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 delegates receive recognition at PASUC VI-Extension Managers’ Council for leadership and innovation in extension papers

    WVSU delegates receive recognition at PASUC VI-Extension Managers’ Council for leadership and innovation in extension papers

    The West Visayas State University faculty extension delegates garnered multiple awards during the14th Philippine Association of State University and Colleges VI – Extension Managers’ Council (PASUC-EMC) Annual Regional Symposium and General Assembly last September 30 – October 2, 2025 at the University of Antique with the theme, “Extension Beyond Boundaries: Strengthening Impact Through Innovation, Inclusion, and Integration”. 

    Among the delegates who presented their paper, Dr. Elias C. Olapane from WVSU Calinog Campus received Best Paper and Best Presenter awards in the Transformative Education, Culture and Social-Behavioral Sciences cluster, with co-project leader Dr. Mary Jean Cataluña in their paper, “UpSKilling DepEd Teachers Research-Led Teaching Through a Capability Training Series”. 

    Similarly, Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin from the College of Business and Management, secured 2nd place in the Best Extension Paper category for her work titled “Empowering Transport Cooperatives through Innovative Extension: Insights from Project ITTC” under the Environmental Stewardship, Climate Action, and Circular Economy category. Another notable award is from WVSU Pototan Campus, where Dr. Charlie Domido secured 3rd place for Best Extension Paper in the Environmental Stewardship, Climate Action, and Circular Economy category.

    Additionally, Dr. Virginia B. Parreñas, also from WVSU Pototan Campus, earned 3rd place in the Community-Based Health, Nutrition, and Wellness category. Meanwhile, the documentary Rays of Hope was awarded Best Video Documentary, with Prof. Sheila P. Beliran from the College of Nursing serving as the Project Leader. 

    In addition, research presenters—Dr. Jovie L. Caballero from Calinog Campus, and Dr. Pauline M. Torion along with Prof. Joenarex N. Bautista from Janiuay Campus—presented their respective extension papers. Panel evaluators from the university consists of Prof. Sheila P. Beliran, Dr. Julie Gay B. Quidato, Dr. Alma Jean A. Subong, and Dr. Raymund B. Moreno.

    Also present during the symposium and awarding ceremony was Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, the Director of the University Development Center and Chairman of PASUC VI EMC, Inc., demonstrating strong institutional support.

    This symposium exemplifies the university’s ongoing dedication to fostering innovative projects that benefit and uplift the community. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    Photo Courtesy: Cristy Pagente 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • WVSU-CBM’s Team Dungánan defends Service Category crown at BIDA 2025

    WVSU-CBM’s Team Dungánan defends Service Category crown at BIDA 2025

    Team Dungánan of the West Visayas State University College of Business and Management (WVSU-CBM) once again proved its edge on the national stage, clinching the Service Category championship at the 19th Business Idea and Development Award (BIDA) 2025. 

    The team, which represented CBM with a business paper on preserving heirloom dishes, successfully defended its 2024 title against contenders from Capiz State University and Our Lady of Fatima University.

    The back-to-back win underscores CBM’s commitment to both innovation and cultural preservation. This year’s BIDA drew more than 70 entries nationwide. From the pool, 32 teams advanced to the second level of screening, where participants submitted full business plans and video presentations. Only 15 were chosen as finalists to present on-site in Taguig City, competing in Service, Technology, Food, Non-Food, and Agriculture categories. 

    The Business Idea and Development Award, or BIDA, is an annual competition organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to recognize innovative and sustainable business ideas, products, technologies, and services, primarily from students.

    The program seeks to foster an entrepreneurial culture, support sustainable economic growth in the Philippines, and encourage youth to develop creative solutions for national development. Team Dungánan was composed of Kisha Antoniette Hojilla (BSBA FM), Thomas Edward Segundera (BSHM), Kyle Cabaobao (BSBA FM), Joriel Agustina Marie Alvarez (BSTM), and John Richard Inorino (BSCM).

    Guiding them throughout the competition were coaches Nichol John J. Raymundo and Maria Corazon M. Samorin. The win solidifies CBM’s standing in national competitions, highlighting the college’s drive to develop future leaders who can create socially relevant and sustainable business ideas.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • WVSU, DOST launch innovation projects to boost science and technology in Western Visayas

    WVSU, DOST launch innovation projects to boost science and technology in Western Visayas

    West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6, launched a series of DOST-supported innovation projects on September 16, 2025, at the university’s Business Incubator Nurturing Homegrown Innovations (BINHI) Building. 

