West Visayas State University (WVSU) students earned top distinctions at the 17th The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA), with four Taga-West honorees securing places among the competition’s highest awardees and bringing home several special recognitions during the awarding ceremony held May 30 at Robinsons Place Pavia.

Among the university’s awardees, Fritz Jaime Sumbo and Romavil Abelarde of the College of Education and Jan Michael Alayon of the College of Arts and Sciences secured places in the prestigious College Top Circle of Five, one of the highest recognitions granted during the annual search.

Adding to the university’s achievements, Unah Angel Gabrielle Robante of the WVSU Integrated Laboratory School was named to the Junior High School Top Circle of Five, placing her among Iloilo’s most outstanding young student leaders.

The university’s representatives also garnered several special awards. Arcel Vinz Agudo received both the TOSIA Artisan Award and Advocacy Video Award in the college category, while Fritz Jaime Sumbo earned the TOSIA Scholar Award. In the junior high school category, Zoe Alexandria Lanceta was recognized with the TOSIA Artisan Award.

WVSU was recognized with the TOSIA Elite Schools Award, a distinction bestowed on institutions that consistently produce exemplary student leaders.


Organized by JCI Regatta, TOSIA recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service, and character. This year’s search drew nearly 100 applicants from schools across Iloilo. Following a rigorous screening process that included document evaluation, interviews, and leadership assessments, only a select number of students advanced as awardees and Top Circle honorees.