As part of a significant initiative to foster international educational partnerships, West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed a delegation from the Embassy of Israel, led by the Deputy Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines, Ms. Ester Buzgan, on September 11, 2024, at the WVSU main campus.

The engagement commenced with a courtesy meeting led by Professor Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of WVSU International and Local Linkages Office; Dr. Celina Gellada, Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences; Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, VP for Research, Innovation and Extension; Dr. Peter Ernie Paris, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF); Campus Administrators; Deans; IZN Coordinators from different colleges and campuses and the DagYoung Student Ambassadors.

Accompanying the Deputy Ambassador was MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Officer, Ms. Gladys Baniqued, along with members of the Embassy’s Office.

Prof. Edel highlighted the strong ties of Israel and the Philippines, resulting in strong collaborations in agriculture and education, among other sectors.

“Culturally, the bond is enriched by people-to-people connections. Israel has been a key partner in the Philippines’ development efforts, providing expertise in agriculture, technology, and education”, she said.

The meeting was marked by a flow of productive and spontaneous ideas from Deputy Ambassador Buzgan, who aimed to advance Ambassador Ilan Fluss’s vision of strengthening the connection between Israel and Manila.

Additionally, administrative officials and students DagYoung Ambassador exchanged views with the Deputy Ambassador regarding partnerships and future collaborative projects in the areas of culture, academics, communication, research, health, learning efficiency and development.

This meeting offered a wide array of resources for students, faculty, and researchers in WVSU that transcend geographical boundaries.