West Visayas State University (WVSU) has welcomed Dr. Bernice Mae Yu Jeco-Espaldon, a Balik Scientist awardee under the Balik Scientist Program (BSP) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Dr. Yu Jeco-Espaldon’s engagement with WVSU will take effect in February 2026. The appointment is formalized through a Contract of Award approved by the DOST–Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), designating WVSU as the host institution.
Dr. Espaldon holds a PhD in Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, with a specialization in inorganic high-efficiency solar energy devices, from The University of Tokyo. She has been awarded the Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Research Fellowship, and the University of Tokyo Edge Capital Challenge Support Program, and has held research appointments at the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) and the University of Tokyo.
During her engagement, Dr. Espaldon is expected to contribute to research, curriculum development, and capacity building at the University. Her activities include collaborating on interdisciplinary research initiatives, mentoring faculty members and students, assisting in laboratory enhancement efforts, and conducting capacity-building workshops focused on advanced research methodologies.
The Center for Research and Innovations in Science, Mathematics, and Education (CRISMEd) will serve as the coordinating unit for Dr. Espaldon’s engagement at the University. The initiative is being advanced through the collaborative efforts of Dr. Geneveve Parreño-Lachica, Director of CRISMEd; Dr. Ryan Michael F. Oducado, Director of the University Research and Development Center; Dr. Alexander J. Balsomo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Stephen G. Sabinay, Director of the Biotechnology and Biomedical Research Laboratory; and Dr. Aris C. Larroder, Editor-in-Chief of the WVSU Research Journal, with the support of Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation, and Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU President.
Institutionalized through Republic Act No. 11035, the Balik Scientist Program aims to strengthen the country’s scientific and human resource capacity by encouraging Filipino scientists abroad to share expertise and facilitate the transfer of knowledge and emerging technologies to Philippine institutions.
Through this engagement, WVSU continues to expand its research capabilities, strengthen institutional collaboration, and contribute to national development through science and innovation.
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BUILD RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE, PROMOTE INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIALIZATION AND FOSTER INNOVATION.
A functioning and resilient infrastructure is the foundation of every successful community. To meet future challenges, our industries and infrastructure must be upgraded. For this, we need to promote innovative sustainable technologies and ensure equal and universal access to information and financial markets. This will bring prosperity, create jobs and make sure that we build stable and prosperous societies across the globe.
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WVSU Hosts Balik Scientist Dr. Bernice Mae Yu Jeco-Espaldon
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WVSU-CICT presents disaster, health tech research at international conference in Taiwan
The West Visayas State University–College of Information and Communications Technology (WVSU-CICT) strengthened the University’s international research presence after presenting three studies on disaster communication and healthcare access at the 2025 International Conference on Convergence Content (ICCC), held Dec. 18-20 at the National Taipei University of Technology in Taipei, Taiwan.
The papers were selected from 239 accepted research presentations representing more than 10 countries, highlighting WVSU-CICT’s growing contribution to community-centered and globally relevant technological innovation.
Now in its 25th year, ICCC is an annual international conference organized by the Korea Contents Association that convenes researchers, engineers and students to exchange ideas on emerging trends in technology, digital applications, and content production and use. The 2025 conference was co-hosted by the National Taipei University of Technology and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information.
WVSU-CICT presented the following research studies at the conference:
Secure disaster messaging using VHF radio technology
A study on a secure disaster messaging application that addresses communication breakdowns during emergencies by utilizing very high frequency (VHF) ham radio technology with block-based message transmission. The research was authored by Jose Occeña III, Regin Cabacas, Hyung-Jin Kim and In-Ho Ra, and presented by Occeña and Dr. Regin Cabacas. Blockchain-based outpatient records management
A blockchain-enabled system designed to provide secure, tamper-resistant sharing of outpatient department records through smart contract–based access control and encryption. The study was authored by Genine Lynelle Cabantug, Doane Marie Horlador, Kristel Mae Lim, Jhules Loren Maquiran, Ram Wisdom Nacis and Regin Cabacas, and presented by Cabantug, Lim and Maquiran. Near-infrared vein detection mobile application
A mobile application that assists healthcare workers in locating veins using near-infrared spectroscopy, aimed at addressing challenges in venipuncture procedures. The research was conducted by Trixie De la Cruz, Alyanna Lois Geonanga, Regin Cabacas, Augustine Seve Kang Bacale, Edrianne Luise Parales and In-Ho Ra, and was presented by De la Cruz, Geonanga, Bacale and Parales.
