WVSU

Tag: 9

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.

  • WVSU shines at 7th International Conference on Automation, Mechatronics and Robotics

    WVSU shines at 7th International Conference on Automation, Mechatronics and Robotics

    Faculty members and students from West Visayas State University (WVSU) participated in the 7th International Conference on Automation, Mechatronics and Robotics, held from Sept. 24–26, 2025 under the theme “Innovating for a Sustainable Future: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Automation, Robotics, and Mechatronics.” The conference was organized by the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines (MRSP) in collaboration with the MRSP Western Visayas Chapter and Advance Central College.

    The MRSP Western Visayas Chapter counts three WVSU faculty members among its officers: Dr. Lea Gabawa of the Main Campus as president, Dr. Rosie Jane P. Siosan of the Pototan Campus as secretary, and Dr. Rose May Cora Lagon of the Calinog Campus as auditor. 

    Her research team — composed of Dr. Josephine R. Lavilla, Dr. Rita L. Jaudian, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, and Dr. Joel T. De Castro — also secured third place for Best Research Paper, reinforcing their collaboration and contribution to the fields of automation, mechatronics, and robotics. 

    Another highlight was the team project “Guardian Link: Location Tracking and Emergency Support for Persons with Dementia,” which earned both the Best Research Paper Award and Best Presenter honors in the Robotics Engineering and Technology track. The team included students from the College of Information and Communications Technology, namely John Kyle Abad, John Marty Arendian, Jero Diacuna, Simon Troy Eligido, Carl James Tito, with Dr. Gabawa serving as adviser. 

    Further adding to the milestones, Dr. Gabawa was formally recognized by MRSP’s Board of Mechatronics and Automation Engineering as a Certified Mechatronics and Automation Engineer. 

    As WVSU builds upon these achievements, it reaffirms its commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research, nurturing academic excellence, and translating innovation into real-world impact.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations #WVSUexcels

    Photos Courtesy of: Dr. Lea Gabawa, WVSU Pototan Campus/Facebook By WVSU PAMCO

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  • WVSU’s WIRED++ Repository Proves Effective as Top Research Draws Thousands of Views and Downloads

    WVSU’s WIRED++ Repository Proves Effective as Top Research Draws Thousands of Views and Downloads

    West Visayas State University’s institutional repository, WIRED++, is fast becoming a vital platform for preserving and promoting research. With more than 7,000 visits since its launch, statistics show that the repository is not only operational but actively utilized by researchers, students, and global audiences.

    The numbers reveal a clear trend: WVSU’s works are reaching thousands. The most-viewed study, “The Philippine party-list system and representation of marginalized populations,” has been accessed 27,838 times all time and leads again in 2025 with 20,042 views. The study explores the effectiveness of the party-list system in giving voice to marginalized sectors, a topic that resonates both locally and nationally.

    Other works topping the charts highlight the diversity of WVSU’s scholarship:
    * “Lived experiences of non-education graduate teachers in teaching Mathematics during the pandemic” (19,453 views) captures the struggles and adaptability of teachers who entered classrooms without formal education training.
    * “Music: Effects on students’ achievement, habits of mind, and disposition as bases for the development of music-enhanced mathematics program” (14,832 views) explores how music can enhance learning in math — a novel intersection of arts and sciences.
    * “Floristic composition, diversity of public green spaces in major urban cities in Western Visayas, Philippines” (13,678 views) offers a timely look at biodiversity and urban planning in the region.
    * “Bullying experiences, coping mechanisms, lessons learned and aspirations of high school working students” (13,521 views) sheds light on student resilience amid adversity.

    Downloads, too, show active engagement. Leading all time is “Perceived quality on junior high school sex education and its sexual knowledge and attitudes among senior high school students in a selected private university in the National Capital Region” with 12,729 downloads, and still ahead in 2025 with 3,780 downloads. Its focus on sex education quality has struck a chord with educators and policy advocates.

    Other popular downloads include:
    * “Workload, well-being, coping strategies, and Mathematics performance of Senior High School STEM learners” (1,930 all-time downloads; 1,793 in 2025)
    * “The Philippine party-list system and representation of marginalized populations” (1,955 downloads)
    * “Influence of fermented organic concoction as nutrient supplements in the performance of brooding native chicken” (1,842 downloads)

    Beyond national reach, WIRED++ is gaining an international audience. The Philippines accounts for the majority of visits and downloads, but significant traffic also comes from the United States, China, Singapore, and Poland. Cebu City leads all cities with 550 page views and 290 downloads, while Makati City, Davao, and international hubs such as Fu’an in China and Atlanta in the United States are also frequent sources of activity.

    The repository’s effectiveness is evident: faculty and student works are not only preserved but actively read, cited, and shared. By tracking views, downloads, and shares, alternative metrics that supplement traditional citations, WIRED++ demonstrates its growing impact.

