UEDC UPDATES

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VI continues to strengthen its engagement with State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in advancing social welfare and development through research, community extension, capacity building, and policy development.

As a follow-up to the Third Quarter Meeting of the Regional Independent Monitoring Committee (RIMC) held online on August 19, 2026, the 4Ps team of DSWD Field Office VI convened with representatives of the University Extension and Development Center (UEDC) to further explore areas of collaboration and complementation that may contribute to the continuing enhancement of 4Ps implementation.

The meeting focused on several proposed collaborative initiatives, including the development of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) delineating areas of complementation between DSWD and the university; the potential adoption of the College Survival Toolkit developed by Dr. Baby Rose Robles; and the policy proposal of Dr. Elias Olapane concerning the continuation of the Expanded Students Grants-in-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (ESGPPA) and the provision of additional grants for tertiary education.

In relation to the proposed MOA, the participants discussed mechanisms for strengthening resource complementation, including possible cost-sharing and counterparting arrangements with local government units (LGUs) in identified target communities. The proposed agreement also includes the adoption of the College Survival Toolkit as a potential resource for the training and capacity development of DSWD 4Ps personnel, particularly case managers. The integration of an evidence-informed educational support resource into staff development is expected to enhance the capacity of program implementers in responding to the academic and developmental needs of beneficiaries.

The policy proposal on the continuation of ESGPPA was likewise discussed as a potential mechanism for sustaining educational support for qualified beneficiaries pursuing tertiary education. The proposal will undergo further refinement to strengthen its policy and programmatic basis. A corresponding resolution will also be prepared to mobilize institutional and stakeholder support toward its consideration and potential adoption.

The collaborative discussions reflect the shared commitment of DSWD and SUCs to harness academic expertise, research, and community-based knowledge in strengthening social protection interventions. Through sustained institutional collaboration, the partners seek to promote evidence-informed approaches, enhance the capacity of program implementers, and contribute to policy initiatives that address the educational and socioeconomic needs of 4Ps beneficiaries.

The initiative further underscores the role of higher education institutions as partners in social development, particularly in translating research and academic expertise into responsive community interventions and policy recommendations. Continued collaboration between DSWD, SUCs, LGUs, and other stakeholders may provide opportunities for more integrated and sustainable approaches to social welfare and development in the region.

Research, innovation, and community engagement took center stage at West Visayas State University (WVSU) Pototan Campus as faculty members gathered for a full-day re-orientation on the university’s research and extension processe last August 28, 2026.

The activity aimed to refresh faculty members on current guidelines, streamline project workflows, and align research and extension initiatives with the university’s targets for Fiscal Year 2027.

The morning session focused on research, beginning with an overview of the University Research Agenda, PREXC-R targets and accomplishments, and the proposed targets for FY 2027, presented by Dr. Raquel P. Pedrajas, Director for Research, Innovation, and Extension.

Dr. Rosie Jane P. Siosan, Head of the Campus Research, Innovation and Development, discussed the University Research Process, while Mr. Joezer C. Alamo, University Research Associate II, provided updates on recent policies, URDC developments, and research guidelines.

In the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to extension and community engagement. Ms. Colyn S. Gomez of the University Extension and Development Center discussed extension processes, followed by Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, UEDC Director, who tackled situational analysis and third-party impact evaluation.

Ms. Rona E. Mangao also discussed extension proposals, PREXC-E performance targets, and strategic indicators for FY 2026–2027, giving faculty members a clearer roadmap for planning and monitoring their community-based projects.

The re-orientation also featured an intermission performance by BSIT faculty member Mr. Daryl Rommel Samelo and reflections from Mr. Von Deaño and Dr. Novroches De Asis, who noted that the clarified guidelines would make proposal preparation and project implementation easier.

Certificates of Appreciation were presented to the resource speakers, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Marlene S. Gloria, Director of the School of Education.

The activity was hosted by Ms. Claudine Mae L. Leysa, Master of Ceremonies.

More than a refresher on procedures, the re-orientation gave WVSU Pototan faculty a chance to reconnect with the university’s research and extension goals—turning ideas into meaningful research and translating knowledge into impact in the community.

The University Extension and Development Center (UEDC) of West Visayas State University (WVSU) conducted a three-day third-party impact assessment of the College of Nursing’s terminated extension project, “Rays of HOPE” (Home Health, Opportunity for Livelihood, Peace and Order, and Environmental Health), from August 11 to 13, 2026.

