ILOILO — West Visayas State University has reinforced its dominance in medical education after its College of Medicine posted a 100% passing rate in the March 2026 Physician Licensure Examination (PLE), with one graduate breaking into the national Top 10.
The result places WVSU among the country’s elite medical institutions and highlights its growing reputation as a consistent producer of board-ready physicians amid increasing national concerns over medical education standards.
The Professional Regulation Commission conducted the exams on March 23–24, 30, and 31, with all 21 WVSU examinees successfully earning their licenses.
Leading the batch was Marie Francine Rios Aquines, who secured 8th place nationwide, emerging as one of the country’s top-performing new doctors.
“This result is a testament to your resilience and pursuit of excellence in medical education. I have no doubt that the entire Ilonggo community is filled with pride and joy over your accomplishments,” said former Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas.
University president Dr. Joselito Villaruz attributed the flawless performance to the institution’s rigorous training and strong collaboration between faculty and students, emphasizing that discipline and consistency were key to the outcome.
The university also credited the West Visayas State University Medical Center for providing hands-on clinical exposure, allowing students to bridge theory and real-world patient care — an advantage seen as crucial in licensure exam readiness.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the university said: “WVSU proudly commends its 21 new physicians for this remarkable achievement and celebrates their commitment to advancing healthcare and serving their communities with competence and compassion.”/PN
