OVCAA leads 79th UP Presence in Iloilo launch

The University of the Philippines Visayas’ (UPV) celebration of the 79th Anniversary of the UP Presence in Iloilo is officially underway.

The UPV Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, led by Vice Chancellor Dr. Alice Joan Ferrer, kicked off the 2026 edition of the UP Presence in Iloilo celebration during the flag-raising ceremony held at the New Administration Building, UPV Miagao campus, on Feb. 9, 2026.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “1940s Foundation, 1979 Fulfillment, Lifelong Service.” Vice Chancellor Ferrer said the theme was chosen to remind constituents of UPV’s history.

UP Iloilo College opened on July 1, 1947, laying the foundation of higher education in the region after the Second World War, and on May 31, 1979, UP Visayas was officially established, fulfilling a vision of academic excellence and service to the Visayas.

Vice Chancellor Ferrer led the unveiling of the official logo for the 79th Anniversary of the UP Presence in Iloilo, which contains the facade of the UPV Main Building in the Iloilo City campus and the New Administration Building in the Miagao campus; the Oblation statue; and UP Visayas’ logo.

Meanwhile, Dr. Eric Zeus Rizo, Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said this year marks “a celebration of decades of commitment to learning, research, and public service.”

“More than a commemoration of years, this anniversary is a celebration of lifelong service, excellence, and continuity. It reminds us of the generations who have built, nurtured, and strengthened UP Visayas and inspires us to continue this legacy,” Dr. Rizo added.

This year’s celebration will culminate with the “‘Pasundayag,’ to showcase the talent, creativity, and cultural heritage of UP Visayas.” (Carlson Alelis/IPO)