West Visayas State University (WVSU) highlighted the international achievement of its College of Law (COL) during the first flag-raising ceremony for May held earlier today, May 4, at Jubilee Park, led by the College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts and Recreation (COP).
The WVSU COL Vox Populi Moot Team was recognized for securing first runner-up honors in the 30th Annual Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition in Gulfport, Florida, USA. Representing the University were Therese Diane Germinanda, Jose Emilio Luis Combatir, and John Patrick Palquiran.
Germinanda was named third best speaker in the preliminary rounds and best speaker in the final round, while Palquiran placed ninth best speaker in the preliminary rounds.
COL Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana described the achievement as a milestone for the University.
“This is the first time that WVSU Law joined an international competition, and in our debut performance, we emerged as the first runner-up, beating several teams around the world,” he said. “Thank you for making our trip to Florida possible in representing not only WVSU, but the entire country.”
In his message, Palquiran emphasized the collective effort behind the team’s success.
“Standing here today, we are reminded that while our achievements may bear our names, they are written in the ink of collective sacrifice,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to University officials, particularly highlighting University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz and Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, for their support.
“To the WVSU community, look around you. This achievement is a mosaic of all your efforts. Whatever you gave us—a word of encouragement, administrative support—this is for you,” Palquiran added. “We are, and we will always be taga-West.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of administrators, faculty, staff, sponsors and support units who assisted the team throughout their preparation.
The team’s success was guided by its coaches, Judge Lowell Fredrick Madrileño, Atty. Regina Johanna Gustilo and Prof. Frederic Loise Regencia, with the support of COL Dean Atty. Ian Thomas Besana.
The ceremony concluded with Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr., COP faculty member, encouraging the community to sustain its commitment to excellence.
“As we begin another week in WVSU, may we continue to honor our roots, uplift our community, and contribute meaningfully to the future we are building together,” Garcia said.
