WVSU

Tag: 16

PROMOTE PEACEFUL AND  JUSTICE  INSTITUTIONS.

Compassion and a strong moral compass is essential to every democratic society.Yet, persecution, injustice and abuse still runs rampant and is tearing at the very fabric of civilization. We must ensure that we have strong institutions, global standards of justice, and a commitment to peace everywhere.

  • 5th Peace Education Forum at WVSU highlights its role in advancing global harmony

    5th Peace Education Forum at WVSU highlights its role in advancing global harmony

    Educators, students, researchers, and peace advocates gathered at the College of Education – NAB 110 of West Visayas State University on May 9, 2026 for the 5th West Visayas Peace Education Forum.

    Anchored on the theme “Blessed Victoria Diez Memorial Lecture: Openness and Dialogue,” the forum featured discussions on peacebuilding, dialogue, and education as foundations for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

    Dr. Rodgen M. Jabor, Peace Educator and Researcher, underscored the importance of education in cultivating empathy, responsible citizenship, and mutual understanding among communities.

    Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, emphasized that peace education plays a significant role in shaping future generations and fostering global understanding.

    “Peace education is the key in solving global problems. It is not an overnight solution, but if we teach our students at a young age about its value, we are creating a peaceful world one step at a time. As to internationalization, networking and forging partnerships will not prosper without peace,” she said.

    The forum also showcased research presentations from educators and students across Iloilo, promoting the exchange of peace education initiatives and best practices.

    Joint efforts of the WVSU – Center for Peace Education (CPE), ILLO, University Learning Resource Center, Department of Education Region VI, WVSU College of Education – Graduate School (Peace Education Class), and the Department of Guidance and Values Education made the activity possible.

  • WVSU rises to Rank 137 in WURI 2026

    WVSU rises to Rank 137 in WURI 2026

    West Visayas State University continues to gain global recognition for innovation and social impact after rising to Rank 137 in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, placing the University among the Global Top 500 Innovative Universities.

    From advancing inclusive and socially responsive programs to strengthening internationalization and student engagement, this achievement reflects the collective efforts of the entire WVSU community in pushing boundaries and creating meaningful impact beyond the classroom.

    WVSU also earned spots in several WURI Top 100 categories, including:

    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)

    As WVSU continues to expand its global footprint, this recognition affirms the University’s commitment to transformative education, innovation, and service for communities here and beyond.

  • 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 recognizes law moot team’s international win in first May flag ceremony

    WVSU recognizes law moot team’s international win in first May flag ceremony

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) highlighted the international achievement of its College of Law (COL) during the first flag-raising ceremony for May held earlier today, May 4, at Jubilee Park, led by the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (COP).

    The WVSU COL Vox Populi Moot Team was recognized for securing first runner-up honors in the 30th Annual Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition in Gulfport, Florida, USA. Representing the University were Therese Diane Germinanda, Jose Emilio Luis Combatir, and John Patrick Palquiran.

    Germinanda was named third best speaker in the preliminary rounds and best speaker in the final round, while Palquiran placed ninth best speaker in the preliminary rounds.

    COL Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana described the achievement as a milestone for the University.
    “This is the first time that WVSU Law joined an international competition, and in our debut performance, we emerged as the first runner-up, beating several teams around the world,” he said. “Thank you for making our trip to Florida possible in representing not only WVSU, but the entire country.”

    In his message, Palquiran emphasized the collective effort behind the team’s success.

    “Standing here today, we are reminded that while our achievements may bear our names, they are written in the ink of collective sacrifice,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to University officials, particularly highlighting University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, for their support.

    “To the WVSU community, look around you. This achievement is a mosaic of all your efforts. Whatever you gave us—a word of encouragement, administrative support—this is for you,” Palquiran added. “We are, and we will always be taga-West.”

    He also acknowledged the contributions of administrators, faculty, staff, sponsors and support units who assisted the team throughout their preparation.

    The team’s success was guided by its coaches, Judge Lowell Fredrick Madrileño, Atty. Regina Johanna Gustilo and Prof. Frederic Loise Regencia, with the support of COL Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana.

    The ceremony concluded with Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr., COP faculty member, encouraging the community to sustain its commitment to excellence.

    “As we begin another week in WVSU, may we continue to honor our roots, uplift our community, and contribute meaningfully to the future we are building together,” Garcia said.

