At the 2nd International Relations Officers (IROs) Convergence of the Regional Office VI, held at the Central Administration Boardroom of Capiz State University – Main Campus with the theme “ACHIEVEing Impact-Driven Internationalization Strategies: International Relations Convergence”, WVSU was represented by the Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), Ms Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, who is also the President of the Western Visayas Council of IROs; Dr May Joy Fernandez, IZN coordinator of WVSU-Calinog Campus, and Mr. Christopher Palmares, IZN coordinator of the College of Nursing.

Ms. Subong-Csoka delivered the accomplishment report of the University’s internationalization (IZN) initiatives and milestones.

Ms. Mabel Gutierrez, the Officer-in-Charge Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED IAS, opened the program, stressing the importance of sustainable collaborations.

Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer , Director IV and Director-in-Charge of CHED International Affairs Service, discussed the important role of the IROs in the higher education institutions, highlighting key qualities and skills. Dr. Ferrer also highlighted the relevant policies of the Commission that serve as guide for internationalization-related operations.

Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, the Secretary of the Commission on Higher Education, emphasized that Internationalization is “no longer about sending students or faculty abroad or attending conferences” but rather creating transformative learning environments, expanding research collaboration and innovation, and sharing that Filipino learners are globally competent yet “grounded with our identity”.

The 2nd International Relations Officers (IROs) Convergence gathered international relations officers from state universities and colleges, private higher education institutions, and local colleges in the region.