WVSU

Tag: 9

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  • Spectacle of Colors: Taga-West displays artistic skills in visual arts showdown

    Spectacle of Colors: Taga-West displays artistic skills in visual arts showdown

    Vying artists from different colleges and external campuses of West Visayas State University (WVSU) unleashed their creative talents through an exciting series of visual arts competitions on January 28, during the second day of the 2025 DIGAMO sa West University Days.

    The event featured several standout categories, including digital art painting, on-the-spot poster making, charcoal and pencil drawing, and a photo contest. Each category challenged participants to bring their visions to life with approximately four hours to complete their pieces.

    In the digital art painting category, participants used electronic devices and accessories to visualize “A Feast of Futures,” aligning their pieces with the theme of growth, innovation, and future endeavors.

    Simultaneously, the College of Dentistry Building buzzed with spectators as student artists crafted vibrant posters that symbolized the “Recipe of Excellence,” reflecting their Basta Taga-West, Dabest spirit.

    “This year we are focusing on the extraordinary journey of growth, innovation through the years and beyond. We cannot limit our students from what they have learned in the university, but encourage them to strive for growth. The university is feeding us the knowledge—the recipe for us to grow further,” Federated Student Council Chairperson and event facilitator, Gilbert Cerillo said in an interview.

    Meanwhile, the Charcoal and Pencil Drawing contest took DIGAMO to another level as participants paid homage to Chef Rafael “Tibong” Jardaleza. Through their portraits, they honored the renowned Ilonggo ethnic food advocate. Over the last thirty years, the creator of the “Food Haven of the Philippines” has been instrumental in bringing the Western Visayan and Ilonggo Heritage Cuisine spotlight on the national stage.

    As part of 2025 University Days festivities, WVSU recognizes Chef Jardaleza’s contribution to the province as a distinguished gastronomic destination in the Philippines.

    “I am expecting a lot from the participants, given that they represent the best of the best from their colleges and campuses. We can expect high-quality artworks that not only resonate with the theme but also reflect their pride as mga Taga-West,” Cerillo added.

    The official entries from the visual arts competition will be posted on the Federated Student Council’s official Facebook page for public viewing.

    Story by Grace Divine Salumag/The Mediator

    Photos by LINK.exe

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  • WVSU President outlines bold achievements and vision for the future

    WVSU President outlines bold achievements and vision for the future

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered a powerful and reflective State of the University Address (SUA) at the WVSU Cultural Center, highlighting significant achievements and laying out ambitious plans for the institution’s future.

    Anchored on eight priority areas, Dr. Villaruz’s speech of 14 pages accompanied by a PowerPoint Presentation and delivered in an hour and 6 minutes emphasized WVSU’s commitment to research, global partnerships, quality education, and infrastructure development—all aligned with national and global educational goals.

    Research and Innovation Excellence

    The university recorded a robust output of 274 research projects in 2024, following a peak of 279 in 2023. WVSU earned top recognition from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. Notably, faculty member Dr. Ryan Michael Oducado was included among the top 2% of scientists globally.

    Global Partnerships and Exchange Programs

    WVSU expanded its international collaborations, hosting exchange programs with Jeju National University (South Korea), Mohawk College (Canada), and Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (Indonesia). The university also welcomed two Spanish interns and 20 Korean students for immersive experiences.

    Program Development and New Offerings

    The introduction of the innovative seven-year WVSU Expedited Select Track for Medicine (WEST Med) program and the upcoming launch of a Bachelor of Science in Radiology reflect WVSU’s response to healthcare demands. The College of Law maintained its status as the top-performing school in the national bar exams.

    Infrastructure Modernization

    The university completed major projects, including the construction of the Doctor of Dental Medicine Building Phase 2 and rehabilitation of the grandstand. Plans are underway for a 15-story medical arts and multi-specialty tower.

    Quality Assurance Achievements

    WVSU achieved a 100% accreditation rate for its undergraduate programs and ranked among the top 25 Philippine universities in the QS Asia Rankings. It also became a member of the United Nations Academic Impact and applied for ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance membership.

    Faculty and Staff Development

    Over 419 faculty members received promotions, and 572 faculty were trained in various programs, achieving a 100% student satisfaction rate in performance evaluations. International scholarships increased, contributing to WVSU’s rising QS rankings.

