3.2 Number of students graduating in health professions
3.2.1 – Proportion of graduates in health professions
* Number of graduates – 993 Total Number of Graduates
* Number of graduates in health professions – 25 Graduates in Health-Related Discipline
Northwest Samar State University recorded 993 graduates in Academic Year 2024–2025, including 25 from the Bachelor of Physical Education program. During the same period, the newly established Bachelor of Science in Nursing program enrolled 77 students in the first semester and 76 in the second semester. The Bachelor of Physical Education program registered 37 students in the first semester and 35 in the second, while the Bachelor of Science in Food Technology program recorded 23 and 18 students, respectively. These figures reflected the University’s commitment to advancing education in health promotion, physical well-being, food safety, and healthcare workforce development.
3.3 Collaborations and health services
3.3.1 – Current Collaborations with Health Institutions
– Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Contract of Affiliation (COA)
The university maintains active collaborations with local and regional health institutions to advance health education, clinical training, research, and community well-being. These partnerships provide students, particularly those in health-related programs, with opportunities for hands-on learning, community engagement, and applied research, contributing to academic excellence and improved public health outcomes.
– MOA Signing with Eastern Visayas Medical CenterÂ
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) formalized its partnership with Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) in Tacloban City through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) established on February 7, 2024. The agreement designated EVMC as the base hospital for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, providing opportunities for supervised clinical training, hospital-based learning, and the development of essential nursing competencies. The partnership strengthened institutional collaboration in nursing education and supported the preparation of competent, practice-ready healthcare professionals.
– COA Signing with Calbayog District Hospital
The university established a formal partnership with Calbayog District Hospital (CDH) through a Contract of Affiliation initially signed on March 12, 2024, and subsequently approved by the Provincial Government of Samar. The agreement designated CDH as a Host Training Establishment (HTE) for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, providing students with opportunities for supervised clinical training, practical application of nursing competencies, and exposure to hospital-based healthcare services. The collaboration strengthened institutional linkages in nursing education and supported the development of competent, practice-ready healthcare professionals.
– COA Signing with St. Camillus Hospital
The university formalized its partnership with St. Camillus Hospital of Calbayog (SCHC) through the signing of a Contract of Affiliation on February 2, 2024. The agreement designated SCHC as a Host Training Establishment (HTE) for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, providing opportunities for supervised clinical training, practical application of nursing competencies, and exposure to hospital-based healthcare services. The partnership strengthened institutional collaboration in nursing education and supported the preparation of competent, practice-ready nursing professionals.
– COA Signing with Adventist Hospital Calbayog, Inc.
The university formalized its partnership with Adventist Hospital Calbayog, Inc. (AHCI) through the signing of a Contract of Affiliation on January 24, 2024. The agreement designated AHCI as a Host Training Establishment (HTE) for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, providing opportunities for supervised clinical training, practical application of nursing competencies, and exposure to hospital-based healthcare services. The partnership strengthened institutional collaboration in nursing education and supported the preparation of competent, practice-ready nursing professionals.
– COA Signing with West Samar Doctors Hospital, Inc.
The university formalized its partnership with West Samar Doctors Hospital, Inc. (WSDHI) through the signing of a Contract of Affiliation on January 25, 2024. The agreement designated WSDHI as a Host Training Establishment (HTE) for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, providing opportunities for supervised clinical training, practical application of nursing competencies, and exposure to hospital-based healthcare services. The partnership strengthened institutional collaboration in nursing education and supported the preparation of competent, practice-ready nursing professionals.
– COA Signing with Sta. Margarita Rural Health Unit
The university formalized its partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Sta. Margarita, Samar, through the signing of a Contract of Affiliation on April 17, 2024, pursuant to Sangguniang Bayan Resolution No. 012, Series of 2024. The agreement established a collaborative arrangement for the conduct of Related Learning Experience (RLE) activities in Community Health Nursing, providing Bachelor of Science in Nursing students with opportunities for community-based clinical training, health promotion, disease prevention, and public health engagement. The partnership strengthened collaboration between the University and the local government in advancing nursing education and supporting the health and well-being of local communities.