WVSU-CICT’s participation in ICCC 2025 underscores the University’s commitment to research excellence, international collaboration and the development of technologies that respond to real-world needs, particularly in healthcare delivery and disaster preparedness.
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WVSU levels up records management upskilling through two-day seminar-workshop
West Visayas State University (WVSU) reinforced its commitment to accountable and efficient records management with the successful conduct of a two-day Seminar-Workshop on Records Disposition Administration on Dec. 11-12, 2025, at the Research and Extension Building.
The first day of the workshop was led by Mr. Terence Michael Tablizo, NAP Supervising Records Management Analyst. Tablizo discussed the foundations of records disposition, emphasizing the importance of proper records evaluation, retention scheduling, and compliance with national standards. He highlighted the legal mandate of Republic Act No. 9470, also known as the NAP Act of 2007, which requires government agencies to systematically manage, preserve, and dispose of records in accordance with approved retention and disposal authorities.
On the second day, Mr. Kevin Barrientos, NAP Records Management Analyst II, guided participants through advanced and practical applications of records disposition administration. His sessions focused on the correct accomplishment of records disposition forms, ensuring that participants not only understood the policy framework but were also equipped to implement it in their respective offices.
Hands-on workshops were conducted on both days to allow participants to actively complete records disposition forms, simulate evaluation processes, and apply retention and disposal procedures based on actual office records. This practical component aimed to bridge theory and practice, reinforcing accuracy, compliance, and confidence in handling institutional records.
The seminar-workshop underscored WVSU’s continued efforts to elevate its records management standards, ensure adherence to national archival policies, and strengthen institutional practices that promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability in administrative operations.
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
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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. -
WVSU Devcom tops delegation, showcases research at ADCEP Int’l Conference 2025
NAGA CITY, Philippines – WVSU Development Communication Division was named as the largest delegation with 21 participants, comprising three faculty members, 11 undergraduate, and seven graduate school students during the 3rd ADCEP Philippines International Conference and 13th Scientific Meeting last December 6 to 8, 2025, held in Ateneo de Naga University.
Between the participants, 11 research papers were presented following the conference theme “Communicating with Conscience and Compassion: Bridging Gaps in Transformative Times.” In addition, Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, faculty of the DevCom Division, served as a panelist during the roundtable discussion on “Development Communication Research Ethics.”
