and inspires future generations of Taga-West to care for the environment beyond the classroom.

    Through the Sea Turtle Nook, WVSU reinforces a simple yet powerful message: even small spaces can create waves of change for the planet.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU opens ‘Pag-amlig’ Peace Art Exhibit on West Philippine Sea

    WVSU opens ‘Pag-amlig’ Peace Art Exhibit on West Philippine Sea

    West Visayas State University opened the weeklong “Pag-amlig” Peace Art Exhibit on Feb. 21 at the Administration Building, featuring student artworks that call for the protection of the West Philippine Sea and affirm the role of the youth in safeguarding national sovereignty.

    The exhibit showcases 13 posters created following a Feb. 14 forum on maritime awareness and national security. Through visual art, students translated dialogue into advocacy, expressing themes of patriotism, unity, environmental stewardship and responsible citizenship.

    The forum gathered students from NSTP–CWTS, ROTC and the College of Education Graduate School for discussions on maritime security, sustainability and the responsibility of Filipino youth to remain informed and engaged in issues that affect the nation’s territorial integrity.

    Organizers said the initiative sought to move conversations beyond the classroom by providing a platform for students to articulate their convictions and participate in nation-building through creative expression.

    The program was organized by the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea in collaboration with the University’s International and Local Linkages Office, Office of the University President, NSTP–CWTS and ROTC, and the Center for Peace Education, underscoring the value of partnership in promoting informed discourse and active citizenship.

    The exhibit runs for one week. Members of the University community are encouraged to visit and reflect on the students’ messages of peace, responsibility and national solidarity.

  • Bridging worlds workshop boosts WVSU global readiness, internationalization

    Bridging worlds workshop boosts WVSU global readiness, internationalization

    Strengthening institutional internationalization efforts, the seminar-workshop “WVSU Bridging Worlds: Protocol and Intercultural Intelligence” was held on February 5 at the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) hall through the International and Local Linkages Office, in partnership with the Human Resource Management Office.

    The first day opened with a lecture by Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU Focal Person to the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN), highlighting the importance of SDG-aligned communication and the shared responsibility of the WVSU community in advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

    Setting the university’s global direction, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, discussed WVSU’s internationalization initiatives. This was followed by Ms. Danielle Galecio, Executive Assistant III from the Office of the President, who tackled diplomatic protocol, events and conference management, and the responsibilities of protocol officers, underscoring professionalism and cultural sensitivity in international engagements.

    Representing the Commission on Higher Education, Dr. Danebeth Narzoles, CHED Regional Office VI Internationalization Focal Person, presented CHED’s 7-Point Agenda, consisting of four core thrusts and three enablers that address key priorities in higher education, including lifelong learning, human capital development, SDG-based research and innovation, inclusive internationalization, data-driven governance, strengthened institutional systems, and effective public service.

    Sessions on Intercultural Intelligence were led by Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, followed by a workshop facilitated by Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin.

    The first day concluded with a discussion on “The Value of Rankings” by Ms. Christine Liz Jimenea, Administrative Officer IV of the Quality Assurance Office.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU strengthens internationalization through strategic engagement with French Embassy

    WVSU strengthens internationalization through strategic engagement with French Embassy

    West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), continues to advance international cooperation and youth-led environmental advocacy through sustained engagement with the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia.

    On November 20, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, together with Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin, Information Officer I, met with Mr. Amir Hamdane, Chargé de Coopération Technique and Development Cooperation Officer of the Service de Coopération et d’Action Culturelle. The meeting explored academic, cultural, and development partnerships, including initiatives under the Sanctuarium Maris Project, a French Embassy–funded marine conservation project implemented by WVSU that focuses on the protection of sea turtles, a globally threatened species vital to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

    Further strengthening institutional and student engagement, officers of the DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA)—Chairperson Aihrich M. Toreres, Special Projects Coordinator Johnric G. Vargas, and Education and Training Coordinator Amabela Fiona Le B. Benid—paid a courtesy visit to the French Embassy on December 4, reinforcing collaboration on youth participation, environmental action, and internationalization, particularly in support of community-based sea turtle conservation initiatives. Through sustained collaboration with the French Embassy, WVSU continues to strengthen its internationalization efforts by empowering students, fostering cross-cultural engagement, and advancing globally relevant initiatives in environmental sustainability and marine conservation.

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  • 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.

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