Sashah Dioso, the University Research Associate of the Center for West Visayan Studies, was elected as the first President of Asosasyon ng mga Dalubhasa, may Hilig at Interes sa Kasaysayan or ADHIKA ng Pilipinas – Kanlurang Bisayas Balangay during the 9th ADHIKA Regional Conference on West Visayan History and Culture held on May 23-25, 2025 hosted by the College of Education and the Social Science Department of the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod City.
The ADHIKA – Kanlurang Bisayas Balangay was created to succeed the ADHIKA – Iloilo Balangay to respond to the need for a region-wide network of teachers, researchers, scholars, and advocates of West Visayan history and culture.
Joining Dioso as officers are Dr. Donne Jone Sodusta (UP Visayas) as Vice President – Internal, Dr. Ma. Carlvina Cruz (University of St. La Salle – Bacolod) as Vice President – External, Prof. Josela Mae Hortillosa (Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology) as Secretary, Prof. James Mozart Amsua (University of San Agustin) as Treasurer, Prof. Christine Deocampo (Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology) as Auditor, Prof. Princess Myka Belicena (Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology) as Business Manager, Prof. Gerson Gallo (Northern Iloilo State University) as PRO, and Prof. Vic Bonda (Iloilo Science and Technology University) and Ms. Charice May Carraje (Dinagsaan Elementary School – DepEd Buenavista, Guimaras) as Board of Directors.
ADHIKA National President Dr. Kristoffer Esquejo (UP Diliman) administer the oath of office to the officers. Former ADHIKA national presidents Randy Madrid (UP Visayas) and Dr. Vicente Villan (UP Diliman) were also present. The set of officers will serve for a term of three years (2024-2027).
ADHIKA – Kanlurang Bisayas Balangay is open for membership for interested individuals and institutions. They can be reached through adhikakanlurangbisayas@gmail.com. (CWVS)