The division presented research with topics on educational communication, community development, media and representation, and youth engagement. The following are the papers and authors:
1. Employability and Program Relevance: A Tracer Study of 2017-2019 West Visayas State University Development Communication Graduates by Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, Dean of College Communication
2. Mapping Service-Learning Experiences in Student-Initiated Educational Camp: Pathway for Curriculum Integration by Ms. Joesyl Marie D. Aranas, Development Communication Division Chair
3. When Messages Miss the Mark: Storied Realities of (Dis)Engagement from Sustainable Development Goals Communication Among University Students by Dr. Louis Placido F. Lachica, DevCom Faculty and the WVSU Focal Person of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network
4. Dulungan Lupad: Educating and Advocating for Dulungan-Friendly Barangay by MDevcom students Rhaneth Joy Kirtley, Jethro Aranas, Cherry Mae Dorado, Juhn Evans Silda, Christopher Perile, Jennelyn Omadio, Margaret Anjelie Llorico, Saredith Sola, Reynaldo Palencia II, and Melmar dela Cruz together with Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, Director of the WVSU Extension Development Center
5. Understanding Community Disaster Preparedness: A Knowledge Diagnosis in Coastal Barangay of Rizal-Ibarra, Iloilo City by MDevcom students Juhn Evans Silda, Cherry Mae Dorado, Christopher Perile, Jennelyn Omdaio, Jethro Aranas, Margaret Anjelie Llorico, Melmar Dela Cruz, Reyn Palencia II, Rhaneth Joy Kirtley, and Saredith Sola
6. Communication as a Tool in Advocating Sustainable Development through Mindset Transformation: A Case of Saemaul Undong in Lemery, Iloilo by BSDC students Vinz Jerald Calanuga, Jeanne Michaella Anthonette Nanquil, and Jannah Pearl Palma
7. Campus Publications as Community Media: Perceptions of the University Student Body by BSDC students Gwen P. Alejandria, Zerenea R. Pollicar, and faculty Joesyl Marie D. Aranas
8. De-Amplifying Disinformation: Framing News Coverage of Duterte’s ICC Detention and Arrest by BSDC students Christian John Barredo, Rita Divine Caballero, and faculty Joesyl Marie D. Aranas
9. Framing of Women Political Leaders in Local Radio Stations in Iloilo City by BSDC students Wendell Grace B. Clark and Danica A. Pascua
10. Maki Beki, Declare Climate Justice: Queer Leaders’ Engagement and Activism on Socio-Environmental Movements by BSDC student Jan Andrew Gelera
11. Local Flood Risk Communication Efforts of a Coastal Community in Iloilo City by BSDC students Alyssa Jael V. Salvador, Angela Loreen C. Caisido, and Hannah Fatima C. Cueto
The successful participation of WVSU Devcom underscores the growing research culture within the division and its commitment to producing evidence-based insights to address the emerging challenges in the field.
“Seeing our faculty and students present diverse, relevant, and community-rooted research at an international conference affirms the strength of the Development Communication program in WVSU. This also shows our commitment to explore and improve how development is communicated in these consequential times,” said Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, COC Dean.
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
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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.
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WVSU marks major milestone with Topping-Off of College of Law Building 2
West Visayas State University (WVSU) reached a key milestone in its campus development with the topping-off of the College of Law (COL) Building 2 on Dec. 9, 2025. The ceremony marked the completion of the structure’s highest point, moving the project into its next construction phase.
The facility forms part of the University’s efforts to expand academic spaces and meet the needs of its growing student community. The construction is being carried out in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office 6 (DPWH RO6) and Nationstar Development Corporation.
COL Dean Atty. Pauline Grace Alfuente opened the program by underscoring the building’s role in strengthening legal education and expanding learning spaces for future law students. Associate Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana followed with an overview of the project’s planning, objectives and development since its groundbreaking.
WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and DPWH Region 6 OIC Regional Director Engr. Jose Al Fruto also delivered messages during the program. Dr. Villaruz highlighted the long-term impact of the project, saying, “They are the future prosecutors, judges, public servants, advocates, and community leaders of Western Visayas, and they deserve a home worthy of their aspirations.”
Dr. Villaruz, Engr. Fruto, and Sandro Tengco of Nationstar Development Corporation led the ceremonial topping-off, formally marking the structural completion of the building. Rev. Fr. Jose Rex Jiloca followed with a prayer of blessing and thanksgiving.
The College of Law’s expansion began with its groundbreaking on Jan. 25, 2024. Upon completion, the new four-storey facility is expected to accommodate more than 100 law students and further advance the University’s commitment to providing modern, student-centered spaces that support professional preparation and public service.
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
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Academic and industry immersion connects WVSU-CBM to global learning and research opportunities at UiTM Malaysia
West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Business and Management (CBM) advances its global engagement initiatives as it embarks on an academic and industry immersion program with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Malaysia from December 7 to 11, 2025.