    The platform, formally the WVSU Institutional Repository and Electronic Dissertation and Theses PLUS, houses publications, journals, theses, dissertations, patents, and creative works, with plans to expand into multimedia, performances, lesson plans, software, and raw data. Its development is a collaborative effort of the University Library and Resource Center, the College of Information and Communications Technology, the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program, and the Management Information Systems Office, with support from the Office of the President, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, and Vice President for Administration and Finance.

    WIRED++ also provides faculty with broader visibility. Deposited works appear in Google Scholar profiles, ensuring that WVSU’s contributions are discoverable worldwide. With thousands of views and downloads already recorded, the repository is proving to be more than an archive; it is a dynamic and effective showcase of WVSU’s excellence, creativity, and innovation.

    Visit and explore WIRED++ here:  https://repository.wvsu.edu.ph/

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

    By WVSU PAMCO

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  • 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

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  • WVSU Dominates AI Fest 2025 with Hackathon Sweep and Film Awards

    WVSU Dominates AI Fest 2025 with Hackathon Sweep and Film Awards

    West Visayas State University–College of Information and Communications Technology (WVSU–CICT) shone brightly at the National AI Fest 2025, held from August 11–13 at the Iloilo Convention Center. Organized by DOST VI under the theme “Coding a Better Future: Responsible AI for Cities and Communities,” the event united innovators, students, and industry leaders for competitions, showcases, and technical sessions focused on ethical AI applications. 

    WVSU–CICT teams swept the National AI Hackathon, securing Champion, 1st Runner-up, and 2nd Runner-up titles among 10 finalist teams from 62 nationwide entries. The hackathon, hosted at Richmonde Hotel, challenged participants to develop AI solutions for real-world issues over a three-day sprint. The winning teams were:

    • Champion: Badminton Girls (3rd Year BS Computer Science):
      * Shane D. Canabo,
      * Myrrhea Belle B. Junsay,
      * Kyla Elijah C. Ramiro,
      * Meagelleine Rose S. Sionosa,
      * Athena S. Villarin.
    • 1st Runner-up: DiaSight (4th Year BS Information Systems):
      * James Andrew C. Dorado,
      * Lance Gabriel B. Masigon,
      * Gio Anthony A. Callos,
      * Jemmar V. Padernal,
      * Mary Shanley C. Sencil.
    • 2nd Runner-up: Hard Engineering Neighbors (3rd Year BS Computer Science):
      * Jullian A. Bilan,
      * Clarence Anthony G. Bolivar,
      * Frederick Jibril L. Buñag
      * Kirk Henrich C. Gamo
      * Jan Floyd J. Vallota.

    In the SineAI showcase at Festive Walk Cinemas, WVSU teams excelled in AI-generated short films, with “Seen by Team Likatha” (3rd Year BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing) taking Champion and “Ambahanon sg Indi Makatikab” by Team CMD (4th Year BS Information Technology and 3rd Year BS Information Systems) earning 2nd Runner-up. The winning teams in Sine AI are the following: 

    • CHAMPION: “Seen by Team Likatha” (3rd Year BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing)

      * Janine Megumi Cabangal,
      * Wendi Deocares,
      * John Christian Ledesma,
      * Khrysryl Ardee Mallo
      * Cathleen Kaye Orio
    • 2nd Runner UP: “Ambahanon sang Indi Makatikab” by Team CMD (4th Year BS Information Technology and 3rd Year BS Information Systems students)

      * Cedrick Angelo Rico,
      * Diether Jaye Catolin,
      * Miguel Jacob Artillero,

    At the Technical Conference, WVSU’s Aaron John S. Azarcon (4th Year BS Computer Science) presented groundbreaking research on “LSTM-based Classification of Heart Audio Signals with PCGmix Augmentation,” advancing mobile-assisted heart disease screening.

    AI Fest 2025 highlighted WVSU–CICT’s leadership in fostering innovative, socially responsible AI talent, cementing its role in shaping a tech-driven future for the Philippines.

    WVSU congratulates the young developers of CICT and their transformative innovations.

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels

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  • 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

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  • 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

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  • High-Level Mission to New Zealand sees Dr. Joselito Villaruz pursuing academic partnerships

    High-Level Mission to New Zealand sees Dr. Joselito Villaruz pursuing academic partnerships

    Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University (WVSU), is currently in New Zealand as part of the Philippine High-Level Mission organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), taking place from June 21 to 28, 2025 in the cities of Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin.

    The mission brings together key representatives from CHED and various higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines. Its primary goal is to expand international academic and research partnerships, particularly in the health sciences, as well as in other priority academic fields.

    This initiative provides an opportunity for Philippine delegates to visit and engage with leading universities and institutions in New Zealand. Through institutional visits, networking sessions, and collaborative dialogues, the mission aims to open new avenues for faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and international degree programs.

