West Visayas State University (WVSU) and the Linguistic Society of the Philippines (LSP) formalized their partnership on Feb. 9 with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement, confirming WVSU as host of the 8th LSP International Conference (LSPIC 2026) set for April 23–25 in Iloilo City.

The agreement strengthens WVSU’s role as a hub for national and international academic exchange, with LSPIC 2026 expected to bring together scholars, educators and researchers to examine emerging linguistic studies and the role of language in shaping communities.

College of Education Dean Dr. Ricky M. Magno welcomed participants, followed by an overview of the conference by LSPIC 2026 co-director Esperval Cezhar H. Cadiao. Dr. Victoria Albacete introduced the WVSU organizing team, while LSP President Dr. Rachelle Ballesteros-Lintao presented the LSP Board and underscored the significance of the collaboration.

The ceremony also included separate MOA signings with the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and the Department of Education (DepEd), broadening institutional cooperation in support of education and academic programs.

WVSU OIC-President Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris expressed the University’s full support as conference host, saying, “Seeing the LSP, ISUFST, DepEd, and WVSU have come together, this fills us with immense pride. Our officials and University community are fully committed to ensuring that this partnership will be a success.”

Cultural performances by the Irong-Irong Dance Company and the Panayana Cultural Group highlighted the program, which concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Cadiao reaffirming WVSU’s commitment to academic excellence, service and sustained engagement through national and local partnerships.

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