– COA Signing with Calbayog City Health Office
The university formalized its partnership with the Local Government Unit of Calbayog City through the signing of a Contract of Affiliation on May 13, 2024, pursuant to Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution No. 2024-13-115. The agreement designated the Calbayog City Health Office as an affiliating community health agency for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, providing opportunities for supervised community-based clinical training, health promotion, disease prevention, and public health engagement. The partnership strengthened institutional collaboration in nursing education and supported the delivery of community-oriented healthcare services.
– MOA Signing with Dr. Liberty Monesit Medical Clinic
The Guidance and Testing Center, in collaboration with the University Health Center, entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Dr. Liberty Monesit Medical Clinic on June 24, 2024, to facilitate referrals for students and employees experiencing mental health concerns and provide psychological assessment services for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Criminology programs. The agreement also provided discounted consultation fees for NwSSU students, promoting access to specialized mental health services and supporting psychological well-being and academic preparedness.
– MOA Signing with Calbayog CDRRMO
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) established a formal partnership with the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) through a Memorandum of Agreement signed on May 27, 2024. The agreement strengthened institutional cooperation in disaster preparedness, emergency response, and campus safety by facilitating access to technical expertise and emergency management resources. The partnership supported the University’s efforts to enhance emergency response capabilities and institutional resilience.
– MOA Signing with West Samar Doctors Hospital, Inc.
The university strengthened its institutional partnership with West Samar Doctors Hospital, Inc. through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on July 31, 2025, at the NwSSU Main Campus. The agreement enhanced access to healthcare services for students and employees through on-site laboratory examinations, health and wellness education, and discounted medical services. This collaboration reinforced the University’s commitment to health promotion, preventive healthcare, and the overall well-being of its academic community.
– Philippine Nurses Association–Northwest Samar Chapter General Assembly 2025
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its College of Nursing faculty, participated in the Philippine Nurses Association – Northwest Samar Chapter General Assembly on June 27, 2025, at Christ the King College, Calbayog City. The gathering brought together nursing professionals from various institutions to discuss professional development, organizational initiatives, leadership, and issues affecting nursing practice. NwSSU’s participation supported professional networking, interinstitutional engagement, and collaborative discussions aimed at advancing nursing education and professional practice.
– Preceptorship Training at Eastern Visayas Medical Center
The College of Nursing, strengthened its clinical training partnership with Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) in Tacloban City through the participation of its clinical instructors in specialized preceptorship training conducted from July to September 2025 and December 2025 to January 2026. The training provided supervised clinical exposure in the Operating Room and Labor and Delivery Room, enhancing faculty competencies in perioperative, maternal, and neonatal nursing care. This collaboration supported clinical instructor preparedness, effective student supervision, and the delivery of quality hospital-based nursing education.
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) students, faculty, and staff participated in the Walk for a Healthy Heart organized by St. Camillus Hospital of Calbayog (SCHC) on February 15, 2025, alongside nursing students, faculty members, and representatives from various community sectors. The activity featured a community walk and Zumba session aimed at promoting physical fitness, cardiovascular health awareness, and healthy lifestyles. NwSSU’s participation demonstrated its continued engagement with healthcare institutions in advancing health promotion and community well-being.
– Lay Forum on Lifestyle-Related Health Conditions
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), in partnership with St. Camillus Hospital of Calbayog, conducted a health and wellness forum on June 4, 2025, at the Business Development Center, organized through the College of Nursing and University Health Center. The initiative promoted awareness, prevention, and management of noncommunicable diseases through expert-led discussions on diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and healthy lifestyle practices. Free health screening services, including blood pressure monitoring and blood sugar, cholesterol, and uric acid testing, were also provided to University employees and community members. The collaboration strengthened health literacy, encouraged early disease detection, and promoted preventive healthcare and community well-being.
– Blood Donation and HIV Testing Initiatives
The Institutional Student Supreme Council (ISSC), collaborated with the Calbayog District Hospital Blood Collecting Unit and Calbayog City Health Office to conduct a voluntary blood donation drive and free HIV testing on February 14, 2025, as part of its Valentine’s Day celebration. The initiatives promoted voluntary blood donation, HIV awareness, early detection, and access to preventive healthcare services among members of the University community. These partnerships strengthened institutional collaboration in health promotion, disease prevention, and community well-being.
