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.

  • West Philippine Sea Protection drives maritime awareness at WVSU

    West Philippine Sea Protection drives maritime awareness at WVSU

    Reinforcing its commitment to global awareness and civic engagement, West Visayas State University convened a forum on February 14 focused on protecting the West Philippine Sea, underscoring the vital role of the youth in promoting maritime awareness.

    The event gathered students from NSTP–CWTS, ROTC, and the College of Education Graduate School.

    Representatives from the National Task Force delivered a lecture on Philippine national security and developments in the West Philippine Sea, outlining key geopolitical realities and the country’s maritime policies.

    The forum concluded with a poster-making activity, where students translated their insights into creative advocacy pieces.

    The program was mounted in collaboration with the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, International and Local Linkages Office, Office of the University President, NSTP–CWTS, ROTC, and the Center for Peace Education, demonstrating a shared commitment to informed and active citizenship.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU secures CSC registration of Collective Negotiation Agreement

    WVSU secures CSC registration of Collective Negotiation Agreement

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) marked a milestone in labor-management relations on Feb. 10 as the Civil Service Commission (CSC)– RO VI Office awarded the Certificate of Registration for the University’s Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA).

    The registration formally recognizes negotiated agreements between the University administration and employee organizations, reinforcing protections, benefits and cooperative mechanisms for both teaching and non-teaching personnel.

    The awarding ceremony, held at the WVSU Board Room, was attended by officers and board members of the WVSU–Non-Teaching Personnel Organization Inc. (WVSU-NPO Inc.) and the WVSU Federated Faculty Association (WVSU-FFA). WVSU-NPO Inc. President Joy Fullo and WVSU-FFA President Prof. Shim Lester De Pio represented their respective groups and expressed appreciation to the CSC, the University administration and their members for the recognition.

    CSC VI Acting Director III Andre L. Ladigohon underscored the broader significance of the agreement, saying, “This moment is more than ceremonial; it is a testament that employee unionism in West Visayas State University is not a passing practice but a tradition. It reflects an institutional culture that recognizes employees, values partnerships, and believes that excellent public service begins with a respected workforce.” He added, “A CNA is not just a document; it is a product of dialogue, trust, and shared responsibility. When done right, it improves morale, strengthens cooperation, and supports institutional performance.”

    WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz said the CSC registration affirms the legitimacy and value of the University’s labor partnerships. “The recognition of these agreements by the Civil Service Commission affirms that our partnerships are not only valid but also grounded in law, policy, and the principles of good governance. It strengthens our resolve to work hand in hand in fostering a harmonious workplace where both teaching and non-teaching personnel are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the mission of the university,” he said.

    The CNA registration marks a key step in strengthening workplace welfare and cooperation at WVSU, supporting a work environment where dialogue and shared responsibility are integral to delivering quality public service.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels
    #WVSU

  • WVSU hosts ‘Bridging Worlds’ workshop to strengthen global readiness

    WVSU hosts ‘Bridging Worlds’ workshop to strengthen global readiness

    West Visayas State University advanced its internationalization efforts through a two-day seminar-workshop, “WVSU Bridging Worlds: Protocol and Intercultural Intelligence,” held Feb. 5–6 at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    Organized by the International and Local Linkages Office in partnership with the Human Resource Management Office, the event gathered directors, unit heads, internationalization coordinators, faculty, staff, and student ambassadors for sessions on protocol, diplomacy, and intercultural competence.

    Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU focal person to the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, opened the workshop with a lecture underscoring the university’s commitment to SDG-aligned communication and shared responsibility in advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

    ILLO Director Edel Carmela Subong Csoka outlined WVSU’s internationalization directions, followed by Executive Assistant III Danielle Galecio, who discussed diplomatic protocol, event and conference management, and the role of protocol officers in ensuring professionalism and cultural sensitivity.

    Dr. Danebeth Narzoles, CHED Regional Office VI internationalization focal person, presented CHED’s 7-Point Agenda, which focuses on lifelong learning, human capital development, inclusive internationalization, data-driven governance, and strengthened institutional systems.

    Sessions on intercultural intelligence were led by Subong Csoka and workshop facilitator Alisa Mei Locsin, while Quality Assurance Office Administrative Officer IV Christine Liz Jimenea discussed the role of global rankings in strengthening institutional visibility.

    On the second day, Mary Lou G. Escullar, supervising tourism operations officer of the Department of Tourism Region VI, presented the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence, emphasizing improved service standards and regional competitiveness.

    The workshop forms part of WVSU’s broader push to build globally ready graduates and deepen its engagement in international and local networks.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • 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 convocation highlights AI’s role in higher education agrarian film advocacy

    WVSU convocation highlights AI’s role in higher education agrarian film advocacy

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) spotlighted the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education as Jose Jenil Demorito, assistant secretary of the Public Information Service of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Central Office, delivered the keynote lecture during the University Convocation on Jan. 28 at the WVSU Cultural Center, a major highlight of the 2026 University Days celebration.

    Held under the theme, “Banaag sang West: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations,” the convocation gathered university officials, faculty, staff, students and alumni to reflect on the University’s mission of excellence, service and innovation amid emerging technological and social challenges.

    In his lecture, Demorito described AI as both a “boon and a bane,” emphasizing that while technology can enhance teaching, learning and productivity, its ethical and responsible use remains crucial. He urged WVSU to lead in cultivating AI literacy, transparency and human-centered innovation, stressing that AI should empower educators and students rather than replace human judgment, creativity and empathy.

    Demorito illustrated AI’s creative potential by presenting videos generated from archival photographs, offering a nostalgic journey through student life with his college batchmates. He also challenged the University to integrate AI thoughtfully across instruction, research and administration, promoting a culture of responsible use, academic integrity and continuous innovation.

    A highlight of the convocation was the screening of “Ang Yab-ok Nangin Amon Napanag-iyahan”, produced by Madyaas Productions of the WVSU College of Information and Communications Technology, as part of the DAR PelikulAgraryo Film Festival 2025. The award-winning film, which placed second in the Best Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations category, showcased the students’ contribution to digital storytelling and agrarian reform advocacy, reflecting the University’s growing role in leveraging media and technology for social development.

    In his opening remarks, Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, vice president for Administration and Finance, underscored the University’s enduring radiance, noting that WVSU’s “banaag” is a collective glow shaped by service, commitment, and shared purpose that continues to illuminate communities.

    WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz formally introduced Demorito, highlighting his distinguished career in broadcast media, corporate leadership and public service, and emphasizing his homecoming as a proud alumnus of the University’s Mass Communications Class of 1984 and one of the Most Outstanding Alumni during the university’s centennial anniversary.

    In her closing remarks, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to shaping the nation’s future through excellence in instruction, research, and community engagement, calling on the academic community to nurture integrity, diligence, innovation, and compassion in service of the Filipino people.

    The University Convocation formed part of the weeklong 2026 University Days celebration, reinforcing WVSU’s dedication to transformative education, ethical leadership and inclusive development in the digital age.

  • WVSU faculty, staff gather for University Days 2026 luncheon

    WVSU faculty, staff gather for University Days 2026 luncheon

    West Visayas State University brought together faculty and staff from the main campus, satellite campuses and the University Medical Center during a university-wide luncheon held Jan. 28 at the WVSU Jubilee Park, marking University Days 2026.

    The luncheon followed the University Convocation and was attended by WVSU employees alongside alumni and the convocation’s guest speaker, Department of Agrarian Reform Assistant Secretary for Public Information Service Jose Jenil Demorito. During the program, Demorito serenaded the crowd, drawing warm reactions from faculty and staff.

    The gathering provided an opportunity for employees across campuses and units to reconnect and celebrate WVSU’s shared milestones, reflecting the University Days theme of unity and institutional pride.

    The luncheon is part of a series of activities for University Days 2026 that bring together students, faculty, staff and alumni in commemorating WVSU’s history, service and continuing role in public education.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • Student journalism forum puts community voices at the center

    Student journalism forum puts community voices at the center

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) underscored the role of student journalists as storytellers for and with communities during the forum “From Campus to Communities: Student Journalism for the People,” held Jan. 24, 2026, at the D.N.D. Co-Working Space in Iloilo City.

    Organized by The Mediator, the official student publication of the WVSU College of Communication (COC), in partnership with Panay Times and with support from PAMCO and the COC Student Council, the forum aimed to equip campus journalists with practical skills in emerging storytelling forms, promote ethical community-based reporting, and foster collaboration among student publications in Iloilo City.

    Katrina Isabel Gadong, PAMCO Information Officer, opened the program and welcomed the participants as she highlighted journalism as a form of public service that calls for accuracy, responsibility, and respect for community narratives.

    Renowned Filipino journalists Atom Araullo and Voltaire Tupaz served as resource speakers, sharing insights on visual storytelling and community journalism. Araullo emphasized the role of visual narratives in shaping public understanding and empathy, while Tupaz underscored the importance of responsible reporting that prioritizes community voices, ethical considerations, and meaningful impact.

    The program also featured Jun Bandaryel, managing editor of CoverStory PH and owner of Panay Times, who discussed the role of digital magazines in providing platforms for young journalists and amplifying underrepresented stories. He also introduced plans for a localized Panay-based digital magazine that will be open to student and community contributors.

    The forum gathered campus journalists from WVSU student publications, along with participants from Iloilo Science and Technology University and the University of the Philippines Visayas, encouraging knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and network-building among student journalists in the region.

    Through interactive discussions and open forums, participants gained practical insights into visual reporting, ethical journalism, and community-based storytelling, reinforcing the role of campus journalism in informing, engaging, and empowering communities.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU College of Law Moot Court Team pays a visit to the University President

    WVSU College of Law Moot Court Team pays a visit to the University President

    The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Law Vox Populi Moot Court Team paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the President on January 28, 2026, following their First Runner-Up finish at the 30th Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition – Southeast Asian Regional Rounds.