    The initiative introduces four major projects designed to empower Western Visayas through technological advancement: the Center for Digital Transformation for Governance (CDx), which supports local government units in adopting digital solutions; the Advanced Manufacturing Center, a satellite laboratory that provides access to emerging prototyping and manufacturing technologies; Project SARAI, which offers science-based tools to help farmers adapt to climate change; and Project SENTINEL, a disaster preparedness program that integrates real-time weather data, emergency reporting, and energy-efficient lighting. 

    In his welcome remarks, WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz highlighted the collective impact of the projects. “These programs are like elements coming together to form a powerful core—one that will fuel meaningful change across our nation. They are part of our promise to our students, our faculty, our communities, and our future,” he said. 

    DOST Region 6 Director Engr. Rowen Gelonga praised the timeliness of the launch, noting its benefits for startups and industries in the region. “I cannot contain my happiness and excitement that all of us are here, and we are very upbeat of the future of the region because of the partnership with the university,” he said. 

    DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Usec. Sancho Mabborang encouraged industries to maximize the opportunities brought by the new facilities. “I’d like to see that your local industry will benefit from [these] facilities. Salamat po sa inyo, and please continue doing what you are doing, and we hope that more projects can be established here in Region 6,” he added. 

    Support messages were also delivered by regional directors from partner agencies, including Dir. Arceo Casing Jr. of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region 6, Dir. Juan Jovian Ingeniero of the Department of the Interior and Local Government Region 6, and Engr. Reynaldo Sy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology Region 6. Their messages underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in advancing digital governance, inclusive planning, and regional innovation. 

    After the program, participants were given a short overview of the projects’ background and objectives, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to inaugurate the third floor of the BINHI TBI Building. Guests also toured the facilities and engaged in networking sessions to explore potential collaborations. 

    Among the officials present were Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, WVSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; Dr. Ma. Beth Concepcion, Dean of the College of Information and Communications Technology and project lead of CDx; and Dr. Arnel Secondes, Director of the Knowledge, Technology Transfer, and Business Development Center (KTTBDC), along with other university officials, faculty, and students. Representing DOST were Undersecretary Leah Buendia for Research and Development, and Engr. Robert Dizon, Executive Director of the DOST Metals Industry Research and Development Center. 

    The launch concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony inaugurating the third floor of the BINHI TBI Building as a new hub for science and technology innovation in Western Visayas. 

    With these initiatives, WVSU and DOST aim to establish a stronger innovation ecosystem—empowering industries, supporting farmers, strengthening governance, and enhancing disaster resilience. The projects mark a significant step toward positioning Western Visayas as a model of science-driven growth and innovation in the country. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • WVSU completes ISO surveillance audit, endorsed to maintain certification

    WVSU completes ISO surveillance audit, endorsed to maintain certification

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has successfully completed its two-day ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit, with auditors recommending the continued validity of the university’s certification. 

    The audit, conducted Sept. 15–16, assessed WVSU’s quality management system and gave positive feedback, advising that the certification be maintained. 

    Lead auditor Dr. Catherine Talao-Sigua, together with auditors John Joseph Denoga, Gwendolyn Red, and Kevin Castillon, spearheaded the evaluation with the support of university officials. 

    The opening meeting was held at the main campus, followed by site visits to the Lambunao and Janiuay campuses. At Lambunao, Campus Administrator Dr. Cheryll Dawal and unit heads participated in the audit. At Janiuay, Campus Administrator Dr. Guiller P. Pendon, along with deans and officials, facilitated the evaluation of academic programs and support units. 

    Key officials from the main campus also assisted. Dr. Peter Arnie D. Paris, vice president for administration and finance, and Dr. Alona M. Belarga, director of instruction, supported the Lambunao audit. At Janiuay, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for academic affairs; Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, vice president for research, innovation, and extension; and Dr. Elizabeth M. Magallanes, director of quality assurance, joined the activities. 

    On the second day, the auditors focused on the main campus, reviewing degree programs, offices, and top management. The audit closed with findings and recommendations for improvement. 

    “The university affirms its commitment to institutional excellence, transparency, and accountability by actively addressing the findings of this year’s ISO audit process, including the observations, opportunities for improvement, and non-conformance,” said Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president. 