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its College of Nursing, participated in a voluntary blood donation drive organized by the Rotaract Club of Greater Calbayog on March 1, 2025, at the NwSSU Business Development Center. The initiative was conducted in partnership with the Red Cross Youth – Western Samar Chapter, Junior Criminologists Association of the Philippines – NwSSU Main Campus, Calbayog City Fire Station, and the 43rd Infantry Battalion. The activity promoted voluntary blood donation, strengthened community engagement, and encouraged students and faculty to support lifesaving public health initiatives.
– Coordination with Partner Hospitals for Clinical Orientation
The College of Nursing, conducted onsite visits to partner healthcare institutions on September 5, 2025, to formally distribute communication letters and coordinate their participation in the Clinical Readiness Orientation for Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students scheduled on September 29, 2025. The initiative facilitated institutional communication and coordination with clinical training partners, supporting preparations for supervised hospital-based learning and strengthening collaborative efforts in nursing education.
– Clinical Readiness Orientation with Partner Hospitals
The College of Nursing conducted a Clinical Readiness Orientation on September 29, 2025, at the Business Development Center in collaboration with four partner healthcare institutions: St. Camillus Hospital, Adventist Hospital Calbayog, Inc., Calbayog District Hospital, and West Samar Doctors’ Hospital, Inc. Representatives from the partner hospitals provided Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students with essential guidance on clinical safety protocols, professional conduct, institutional policies, and patient-centered care in preparation for their hospital-based clinical rotations. The initiative demonstrated active institutional collaboration in clinical nursing education, strengthening student preparedness and supporting safe, quality healthcare practice.
– Biotechnology and Biomedical Research Training
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its College of Nursing, participated in the Training-Workshop on Biotechnology and Biomedical Research organized by the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium–Capacity Building Committee (EVHRDC–CBC) on October 22–24, 2025. Represented by a nursing faculty member and clinical instructor, the University engaged in capacity-building activities focused on biomedical research methodologies, ethical considerations, and health-related innovations. The participation supported faculty research development and professional engagement in advancing health sciences research in Eastern Visayas.
– Clinical Readiness Orientation with Local Health Offices
The College of Nursing conducted the Clinical Readiness Orientation Program on October 2, 2025, in collaboration with the Calbayog City Health Office and the Sta. Margarita Municipal Health Office. The program prepared Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students for community health immersion by strengthening their understanding of community-based nursing practice, professional responsibilities, and engagement with local healthcare systems. The initiative demonstrated the University’s active collaboration with local public health institutions in supporting community-oriented nursing education.
– Standard First-Aid Training for BSN Students
The College of Nursing conducted a three-day Standard First-Aid Training for Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students on November 20–22, 2025, in partnership with the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO). Facilitated by certified first-aid trainers, the program combined practical instruction and group return demonstrations to strengthen students’ competencies in first aid, emergency response, and immediate care. The initiative supported emergency preparedness and practical skills development through collaboration with a local government emergency management agency.
– Standard First Aid Training for University Personnel and Student Volunteers
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its University Health Center, commenced a three-day Standard First Aid (SFA) Training on June 25, 2025, at the Administration Building, in collaboration with the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO). The training involved faculty members, administrative personnel, and student volunteers, focusing on emergency response competencies, including breathing emergencies, wound care, and bandaging techniques. The initiative strengthened institutional emergency preparedness, first aid proficiency, and campus safety.
– Basic Life Support Training for BSN Students
The College of Nursing conducted a two-day Basic Life Support Training for the first batch of Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students on November 18–19, 2025, at the Business Development Center. Facilitated with the support of the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the training incorporated theoretical discussions, practical demonstrations, and return demonstrations to strengthen students’ competencies in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, basic life support, and emergency response. The initiative enhanced students’ preparedness to provide immediate assistance during life-threatening emergencies.
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its University Health Center, received a fully equipped ambulance from the Department of Health (DOH) on October 20, 2025, under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program. The donation aimed to strengthen emergency medical transportation, improve access to timely healthcare services, and support the health and safety of students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The initiative demonstrated institutional cooperation with a national healthcare agency in advancing healthcare accessibility and emergency preparedness.