    Student Empowerment and Cultural Achievements

    WVSU students excelled in international competitions, with the Grupo del Oeste winning the Sinamba sa Regatta Grand Championship. Despite shifting from second to third in the SCUAA Regional Meet, athletes secured multiple individual medals.

    Medical Advancements at UMC

    The University Medical Center expanded services, including the renovation of the operating room complex and the construction of a multi-specialty tower. Admissions grew from 6,468 in 2021 to 9,936 in 2024.

    Institutional and Administrative Reforms

    The deployment of the Human Resource Information System (HRIS) streamlined processes, while the university maintained strong fiscal management with grants totaling ₱600.8 million in 2023.

    Sustainability and Green Initiatives

    Dr. Villaruz reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through renewable energy initiatives and sustainable infrastructure projects.

    Call for Transformation

    Reflecting on WVSU’s journey, Dr. Villaruz posed the question: “Quo vadis, Taga-West?”—Where are we going? He emphasized the non-negotiable need to transform WVSU into a research university.

    With a focus on student empowerment, the president called for enhanced academic programs, increased global opportunities, and stronger partnerships to prepare graduates for the challenges of the future.

    Dr. Villaruz expressed his gratitude to the WVSU Board of Regents, faculty, and students for their unwavering support, stressing that their collective efforts had propelled the university to greater heights.

    As he concluded his speech, Dr. Villaruz introduced the university’s new battle cry: Transforming Generations. He underscored the administration’s pledge to continue fostering innovation, excellence, and societal transformation.

    By Dr. Hazel P. Villa/PAMCO

    Photos by PAMCO

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  • Celebrating the artistry of ‘dapog’: A parade of culinary creativity at WVSU

    Celebrating the artistry of ‘dapog’: A parade of culinary creativity at WVSU

    A feast for the senses unfolded at West Visayas State University (WVSU) as the much-awaited 2025 University Days kicked off with a dazzling parade that turned the streets into a vibrant showcase of dapog-inspired artistry in the morning of Jan. 27.

    The parade celebrated the ingenuity and culinary heritage of the Filipino tradition, dapog—a rustic outdoor cooking method that served as the creative foundation for the event’s highlights.

    This year’s theme, “DIGAMO sa West: Discovery and Innovation for Growth and Meaningful Opportunities,” inspired students to transform dapog into imaginative, larger-than-life props. Each college brought their own twist to the tradition, captivating the crowd with their outstanding creations.

    Topping the list of standout props was the College of Dentistry’s show-stopping “Dapog Manuglechon,” a meticulously crafted, life-sized roasted pig (lechon) that symbolized festivity and precision. Meanwhile, the College of Business and Management wowed spectators with their “Pinakas nga Isda” under the theme “Dapog Manugpakas,” spotlighting a vibrant display of dried fish that showcased regional pride. Not to be outdone, the College of Education presented their “Dapog Manugsugba,” featuring human-sized pork skewers made from styrofoam, embodying the art of grilling with flair and creativity.

    Each college’s dapog display demonstrated not only artistry but also the deep resourcefulness and camaraderie of the Taga-West community. These imaginative props reflected the essence of the university’s commitment to innovation while honoring cultural roots.

    The parade concluded with students forming the WVSU acronym at the grandstand, captured through a stunning drone shot that symbolized unity and school pride. Despite the searing heat, the energy and spirit of the participants remained undeterred, proving that the flames of Taga-West creativity and camaraderie burn bright.

    The event formally opened with the singing of the national anthem, followed by a heartfelt prayer in song. The WVSU Hymn filled the air, setting the stage for an inspiring message delivered by WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz.

    Through their dapog-inspired creations, the Taga-West community showcased how cultural traditions can be reimagined into meaningful opportunities for expression and celebration—a perfect beginning to WVSU University Days.

    Story by Abeguil Gafate, Shane Rochelle Toleran, and Gene Joy Gabasa/Specialized Beat Reporting Class under Dr. Hazel P. Villa

    Photos by PAMCO

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  • WVSU college publication unite for historic University Days coverage

    WVSU college publication unite for historic University Days coverage

    West Visayas State University’s college publications have joined forces to provide unified and dedicated coverage of the 2025 University Days celebration on Jan. 27 to 31, marking a milestone in the university’s history.

