West Visayas State University (WVSU) strengthened its role as a key driver of global academic engagement in Western Visayas as it hosted the Region VI International Relations Officers (IRO) Council Oath-Taking Ceremony today, June 23, at the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) hall.
The ceremony gathered international relations officers from various higher education institutions across Western Visayas, all united under the shared vision of expanding the region’s global academic footprint.
The event opened with warm welcome remarks from Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, WVSU Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation, who underscored the importance of regional unity and global engagement.
“Today marks not just a ceremonial gathering but a declaration of our shared vision to elevate the international presence of our institutions,” Dr. Gabinete said.
Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region VI, delivered an inspiring message during the program. He also led the oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the Region VI IRO Council.
“The establishment of the IRO Council signals a strategic direction for Western Visayas. With the right leadership, collaboration, and commitment, our institutions can flourish in the global academic arena,” Dr. Alvarez said.
Elected Officers of the Region VI IRO Council:
- President: Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka (West Visayas State University)
- Vice President for External Affairs: Ms. Jieza J. Napone (Iloilo Science and Technology University)
- Vice President for Internal Affairs: Ms. Jennelyn A. Omadio (University of Antique)
- Secretary: Dr. Marien A. Laureto (Capiz State University)
- Assistant Secretary: Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice (Central Philippine University)
- Treasurer: Dr. Jeanette G. Bayona (Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology)
- Assistant Treasurer: Dr. Virmari S. Tan (John B. Lacson Maritime Foundation University)
- Auditor: Dr. Manuel O. Malonisio (Aklan State University)
- Business Manager: Dr. Mary F. Jane Tormon (Filamer Christian University)
- PRO: Mr. John Paul P. Mondejar (University of San Agustin)
The officers were first elected during the event “Activating Linkages: International Relations Officers Convergence” last May 27, 2025 at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST). The convergence served as the official launching of the Region VI IRO Council, a body envisioned to lead coordinated internationalization efforts across Western Visayas’ higher education institutions.
As the council President, Ms. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka is expected to steer the council toward fostering regional collaboration, sharing global best practices, and initiating cross-institutional projects aimed at enhancing the international standing of Region VI’s academic institutions.
Today’s ceremony signifies not only the beginning of a leadership term but the dawning of a stronger, united front in positioning Region VI as a key player in global education.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
