West Visayas State University (WVSU) President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered a powerful and reflective State of the University Address (SUA) at the WVSU Cultural Center, highlighting significant achievements and laying out ambitious plans for the institution’s future.
Anchored on eight priority areas, Dr. Villaruz’s speech of 14 pages accompanied by a PowerPoint Presentation and delivered in an hour and 6 minutes emphasized WVSU’s commitment to research, global partnerships, quality education, and infrastructure development—all aligned with national and global educational goals.
Research and Innovation Excellence
The university recorded a robust output of 274 research projects in 2024, following a peak of 279 in 2023. WVSU earned top recognition from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. Notably, faculty member Dr. Ryan Michael Oducado was included among the top 2% of scientists globally.
Global Partnerships and Exchange Programs
WVSU expanded its international collaborations, hosting exchange programs with Jeju National University (South Korea), Mohawk College (Canada), and Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (Indonesia). The university also welcomed two Spanish interns and 20 Korean students for immersive experiences.
Program Development and New Offerings
The introduction of the innovative seven-year WVSU Expedited Select Track for Medicine (WEST Med) program and the upcoming launch of a Bachelor of Science in Radiology reflect WVSU’s response to healthcare demands. The College of Law maintained its status as the top-performing school in the national bar exams.
Infrastructure Modernization
The university completed major projects, including the construction of the Doctor of Dental Medicine Building Phase 2 and rehabilitation of the grandstand. Plans are underway for a 15-story medical arts and multi-specialty tower.
Quality Assurance Achievements
WVSU achieved a 100% accreditation rate for its undergraduate programs and ranked among the top 25 Philippine universities in the QS Asia Rankings. It also became a member of the United Nations Academic Impact and applied for ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance membership.
Faculty and Staff Development
Over 419 faculty members received promotions, and 572 faculty were trained in various programs, achieving a 100% student satisfaction rate in performance evaluations. International scholarships increased, contributing to WVSU’s rising QS rankings.
Student Empowerment and Cultural Achievements
WVSU students excelled in international competitions, with the Grupo del Oeste winning the Sinamba sa Regatta Grand Championship. Despite shifting from second to third in the SCUAA Regional Meet, athletes secured multiple individual medals.
Medical Advancements at UMC
The University Medical Center expanded services, including the renovation of the operating room complex and the construction of a multi-specialty tower. Admissions grew from 6,468 in 2021 to 9,936 in 2024.
Institutional and Administrative Reforms
The deployment of the Human Resource Information System (HRIS) streamlined processes, while the university maintained strong fiscal management with grants totaling ₱600.8 million in 2023.
Sustainability and Green Initiatives
Dr. Villaruz reaffirmed WVSU’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through renewable energy initiatives and sustainable infrastructure projects.
Call for Transformation
Reflecting on WVSU’s journey, Dr. Villaruz posed the question: “Quo vadis, Taga-West?”—Where are we going? He emphasized the non-negotiable need to transform WVSU into a research university.
With a focus on student empowerment, the president called for enhanced academic programs, increased global opportunities, and stronger partnerships to prepare graduates for the challenges of the future.
Dr. Villaruz expressed his gratitude to the WVSU Board of Regents, faculty, and students for their unwavering support, stressing that their collective efforts had propelled the university to greater heights.
As he concluded his speech, Dr. Villaruz introduced the university’s new battle cry: Transforming Generations. He underscored the administration’s pledge to continue fostering innovation, excellence, and societal transformation.
By Dr. Hazel P. Villa/PAMCO
Photos by PAMCO
