In celebration of ASEAN’s 57th Founding Anniversary, West Visayas State University (WVSU) joins the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)and other Higher Education Institutions in bolstering efforts to increase ASEAN awareness. This year, Lao PDR chairs ASEAN with the theme “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” underscoring the bloc’s commitment to strengthening interconnections and building a more robust community.
Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) discussed the rationale of the celebration during the August 19 flag raising ceremony. She highlighted the vital role educational institutions like WVSU play in nurturing the students who will carry forward the vision of a prosperous Southeast Asia.
The DagYoung Ambassadors brought a lively and colorful touch to the event by representing selected ASEAN countries.
Furthermore, WVSU International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) officially launched the ASEAN-Month Bulletin Campaign highlighting the rich cultural diversity and traditions of ASEAN countries, with focus on the contribution of the colleges, campuses, and units in terms of instruction, research, and extension.
It is noted that WVSU celebrated ASEAN Month last 2021 talking about the Women in ASEAN with five invited guests from different parts of ASEAN; in 2022 with the topic Women in Politics; in 2023 through the ASEAN Exhibit at SM City Iloilo in partnership with other Philippine Higher Education Institutions in the region—winning 7 awards.
WVSU continues to promote ASEAN unity and cooperation through these educational and cultural activities.
Tag: 4
ENSURE INCLUSIVE AND EQUITABLE QUALITY EDUCATION AND PROMOTE LIFELONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL.
Education liberates the intellect, unlocks the imagination and is fundamental for self-respect. It is the key to prosperity and opens a world of opportunities, making it possible for each of us to contribute to a progressive, healthy society. Learning benefits every human being and should be available to all.
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WVSU celebrates ASEAN Month 2024
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WVSU welcomes first year students to uni life
The University Student Council (USC) conducted the University Freshmen Orientation (UFO) with this year’s theme, “Bida ka, Taga West: Ang Unang Kabanata sa Makulay na Paglalakbay” on August 16, 2024.
In the morning, the Opening Program was held at the WVSU Cultural Center, wherein first year students from various main campus colleges took part in an orientation of essential information and relevant offices that can help them imbibe the core values and navigate their way through the university.
For the afternoon events, an Org Fest took place at the WVSU Jubilee Park. Several booths of diverse interest groups and student organizations were put up to encourage the freshmen students to participate in and foster socio-civic engagement.
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Dr. Villaruz welcomes new WVSU CAF campus administrator
Dr. Joselito Villaruz attended the formal installation of Dr. Joel Araquil Sr. as the new Campus Administrator of West Visayas State University-College of Agriculture and Forestry, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history. Held on August 19, 2025, the ceremony also marked the transition of leadership from Dr. Dominador Lisao, who recently retired, to Dr. Araquil, who has taken on the new role. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗗𝗿. 𝗔𝗿𝗮𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗪𝗩𝗦𝗨, 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗼!
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WVSU signs MOU with Warmadewa University
In a bid to enhance research quality and expand academic networks, West Visayas State University (WVSU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Warmadewa University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia on August 16, 2024, marking the beginning of collaborative research endeavors and foster an environment of shared knowledge, innovation, and academic growth.
WVSU was represented by Dr. Ma. Gerlia Blanza, Research Coordinator of WVSU Lambunao Campus; Dr. Isauro Sindol, Internationalization Coordinator and Dr. Ludovina Catilo, Faculty Researcher of WVSU Lambunao.
In his virtual message, Dr. Joselito Villaruz, WVSU president, expressed his excitement about the positive outcomes expected from the collaboration and its lasting impact on both institutions and the global academic community.
“I am honored that our university, specifically WVSU Lambunao Campus, is a partner-organizer of Bizworld Bali, the 2nd World Conference on Business Management and Economics. Our direction aligns with Bizworld’s goal of bridging business theories with practice, achieved through research endeavors addressing community needs”, said Dr. Villaruz.
This partnership holds immense potential for collaborative projects and research breakthroughs. It represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of academic excellence and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on both institutions.
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WVSU ILLO boosts IZN in Calinog Campus
West Visayas State University (WVSU) International and Local Linkages Office strengthened its internationalization (IZN) efforts through a seminar-workshop on internationalization strategies on August 16, 2024.
Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of International and Local Linkages Office, talked about ILLO mandates, accomplishments, strategic planning, and future international scholarship prospects. Also, she further emphasized the important role of internationalization in Higher Education Institutions.
The ILLO staff led discussions relevant to IZN operations–Ms. Alisa Mei Locsin, ILLO Staff, discussed on necessary documents and processes needed for international travel; Mr. Nelson Tajanlangit, ILLO Staff, tackled matters on budget and itinerary preparation and Mr. Gladwyn Gustilo introduced digital tools and platforms on internationalization.
The topics provided deans, IZN frontliners, faculty and unit heads with an understanding of the procedures involved in handling foreign faculty and student mobility and exchange, highlighting the significance of making travel and study documents thoroughly in preparation.
The event was attended by the Dr. Rosario Clarabel Contreras, Campus Administrator of WVSU Calinog; Dr. Raymund Moreno, IZN Coordinator of WVSU Calinog campus; Dr. Marie Candy Celeste, Director, Academic Affairs; Unit Heads; Deans; Administrative staff, and faculty.
For the record, WVSU Calinog is the external campus with the greatest number of international partners. Through the efforts of Dr. Moreno, the campus also has accomplished IZN-related activities since 2021. -
Dr. Villaruz thanks DAR 6 for equipment donation
Dr. Joselito Villaruz expressed gratitude to the Department of Agriculture (DAR) Region 6 for their generous donation of chemical equipment to the university on August 16, 2024 at the WVSU Board Room. This milestone partnership will enhance the university’s research capabilities and provide students with valuable resources for academic growth.
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Dr. Villaruz welcomes freshies of WVSU
Here’s an excerpt from Dr. Villaruz’s welcome message:
In the footsteps of our two-time gold medalist gymnast Carlos Yulo, who has triumphed over countries with vast resources, Carlos brought with him dedication, resilience, grit, hard work, and focus—non-negotiable attributes for survival and success.
Like him, you will perform your own series of full twists and split leaps before you can stick your landing and strive for achievements others have yet to attain. Let not the scarcity of resources or financial constraints hold you back. There is no secret formula, no extraordinary recipe.
We simply create an academic environment where students thrive through nurturance, allowing learners to surpass their potential and experience the best education possible.
You, our students, create the magic. Your extraordinary commitment and dedication are what make the difference. It is with great pride that I welcome you to this institution. I cannot promise that your journey will be smooth, but embrace the rough ride and learn from it.
𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝙒𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙑𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙖𝙨 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙐𝙣𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙮.
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DOST Balik Scientist Dr. Tachado praised for contributions to WVSU research capabilities
Dr. Souvenir D. Tachado, a Filipino scientist and DOST Balik Scientist Program Awardee, received praise from the WVSU community for his contributions towards the betterment of the University’s research capabilities during the presentation of his exit report entitled, “Cultivating Scientific Advancement: Insights from a Balik Scientist at WVSU” Held at Diversion 21 Hotel last August 13, 2024, the presentation of the exit report focused on Dr. Tachado’s various engagements wherein he conducted relevant faculty development and student mentorship activities that provided skills enhancement and guidance in areas like research design, scientific communication, and pursuance of advanced studies and careers in science and technology.
Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU President, expressed his gratitude to Dr. Tachado for his significant contributions during his return in the country and service in West Visayas State University (WVSU) wherein his knowledge sharing and assistance to the University researchers posed relevance in bridging the gap between local research landscape and the global scientific community. Dr. Tachado brings extensive expertise in the fields of urology, molecular biology, cell biology, and immunology, and has significant contributions to these fields through research and publications. He is the awardee of the Department of Science and Technology’s Balik Scientist Program (DOST-BSP) and was hosted by WVSU for his six-month engagement. Representatives from WVSU later gave their insights and impressions about the program. Dr. Victor A. Amantillo, Jr., Dean of the College of Medicine, stated how Dr. Tachado “served as local scientist venturing and achieving in the global scene” and how this representation can also inspire faculty and students in the field of research.
Meanwhile, Dr. Eva Jover-Catedral, a faculty member and one of Dr. Tachado’s research mentees, reiterated how persistent he was in encouraging faculty members to commit their full potential in research and publication. “He encouraged us not only as student researchers, but also as thinkers beyond conventional boundaries,” according to Jjessmar A. Fama, one of the medical students whom Dr. Tachado mentored through regional and national research competitions. In his exit report, Dr. Tachado also expressed the needs to be addressed in the enhancement research capacity in the country, such as gaps in scientific inquiry skills and limited global engagement through collaboration with international research institutions.