    The auditors issued their final recommendation to maintain certification on Sept. 16.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels 

    By WVSU PAMCO

  • Sen. Bam Aquino engages WVSU Community in Stakeholders Consultation

    Sen. Bam Aquino engages WVSU Community in Stakeholders Consultation

    Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV visited West Visayas State University (WVSU) on July 31, 2025, for a stakeholders consultation held at the WVSU Board Room. The visit formed part of his ongoing efforts to strengthen dialogue with the education sector following his recent election as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education in the 20th Congress. 

    The consultation brought together key members of the WVSU community, including university officials, vice presidents, campus administrators, deans, and student leaders from various student councils. Also in attendance were Dr. Clement Camposano, Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Visayas, and Councilor Sheen Marie Mabilog, an advocate for youth and education in Iloilo City. 

    Presided by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, discussions revolved around the current challenges and opportunities within the university, especially in relation to infrastructure, academic resources, and student welfare. 

    Dr. Dave Endel R. Gelito III, Chief of the WVSU Medical Center, emphasized the need for continued investment in the university’s medical and allied health programs, particularly in upgrading facilities and expanding support for the WVSU Medical Center—one of the relatively few state university-operated hospitals in the country. 

    Student leaders present raised concerns about outdated classrooms, limited laboratory resources, and the urgent need for improvements in athletic and learning facilities. They stressed that increased investment in student development and academic support services would significantly impact the university’s ability to nurture competent, future-ready graduates. 

    Similar concerns were echoed by Dr. Rosario Clarabel Contreras-Leda, Campus Administrator of WVSU Calinog Campus. She pointed out the disparity in available resources across campuses, noting that if the main campus is experiencing gaps in equipment and facilities, external campuses face even greater constraints. 

    Leadership voices from the colleges also underscored sector-specific needs. Dr. Liza Assumpta Jover, Dean of the College of Dentistry, advocated for expanded scholarship opportunities for students of dental medicine, particularly those from underserved backgrounds. Meanwhile, Dr. Madonna Palmes, Dean of the College of Nursing, highlighted the general and financial burdens faced by students and faculty during their Related Learning Experiences (RLEs), which are vital components of nursing education. 

    Senator Aquino’s visit reflects a broader initiative to gather firsthand insights from the ground and explore legislative pathways to strengthen support for public universities. The dialogue at WVSU underscored the importance of collaborative governance in shaping a more responsive, inclusive, and future-oriented higher education system. 

    By JA Temelo/PAMCO 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

  • WVSU Unveils Cooperative Landmark on 45th Anniversary of Multi-Purpose Cooperative

    WVSU Unveils Cooperative Landmark on 45th Anniversary of Multi-Purpose Cooperative

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) marked the 45th founding anniversary of its Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) with the unveiling of a commemorative landmark today, July 2, 2025.
     
    The newly installed marker stands beneath a prominent acacia tree, across Rizal Hall and beside the College of Medicine Gym.
     
    The ceremony featured the blessing of the site, followed by messages of support from WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and Chief Administrative Officer Julius Undar.
     
    Dr. Noeni Nepomuceno, one of the cooperative’s founding members, also spoke, expressing gratitude to the WVSU community for its sustained support and collaboration over the years.
     
    The landmark serves as a symbol of the MPC’s enduring commitment to service and partnership within the WVSU community for nearly half a century.
     
    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels
    #WVSU

  • WVSU forges digital health alliance with New Zealand’s University of Otago

    WVSU forges digital health alliance with New Zealand’s University of Otago

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has entered into a new international partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Otago on June 27, 2025, in Dunedin, New Zealand.

    The agreement was signed by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and University of Otago Vice Chancellor Hon. Grant Robertson during the Philippine High-Level Mission to New Zealand organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

    The partnership focuses on collaborative research in digital health and medicine, faculty and student exchange programs, and the co-development of digital innovations aimed at enhancing healthcare systems and services. Both institutions expressed their commitment to working together in advancing global health outcomes through academic and technological collaboration.

    Dr. Villaruz emphasized that the partnership marks a significant step in WVSU’s pursuit of excellence and innovation in health sciences. He highlighted that the agreement not only supports the university’s research goals but also opens international pathways for students and faculty.

    With this new partnership, WVSU continues to position itself as a leader in global health education and digital transformation.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU named Heritage Awardee at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night

    WVSU named Heritage Awardee at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) is honored as a Heritage Awardee by the Iloilo City government at the Iloilo City Heritage Awards Night, held on June 26, 2025, at Diversion 21 Hotel, Mandurriao. 

