WVSU

Tag: 8

PROMOTE SUSTAINED, INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH, FULL AND PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYMENT AND DECENT WORK FOR ALL.

Economic growth should be a positive force for the whole planet.This is why we must make sure that financial progress creates decent and fulfilling jobs while not harming the environment. We must protect labour rights and once and for all put a stop to modern slavery and child labour. If we promote job creation with expanded access to banking and financial services, we can make sure that everybody gets the benefits of entrepreneurship and innovation.

  • WVSU expands regional engagement at ASCC High-Level Forum 2026

    WVSU expands regional engagement at ASCC High-Level Forum 2026

    West Visayas State University took part in the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community High-Level Forum 2026 on March 4, 2026 at The Peninsula Manila, joining regional leaders and stakeholders in discussions aimed at strengthening a resilient and people-centered ASEAN Community.

    The forum was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which currently chairs the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community pillar under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, represented WVSU as part of the Philippine higher education delegation endorsed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

    Discussions focused on identifying actionable strategies to advance a resilient, cohesive, and people-empowered ASEAN while strengthening cooperation across the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars of the regional bloc.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Johnric Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator of DagYoung Student Ambassadors, also attended the forum, representing the youth sector through the National Youth Commission. His participation highlighted the role of young leaders in shaping inclusive and future-ready pathways toward the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

    Through its participation, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to international engagement and regional cooperation, contributing to ongoing conversations that aim to empower ASEAN citizens and strengthen collaborative solutions to shared challenges.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • CHED RAISE 2026 concludes with AI policy commitment and industry insights

    CHED RAISE 2026 concludes with AI policy commitment and industry insights

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined higher education leaders, industry partners, and policymakers as the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Responding through AI for Societal Empowerment (RAISE) 2026 national summit concluded Feb. 27 at the Iloilo Convention Center.

    Mounted by CHED, in partnership with Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) and WVSU, the three-day summit culminated with discussions on democratizing AI skills, strengthening graduate employability, and formalizing a shared commitment to a draft AI policy for education — reinforcing the call for responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence integration across Philippine higher education.

    Dr. Randy S. Gamboa of the CHED Technical Panel for Information Systems opened the morning program with welcome remarks and a recap of Day 2, highlighting key insights on workforce readiness and institutional alignment.

    Global and industry perspectives followed. Yean Feng Yue, corporate social responsibility head of IBM Asia-Pacific, delivered “Democratizing AI Skills: How IBM Is Helping to Close the Digital Divide,” emphasizing access to AI education and digital inclusion initiatives. David Padgett, founder and chairman of the board of SeeMeSOL, presented “Accelerating Graduate Employability, Advancing National Productivity,” underscoring the role of AI-enabled platforms in improving career pathways and workforce outcomes.


    Joan Michelle Dela Paz, talent acquisition manager of TTEC Iloilo, discussed “From Call Centers to AI-Enabled Global Experience Hubs: The Shift in Customer Experience,” highlighting evolving industry expectations and the growing demand for AI-integrated competencies among graduates.

    The program also included the awarding of certificates to participating exhibitors from various CHED regional offices and industry partners, recognizing their contributions to the summit’s exhibit component, which remained open to participants throughout the day.

    A major highlight of the closing program was the presentation of the Draft AI Policy in Education by Sherwin M. Pelayo, executive director of the Analytics Association of the Philippines. This was followed by a digital commitment signing, with higher education institutions, student representatives, and industry partners formally expressing support for the proposed policy framework.

    Dr. Raul F. Muyong, CHED Regional Director for Region VI, delivered the closing remarks, marking the culmination of the three-day summit.

    With its role as co-host, WVSU helped convene national and regional stakeholders in shaping policy dialogue, strengthening industry collaboration, and advancing a shared vision for ethical, inclusive, and future-ready AI integration in higher education.

  • WVSU president opens Day 2 of CHED RAISE with focus on AI workforce readiness

    WVSU president opens Day 2 of CHED RAISE with focus on AI workforce readiness

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz opened the second day of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Responding through AI for Societal Empowerment (RAISE) 2026 national summit on Feb. 26, reaffirming WVSU’s commitment to responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence in higher education.

    Held at the Iloilo Convention Center, the three-day CHED RAISE summit is headed by CHED, in partnership with Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) and WVSU. The event gathers university leaders, faculty members, students and industry partners to align academic programs with the demands of an AI-driven economy.

    A key highlight of Day 2 was the plenary discussion “AI Requirements in the Industry,” which examined workforce competencies, infrastructure readiness and cross-sector collaboration needed to meet emerging industry standards. Panelists included Jonathan Defensor De Luzuriaga, president and CEO of Spring Valley Tech Corp.; Engr. Fulbert Woo, president of the Iloilo Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Frankie Antolin, executive director of the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines. The discussion was moderated by Jaime Noel Santos, president of Thames International Business School.

    The session underscored the urgency of equipping graduates with AI, analytics and digital competencies that respond directly to industry needs — a message that carries direct implications for curriculum development, instruction and student preparation at WVSU.

    Parallel breakout sessions provided sector-focused discussions for faculty members, administrators and students.

    For teachers, Engr. Orland Tubola of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines led “AI for Cooperatives,” highlighting AI applications in cooperative management and community-based enterprises. In the afternoon, Dr. Jassiel Padios of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, delivered “Capacity Building on Fisheries AI-Mediated Technologies,” emphasizing AI applications in fisheries research and extension. Engr. Lester Phil Crus of Bulacan State University also presented the “Executive Program on Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things for SUCs and LUCs (BulSU-HUSAY)”, outlining structured capacity-building initiatives for state and local universities and colleges.

    For administrators, Samu Samson of International Business Machines Corp. led “Setting Up the Infrastructure for an AI Program,” focusing on institutional readiness and scalable implementation. Dr. Oliver Malabanan of De La Salle University discussed “Designing Curricula Aligned with the Philippine Skills Framework for Analytics and AI,” emphasizing outcomes-based alignment with national standards. Dr. Jaime D.L. Caro of Technofactors Inc. delivered “Developing a Research Agenda in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” centering on strategic research planning responsive to emerging AI developments.

    Students attended “Automating Intelligence: The Power of RAG in Document Processing,” presented by Dr. Gregg Victor Gabison, country manager of Raybiz Technologies Inc., which explored retrieval-augmented generation and its practical applications. Malt John Vianney Solon, a senior computer science student of Cebu Institute of Technology University, led “Machine Learning Made Simple,” translating foundational machine learning concepts into practical, real-world applications. Another session, “AI-Powered Career Services for Improved Graduate Employability,” was delivered by David Padgett of SeeMeSOL, highlighting AI-driven platforms designed to enhance career guidance, skills matching and employment pathways.

    As the summit enters its final day, WVSU continues to play an active role in convening academic and industry leaders, strengthening policy dialogue and advancing the responsible and inclusive integration of AI across Philippine higher education.

  • WVSU co-hosts CHED RAISE 2026 national summit on responsible AI

    WVSU co-hosts CHED RAISE 2026 national summit on responsible AI

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) is co-hosting the three-day CHED Responding through AI for Societal Empowerment (RAISE) 2026 national summit, which opened Feb. 25 at the Iloilo Convention Center and brings together higher education leaders, policymakers, industry partners and students from across the country.

    Mounted by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in partnership with Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) and WVSU, the summit centers on the theme “Empowering Minds, Transforming Communities through Responsible and Inclusive AI.” The gathering highlights how artificial intelligence can be integrated responsibly into teaching, learning and institutional governance.

    For the WVSU community, the summit positions the University at the forefront of national conversations on AI policy, workforce readiness and innovation in higher education.

    A key highlight of the opening plenary was the presentation of the National AI Upskilling Roadmap: Building a Competitive National AI Workforce, identified as a “Big Bet for the Future” under the National Education and Workforce Development Plan 2026–2028. Sherwin M. Pelayo, executive director of the Analytics Association of the Philippines, presented the roadmap and moderated a fireside chat on AI in basic education, higher education and lifelong learning.

    The panel included CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis; CHED Undersecretary for Strategic Management Dr. Ronald Mendoza; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez; Private Sector Advisory Council Chairperson Alfredo Antonio Ayala; and Analytics Association of the Philippines President and Co-founder Michelle Alarcon. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between government and industry to ensure AI adoption in education remains responsible, inclusive and aligned with national development goals.

    The opening program also featured the ceremonial turnover of the CHEDx 2024 Coffee Table Book and a digital ribbon-cutting of exhibition booths, followed by an exhibit tour and media briefing on CHED’s AI initiatives and policy directions for higher education institutions.

    Participants later joined parallel breakout sessions tailored to administrators, faculty and students.

    University leaders convened for a Presidents’ Forum titled “Crafting an AI Policy for Higher Education,” aimed at developing a cohesive framework for responsible AI integration across Philippine higher education institutions.

    For educators and administrators, Asst. Prof. John Richard M. Esguerra of Batangas State University led a session on data science and cybersecurity, emphasizing data literacy and cyber resilience in academic institutions. Another session delivered by Mark Benlor Sy of National Teachers College explored AI-enabled learning design and delivery, focusing on integrating analytics and AI tools into curriculum development and assessment.

    Students attended “Think Before You Prompt: A Framework for Responsible AI-Supported Learning,” delivered by Dr. Dave E. Marcial of Silliman University, which underscored the ethical and critical use of AI in academic work. A separate session by Dr. Ace Lagman of FEU Institute of Technology introduced core concepts and applications of artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning.

    The summit runs until Feb. 27, reinforcing WVSU’s role as an active partner in shaping national policy and practice on ethical and inclusive AI in education.

  • WVSU demonstrates global service excellence at 49th High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration

    WVSU demonstrates global service excellence at 49th High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration

    West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its Tourism students, DagYoung Student Ambassadors, and the International and Local Linkages Office, has taken on the role of Information Officers as Iloilo hosts the 49th High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration (HLTF-EI), which gathers high-ranking economic officials from ASEAN Member States, from February 25–28, 2026, in support of the Philippines’ hosting of the event.

    Working alongside the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VI, WVSU personnel and student volunteers are assisting in the operation of information desks at official meeting locations and delegate accommodations, helping ensure smooth coordination and a warm welcome for ASEAN officials and participants.

    This initiative supports the DOT Region VI in its leadership of the Committee on Tourism, Hospitality, Tours, Social Events, and Site Enhancement (CHTSESE), which plays a vital role in enhancing delegate services during ASEAN Senior Officials’ and Ministerial Meetings.

    Aligned with the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship priorities — including digital economy cooperation, economic security, and expanded trade partnerships — WVSU’s participation reflects its commitment to service excellence.

    This engagement also builds on the participants’ completion of the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training last February 6, equipping them to deliver globally competitive Filipino hospitality to international delegates.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU welcomes Mohawk College delegation, introduces new officials at Feb. 16 ceremony

    WVSU welcomes Mohawk College delegation, introduces new officials at Feb. 16 ceremony

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed a delegation from Mohawk College in Canada and introduced new University officials during its Feb. 16 flag-raising ceremony, highlighting ongoing international partnerships and leadership transitions across campuses.

    The visiting delegation from Mohawk College will participate in academic and cultural activities from Feb. 16 to 20. Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka said WVSU has sent five students to Mohawk College for foreign exchange since 2023. This week, students from Mohawk’s Media and Business School specializing in e-sports administration are on campus.

    Dr. Andrew Fedurko of Mohawk College expressed appreciation for the collaboration between the two institutions. “We couldn’t ask for a better partner than your university here in Iloilo,” Fedurko said.

    Accompanied by Jelson Sales, Mohawk College’s market specialist for Southeast Asia and a WVSU alumnus, Fedurko described the visit as a “full circle” moment, noting that he had walked the same grounds more than 20 years ago and expressing gratitude for the warm reception.

    The University also recognized the engagement of DOST Balik Scientist Dr. Bernice Mae Yu Jeco-Espaldon, currently hosted by the WVSU Center for Research and Innovation in Science, Medicine and Education (CRISMED) under the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) program. Her short-term engagement, which began Feb. 2, aims to strengthen research collaboration, curriculum development and capacity-building initiatives across colleges.

    Jeco-Espaldon described her first two weeks as “restless yet motivating,” citing ongoing collaborative research with faculty members and emphasizing the value of sustained partnerships.

    University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz also announced leadership updates, introducing Dr. Bonna Palma as the new dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, succeeding Dr. Alexander Balsomo, and Dr. Jose Ariel Tutor as the new campus administrator of the College of Agriculture and Forestry, replacing Dr. Joel Araquil, who retired Jan. 31. Villaruz said a new dean for the College of Medicine will be announced next week.

    In her message, Palma underscored servant leadership as the foundation of her administration, noting that leadership is defined not by position but by humility, integrity and service. “For in the end, I believe that leadership is not remembered by authority exercised but by lives uplifted, trust earned, and hearts inspired,” Palma said.

    The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the 12 pairs of candidates for Mr. and Ms. WVSU 2026, scheduled for Feb. 26 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

  • 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.

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  • Filipino brand of service excellence anchors WVSU bridging worlds seminar

    Filipino brand of service excellence anchors WVSU bridging worlds seminar

    Emphasizing service excellence as a key element of internationalization (IZN), the seminar-workshop “WVSU Bridging Worlds: Protocol and Intercultural Intelligence” gathered non-teaching staff, faculty members, IZN coordinators, and DagYoung student ambassadors from the main and external campuses on February 6 at the WVSU Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) hall.

    The activity was organized by the International and Local Linkages Office, in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Western Visayas and the Human Resource Management Office, as part of efforts to strengthen global readiness through culturally grounded and values-based service practices.

    The session featured Ms. Mary Lou G. Escullar, Supervising Tourism Operations Officer of the DOT Region VI, who presented the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence and discussed the 7Ms of Filipino Hospitality and Service Excellence.

    Highlighted in the session was the ‘Mabuhay’ gesture, a key expression of Filipino hospitality that demonstrates a warm greeting, respectful body language, attentiveness, and genuine courtesy in engaging guests. This simple yet powerful practice leaves a lasting positive impression, reinforcing service excellence in both local and international settings.

    Ms. Escullar emphasized that service excellence in tourism must be consistently experienced across all tourism touchpoints.

    The session enriched participants’ knowledge and enhanced their skills in delivering authentic Filipino hospitality aligned with both local standards and international expectations.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • 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 clients benefit from on-campus access to public services during Government Agencies Service Desk Day

    WVSU clients benefit from on-campus access to public services during Government Agencies Service Desk Day

    Key officials, employees, and stakeholders of West Visayas State University (WVSU) availed themselves of essential public services during the Government Agencies Service Desk Day, held Jan. 29 as part of the 2026 University Days celebration.

    The activity, organized by the University through its Administrative Division, brought regional government agencies directly to the campus, enabling clients to conveniently access information, consultation, and frontline assistance without leaving the university premises. Participating agencies collectively recorded 278 client transactions, noting that some individuals availed multiple services during the one-day event, reflecting strong participation from the university community.

    Among the participating regional offices, the Department of Information and Communications Technology recorded the highest number of visits, assisting 107 clients in the registration and verification of the eGovPH mobile application, which serves as the government’s one-stop digital platform for public services.

    Other agencies present included the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Civil Service Commission, Government Service Insurance System, and the Social Security System, which collectively addressed various concerns related to health insurance, employment and eligibility requirements, government benefits, and social security coverage.

    The initiative aimed to streamline access to public services while reinforcing collaboration between the University and national government agencies. By hosting the service desks on campus, WVSU provided a more efficient and accessible platform for employees, students, and stakeholders to process inquiries, update records, and complete essential transactions.

    The Government Agencies Service Desk Day forms part of the broader 2026 University Days celebration, which features activities highlighting service, partnership, and community engagement across all WVSU campuses.