CBM Dean Dr. Raymund Moreno, along with six faculty members and 11 students, was welcomed by UiTM Deputy Dean for Industry Linkages Prof. Dr. Chemah Tamby Chik.
A series of academic engagements follow as WVSU-CBM meets with UiTM’s Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Management (FHTM). Faculty members from both institutions participate in collaborative sharing sessions that highlight ongoing research, best practices, and academic insights. These sessions are complemented by a cultural showcase and networking lunch, providing avenues for deeper interaction. The delegation also tours the faculty facilities and library, gaining firsthand exposure to UiTM’s academic environment.
The delegation then proceeds with activities under the Faculty of Business and Management (FBM), which include a courtesy meeting with the dean, a guided tour of the FBM campus, and an international seminar hosted by the Institute of Business Excellence (IBE). Selected WVSU faculty members deliver 10-minute research presentations, featuring diverse academic disciplines and research outputs. Dr. Ma. Flora C. Collado serves as the keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of academic collaboration and global knowledge exchange.
UiTM highlights that the Malaysia Immersion Program aims to build stronger international collaborations, enrich research linkages, and provide meaningful global exposure to participating faculty members and students. The initiative also reflects the shared vision of both universities to promote academic excellence through cross-cultural learning and institutional partnerships.
Through this program, WVSU-CBM continues to expand its global footprint, strengthening its internationalization efforts and fostering impactful academic relationships beyond the Philippines.
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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. -
WVSU-CICT showcases innovative research at the 26th International Symposium on Advanced Intelligent Systems in South Korea
The West Visayas State University–College of Information and Communications Technology (WVSU–CICT) strengthened the University’s global research standing with the acceptance of three innovative papers at the 26th International Symposium on Advanced Intelligent Systems (ISIS 2025). The conference, a premier gathering of artificial intelligence and intelligent systems researchers, was held Nov. 6–9, 2025 at Chungbuk National University in Cheongju, Republic of Korea.
ISIS is recognized as one of the world’s leading forums for advancements in AI, bringing together scholars, industry experts and practitioners to exchange knowledge and explore emerging technologies.
WVSU–CICT’s three accepted papers reflect impactful innovations in AI and technology:
: Digital Maturity Assessment and Profiling System with Training Recommendations for Service-Based MSMEs
: Regin A. Cabacas, Ma. Beth S. Concepcion, Shem Elijah B. Sandig, Frank I. Elijorde, Stephen B. Alayon, and In-Ho Ra: This university-approved research developed a systematic tool for assessing the digital maturity of MSMEs, providing targeted recommendations to facilitate effective and successful digital transformation strategies. The paper was presented by Dr. Ma. Beth S. Concepcion and Prof. Stephen B. Alayon.: Non-Invasive Diabetic Retinopathy Risk Stratification with XAI-Enabled Ensemble Machine Learning on Augmented EHRs”: James Andrew Dorado, Gio Anthony Callos, Lance Gabriel Masigon, Jemmar Padernal, Mary Shanley Sencil, and Ma. Beth Concepcion: The project applies AI to predict diabetic retinopathy risk from electronic health records, supporting early diagnosis and clinical decision-making. James Andrew Dorado, Mary Shanley Sencil, and Dr. Ma. Beth Concepcion presented the paper.: An Offline Communication and Flood Rescue System Utilizing LoRaWAN Technology: John Achilles Colon, BJ Louis Marcellana, Paulo Saballa, Joshua Anthony Sasi, Sergei Benjamin Tabañar, and Regin Cabacas: LoRaWAN-based rescue communication system functions without internet connectivity, ensuring continuity of response during disasters. The presenters were Sergei Benjamin S. Tabañar and Paulo C. Saballa.
WVSU–CICT’s strong presence in this international forum underscores the University’s expanding role in digital innovation, AI research and global academic collaboration.
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
Text and photos from WVSU CICT