The assessment was undertaken as part of the extension project development cycle to determine the project’s long-term effects, sustainability, relevance, and continuing outcomes among its partner communities. The activity design identifies third-party impact evaluation as an important mechanism for determining whether the intended outcomes of completed extension interventions have been sustained, further developed, or adopted by beneficiaries.

Day 1: Consultation with College of Nursing Faculty

The first day, August 11, 2026, focused on a meeting with the College of Nursing (CON) faculty involved in the Rays of HOPE project.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the third-party evaluators and the project team to discuss the project’s implementation, accomplishments, and relevant documentation. It also served as an initial step in establishing the context for the assessment and identifying information that would guide the succeeding field activities.

The approved extension activity design provides that third-party evaluators initially conduct an assessment of submitted project documents before proceeding to field visitation and data collection among target community beneficiaries.

Day 2: Field Visitation and Data Collection

On August 12, 2026, the evaluation team proceeded to Barangay Alabidhan, Bingawan, Iloilo, where they conducted field visitation and data collection with barangay officials and beneficiaries of the Rays of HOPE project.

The field activity provided the evaluators with an opportunity to gather firsthand information on the project’s outcomes and its effects on the partner community. Through engagement with local officials and beneficiaries, the team assessed how the interventions and practices introduced through the project have been maintained, utilized, or developed over time.

The activity design specifically identifies field visitation and data collection as the second stage of the third-party evaluation process. It emphasizes the assessment of project outcomes and impacts, including the extent to which knowledge, skills, and practices introduced through the project have been adopted or institutionalized by beneficiaries.

Day 3: Impact Analysis and Evaluation Report

The three-day activity concluded on August 13, 2026, with an impact analysis and evaluation report meeting with the College of Nursing staff.

The final activity focused on consolidating and analyzing the information gathered during the document review and field visitation. The evaluators discussed the findings and assessment of the project, with the results intended to provide evidence-based recommendations for future extension initiatives.

The approved activity design states that the final stage of the evaluation involves impact analysis and preparation of the evaluation report, with the results subsequently shared with the respective project leaders.

Strengthening Evidence-Based Extension

The third-party assessment of Rays of HOPE underscores WVSU’s commitment to evaluating not only the implementation of its extension initiatives but also their long-term relevance, sustainability, and impact on partner communities.

Through the assessment, the University seeks to determine the extent to which the project’s intended outcomes have been sustained and the ways in which the knowledge, skills, and practices introduced by the project have continued to benefit its beneficiaries. The evaluation also aims to provide evidence that can guide the improvement of future extension programs and initiatives.

The three-day activity reflects the University’s continuing efforts to ensure that extension programs create meaningful and sustainable contributions to community development, while strengthening accountability and evidence-based planning in its extension work.

The West Visayas State University Medical Center (WVSUMC), in partnership with the Municipality of Janiuay and the WVSU University Extension and Development Center (UEDC), conducted a two-day Capacity Building Workshop on Extension Services on July 30–31, 2026. The hybrid activity brought together WVSUMC personnel, local health officials, barangay representatives, barangay health workers, Rural Health Unit personnel, and community stakeholders to strengthen their capacity for evidence-based and community-responsive health extension.

The workshop highlighted the vital role of university extension in advancing primary health care through meaningful collaboration between academic institutions and local communities. Sessions introduced participants to key concepts in primary and universal health care, community organizing, community-academic partnerships, extension protocols, project planning, monitoring and evaluation, sustainability, and responsible project exit.

During the online sessions on the first day, resource speakers shared best practices in community-based health work and university extension. Among the highlights was the presentation of Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, University Extension and Development Center, titled Beyond Hospital Walls: SUC Extension as a Pathway for Health Service, Capacity-Building, and Community Impact. He underscored the role of state universities in extending health services beyond clinical settings through systematic, evidence-informed extension programs that generate measurable community impact.

On the second day, the UEDC team facilitated a face-to-face workshop focused on community data-gathering methods. Participants were trained to use situational analysis tools and conduct ethical data collection through surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and field observation. These activities prepared the participants for a rapid community situational analysis in Barangays Nobleza East and Sta. Rita, Janiuay.

The assessment will provide the evidence needed to design a responsive extension program on health governance and primary health care. By identifying local health conditions, service gaps, existing resources, and community priorities, the initiative seeks to ensure that future interventions are responsive to verified needs and aligned with existing local health systems.