    Dr. Villaruz’s participation emphasizes WVSU’s commitment to global engagement and academic excellence. By actively taking part in international collaborations, WVSU continues to advance its role as a premier institution in health sciences and higher education.

    By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO

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  • WVSU Shines at 2025 PAEPI International Extension Congress in Siargao

    WVSU Shines at 2025 PAEPI International Extension Congress in Siargao

    Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte — June 12, 2025 In a shining moment of excellence and impact, West Visayas State University (WVSU) emerged as one of the top-performing institutions at the 2025 Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementors, Inc. (PAEPI) International Extension Congress, held in the scenic island of Siargao.

    With four major recognitions under its belt, WVSU proved once again that its extension work goes beyond boundaries—empowering communities, transforming lives, and championing innovation.

    With the congress theme “Embracing Science and Technology-Driven Extension Platforms for Sustainable and Inclusive Communities,” the event gathered thought leaders, researchers, and extension practitioners from across the Philippines and neighboring ASEAN nations to showcase transformative initiatives addressing today’s pressing development challenges. 

    WVSU took center stage in both paper and poster competitions with the following wins: 

    • 2nd Best Paper Award – Dr. Ricky P. Becodo for “Darag Native Chicken Production in Sara, Iloilo, Philippines: Strengthening Livelihoods and Resilience” (Entrepreneurship and Circular Economy category)
    • 2nd Best Paper Award – Prof. Sheila P. Beliran and Dr. Madonna S. Palmes for “Rays of HOPE: Empowering Caregivers, Transforming Community Health” (Health, Nutrition and Wellness category)
    •  3rd Best Paper Award – Dr. Virginia B. Parreñas of WVSU-Pototan Campus for “Residents’ Involvement in the Development of Competencies for Employment (RIDCE)” (Education and Development Studies category)
    • 3rd Best Poster Award – Dr. Julie Gay Blason- Quidato and Prof. Ma. Ernalyn B. Cepeda for “3P’s Program (Pagbulig Extension Project)”


    These recognitions underscore WVSU’s firm commitment to inclusive and evidence-based development. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative project design, and community-rooted solutions, the university continues to lead in shaping extension practices that matter. 

    #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #WVSUexcels 

    By Dr. Ricky P. Becodo 

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  • 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

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  • WVSU highlights AI research 16th SEAMEO INNOTECH Conference in Manila

    WVSU highlights AI research 16th SEAMEO INNOTECH Conference in Manila

    West Visayas State University showcased its commitment to artificial intelligence in education at the 16th SEAMEO INNOTECH International Conference and Technical Seminar, held May 15-16 at The Manila Hotel.

    With the theme “AI in Education: Unlocking Potential Through Accessible and Equitable Learning,” the event gathered educators, policymakers, and technology experts across Southeast Asia to discuss AI’s role in promoting inclusive and transformative learning.

    Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla and University Distance Education (UDE) Director Dr. Daisy Rosano represented WVSU at the two-day event.

    The first day featured a technical seminar organized by SEAMEO INNOTECH and UNESCO titled, “Preparing Teachers to Innovate Using Digital Technology – Action Research Presentation.” Nyi Nyi Thaung, program specialist at UNESCO Bangkok, delivered the overview and key findings, focusing on teacher capacity-building through technology and innovation.

    The university presented its research project, “Teacher TrAIning: Empowering Educators of a Higher Education Institution through AI,” led by Dr. Rosano and presented by Dr. Dequilla.

    Several universities from Thailand and the Philippines also presented institutional research initiatives, including Chulalongkorn University, Kasetsart University, and Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in Thailand; and Western Mindanao State University and Don Mariano Marcos State University in the Philippines.

    On the second day, the conference, co-hosted by the Department of Education, focused on shaping a regional policy framework for artificial intelligence in education. In her keynote address, SEAMEO INNOTECH Centre Director Majah-Leah Ravago emphasized that AI should be viewed not as a luxury but as a tool for equity.

    “Let us agree to build systems where AI is not a luxury, but a right; not a substitute for teaching, but a partner in deepening learning,” Ravago said.

    Dr. Dequilla joined a panel discussion titled “AI in Higher Education: Transforming Teaching, Research, and Institutional Innovation,” along with Praweenya Suwannatthachote, associate professor at Chulalongkorn University, and Thaung of UNESCO.

    The conference concluded with a networking dinner and cultural show featuring student performers from the Philippine High School for the Arts.

    SEAMEO INNOTECH is a regional center under the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization that promotes educational innovation and technology integration in Southeast Asia.

    #WVSUexcels #WVSUTransformingGenerations
    #16thINNOTECHIC #INNOTECH #AIinEducation

    Text by Wina May de la Cruz/PAMCO
    Photos from VPAA, UDE

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