3.3.2 –Â Health Outreach ProgrammesÂ
– Medical Mission in Brgy. Carmen, Calbayog City
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its College of Nursing, participated in a free medical mission organized by Immanuel Church Calbayog in collaboration with local community organizations on January 19, 2025, at Barangay Carmen, Calbayog City. The initiative provided essential healthcare services to approximately 170 residents, including medical and dental consultations, blood pressure monitoring, eye examinations, medication assistance, and health education. Nursing faculty and students assisted in patient assessment, vital signs monitoring, medication dispensing, and health education, contributing to improved access to basic healthcare services and the promotion of community health and well-being.
– Multidisciplinary Outreach Program
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted Basic First Aid training as part of its multidisciplinary community outreach program held on April 27, 2025, in Barangay Solsogon, Sta. Margarita, Samar. Facilitated by the College of Nursing, the session equipped local youth with essential knowledge and practical skills in responding to common injuries and medical emergencies. The initiative promoted health awareness, emergency preparedness, and community safety while strengthening the University’s commitment to community-based health education and outreach.
– Hygiene and Sanitation Outreach in Brgy. Capoocan, Calbayog City
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Level I Bachelor of Science in Nursing students and College of Nursing faculty, conducted a community health outreach programme on hygiene and sanitation on June 14, 2025, at Capoocan Elementary School, Barangay Capoocan, Calbayog City. Implemented as part of the students’ Community Welfare Training Service (CWTS), the initiative responded to hygiene and sanitation concerns identified through a prior household survey among coastal residents. The programme provided community-based health education on personal hygiene, environmental sanitation, and disease prevention, complemented by the distribution of hygiene kits to selected participants. The activity promoted preventive health practices and strengthened community awareness of the importance of sanitation in protecting public health.
– Community Hygiene and Sanitation Survey in Brgy. Capoocan, Calbayog City
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Level I Bachelor of Science in Nursing students, conducted a community-based household survey among coastal residents of Barangay Capoocan, Calbayog City, as part of the Community Welfare Training Service (CWTS) under the National Service Training Program (NSTP). The survey assessed household sanitation conditions and personal hygiene practices to identify community health concerns and determine beneficiaries for a targeted health education intervention. The findings served as the basis for the Community Sanitation and Personal Hygiene Practices Seminar conducted on June 14, 2025, promoting an evidence-informed approach to disease prevention and community health outreach.
– Community Health and Emergency Preparedness through CPR Training and Smoking Cessation Advocacy
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), in collaboration with the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, local government agencies, and community partners, participated in a mass Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) demonstration and smoking cessation campaign on July 1, 2025, at the NwSSU RSU Sociocultural Center. The initiative provided health education on the harmful effects of smoking and practical CPR training through hands-on demonstrations and return demonstrations involving students, educators, University personnel, and community participants. The programme promoted tobacco-related disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and community capacity to respond to life-threatening emergencies.
The College of Nursing, launched Bandage Brigade: Building a Community of Life-Savers, a three-day community health outreach programme that commenced on June 7, 2025, at the Barangay Rawis Covered Court, Calbayog City. Organized by Level I Bachelor of Science in Nursing students under the Community Welfare Training Service (CWTS), the initiative provided residents with Basic First Aid training, practical emergency response techniques, and health education facilitated by nursing faculty and students. The programme aimed to strengthen community preparedness, promote health and safety awareness, and equip residents with essential lifesaving skills.
The College of Nursing conducted the Bandage Brigade: Building a Community of Life-Savers outreach programme in Barangay Rawis, Calbayog City, as part of the Community Welfare Training Service (CWTS) under the National Service Training Program (NSTP). The programme continued on June 14, 2025, with Basic First Aid training facilitated by the College Dean and hands-on vital signs monitoring demonstrations conducted by trained nursing students. Community residents received practical instruction on emergency response, basic health assessment, and early recognition of potential health concerns. The initiative concluded with the distribution of first-aid kits, strengthening community health awareness, emergency preparedness, and self-care capabilities.
– Pasiguro Komunidad 2025: Community Health Outreach in Brgy. Basud, Calbayog City
The College of Nursing, conducted the Pasiguro Komunidad 2025 Community Health Nursing Culminating Program on November 29, 2025, at Basud Integrated School, Barangay Basud, Calbayog City. Led by Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students under the supervision of Clinical Instructor Ricardo P. Delgado III, the community outreach initiative provided free blood pressure screening, health education on hypertension and dengue prevention, and physical wellness activities. The program promoted preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyle practices, and community participation, strengthening the University’s commitment to improving public health and well-being.
– Community Health Outreach in Brgy. Pagbalican, Calbayog City
The College of Nursing conducted a Community Health Nursing Culminating Program on November 22, 2025, in Barangay Pagbalican, Calbayog City. Led by Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students from Related Learning Experience Groups A and C under the supervision of Clinical Instructor Romeo S. Ortiz Jr., the outreach program provided community residents with health education on hypertension and diabetes, emphasizing early warning signs, prevention of complications, regular health monitoring, and healthy lifestyle practices. Conducted with the support of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Councils, the initiative strengthened community health awareness and promoted preventive healthcare practices.
– Community Health Outreach in Brgy. Burabod, Sta. Margarita
The College of Nursing conducted a Community Health Symposium on Hypertension on November 20, 2025, in Barangay Burabod, Sta. Margarita, Samar. Led by Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students from Related Learning Experience Group E under the supervision of Clinical Instructor Rosilda D. Macapanas, the outreach program provided basic health assessments and health education on hypertension, emphasizing early detection, appropriate management, prevention, and healthy lifestyle modifications. With the participation of barangay officials, barangay health workers, and community residents, the initiative promoted preventive healthcare and strengthened community awareness of hypertension-related health risks.
– Community Health Outreach on Disease Prevention in Brgy. Solsogon, Sta. Margarita
The College of Nursing conducted a Community Health Nursing Symposium and Engagement Activity on November 29, 2025, at Solsogon Elementary School, Barangay Solsogon, Sta. Margarita, Samar. Led by Level II Bachelor of Science in Nursing students from Related Learning Experience Groups B and D under the supervision of Clinical Instructor Charles Daryll A. Delmo, the outreach program provided community health screenings, educational sessions, and preventive health advocacy focused on diabetes, leptospirosis, and hypertension. Conducted with the support of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Councils, the initiative promoted disease prevention, health awareness, and community participation in preventive healthcare.
– NUTRILIKAS: Community Nutrition and Hygiene Outreach Program In Brgy. Burabod, Sta. Margarita
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through students of the Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education (BTVTED) programme, conducted NUTRILIKAS: Empowering Communities with Healthy Meals through the BTVTED-FSM Program on May 23, 2025, in Barangay Burabod, Sta. Margarita, Samar. The community outreach initiative focused on promoting proper nutrition, healthy eating practices, and hygiene awareness among children, contributing to preventive health education and community well-being.
3.3.3 – Shared Sports Facilities
– Utilization of Sports Facilities
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) promotes community health, physical fitness, and athletic development by providing local schools, sports organizations, and community groups with access to its sports and recreational facilities, as documented through approved requests and official correspondence. In 2025, the University accommodated the Department of Education, Schools Division of Samar, for the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet; Calbayog City National High School for volleyball, basketball, badminton, sepak takraw, and wrestling training, tryouts, and athletic meet preparations; San Policarpo National High School for sports broadcasting activities; and the Calbayog City Athletic Meet Dancesport Competition Committee for rehearsals and competitions. Facilities made available included the University Oval, sports courts, CCJS Building Rooftop, and Socio-Cultural Hall. These initiatives demonstrate NwSSU’s commitment to sharing institutional resources, strengthening community partnerships, encouraging active lifestyles, and supporting inclusive sports participation and youth development.
– Regional Football Tournament
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) supported community sports development by providing its Main Campus Athletic Grounds as the venue for the 2nd Calbayog Football Cup: 8-A-Side Football Tournament, held on October 4–5, in partnership with the Calbayog Football Association (CAFA) and the NwSSU Football Club. The two-day regional tournament brought together football teams from across Eastern Visayas, featuring Under-12, Under-14, Mixed Open, Men’s Open, Women’s Open, and 35-Up divisions. By making its athletic facilities available to external sports organizations and participants of different age groups, the University promoted physical activity, inclusive sports participation, athletic development, and community engagement while strengthening its commitment to public access to recreational and sporting facilities.
