by Leo G. Almonte, MDC
Merely three years after a royal decree from the Spanish government elevated the status of Iloilo from a town to a city in 1902, the Queen City of the South found itself at a crossroads.
Caught in the turbulent aftermath of the Philippine Revolution (1896-1898), the Spanish-American War (1898), and the Philippine-American War (1899-1902), Iloilo began to carve out a fresh start under a new progressive regime.
Unlike the Spanish, who arrived in peace bearing a cross but later seized the land with their arms, the hostile Americans came with blazing cannons, conquered the domain, and then slew centuries of ignorance with their books.
The Thomasites landed in Iloilo with the determination of the US government to establish a public educational system. Unlike Spain, which aimed to imbue Filipinos with holiness, the Americans aspired to ignite their minds with knowledge.
On a stretch of hallowed land along a road that would later become Luna Street, the Thomasites established the Iloilo Normal School in 1902. One hundred twenty-one years later, this humble roadside school with wooden walls and squeaking floors has grown and evolved into the West Visayas State University (WVSU).
WVSU’s milestones and achievements are widely recognized, and it has built a reputation for academic excellence, topnotchers, exceptional acuity in cultural and performing arts, and outstanding alums. What else can WVSU tout as its achievement, and what is its relevance to its 121st anniversary?
Aside from the external influences that impact its growth, the internal dynamics stemming from politicking, weaknesses, shortcomings, conflicts, intrigues, and controversies also pose threats to its development and growth.
Every president, from Mr. Jose B. Ledesma (1958 to 1978) to the incumbent, Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, has faced unique challenges shaped by the cultural and social environments of their respective periods. Yet, each generation of leaders and administrators has managed to turn the tide in the university’s favor, guiding it to safer shores.
The complex burden of leading and managing a public educational institution under stringent policies and compliance requirements has consequential effects, often pushing individuals to their limits. Administrators, directors, deans, staff, and students all share the common load according to their respective capabilities, roles, and responsibilities.
WVSU is not perfect – no institution is. Amid its limitations and shortcomings, the pressure from delivering desired results and expected outcomes, the university still manages to grasp the silver linings and transform them into sunshine.
What is WVSU celebrating in its 121st year?
Voices from WVSU’s past and present answer in chorus :
In the face of every tumble, we rise taller still.
Each boundary met ignites innovation.
From our doubts, wisdom is distilled.
Conflict, though chaotic, births harmony.
In the wake of our failures, excellence shines after.
We are our greatest achievement.
Congratulations and Happy 121st Foundation Day, WVSU.