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A commemoration of milestones and trailblazing efforts

Western Visayas State University-College of Medicine honored a prestigious award for Dr. Rollin Tabuena at its 50th anniversary celebration

By MBrand
Published Jul 31, 2025 06:15 pm
Alumni Association president Dr. Jofel Isidro, COM Dean Dr. Victor Amantillo, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, and Dr. Joselito Villaruz at the awarding ceremony.
Alumni Association president Dr. Jofel Isidro, COM Dean Dr. Victor Amantillo, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, and Dr. Joselito Villaruz at the awarding ceremony.
Nestled in La Paz, Iloilo City, the Western Visayas State University (WVSU) has been recognized for its outstanding performance and excellence in teacher education, nursing, and medicine, producing topnotchers in licensure examinations. In 1975, the WVSU-College of Medicine was established and became the pioneering medical school in Western Visayas and the second state-run medical college in the country, delivering quality medical education to deserving underprivileged youth while addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the region.
(From left)Dr. Jeffrey Gellada, Dr. Hope Saladar, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, Dr. Melvin Sirilan, Dr. Jocelyn Julagting, Dr. Mabel Garcia, Dr. Celina Gellada, Dr. Gina Celis Carbon, Dr. Lynette Raz, and Dr. Ma. Shelah Salaya Ruffert during the WVSU-College of Medicine Foot Parade.
(From left)Dr. Jeffrey Gellada, Dr. Hope Saladar, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, Dr. Melvin Sirilan, Dr. Jocelyn Julagting, Dr. Mabel Garcia, Dr. Celina Gellada, Dr. Gina Celis Carbon, Dr. Lynette Raz, and Dr. Ma. Shelah Salaya Ruffert during the WVSU-College of Medicine Foot Parade.
On July 9-10, the Western Visayas State University-College of Medicine celebrated its 50th founding anniversary through art and anniversary exhibits, a parade, a Thanksgiving Mass, and a recognition program, and it culminated with a fellowship night on July 11. During the Recognition Program held at the Balik Roxas Hall, 15 alumni of the College were recognized as the Distinguished Alumni Awardees for Academe, Research, Community Service, Government Service, and Clinical Practice.
Among the awardees for research is Dr. Rollin Tabuena, a prominent researcher, pulmonologist, and international bronchoscopy specialist. Dr. Tabuena graduated from the WVSU-College of Medicine in 1994 and widened his knowledge in the field with a Postgraduate Research Training at the Kyoto School of Medicine, Kyoto University in 2004 and Interventional Bronchoscopy Training at Hospital Torette, Ancona, Italy in 2005. In 2023, Dr. Tabuena was also recognized as “Asia’s Most Distinguished Doctor in Pulmonary Medicine” by the Asia’s Golden Icon Awards for his exceptional contribution in the field.
University president and co-awardee Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz presented the award to Dr. Rollin Tabuena.
University president and co-awardee Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz presented the award to Dr. Rollin Tabuena.
His latest medical contribution, the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test Kit, or the TB Lamp, has been introduced to several hospitals in Iloilo City for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis, which provides results within 60 minutes. The TB Lamp has been convenient in hospitals since it does not require sophisticated instruments compared to the traditional procedure.
The WVSU-College of Medicine acknowledges Dr. Tabuena’s groundbreaking research that has made a significant impact in the field and touched many lives. Not only does the recognition reflect his tireless efforts in the advancement of knowledge, it also serves as an inspiration to the students and the community of the College, driving meaningful innovation.
"I am humbled and honored to receive this award. It is a testament to the hard work and support of my team, colleagues, and institution," Dr. Tabuena said in a statement.
The prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award marks Dr. Tabuena’s remarkable achievement and also a significant milestone for WVSU-College of Medicine and its research community. Along with Dr. Tabuena, pulmonologists Dr. Marie Grace Dawn Tindog-Isidro from Batch 1995 and Dr. Anjuli Mae P. Jaen from Batch 2001 also received the same award.
Aside from receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Tabuena also captivated the crowd and judges alike with his creativity and flair during the much-anticipated Fellowship Night of the celebration and earned the Best Dressed award. His standout ensemble captured the evening's festive spirit and added a touch of style and fun to the memorable night. A true embodiment of enthusiasm and school pride, Dr. Tabuena’s win was a highlight of the celebration.
Dr. Teresa Martirez-Hallegado was named as the Best Dressed Woman and Dr. Rollin Tabuena as the Best Dressed Man.
Dr. Teresa Martirez-Hallegado was named as the Best Dressed Woman and Dr. Rollin Tabuena as the Best Dressed Man.
As part of the vibrant festivities, Dr. Tabuena also enthusiastically participated in the Zumba MedMoves event. With energy and spirit, Dr. Tabuena joined fellow faculty, students, and alumni in a lively session that highlighted the college's commitment to wellness, camaraderie, and community. Dr. Tabuena was honored with the "Total Eclipse of the Style: Best in Costume" award, celebrating his creativity, enthusiasm, and outstanding presence. The event was a dynamic blend of movement and celebration, truly embodying the heart of MedMoves and the golden milestone of the institution.
Dr. Rollin Tabuena was recognized as the Best Zumba Outfit for Male, along with Dr. Gladys Nerpiol as the Best Zumba Wear for Women.
Dr. Rollin Tabuena was recognized as the Best Zumba Outfit for Male, along with Dr. Gladys Nerpiol as the Best Zumba Wear for Women.
For 50 years, the WVSU-College of Medicine has endured numerous challenges turned into remarkable successes. Their vision of being a globally recognized research-oriented learning institution and producing competent physicians who serve the health needs of all has been reflected in their trailblazing alumni in their respective fields. Dr. Tabuena, together with the other awardees, has proved the WVSU-College of Medicine’s legacy through their fields of specialization.

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