    The awarding ceremony, organized by the Iloilo City Local Culture and Arts Council – Committee on Cultural Heritage Conservation, is part of the city’s extended celebration of the National Heritage Month. It recognizes the groups, institutions, and individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of local culture and heritage. 

    Dr. Mary Ann Dela Vega, Project Leader of the WVSU–Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG), is set to receive the award with the WVSU-CMPG team composed of the following key figures: Project Consultants: Joyce Christine D. Colon, Dr. Greta GabineteStudy Leaders: Dr. Rey Tantiado, Prof. Clyde Larroder, Ms. Kristine Joy Maquiliao, Ms. Jogie Marie Lenaugo, Mr. Henry John PrioLanguage Editor: Dr. Hazel P. Villa Photo and video documentation of the team’s work will be featured at the event, showcasing WVSU’s enduring impact on cultural heritage advocacy in the region. 

    This award highlights the University’s mission of developing lifelong learners empowered to generate knowledge and technology, and transform communities as agents of change. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels#WVSU

  • CHED rolls out CMO 3 at WVSU to streamline SUC”s International travel in Region VI

    CHED rolls out CMO 3 at WVSU to streamline SUC”s International travel in Region VI

    To advance global engagement in higher education, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) officially rolled out the updated CMO No. 3, Series of 2025, at West Visayas State University (WVSU) on June 23, featuring Mr. Renz Giorgio Tibigar of the CHED International Affairs Service.

    The presentation focused on the “Updated Guidelines for Securing Authority to Travel Abroad for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across Region VI”, a vital framework aimed at streamlining foreign travel procedures, enhancing institutional accountability, and aligning international activities with national policy.

    Mr. Tibigar underscored the strategic role of International Relations Officers (IROs) in ensuring that all foreign travel requests are legitimate, necessary, and directly contribute to the university’s Strategic Internationalization Plan (SIP). He introduced the revised IAS Form 15, a crucial tool to evaluate and justify SUC travel requests. He also emphasized the importance of monitoring outcomes from international travel, such as joint research projects, improved student mobility, and strengthened linkages.

    To assist SUCs in assessing the legitimacy of invitations, CHED introduced a Toolkit on Red-Flagged Conferences and Organizations, continuously updated through the CHED-IAS platform. In line with transparency and integrity, Mr. Tibigar also reiterated that all trips partially or fully sponsored by private entities with pending transactions with SUCs are strictly prohibited.

    Another highlight was the clarification of exemptions from CHED travel clearance, which include CHED-funded initiatives, IAS-endorsed activities, and trips resulting from formal MOAs or MOUs. Also discussed were the transitionary provisions delegating travel processing functions from CHED Central to Regional Offices.

    The program concluded with Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, Officer-in-Charge and Chief Education Program Specialist and Internationalization (IZN) Focal Person of CHED Region VI, delivering the closing remarks, commending the collaboration among institutions and reiterating CHED’s full support for initiatives that champion internationalization in Philippine higher education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

  • WVSU strengthens partnership with Jeju National University on Digital Transformation (DX) for governance project

    WVSU strengthens partnership with Jeju National University on Digital Transformation (DX) for governance project

    Jeju Island, South Korea–West Visayas State University (WVSU) has significantly advanced its 17 years of long-standing partnership with Jeju National University (JNU) following a pivotal engagement with key officials from JNU’s Regional Innovation System and Education (RISE) initiative. This deepened collaboration centers on the ” Establishment of the Center for Digital Transformation for Governance” project at WVSU, a vital undertaking funded by the Department of Science and Technology-VI (DOST).


    This expanded partnership comes after a recent visit by WVSU delegates, who were part of the DOST-Western Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (WVCIEERD) international study mission to Jeju Island from June 16-20, 2025.


    Leading the WVSU team were Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Dean of the College of ICT and Project Leader of WVSU’s Center for Digital Transformation for Governance, and Mr. Shem Durst Elijah B. Sandig, a faculty member and researcher.


    A key highlight was their meeting with JNU President Eel-Hwan Kim, reaffirming the strong bond between the universities. They also met with Dr. Chul-Ung Kang, Vice President and Director of JNU-RISE, and Dr. Yung-Cheol Byun, a professor and director at JNU’s RIS Office for High-Intelligent Service.


    These discussions highlighted how WVSU’s digital transformation goals align with JNU’s RISE program, which focuses on regional development through technology. The goal is to boost digital transformation for governance and foster an innovation-driven Western Visayas, leveraging Jeju as a model of innovation.


    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO