On August 30, 2024, the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Research, Innovation, and Extension Center for Local Governance successfully hosted a “Voters Education Seminar” in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). The event took place at the RSU Socio-Cultural Center, offering a full day of insightful discussions, voter registration, and expert-led sessions.
Primarily attended by first-year college students, the seminar aimed to empower students with the knowledge and tools needed for meaningful participation in the upcoming elections. The event featured distinguished speakers including University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, Atty. Chamles A. Lubaton, Calbayog City COMELEC Election Officer, Dr. Nicolas L. Faller, Director of the Center for Local Governance, Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, NwSSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; Ms. Renalyn Caca, Secretary of the Center for Local Governance; and Atty. Jerra-lyn Merencillo, a faculty member of NwSSU’s College of Criminal Justice and Security and practicing lawyer.
The program commenced with opening remarks by Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, VP Academic Affairs, setting the tone for the day’s discussions. Atty. Chamles A. Lubaton led the first session, delivering an in-depth presentation on the registration process, voters right, and the calendar of activities. His session provided attendees with a thorough understanding of the necessary steps and timelines for voter registration and participation.
Following the morning session, Atty. Jerra-lyn Merencillo discussed various election offenses, engaging participants in an interactive open forum that encouraged questions and further exploration of the topics covered. The program concluded with the presentation of certificates to the speakers and participants, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension.
The afternoon session, was purely registration process in which participants had the opportunity to register as voters, making the seminar not only educational but also practical for those seeking to participate in the upcoming elections. This event marks a significant step in NwSSU’s ongoing efforts to support local governance and enhance community engagement through education.