The workshop was spearheaded by Dr. Ruth Mary S. Pada, Chair of the WVSUMC Extension Committee and Extension Coordinator, together with Dr. Rachel Ann D. Catague, WVSUMC Training Officer and member of the Extension Core Group, with support from the WVSUMC Extension Committee, the UEDC team, and partners from the Municipality of Janiuay.

The activity reflects WVSU's continuing commitment to translating academic expertise into sustainable community action. Through collaborative planning and evidence-based extension, WVSUMC, UEDC, and their local partners are laying the groundwork for health programs that are participatory, measurable, and responsive to the needs of the communities they serve.

The West Visayas State University (WVSU) Lambunao Campus convened faculty extension proponents for a two-day Extension In-House Review and Revision Workshop on July 15–16, 2026 at the URDC Conference Room/Training Room 1, Research and Extension Building I & II, WVSU La Paz Campus.

Organized to strengthen the quality and relevance of extension initiatives, the workshop provided a venue for faculty members to present, review, and refine their project proposals with guidance from experienced evaluators before implementation.

The activity featured proposal presentations, consultations, and revision sessions under the supervision of Dr. Julie Gay B. Quidato and Dr. Marlene S. Gloria, who served as workshop mentors and evaluators. The review process focused on enhancing project design, community responsiveness, sustainability, and alignment with the university's extension agenda.

Among the projects presented during the two-day workshop were initiatives promoting literacy, responsible digital citizenship, automotive maintenance training for farmers, indigenous culture preservation, children's literacy advocacy, community tourism development, digital transformation in local governance, and capacity-building for public service.

Projects reviewed included Project ARUMA, PROTEC Lambunao, "Arangkada Lambunao," Lambunao Connect, Project KABALAKA, IP RECIPE Lambunao, MAHALI (Malandong Heritage and Livelihood Initiative), and Project DIRECT, each addressing various community development priorities in the Municipality of Lambunao and neighboring areas. Throughout the workshop, faculty proponents received constructive feedback aimed at improving project objectives, methodologies, implementation strategies, monitoring plans, and expected outcomes. Dedicated consultation and revision sessions allowed proponents to incorporate recommendations into their proposals, ensuring greater readiness for implementation.

The Extension In-House Review and Revision Workshop reflects WVSU Lambunao Campus' continuing commitment to developing high-quality extension programs that respond to local needs through research-based, innovative, and sustainable community engagement. By strengthening project proposals before implementation, the university reinforces its mission of delivering meaningful extension services that contribute to inclusive development and improve the quality of life of partner communities. The activity forms part of WVSU's continuing efforts to uphold excellence in extension by fostering collaboration among faculty members, enhancing program quality, and ensuring that community initiatives create lasting and measurable impact.

The University Extension and Development Center (UEDC) will hold its 2026 Extension Project Termination and Presentation on May 22, 2026 bringing together faculty-led community initiatives that focus on livelihood, environmental awareness, digital literacy, and skills development.

The whole-day event, scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on online platform Google Meet will feature project presentations, question-and-answer sessions, and an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding extension initiatives.

The opening ceremony will include remarks from UEDC Director Dr. Ricky P. Becodo, followed by the introduction of evaluators and presentation mechanics. Rona E. Mangao will serve as moderator for the event.

Among the featured projects is “Development of Value-Added Products Utilizing Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica): A Livelihood Project for Marginalized Communities in Bingawan, Iloilo, Philippines,” to be presented by Dr. Cynthia L. Limsiaco. The study highlights the use of locally available resources to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for communities.

Other morning presentations include “Pag-Uswag sa Likod sang Rehas: Skills on Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Development (Pag-uswag: SEED)” by Dr. Julynn J. Rico, “Pagbulig” by Nena Vanessa A. Cabiles, Evelyn M. Cordero, and Ernalyn B. Cepeda, and “Pagpabakod” by Dr. Roberto Sagge Jr. and Dr. Sybel Joy F. Labis.

Digital literacy and technology education will also take center stage through “ALChat: Mobile Phone Literacy Training Series for the Residents of Poblacion Delgado, Calinog, Iloilo,” presented by Dr. Elias C. Olapane.

Afternoon sessions will focus on community empowerment and environmental responsibility. Featured projects include “TOURS (Training Opportunities for Upgrading Residents Skills)” by Lovelyn P. Wee and “Yucks to Yey (Y2Y): A Waste Management and Gardening Project in Igang, Pototan, Iloilo” by Dr. Mae B. Angeles.

Also included in the lineup are “Driver’s Responsiveness, Initiatives & Values Education Readiness (DRIVER)” by Dr. Pablo L. Lauro and Juliet M. Seniego, as well as “Teaching Children on Environmental Responsibility (TEACHER)” by Dr. Paul Ramsey C. Belencion and Dr. Marlene S. Gloria.

The event will conclude with a closing and awarding ceremony at 4:30 p.m., recognizing the impact and accomplishments of the university’s extension programs in partner communities across Iloilo.

In an era where information is the most valuable resource for development, West Visayas State University (WVSU) is breaking down the walls between academic research and community application. At the forefront of this movement is the University Extension and Development Center’s One-Stop Information Shop (OSIS).

What is the OSIS One-Stop Shop?

The OSIS is a centralized digital platform that serves as a bridge between the university's experts and the community. By institutionalizing the transfer of "mature technologies" and research-based strategies, WVSU ensures that its academic excellence translates into real-world social transformation. Whether you are a local official, a farmer, a teacher, or a health worker, the OSIS is your primary gateway to the university’s specialized resources.

The heart of the OSIS lies in its extensive library of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials. These resources are organized into four critical pillars, known as the HELP

H – Health: Access brochures, guides, and protocols on public health, nutrition, and wellness to improve community vitality.

E – Environment: Find materials on climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable resource management to protect our local ecosystems.

L – Livelihood: Discover technical guides on agricultural innovations and small-business technologies to boost local economies.

P – Pedagogy: Utilize educational resources, teaching aids, and literacy materials designed to support lifelong learning and professional development.

Bridging the Gap via Digital Innovation Beyond being a simple repository, the OSIS facilitates the university’s broader mission of extension and development. It allows for the seamless monitoring of extension projects across WVSU’s various colleges and satellite campuses, ensuring that every initiative is data-driven and responsive to the actual needs of the "Taga-West" community.

By digitizing these services, WVSU makes its expertise accessible 24/7, transcending geographical barriers.

Your Partner in Progress The UEDC-OSIS is more than a system; it is a commitment to shared growth. We invite all stakeholders—from government agencies to individual citizens—to explore the One-Stop Information Shop and utilize these free IEC materials to spark positive change in your own communities.

Visit the OSIS Platform Today: https://sites.google.com/wvsu.edu.ph/uedc-osis Contact the UEDC: For technical advisory or partnership inquiries, please email us at extension@wvsu.edu.phor visit the Research and Extension Building at the WVSU Main Campus, Iloilo City.

West Visayas State University (WVSU) successfully held its much-anticipated University Days 2026 from January 26-30, 2026 at the Main Campus in La Paz, Iloilo City, under the theme "BANAAG sang West: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations."

The week-long celebration, announced through Presidential Memorandum No. 26-031 signed by SUC President IV Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz and VP for Administration and Finance Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, aimed to promote academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration across the WVSU community. Faculty, students, and staff from the main campus, satellite campuses, and the University Medical Center participated in a series of activities throughout the week.

The celebration kicked off on January 26 with the setting up of exhibits, including college academic displays, an agro-industrial fair from satellite campuses, and the "KADIWA sa WVSU." The day culminated in a Gala Night at the Iloilo Convention Center, organized by the Alumni Affairs Office.

January 27 began with a Eucharistic Celebration at the WVSU Cultural Center, followed by a campus-wide parade at 8:30 AM. The Opening Program took place at the University Grounds at 9:30 AM, hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) in collaboration with the Faculty and Student Councils. Alumni Homecoming and lunch followed at the NAB Atrium.

The afternoon of Day 2 and the entirety of Day 3 featured Literary and Musical Contests across multiple categories—English, Filipino, Hiligaynon, Visual Arts, Short Film Making, and the highly anticipated Banggiangay semi-finals and Lip-Sync Battle. These events were overseen by the Office of the University Cultural Affairs, led by Dr. Ma. Christine Asuncion Dequilla and Prof. Liberty Porras.

A key highlight on January 28 was the University Convocation at the WVSU Cultural Center, which featured guest speaker Mr. Jenil C. Demortio, Assistant Secretary of the Public Information Service at the Department of Agrarian Reform. A University Lunch at Jubilee Park and the 2026 Fair on Innovation, Research and Extension Services (FIRES 2026) at the R&E Building rounded out the day's activities.

A comprehensive lineup of working committees was formed to ensure the success of the event. The Executive Committee was chaired by University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, with support from vice presidents across academic affairs, administration, and research. Specialized committees handled finance, procurement, documentation, peace and order, first aid, and various activities ranging from the Eucharistic Mass to the University Health Outreach Program.