    On Jan. 23, 2025, editors, student journalists, and a representative from a journalism class on Specialized Beat Reporting gathered at 2:30 p.m. in the University Library’s Reference Section to coordinate reporting assignments. Joining them were representatives from the Circle of Mathematicians, the student organization in charge of tabulating and validating competition results.

    The meeting was facilitated by the Public Affairs and Marketing Communications Office (PAMCO), led by its director, Dr. Hazel Villa.

    “We are excited because this is the first time in the university’s history that we have a unified documentation team from all the college publications,” Villa said.

    “It is a great way for the publications to get to know each other better and, at the same time, ensure that WVSU’s stakeholders are informed of the daily activities. We aim to make WVSU more accessible through dedicated and accurate coverage of the U-Days, considering that aside from student competitions, we also have fairs, exhibits, and extension activities,” said Villa who is also the adviser of SILAK Media of the College of Education.

    This year’s University Days, organized by the University Student Council, the Federated Student Council, and the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance, promises a dynamic lineup of events.

    LINK.exe, the official documentation partner from the College of Information and Communications Technology, will spearhead the initiative, working closely with the newly formed unified documentation team.

    The collaboration highlights the university’s commitment to fostering community engagement and amplifying its celebrations through comprehensive and professional reporting.

    By Dr. Hazel P. Villa/PAMCO

    Photos by PAMCO

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  • WVSU collabs with RASUC 6 chief information officers

    WVSU collabs with RASUC 6 chief information officers

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) participated in the first face-to-face meeting of chief information officers (CIOs) from various Region 6 state colleges and universities (SUCs) at the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Board Room on January 17, 2025.

    Mr. Louie Cervantes, director of the WVSU Management Information Office (MIS), presided over the meeting and delivered the welcoming remarks, outlining the outcomes and expectations for the discussions.

    The collaboration among participating SUC information officers provided a platform for exchanging innovative ideas, establishing organizational structures and governance, and optimizing resources through networking and strategic planning.

    Representatives from Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, University of Antique, Capiz State University, State University of Northern Negros, Guimaras State University, Central Philippine State University, Aklan State University, Northern Iloilo State University, and the host school, ISAT U, attended the meeting.

    The Regional Association of State Colleges and Universities (RASUC) VI, Inc. is an organization of 11 SUCs in Western Visayas led by Chairperson Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, president of Northern Iloilo State University.

    Written by JA Temelo, PAMCO

    #WVSUexcels

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  • WVSU expands global outreach with arrival of two Spanish Interns

    WVSU expands global outreach with arrival of two Spanish Interns

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has officially welcomed two Spanish interns, Mertxe Mendibe Lazaro and Maria Pilar Arraiz Torre, who will participate in a six-month internship from January 22 to July 21, 2025. The interns are recipients of the Basque Government’s Global Training Grant Programme, part of a collaborative effort between WVSU, Mondragon University, and the University of Deusto in Spain.

    Dr. Antoniette Cortez, Director of WVSU’s Center for Teaching Excellence, expressed her enthusiasm upon their arrival, saying, “We’re looking forward to having them. We have already prepared a Program of Activities for the duration of their stay, such as going on cultural immersion activities in varied challenged areas in Western Visayas, learn more about Philippine History since they will be attending a class with BCAED students, do teaching assistantships in the ILS Kindergarten, College of Pescar, and College of Arts and Sciences. They will also be collaborating with College of Education students in creating a multilingual compendium. All in all, we’re excited to spend these six, productive and meaningful months with them.”

    WVSU will take the lead in guiding the interns through a carefully designed six-month program aimed at enhancing their professional skills. The university is committed to providing a structured work plan that aligns with the interns’ individual profiles, helping them gain valuable hands-on experience while also contributing to WVSU’s academic community.

    This collaboration will also offer significant opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing the interns to experience Filipino traditions, values, and work environments in Iloilo and the surrounding provinces. These interactions will enrich their understanding of local culture and provide a well-rounded, practical learning experience.

