ILOILO CITY – West Visayas State University (WVSU) is set to elevate its medical program with the introduction of state-of-the-art facilities, thanks to a substantial financial boost. On a recent visit to the university’s College of Medicine, Senator Pia Cayetano, who facilitated a PHP300 million fund since 2021, expressed her pride in supporting this initiative. The funds have been instrumental in the construction of two nearly completed annex buildings, at 90% and 93% completion, respectively, and the procurement of essential equipment and mannequins.
WVSU President Dr. Joselito Villaruz highlighted the transformative impact of these developments on the medical program. The new facilities include a skills laboratory and a simulation lab where students can hone their medical skills using advanced technology. Villaruz emphasized the shift towards simulation-based education, integrating information systems and artificial intelligence into the curriculum.
The senator’s visit underscored her commitment to enhancing medical education at WVSU, the only state university outside of UP with its own teaching hospital. Cayetano, who chairs the Sub-Committee on Finance overseeing higher education and health, views the project as a significant achievement not only for the students and faculty but also for the broader community that will benefit from improved healthcare services.
Looking ahead, WVSU plans to increase its medical student intake by 40 next year, bringing the total from 120 to 160. These new students will join the West Visayas State University Expedited Select Track for Medicine (WESTMed), an accelerated program that allows students to complete their medical education in seven years instead of the usual nine.