Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte — June 12, 2025 In a shining moment of excellence and impact, West Visayas State University (WVSU) emerged as one of the top-performing institutions at the 2025 Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementors, Inc. (PAEPI) International Extension Congress, held in the scenic island of Siargao.
With four major recognitions under its belt, WVSU proved once again that its extension work goes beyond boundaries—empowering communities, transforming lives, and championing innovation.
With the congress theme “Embracing Science and Technology-Driven Extension Platforms for Sustainable and Inclusive Communities,” the event gathered thought leaders, researchers, and extension practitioners from across the Philippines and neighboring ASEAN nations to showcase transformative initiatives addressing today’s pressing development challenges.
WVSU took center stage in both paper and poster competitions with the following wins:
- 2nd Best Paper Award – Dr. Ricky P. Becodo for “Darag Native Chicken Production in Sara, Iloilo, Philippines: Strengthening Livelihoods and Resilience” (Entrepreneurship and Circular Economy category)
- 2nd Best Paper Award – Prof. Sheila P. Beliran and Dr. Madonna S. Palmes for “Rays of HOPE: Empowering Caregivers, Transforming Community Health” (Health, Nutrition and Wellness category)
- 3rd Best Paper Award – Dr. Virginia B. Parreñas of WVSU-Pototan Campus for “Residents’ Involvement in the Development of Competencies for Employment (RIDCE)” (Education and Development Studies category)
- 3rd Best Poster Award – Dr. Julie Gay Blason- Quidato and Prof. Ma. Ernalyn B. Cepeda for “3P’s Program (Pagbulig Extension Project)”
These recognitions underscore WVSU’s firm commitment to inclusive and evidence-based development. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative project design, and community-rooted solutions, the university continues to lead in shaping extension practices that matter.
#WVSUTransformingGenerations
#WVSUexcels
By Dr. Ricky P. Becodo