    For WVSU, the arrival of Mendibe Lazaro and Arraiz Torre is an exciting opportunity to strengthen international ties and bring fresh global perspectives to its campus. The program is designed to benefit not only the interns but also the university community, as it fosters collaboration, cultural exchange, and professional growth across borders.

    Story by Gladwyn Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU welcomes 20 students from Jeju National University, South Korea for cross-cultural immersion

    WVSU welcomes 20 students from Jeju National University, South Korea for cross-cultural immersion

    West Visayas State University (WVSU) has officially welcomed a delegation of 20 students from Jeju National University (JNU), South Korea, for a month-long academic and cultural immersion program. The students will immerse themselves in various academic activities under the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) and engage in English language studies through the WVSU Center for Foreign Languages, from January 17 to February 17, 2025.

    The delegation, led by Prof. Yung-Cheol Byun, Director of the Center for High Intelligence Service at Jeju National University, was warmly received by Dr. Ma. Beth Concepcion, Dean of the College of ICT. This program marks another milestone in WVSU’s ongoing internationalization efforts, aimed at fostering cross-cultural learning and global partnerships.

    During their stay, the South Korean students will be immersed in academic courses offered by CICT, focusing on information technology and communications. In addition to the academic curriculum, they will also participate in English language training at the WVSU Center for Foreign Languages, under the guidance of professors from the Department of English and Foreign Languages.

    Beyond the classroom, the students will engage in a variety of cultural activities designed to expose them to Filipino traditions, customs, and lifestyles. These activities, facilitated by the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) and WVSU-Business Incubator Nurturing Homegrown Innovations (BINHI), will allow both South Korean and WVSU students to connect, share, and learn from one another.

    This program underscores WVSU’s dedication to fostering international collaborations and providing its students with opportunities for global exposure, academic exchange, and cultural dialogue. It also strengthens ties between WVSU and Jeju National University, furthering the institutions’ shared mission of creating a more interconnected world through education.

    Story by Gladwyn Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU strengthens global network with new Korean collaborative talks

    WVSU strengthens global network with new Korean collaborative talks

    In a significant step towards strengthening academic ties between the Philippines and Korea, Kim Inyong, a representative from Korean Association in the Visayas, visited West Visayas State University (WVSU) on January 7, 2025. The visit focused on exploring potential avenues for collaboration, particularly in education and cultural exchange.

    Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of WVSU International and Local Linkages Office, warmly welcomed Mr. Kim, expressing optimism about the visit’s potential to foster stronger international partnerships.

    “It’s an additional opportunity for us in the University especially that we have earned the King Sejong Institute grant recently. We are looking at expanding the cross-cultural experience not only in information technology and English language study, but also in the medical Sciences”, she said.

    Kim Inyoung echoed the enthusiasm, noting that the potential for academic exchange and mutual collaboration holds great promise. He highlighted that Korean institutions are eager to expand their global partnerships, and WVSU presents a valuable opportunity for academic cooperation.

    The discussions revolved around several key initiatives, including faculty and student exchange programs, fostering partnerships with Korean universities, and developing joint curricula aimed at enhancing the academic offerings of both institutions.

    This exploratory meeting sets the stage for continued discussions in the coming months, as both institutions work to formalize the specifics of their partnership. The success of these talks could pave the way for new educational opportunities and deepen the relationship between the Philippines and Korea through academic exchange and joint projects.

    Story by Gladwyn Gustilo/ILLO

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  • Strengthening Research Culture in Higher Education: WVSU hosts ASU delegation for groundbreaking workshop

    Strengthening Research Culture in Higher Education: WVSU hosts ASU delegation for groundbreaking workshop

    On December 12, 2024, West Visayas State University (WVSU) hosted a significant event, fostering a powerful collaboration between the United States and the Philippines. The workshop was part of the U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) Program, a partnership funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by RTI International and several U.S. universities, including Arizona State University (ASU). This collaboration aimed to enhance research culture and promote skills innovation and lifelong learning in higher education.

    Dr. Celina C. Gellada, WVSU’s Vice President for Medical & Allied Sciences, welcomed over 50 participants from various higher education institutions in Western Visayas. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to host this transformative event and emphasized the importance of global partnerships in improving the quality of education and research.