    Team 1219, composed of Yan Germinanda, Patrick Palquiran, and Emilio Combatir, clinched the First Runner-Up title, earning the team a spot at the International Rounds to be held in Florida, USA, later this year.

    Together with the team are WVSU College of Law Dean Ian Thomas M. Besana, REB, LLM, Atty. Regina Johanna V. Gustilo, and Atty. Larry Pestaño.

    West Visayas State University congratulates the College of Law and extends its best wishes as it prepares for its next competition.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • Scholars, Students explore Japanese studies at WVSU forum

    Scholars, Students explore Japanese studies at WVSU forum

    West Visayas State University hosted a Lecture Forum and Information Session on Japanese Studies in the Philippines on Jan. 13, bringing together students, faculty members and partner institutions to deepen discussions on history, diplomacy and contemporary issues linking Japan and the Philippines.

    Held at the Research and Extension Building, the forum engaged the WVSU academic community alongside participants from PHINMA University of Iloilo, the University of San Agustin, the University of the Philippines Diliman and the University of the Philippines Visayas. The activity highlighted WVSU’s continuing role as a venue for academic exchange and interdisciplinary learning in Western Visayas.

    The forum featured lectures and information sessions led by experts from the University of the Philippines Asian Center and the Japan Foundation Manila. It was organized in partnership with the WVSU College of Arts and Sciences, the Social Science Department and the Political Science Students’ Organization.

    Japan Foundation Manila program coordinator Jasmine Latina opened the program with an overview of Japanese Studies initiatives and global partnership opportunities, providing students and faculty with information on academic pathways, research support and international collaboration. An open forum followed, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers.

    UP Asian Center Assistant Professor Karl Ian Cheng Chua led the academic discussions with a lecture on peace literature and wartime memory, examining how narratives of victimhood influence public understanding of the Japanese Occupation in the Philippines.

    The program also included a lecture by UP Asian Center Assistant Professor Alexander Michael Palma, who discussed Japan-assisted flood control projects in the Philippines and shared lessons drawn from ex-post audits, linking historical cooperation with present-day development concerns.

    In the afternoon session, education research assistant Michelle Deloria presented academic and research opportunities available at the UP Asian Center, particularly for students and faculty interested in Japanese and Asian studies.

    The forum concluded with a lecture by UP Asian Center Associate Professor Ariel Lopez, who revisited Philippine diplomatic history through Jawi letters from Mindanao, Sulu and the wider Malay world, challenging long-held assumptions about the origins of Filipino diplomacy.

    The activity aimed to strengthen academic engagement, promote Japanese Studies and expand historical and cultural understanding among WVSU students, faculty and staff, reinforcing the university’s commitment to relevant, globally connected scholarship.

  • WVSU recognizes March 2026 LET topnotchers, passers in weekly flag ceremony

    WVSU recognizes March 2026 LET topnotchers, passers in weekly flag ceremony

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) recognized its topnotchers and passers in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) during its weekly flag-raising ceremony held earlier today, May 18, at Jubilee Park.

    The University announced that the Main Campus posted a 100% passing rate in both the elementary and secondary levels of the LET, while also emerging as the top-performing school nationwide in the secondary level.

    Topnotchers from the College of Education (COE) and the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (COP) were likewise recognized, including COP’s first-ever LET topnotcher, Keith Brian Jabaybay.

    COE Dean Dr. Ricky M. Magno highlighted the achievement as a reflection of the University’s continued commitment to quality teacher education and academic excellence.

    Meanwhile, COP Dean Dr. Porferio Barlas Jr. emphasized the collective effort behind the achievement, thanking the University community for its support and prayers. “We do believe that the efforts of others may have a direct influence on the output of one,” he said, acknowledging the support extended by the administration, faculty, staff, utility personnel and students in sustaining the University’s academic performance.

    Jabaybay also expressed gratitude to the University community and the COP faculty for their guidance throughout his academic journey.

    “Since first year, ginhubog niyo guid kami para maging quality nga educators,” he said.

    During the ceremony, Magno also introduced student interns from Universitas Negeri Jakarta composed of Bachelor of Secondary Education majors in English and Mathematics who are currently undertaking their SEA Teacher internship program at WVSU. He described the initiative as part of the College’s continuing internationalization efforts and expressed hope for its continuation in the coming academic year with the support of the administration.

    The student interns likewise shared their appreciation for the opportunity to study and train at WVSU, describing Iloilo City and the University community as welcoming and supportive since the beginning of their stay.

    Magno also thanked the University’s top management following the recent evaluation for Centers of Excellence, noting that evaluators commended the strong presence and support of University officials throughout the assessment activities.

    The ceremony, hosted by the Accounting Unit headed by Ms. Marissa Antonillas, concluded with trivia games and interactive activities for members of the University community.