3.3.4 – Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Services for Students
The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) University Health Center provides prenatal and postnatal care services to its clients, as documented in the University’s Annual Report (page 4, Table 1). These services include routine prenatal and postnatal consultations, maternal health assessments, health education, counseling on lifestyle modifications to reduce maternal and infant health risks, monitoring of postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding education and promotion. Through a holistic, patient-centered approach, the University Health Center supports maternal well-being, promotes healthy pregnancy outcomes, and facilitates appropriate care throughout the prenatal and postnatal periods.
– Free HIV Testing Services for Students
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Institutional Supreme Student Council in partnership with the Calbayog City Health Office, promoted access to free, confidential HIV testing services at the University Clinic during its Valentine’s Day celebration. The initiative encouraged students to undergo voluntary HIV testing, understand their HIV status, and practice responsible health behaviors, supporting HIV prevention, early detection, and access to sexual health services.
– Teenage Pregnancy Prevention and Responsible Parenthood Symposium
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its University Health Center in collaboration with the Gender and Development Office, Guidance Office, College of Nursing, and NSTP faculty, conducted the “Choices and Challenges” Health Symposium on Teenage Pregnancy and Responsible Parenthood on April 26, 2025, at the Socio-Cultural Center. The symposium provided reproductive health education addressing teenage pregnancy prevention, psychosocial and health implications, responsible parenthood, family planning awareness, and informed reproductive decision-making. The initiative strengthened reproductive health literacy and preventive health awareness among participating students.
– HIV/AIDS Awareness and Reproductive Health Education Symposium
Northwest Samar State University, through the CONCare Organization, National Service Training Program, and University Health Center, conducted a Candle Lighting Ceremony and Symposium on HIV/AIDS Awareness and Reproductive Health Education on October 25, 2025, at the RSU Socio-Cultural Center. The activity brought together students, faculty members, and representatives from the City Health Office to promote HIV/AIDS awareness, reproductive health literacy, responsible decision-making, and stigma reduction through educational discussions and advocacy activities.
– Student-Led HIV Awareness and Testing Promotion Campaign
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its University Health Center, promoted HIV prevention and sexual health awareness by publishing a student-led educational video entitled “HIV Awareness: Know Your Status, Protect Your Health” on its official Facebook page. The campaign emphasized the importance of early and confidential HIV testing, addressed misconceptions and stigma associated with HIV, and encouraged individuals to seek available testing services for timely diagnosis and treatment. Through student participation and digital health information dissemination, the initiative strengthened awareness of HIV prevention, promoted informed sexual health decisions, and supported the University’s efforts to advance reproductive health education and well-being.
3.3.5 – Mental Health Support for Students
– Mental Wellness and Psychological Resilience Symposium
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through the University Health Center, conducted a Health Symposium on December 6, 2025, at the NwSSU Business Development Center (BDC), with the theme “Heal, Protect, Transform: Integrated Health Sessions on Mental Wellness and Anti-Sexual Harassment.” Dr. Monesit-Abayan discussed the psychological effects of violence, discrimination, and harassment, emphasizing the importance of recognizing harmful experiences, seeking appropriate support, and taking informed action. The session encouraged active participation, providing attendees with a supportive environment to share personal experiences. She also presented practical strategies for positive coping, building resilience, and strengthening self-esteem to promote emotional well-being.
– Mental Health Awareness and Self-Care Campaign
The Northwest Samar State University College of Nursing (NwSSU CON), through its student organization CONCare, participated in the observance of World Mental Health Awareness Month in October 2026 by conducting a digital mental health awareness campaign through its official Facebook page. The initiative emphasized the importance of emotional well-being, self-care, psychological resilience, and seeking support during challenging circumstances. Through messages encouraging compassion, open communication, adequate rest, and positive coping practices, the campaign promoted mental health awareness, reduced stigma surrounding help-seeking, and encouraged nursing students to prioritize their psychological well-being alongside their academic and personal responsibilities.
– Launch of NwSSU Mental Health Support Helplines
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) officially launched its Mental Helplines on October 9, 2026, at the SCUAA Stage, strengthening institutional efforts to improve access to mental health support within the University community. The initiative was led by University officials in collaboration with the Guidance and Testing Center, University Health Center, and Calbayog City Health Office representatives. The program featured messages of support, the presentation of the helplines by Institutional Supreme Student Council President Hon. Wamy R. Picorro, and the ceremonial unveiling of the service. The initiative aimed to provide students and other members of the academic community with accessible channels for seeking psychological assistance, guidance, and appropriate mental health support, reinforcing NwSSU’s commitment to promoting emotional well-being and a supportive campus environment.
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3.3.6 – Smoke-free Policy
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) strictly implements its Smoke-Free Policy, as stipulated in the NwSSU Student Manual (page 41, Section 1.5; page 48, Section 1.5.2; page 57, Section 5.1; and page 59, Section c) and reinforced in the College of Nursing Student Manual (page 61, Section e; and page 65, Other Prohibitions). These institutional policies explicitly prohibit smoking within University premises and prescribe corresponding disciplinary measures for violations, in accordance with national health and safety regulations. Applicable to students, faculty, staff, and visitors, the policy promotes a smoke-free environment across classrooms, offices, dormitories, and outdoor spaces, reflecting the University’s commitment to protecting public health, preventing tobacco-related harm, and maintaining a safe and healthy academic community.
– Tobacco Prevention and Smoke-Free Campus Awareness Seminar
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) reinforced its commitment to tobacco prevention and a smoke-free academic environment through a No Smoking Campaign seminar held on July 1, 2025, at the NwSSU RSU Socio-Cultural Center, as part of the National Disaster Resilience Month kickoff activities. The seminar was facilitated by Dr. Jonas Delos Reyes, President of the Philippine Dental Association Calbayog City Chapter, who discussed the health risks associated with tobacco use and emphasized the importance of maintaining a smoke-free campus. Attended by university personnel, student volunteers, and community participants, the initiative promoted tobacco-related health awareness, encouraged smoking prevention, and supported the University’s institutional Smoke-Free Policy.
– Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Public Health Awareness Campaign
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Medical and Dental Services Facebook page, reinforced its commitment to a smoke-free environment by sharing the Department of Health’s public health advisory prohibiting smoking and vaping in schools, evacuation centers, and other public spaces. The campaign emphasized the health risks associated with secondhand smoke, particularly among pregnant women, infants, and children, as well as the increased risk of fire in crowded evacuation facilities. It also encouraged compliance with national tobacco control regulations, reporting of violations, and access to smoking cessation assistance through the DOH Quitline 1558.
– National No Smoking Month: Smoking and Vaping Cessation Awareness Campaign
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Medical and Dental Services Facebook page, supported the observance of National No Smoking Month in June by sharing a public health awareness campaign from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). The campaign highlighted the health risks associated with smoking and vaping, encouraged tobacco cessation, and promoted healthier lifestyle choices. This information dissemination initiative complemented the University’s institutional Smoke-Free Policy by reinforcing tobacco prevention awareness and encouraging responsible health practices among members of the academic community.
3.3.7 – Mental Health Support for Staff
The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) University Health Center is staffed by qualified healthcare professionals who provide essential health services, including initial mental health support for students. The University Nurse, trained in Psychological First Aid (PFA), provides immediate psychosocial support, identifies students requiring further assistance, and facilitates appropriate referrals to Dr. Ofelia Monesit for specialized mental health care or Mr. Arthur Dordines, University Guidance Counselor, for counseling and guidance services. This coordinated approach promotes early intervention, timely access to professional support, and continuity of mental health care, reinforcing the University’s commitment to student psychological well-being.
– Launch of NwSSU Mental Health Support Helplines
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) officially launched its Mental Helplines on October 9, 2026, at the SCUAA Stage, strengthening institutional efforts to improve access to mental health support within the University community. The initiative was led by University officials in collaboration with the Guidance and Testing Center, University Health Center, and Calbayog City Health Office representatives. The program featured messages of support, the presentation of the helplines by Institutional Supreme Student Council President Hon. Wamy R. Picorro, and the ceremonial unveiling of the service. The initiative aimed to provide students and other members of the academic community with accessible channels for seeking psychological assistance, guidance, and appropriate mental health support, reinforcing NwSSU’s commitment to promoting emotional well-being and a supportive campus environment.