  • WVSU administers UNPO oath, celebrates NCAF 2026 success in flag ceremony

    WVSU administers UNPO oath, celebrates NCAF 2026 success in flag ceremony

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) administered the oath of office for the new set of officers of the University Non-Teaching Personnel Organization (UNPO) Inc., and recognized the successful hosting of the National Culture and the Arts Festival (NCAF) 2026 during its flag-raising ceremony held on Apr. 20, at Jubilee Park, led by the University Research and Development Center headed by Dr. Ryan Michael Oducado.

    The newly elected UNPO officers for 2026-2028, led by President Ms. Elsie Retotar, registrar of the College of Medicine, formally took their oath before Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris.

    University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz expressed his gratitude to the WVSU community for the successful hosting of NCAF 2026, noting positive feedback from state university and college presidents and members of the NCAF national technical secretariat. He also congratulated participating students and awardees, encouraging them to take pride in their achievements.

    Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs, likewise acknowledged the collective effort of faculty, staff and students who contributed to the success of the national event.

    Members of the organizing committees were also recognized during the program. Dr. Jon Kristoffer Deguma commended the working committees, while Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr. acknowledged the technical teams and emphasized their continued commitment to excellence.

    Meanwhile, Prof. Liberty Porras highlighted the achievements of student artists, noting that Region VI placed first runner-up with 171 points, of which 103 points, or 60 percent, were contributed by WVSU delegates.

    The ceremony concluded with performances from NCAF champions in Storytelling and Vocal Solo (Kundiman), as well as winning groups in Folk Dance, Indigenous Dance, and Street Dance.

  • 6 WVSU students named Outstanding Students of Iloilo for 2026

    6 WVSU students named Outstanding Students of Iloilo for 2026

    Six students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) have been named awardees in the 2026 Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA), recognizing their achievements in academics, leadership and service.

    For the tertiary level, awardees include Fritz Jaime Sumbo and Romavil Abelarde of the College of Education, Arcel Vinz Agudo of the College of Communication, and Jan Michael Alayon of the College of Arts and Sciences. From the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School, Zoe Alexandria Lanceta and Unah Angel Gabrielle Robante were recognized in the high school category.

    Organizers announced the awardees April 11, 2026, following a selection process that included bid screening, essay writing and panel interviews.

    Organized by JCI Regatta in partnership with the Department of Education divisions of Iloilo, Iloilo City and Passi City, as well as the Commission on Higher Education Region VI, TOSIA recognizes students who demonstrate strong character, resilience and social responsibility.

    The 2026 awards, guided by the symbol of the firefly, highlight students whose perseverance and commitment to excellence continue to make an impact in their schools and communities.

    The recognition adds to WVSU’s growing roster of student leaders who bring honor to the University through excellence, innovation and service.

    Publication materials by: TOSIA – The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards 

  • Candidates Face Full-Day Test as PASUC 2026 Events Intensify Ahead of Coronation Night

    Candidates Face Full-Day Test as PASUC 2026 Events Intensify Ahead of Coronation Night

    From first impressions to full performance, candidates of Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 are now undergoing a series of rigorous public engagements as the competition enters a decisive phase.

    Following their formal introduction during the Sashing Ceremony and Press Conference on April 6, the candidates stepped into a more demanding spotlight on April 9 through the Talent Showcase and Regional Attire Competition held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Robinsons Place Iloilo, Main Branch along Quezon Street.

    The daytime event required candidates to demonstrate not only stage presence and creativity, but also cultural interpretation through performance and attire, further testing their readiness for the national stage.

    Earlier in the week, the candidates were ceremonially presented at the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Medicine Auditorium, where they faced their first public evaluation through a press conference that assessed their articulation, composure, and advocacy.

    In her message, Local Contest Head Master Dr. Bonna S. Palma emphasized the shared purpose that binds the candidates despite regional differences.

    “Despite the different regions we actually come from, we can move forward together with the same purpose: to honor, to understand, and to belong,” she said.

    Candidates have since carried that message into subsequent events, where they continue to articulate their roles as cultural representatives. Kevin Angelo Mijares, Mr. PASUC CARAGA Region, earlier underscored the importance of preserving heritage while inspiring future generations.

    “I stand firm that we are the bridge between the past and the future; if we preserve our
    heritage, we protect our stories and inspire future generations,” he said.

    As part of final preparations, candidates are set to return to the WVSU Cultural Center on the evening of April 9 for a technical rehearsal scheduled from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., ensuring that staging, production flow, and performances are aligned for the culminating event.

    With each activity raising the level of expectation, the competition now moves toward its most anticipated moment. The Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 Pageant Proper and Coronation Night will take place on April 10 at the WVSU Cultural Center, where candidates will present the full measure of their talent, intellect, and cultural identity before a national audience.