    The workshop featured a lecture from Dr. Gael McDonald, Senior Director for Higher Education Development at ASU’s University Design Institute (UDI). Dr. McDonald, a recognized expert in higher education development, shared valuable insights on how institutions can strengthen their research culture to meet global standards and gain international recognition. She explained that building a research culture that aligns with international rankings requires strategic planning, effective resource allocation, staff development, and community engagement.

    Dr. McDonald provided attendees with a roadmap for enhancing their research culture. She stressed the importance of establishing clear research priorities, implementing performance metrics to monitor progress, and profiling staff to identify areas for targeted development. Supporting doctoral students and early-career researchers was also highlighted as a crucial step in building a sustainable research culture. Dr. McDonald emphasized that strong partnerships are vital to driving research innovation, urging institutions to invest in research infrastructure and encourage international collaboration to broaden their impact. She concluded with recommendations for fostering research excellence and ensuring long-term success.

    The event was part of ASU’s broader efforts under the UPSKILL Program, which includes the Transformation Accelerator. As part of this initiative, WVSU has been selected to receive direct technical support to enhance its research capabilities and institutional development. The collaboration with ASU is aimed at providing practical guidance and expertise to strengthen WVSU’s research capacity, ensuring it remains competitive and capable of achieving global recognition.

    In addition to Dr. McDonald’s lecture, the event included contributions from other key ASU representatives, including Mr. Carlo Fernando, Senior Manager for Higher Education Design at UDI, and Ms. Dawn Straw, Executive Director of Global Services at UDI. Dr. Mabeth Buenviaje and Ms. Ayhen Llada, also played pivotal roles in organizing the workshop, which provided a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices among local institutions.

    The workshop, which brought together academic leaders and researchers, was a crucial step in aligning local universities with global standards of excellence in research. It also served as an opportunity for WVSU and other Philippine institutions to explore the UPSKILL Program’s resources and collaborate with ASU’s University Design Institute to improve their research outputs and overall educational quality.

    WVSU’s involvement in this initiative is a testament to its commitment to enhancing research culture and contributing to the advancement of higher education in the Philippines. Through this collaboration with ASU, WVSU is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of higher education in the region, advancing research, and supporting lifelong learning.

    As the event concluded, the participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and actionable strategies for improving research at their institutions. The successful collaboration between ASU and WVSU demonstrates the power of international partnerships in fostering innovation and excellence in education.

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  • WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz in France for High-Level Science and Technology Summit

    WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz in France for High-Level Science and Technology Summit

    Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University, joined an esteemed delegation of Philippine representatives in France for the 2nd Philippines-France Joint Committee Meeting (JCM-2) on Science and Technology. The event, which runs from December 9 to 12, 2024, is a significant platform for fostering science and technology cooperation between the Philippines and France.

    The JCM-2, led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and his French counterpart, served as a platform to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and France in the fields of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). Discussions focused on joint initiatives such as the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, alongside opportunities for future collaborations.

    One of the major topics of discussion at JCM-2 is the update on the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, which promote academic and professional exchanges between the Philippines and France. Dr. Villaruz, as part of the Philippine delegation, underscores the significance of these programs, noting that they open doors for Filipino students and researchers to engage in world-class learning and research experiences.

    The event also highlighted the critical role of universities like WVSU in fostering international cooperation. Dr. Villaruz, alongside other university representatives, engaged with French institutions to build academic networks and enhance research exchanges, particularly in health, environmental sciences, and emerging technologies. This collaborative spirit aims to enhance research capacity-building, increase scientific data sharing, and facilitate personnel exchange.

    As the Philippine delegation continues its discussions with French research agencies, there is optimism for the establishment of a framework agreement that will advance joint projects and strengthen bilateral relations in STI.

    Dr. Villaruz’s participation reflects West Visayas State University’s dedication to playing an active role in global scientific advancements. By fostering international partnerships, WVSU continues to uphold its mission of addressing societal challenges through innovation, research, and collaboration.

    This milestone event reaffirms the commitment of both nations to advance science for the betterment of society, with Dr. Villaruz and WVSU at the forefront of this collaborative journey. Through these efforts, WVSU continues to position itself as a key player in the global academic and research community

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