WVSU successfully brought together the entire university community to partake in the festivities and celebrate the institution's "radiant gleam" in illuminating generations.

The spirit of collaboration and forward-thinking innovation was on full display as West Visayas State University hosted the Fair on Innovation, Research, and Extension Services (FIRES) 2026 on January 28 at the 4th Floor of the Research and Extension Building.

Held as part of the university’s celebration of University Days 2026, the event brought together faculty, researchers, innovators, and students in a dynamic showcase of solutions designed to address real-world challenges through research, technology, and community-driven extension initiatives.

The afternoon program opened with welcome remarks from university officials, emphasizing the role of research and extension in nation-building and inclusive development. A keynote address delivered by the Regional Director of Department of Information and Communications Technology Region VI highlighted the growing importance of digital transformation and innovation in strengthening regional competitiveness.

Plenary sessions featured presentations across three major categories: Research, Extension, and Innovative Technology Pitching.

Among the notable research presentations was a Digital Maturity Assessment and Profiling System aimed at enhancing the capabilities of micro, small, and medium enterprises through targeted training recommendations. Another study explored the use of artificial intelligence-generated images to support spelling development in English, Filipino, and mother tongue-based learning.

In the extension category, initiatives underscored the university’s commitment to community empowerment. These included programs such as IT Acts: Information Technology Accessible Coastal Training for Sustainability, ARTeach: Action Research Training Series, and a project focused on strengthening transport cooperatives through innovative extension strategies.

Meanwhile, the Innovative Technology Pitching segment showcased creative solutions with strong cultural, environmental, and practical value. Highlights included Babaylan, a culture-based animated film, edible baking paper made from saba banana peel, and reinforced bio-composite board tiles produced from rice straw.

Student-led research was also featured, including a study examining the relationship between dormitory expectations and satisfaction, as well as a machine learning-based approach for non-invasive diabetic retinopathy risk assessment.

The event concluded with closing remarks from the FIRES 2026 Chair, reaffirming the university’s commitment to advancing innovation ecosystems that link research outputs with community needs and industry applications.

FIRES 2026 once again demonstrated the vital role of higher education institutions in fostering ideas that not only push academic boundaries but also translate into meaningful societal impact.

West Visayas State University–Calinog Campus has strengthened its position in the national academic landscape following the recent achievement of Dr. Elias Olapane, who was recognized as Champion (1st Place) in the Outstanding ASEAN SDG Project – People Category at the ASEAN Conference on Extension for Sustainable Development Goals. The conference, held on November 29, 2025, at the City Tourism Hall, convened higher education institutions from across the country to present extension initiatives aligned with sustainable development.

Dr. Olapane, who serves as extension project leader, received the distinction for his research paper titled “Upskilling DepEd Teachers’ Research-led Teaching Through a Capability Training Series.” The project is anchored in his flagship extension program, ARTeach: Action Research Training Series, which seeks to enhance the research capabilities of public school teachers and integrate research-based methodologies into classroom instruction. By equipping educators with the necessary competencies to conduct and apply action research, the initiative contributes to improved teaching practices and evidence-informed decision-making in basic education.

The project demonstrates strong alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in advancing inclusive and equitable quality education. Its design underscores the critical role of teacher capacity-building as a driver of educational reform, situating frontline educators as key agents in achieving sustainable and transformative learning outcomes.

The conference featured more than 30 presenters from state universities, colleges, and local higher education institutions, each highlighting extension programs that support community development and institutional performance. These initiatives were framed within global evaluation systems such as the Times Higher Education and the World’s Universities with Real Impact (WURI) Rankings, emphasizing the increasing importance of extension work in demonstrating universities’ societal impact.

Dr. Olapane’s recognition not only affirms the scholarly merit and practical relevance of the ARTeach program but also reflects West Visayas State University–Calinog Campus’s sustained commitment to community-engaged scholarship and regional development. As recipient of the top award, he was presented with a plaque of recognition and a cash prize, further highlighting the institution’s growing contribution to academic leadership and extension excellence.

Notably, conference organizers emphasized that the winning project exhibited a high degree of innovation, measurable outcomes, and a clear commitment to advancing educational quality for teachers—identified as a priority sector under the “People” pillar of the Sustainable Development Goals. This recognition reinforces the vital role of research-driven extension programs in addressing systemic challenges in education and promoting long-term, sustainable impact.