    (by Andrei Jan Tono, Alvine Cornelia Faciolan, Riego Jon Alcallaga, Gerritz Jay Celestre, DC Mae Divino, Doreen Mae Garalda, Ma. Erenica Gina Laraya, and Darl Syde Napatang)

  • WVSU holds COA exit conference, reviews audit findings and next steps

    WVSU holds COA exit conference, reviews audit findings and next steps

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) conducted its Commission on Audit (COA) exit conference on April 7, 2026, at the WVSU Boardroom, giving University officials the opportunity to review audit findings and align on next steps before the release of the final audit report.

    University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, together with COA Supervising Auditor V Ms. Ma. Rebecca C. Tamba and the COA WVSU Audit Team, led the discussion on audit observations, recommendations and proposed actions. The exit conference serves as the final stage of the audit process, where agencies can clarify findings and respond to concerns.

    Villaruz emphasized that the process goes beyond compliance and contributes to strengthening University systems. He noted that engaging with audit findings helps improve financial management, reinforce accountability and ensure the responsible use of public funds.

    He also thanked COA for its guidance and professionalism, adding that the exchange of insights supports WVSU’s efforts to enhance transparency and uphold public trust.

    The conference allowed University management to formally respond to audit observations, helping ensure that identified issues are addressed and that operations remain aligned with national accounting standards, internal controls and good governance practices.

  • WVSU honors Villaruz with national quality award, shares key campus updates

    WVSU honors Villaruz with national quality award, shares key campus updates

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) honored University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz as recipient of the Manuel P. Corpus Outstanding Quality Champion Award during its first April flag-raising ceremony, held Monday at Jubilee Park and led by the College of Nursing (CON) under Dean Dr. Madonna Palmes.

    The award, conferred by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) on March 24, 2026, recognizes Villaruz’s leadership in advancing quality assurance in higher education. Former AACCUP Board of Trustees member Dr. Alona Belarga read the citation and formally presented the award during the ceremony.

    In his message, Villaruz dedicated the recognition to the entire WVSU community. “This is not for one individual, but a collaborative effort of every taga-West who has pushed the University forward and higher in education and quality assurance,” he said.

    He also underscored the University’s sustained commitment to accreditation despite challenges. “Despite our heavy hearts and tired bodies, we continued and pursued accreditation. This is a manifestation of all our efforts,” he added.

    The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards received by CON students, faculty and staff in research, arts and journalism competitions.

    Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, president of Bicol University and chair of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges Cultural Management Committee, also addressed the WVSU community, thanking the University for hosting national cultural activities and closing with, “Dios mabalos sa indo gabos.”

    University officials shared key updates for the week. Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, said results of the WVSU Admission Examination will be released starting next week, with preparations for graduation also underway.

    Meanwhile, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris announced WVSU’s hosting of the National Culture and the Arts Festival (NCAF) 2026 from April 8 to 11 and presented the schedule of activities. He also shared the opening of the Alumni Park, led by Alumni Regent Bonifacio Gaverza in collaboration with alumni and partner groups.

  • WVSU Law named pilot school for DOH healthy campus program

    WVSU Law named pilot school for DOH healthy campus program

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has partnered with the Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) to roll out a health-focused initiative in legal education, with the WVSU College of Law designated as the pilot institution in Western Visayas.

    The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the Healthy Learning Institution – Legal Education Institution (HLI-LEI) initiative, which aims to promote student well-being by integrating health standards into school systems.

    Under the program, the College of Law will incorporate health literacy, mental health support, and physical safety measures into its policies and curriculum. The initiative also seeks to strengthen awareness of health rights among law students while fostering a safer and more supportive learning environment.

    The HLI framework, established through Joint Administrative Order No. 2022-0001 and anchored on the Universal Health Care Act, brings together national agencies, including the Legal Education Board, to promote health and well-being in educational institutions.

    As part of the rollout, the DOH Health Promotion Bureau will conduct onboarding workshops to guide WVSU faculty and administrators in integrating HLI principles into academic and institutional practices.

    WVSU President Joselito F. Villaruz emphasized the importance of the initiative, saying, “By signing this MOU, West Visayas State University officially accepts the responsibility of serving as the pilot Legal Education Institution for HLI-LEI in Western Visayas.”

    He added that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to “fostering a law school environment that promotes health, safety, and community engagement,” underscoring the university’s role in advancing both legal education and public health outcomes in the region.