West Visayas State University (WVSU) honored University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz as recipient of the Manuel P. Corpus Outstanding Quality Champion Award during its first April flag-raising ceremony, held Monday at Jubilee Park and led by the College of Nursing (CON) under Dean Dr. Madonna Palmes.
The award, conferred by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) on March 24, 2026, recognizes Villaruz’s leadership in advancing quality assurance in higher education. Former AACCUP Board of Trustees member Dr. Alona Belarga read the citation and formally presented the award during the ceremony.
In his message, Villaruz dedicated the recognition to the entire WVSU community. “This is not for one individual, but a collaborative effort of every taga-West who has pushed the University forward and higher in education and quality assurance,” he said.
He also underscored the University’s sustained commitment to accreditation despite challenges. “Despite our heavy hearts and tired bodies, we continued and pursued accreditation. This is a manifestation of all our efforts,” he added.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards received by CON students, faculty and staff in research, arts and journalism competitions.
Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, president of Bicol University and chair of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges Cultural Management Committee, also addressed the WVSU community, thanking the University for hosting national cultural activities and closing with, “Dios mabalos sa indo gabos.”
University officials shared key updates for the week. Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, said results of the WVSU Admission Examination will be released starting next week, with preparations for graduation also underway.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie Paris announced WVSU’s hosting of the National Culture and the Arts Festival (NCAF) 2026 from April 8 to 11 and presented the schedule of activities. He also shared the opening of the Alumni Park, led by Alumni Regent Bonifacio Gaverza in collaboration with alumni and partner groups.