“The future of Research and Innovation ecosystem in this country is bright, but it requires continuous support and strategic investments,” Tachado said, emphasizing the need to increase funding for scholarships and researches that have potential for breakthrough discoveries. Dr. Tachado ended his presentation with gratitude to the DOST BSP and WVSU. He also disclosed his plans after the program, such as facilitating international collaborations and joint research proposals and continuing mentorship programs for faculty, students, and researchers. Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs and BSP Coordinator, spoke on Dr. Tachado’s confidence in the medical students’ research capabilities despite diverse limitations.
“Dr. Tachado never exhibited any sense of superiority nor boasted about the advanced technologies of his laboratories abroad. We can feel his genuine sincerity in helping us develop our own research facilities, and train our scientists and medical consultants,” said Dr. Malata. Towards the end of the program, Vice President of Research, Innovation, and Extension, Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, highlighted the power and benefits of linkages, networking, and relationship-building in the context of academics and research.
She also assured that WVSU will continue and strengthen the legacy of Dr. Tachado in research and mentorship beyond his engagement with the University. The DOST-BSP encourages Filipino researchers and scientists to return to the Philippines and share their expertise and promote information exchange for the scientific and technological development of the academe, public and private institutions in the country.
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Promoted faculty members take center stage at WVSU Faculty General Assembly 2024
Newly promoted faculty members of the West Visayas State University (WVSU), numbering 125, were recognized in this year’s Faculty General Assembly held at the University Cultural Center on August 12, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon. Recognizing the dedication, hard work, and perseverance of instructors, associate professors, and professors from different colleges and campuses of the WVSU system was the highlight of the said assembly as the faculty members took oath, administered by WVSU President Joselito Villaruz.
The faculty members’ promotion was based on the Department of Budget and Management Commission on Higher Education’s Joint Circular No. 3, series of 2022, which provides the guidelines on the reclassification of faculty positions in state universities and colleges (SUCs). “I challenge each of you to approach the academic year 2024 – 2025 with conviction and purpose. Let us build upon past achievements to create a more impactful and transformative educational experience for our students and communities,” Dr. Villaruz said in his message.
The vice presidents of WVSU also gave their messages, emphasizing key matters relating to their respective offices and the university.Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, vice president for Administration and Finance, mentioned the university’s commitment and aspiration for ease of doing business as well as efficient delivery of government services through automation in different offices. He also highlighted the need for the student community to establish “tangible student projects.”
The Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ma. Christine Asuncion Dequilla, raised key points on the procurement of learning materials for students, the use of artificial intelligence in the academe, and her advocacy for agile teaching “which prioritizes continuous feedback.” The Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences, Dr. Celina Gellada, underscored the health services available at WVSU which includes medical and dental services for students, faculty, and staff personnel. “We want to ensure that all members of our community are aware of resources available,” said Dr. Gellada.
Meanwhile, Dr. Greta Gabinete, the vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension, shared the importance of international and local opportunities in research for societal impact and institutional growth, encouraging faculty members to apply their research that will further strengthen the University’s ties with industries and position WVSU as a leader “in bridging the gap between academe and real-world applications.” Nearing the end of the program, Associate Professor of the College of Information and Communications Technology, Stephen Alayon, then introduced Wired++, the university’s official institutional repository that offers long-term preservation, access, retrieval, and dissemination of scholarly and creative works of WVSU students and faculty.
By Keven Rizzo Sitjar, PAMCO
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Dr. Villaruz’ back-to-school message to WVSU
𝘿𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙏𝙖𝙜𝙖-𝙒𝙀𝙎𝙏 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮,
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you back to a new academic year at our esteemed university. As we embark on this new chapter, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for the incredible experiences that lie ahead. As your University President, it is my honor to lead this vibrant and dynamic community of students, faculty, and staff. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, innovation, and discovery.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for being a part of our Taga-WEST family. Your dedication, hard work, and passion are what make our community so strong and resilient. As we begin this new year, I encourage you to explore new opportunities, challenge yourselves, and support one another. Remember that our university is a place where you can grow, learn, and thrive.
𝗢𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗮-𝗪𝗘𝗦𝗧! 𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗮𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱.
Sincerely,
𝐃𝐑. 𝐉𝐎𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐎 𝐅. 𝐕𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐔𝐙𝐒𝐔𝐂
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈𝐕