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.

  • Three-day Erasmus+ Introductory Training In Romania advances WVSU’s sustainable finance expertise

    Three-day Erasmus+ Introductory Training In Romania advances WVSU’s sustainable finance expertise

    Reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainable finance, West Visayas State University (WVSU) completed the three-day introductory training held from January 23 to 25 2026 under Work Package 2 of the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) Project Green Finance: Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Growth in Southeast Asia, at the Faculty of Economic Sciences, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania.

    On Day 1, President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Legal Entity Appointed Representative (LEAR), presented the Philippine country and institutional report, outlining WVSU’s preparedness and strategic direction in implementing micro-credentials aligned with European Union (EU) frameworks. His presentation emphasized the university’s capacity to adopt innovative credentialing systems that respond to evolving academic and industry demands.

    Building on this, Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Project Manager from the College of Business and Management, examined the Green Finance landscape in the Philippines, outlining key national policies, regulatory developments, and emerging market needs that shape the country’s sustainable finance ecosystem.

    The training concluded with insights from Ms. Mia Guartilla, Junior Expert from the CBM, who shared WVSU’s experience in higher education–industry collaboration. Her presentation highlighted practical approaches to developing partnerships, internship programs, and co-designed academic initiatives that strengthen workforce relevance and foster industry engagement.

    The three-day training reinforced WVSU’s role in advancing outcomes-based, industry-responsive green finance micro-credentials, while strengthening institutional capacity in sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration under the Erasmus+ framework.

  • WVSU marks global role in Erasmus+ Green Finance kick-off in Romania

    WVSU marks global role in Erasmus+ Green Finance kick-off in Romania

    Advancing global efforts in sustainable finance, West Visayas State University (WVSU) took part in the 1st Transnational Project Meeting of the Erasmus+ CBHE project Green Finance: Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Growth in Southeast Asia, held on January 22, 2026 at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania.

    President Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Legal Entity Appointed Representative (LEAR), led the team alongside Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Project Manager, and Ms. Mia Guartilla, Junior Expert from the College of Business and Management.

    The meeting marked the official launch of the project and served as a critical platform for aligning international partners on the project’s strategic direction. Key discussions focused on the project background and rationale, work breakdown structure, project management framework, and dissemination strategies.

    Partners also reviewed first-year activities and deliverables, mobility implementation plans, and financial and reporting requirements, ensuring a coordinated and effective execution of project goals.

    This milestone gathering brought together academic institutions and experts from the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Romania, Poland, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

    Highlights of the event included an institutional welcome session, in-depth planning of the project roadmap, a workshop on mobility and collaboration opportunities, and a cultural immersion tour of historic downtown Sibiu, fostering stronger cross-cultural and institutional partnerships.

    Through its participation in this Erasmus+ initiative, WVSU reaffirms its commitment to outcomes-based education and sustainability-driven academic innovation under the Erasmus+ framework.

  • WVSUFAAI launches 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with art exhibit at SM City Iloilo

    WVSUFAAI launches 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with art exhibit at SM City Iloilo

    The West Visayas State University Federated Alumni Association, Inc. (WVSUFAAI) officially kicked off activities for the 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming with the launching and opening of an art exhibit at SM City Iloilo on Dec. 16, 2025.

    Dubbed a prelude activity to the Grand Jubilarian Alumni Homecoming set in January 2026, the exhibit runs until Dec. 20 and features works by alumni artists Joel Senina Adrias (WVSU–College of Education Batch 1976) and Joel Eugenio E. Ferraris (WVSU High School Batch 1976).

    The opening program included the National Anthem, opening prayer, and the WVSU Hymn, followed by words of welcome from Dr. Jonathan C. Glorial, director of WVSU Alumni Affairs. Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president, delivered the keynote message, underscoring the role of alumni engagement in sustaining the university’s legacy. A message was also delivered by Faculty Regent Shim Lester de Pio, president of the Federated Faculty Association.

    Ribbon-cutting rites were led by Mr. Jeremias Adrias, brother of artist Joel Adrias; Inesitas Lacson-Palermo, Former Alumni Queen 2023 (WVSU-COE Batch 1971); Dr. Ricky Magno, dean of the College of Education; and Shim Lester de Pio.

    Adrias presented a series of 20 circular-themed works, while Ferraris showcased one large acrylic piece alongside several other artworks. Ferraris also enhanced the exhibit with a multimedia component—a video loop featuring his artworks and artist interviews—displayed on a flat-screen monitor installed at the venue.

    Alumni from various jubilarian batches, including WVSU-COE Classes of 1971, 1976, 1991 and 1992, WVSU-CAS-1981, WVSU-CAF 1981 and 1986 attended the opening, reflecting strong intergenerational support for the homecoming buildup.

    The exhibit not only celebrates alumni creativity but also supports creative entrepreneurship, with selected artworks available for viewing. Serving as the event’s emcee was Prof. Bonifacio P. Gaverza.

    WVSUFAAI said the launching and exhibit set the tone for the 2026 Grand Alumni Homecoming, highlighting unity, creativity, and sustained alumni involvement as the university prepares for its major alumni gathering early next year.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

  • 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.

  • WVSU Dagyoung Student Ambassador drives global youth policy at the 13th NYP

    WVSU Dagyoung Student Ambassador drives global youth policy at the 13th NYP

    Showcasing West Visayas State University’s commitment to youth leadership and internationalization, Johnric G. Vargas—DagYoung Student Ambassador and Political Science student—represented Iloilo City and the entire Region VI as its lone delegate to the 13th National Youth Parliament (NYP) National Assembly held in Vigan City from November 18–20, 2025.

    The National Youth Parliament, a biennial policy-making convention mandated by Republic Act 8044 or the Youth in Nation-Building Act, brings together exceptional young leaders from across the Philippines to craft informed, future-oriented policy recommendations. Echoing WVSU’s global outlook, the NYP fosters a culture of international cooperation, policy innovation, and youth engagement aligned with global development agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and international mobility frameworks.

    Throughout the assembly, delegates examined youth issues through a global lens—economic empowerment, good governance, digital innovation, and greater mobility across cultures and borders—reflecting the increasingly interconnected role of youth in nation-building.

    Vargas took on major leadership responsibilities that highlight his capacity to engage in both national and international youth development work. He served as the National Cluster Chairperson on Economic Empowerment and Global Mobility, Regional Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Governance, and was elected Regional Convener for the 13th NYP. He likewise contributed to the Philippine Youth Development Plan – Regional Inter-Agency Committee (PYDP-RIAC), ensuring that Western Visayas’ priorities resonate with broader cross-regional and global youth development perspectives.

    Following the deliberations of the National Assembly, the 13th National Youth Parliament successfully passed key resolutions aligned with the 10 Centers of Youth Participation—selected from hundreds of proposals submitted by regional clusters nationwide. These recommendations strengthen youth involvement in governance, economic mobility, and strategic partnerships, echoing international best practices in policy-driven youth development.

    These resolutions will be formally transmitted to the Philippine Congress and the Executive Branch for appropriate legislative and executive action, reinforcing NYP’s role as a national platform contributing to policy systems comparable to youth parliaments and councils across Asia and beyond.

  • WVSU sets regional benchmark in UI GreenMetric 2025

    WVSU sets regional benchmark in UI GreenMetric 2025

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has climbed to World Rank 521 in the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2025, placing 1st in Region VI, 18th in the Philippines, and 294th in Asia, solidifying its standing as one of the country’s leading sustainable universities.

    Now on its 15th edition, the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings assessed 1,745 institutions from 105 countries, making it the world’s largest university ranking focused on sustainability performance. This year introduces the theme “Advancing Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education: Stories from Our Institutions and Communities,” highlighting how universities integrate sustainability in teaching, research, operations, and community engagement.

    WVSU’s performance reflects its efforts across all six dimensions measured by UI GreenMetric—setting and infrastructure, energy and climate change, waste management, water conservation, transportation systems, and sustainability-focused education and research. These criteria, composed of 39 indicators, evaluate how universities manage their physical environment, implement green policies, conserve resources, reduce emissions, and embed sustainability into academic and community programs.

    As WVSU continues to participate in the global UI GreenMetric network, its achievements contribute to broader national and international efforts to promote clean energy, climate action, sustainable development, and green innovation. The 2025 ranking offers both recognition and motivation for the university to enhance its programs and deepen its integration of sustainability within all aspects of institutional life.

  • Across Korea’s Cultural Heartlands: WVSU Students Immerse in Global Tourism Practices

    Across Korea’s Cultural Heartlands: WVSU Students Immerse in Global Tourism Practices

    Third-year BS Tourism Management (BSTM) students of West Visayas State University–College of Business and Management (WVSU-CBM) completed a five-day international educational tour in South Korea from Nov. 8 to 12, 2025. The program encompassed two major cities: Seoul, the capital and largest city, and Busan, the nation’s second-largest city and a prominent port and cultural hub. This initiative provided students with direct exposure to diverse tourism environments, integrating historical, cultural, and contemporary perspectives essential to their professional development.

    In Seoul, students visited Gyeongbokgung Palace, deepening their understanding of Korea’s dynastic history and traditional architectural heritage. The tour also included Bukchon Hanok Village, a well-preserved neighborhood of traditional Korean houses. Here, students observed efforts to maintain cultural identity amid rapid urban modernization, gaining insights into the role of heritage preservation within an evolving metropolitan context.

    The itinerary in Busan emphasized historical learning and community-centered tourism development. Students explored Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a renowned seaside temple celebrated for its scenic coastal location and architectural beauty, illustrating the integration of natural landscapes with historical and spiritual significance. They also visited Gamcheon Culture Village, a post-war refugee settlement transformed into a vibrant “open-air museum” through public art initiatives and community-led revitalization. These sites exemplified the contribution of creative placemaking and grassroots participation to sustainable tourism development.

    The program further highlighted the intersection of sustainability and community-based tourism through visits to Nami Island and Haeundae Beach, where environmental stewardship and active community involvement are central to destination management. Observing these practices firsthand reinforced students’ understanding of sustainability as a critical principle in contemporary tourism management. Interactions with local residents and tourism professionals also enhanced their intercultural communication, cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and responsible travel practices.

    Ultimately, the international educational tour exemplifies WVSU’s commitment to providing experiential learning opportunities that broaden students’ global perspectives. By examining how South Korea balances heritage preservation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism, students developed competencies necessary for professional excellence. The experience prepares them to become culturally aware, competent, and future-ready tourism professionals capable of contributing meaningfully to the global tourism industry.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
    Text and photos from WVSU CBM

  • WVSU hosts university-wide PESO Job Fair 2025

    WVSU hosts university-wide PESO Job Fair 2025

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) hosted the university-wide tRAIbaho Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Job Fair 2025 today, Nov. 18, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the College of Medicine Gym, welcoming students, graduates and job seekers to a day of career exploration and professional networking.

    The event was organized by the Office of Student Affairs, through the Career and Job Placement Services and the University Guidance Services Office, in collaboration with PESO – Iloilo City. WVSU provided the venue and support infrastructure for a dynamic fair featuring employer booths, on-site recruitment, career resources and student-led documentation.

    A total of 15 public and private companies participated in the one-day job fair, offering employment opportunities across various industries.

    By hosting this initiative, WVSU reinforces its commitment to supporting students and the wider community through accessible pathways to employment and meaningful professional connections.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels

  • Dagyoung Student Ambassadors foster global citizenship through SDGs workshop

    Dagyoung Student Ambassadors foster global citizenship through SDGs workshop

    DagYoung Student Ambassadors (DSA) from various colleges of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) main campus took part in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) workshop during SYNC: Shaping Youth, Nurturing Connections held on October 10 at the Center for Teaching Excellence Hall.

    Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, WVSU Focal Person for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN) initiatives, served as the resource speaker for the session.

    He discussed the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their significance in addressing issues such as poverty, education, equality, and climate change. Dr. Lachica also emphasized how student ambassadors can contribute by integrating SDG-oriented values and communication into their campus and community initiatives.

    One of the highlights of the session was the “Rank the Goals” workshop, where participants formed small groups and ranked the 17 SDGs according to what they believed were the most urgent for today’s generation. Each group presented their top three priorities, which led to meaningful exchanges of ideas on pressing youth and global concerns.

    The ambassadors also shared personal insights on which goals resonated with them most and why they believe these goals must be addressed in today’s world.

    Through the workshop, the DSAs strengthened their understanding of global issues and reaffirmed their commitment to becoming advocates of sustainable change—living out the essence of youth leadership with purpose and responsibility.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO