Author: Raffy Ticong

Northwest Samar State University’s Office of Research, Innovation, Extension, and External Affairs (RIEEA) secured 3rd Place in the Applied Research Category at the ViCARP Level 2, Cluster 2 Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Review, held September 16–17, 2026, at the University of Eastern Philippines, Catarman, Northern Samar. The team, composed of Vice President for RIEEA Teodoro A. Amatosa, Jr., together with RIEEA research staff Apollo L. Frivaldo and Aliah Zimone S. Luistro, was recognized for their paper titled “Valorization of Lead- and Copper-Contaminated Giant Bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) into Solid Fuel Briquettes: Structural and Thermal Performance.” The study explores turning bamboo contaminated with heavy metals like lead and copper into solid fuel briquettes, offering a potential approach to sustainable energy production while addressing environmental contamination. The RDE Review was conducted under the Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Program (ViCARP), the regional arm of the National Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Network under the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), which evaluates research outputs from institutions across Eastern Visayas. As RIEEA continues to expand its research portfolio, this recognition adds another marker of the office’s role in advancing science-driven solutions to real-world environmental challenges in the region.

NwSSU Main Campus’ ISSC Officers and CSC Governors, together with 3 advisers, proudly joined the much-anticipated Philippines I Transform! Leaders Convention (PITLC) which gathered youth leaders from across the country in Baguio City, DepEd Teacher’s Camp this September 3-8, 2026. With the theme “COMBATING POVERTY, ACHIEVING PROSPERITY FOR ALL,” the convention focused on empowering leaders to advance the Sustainable Development Goals in their respective communities. The 13th PITLC welcomed participants from Sangguniang Kabataan, Local Youth Development Councils, Local Youth Development Offices, Higher Educational Institutions, and Community-Based Organizations. The NwSSU team was recognized with the MAGNUS AWARD for Biggest Delegation under the University Category, a testament to NWSSU’s strong commitment to youth leadership and service. Beyond the sessions and competitions, NWSSU delegates actively participated in different competitions, showcasing talent, teamwork, and the NWSSU spirit on a national stage. In line with this, two of the ISSC Leaders achieved recognitions in their different competitions: Alyzza Grace P. Errojo with her coach Ms. Jessabel C. Orongan – 3rd Place in Extemporaneous Speech Competition Amber Gebriel I. Nueva with her coach Ms. Jacquelyn V. Tapil – 3rd Place in Photo Advocacy Competition The experience reaffirmed the role of student leaders to lead with purpose, address poverty, and work toward prosperity for all.

CALBAYOG CITY, Samar — Civil and mechanical engineers in Eastern Visayas may soon have greater access to flexible, industry-responsive learning opportunities as Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and Mapúa University move toward a collaboration on upskilling programs and micro-credentials. The proposed initiative is envisioned to provide engineers with more accessible pathways to strengthen their competencies while continuing their careers and professional responsibilities. Through online, face-to-face, or blended learning modalities, the planned programs seek to respond to the evolving needs of engineers and the industries and communities they serve. Flexible learning opportunities can help reduce geographic and logistical barriers that may prevent professionals from participating in specialized training programs traditionally concentrated in major urban centers. Micro-credentials can provide professionals with focused opportunities to develop specific competencies without necessarily having to enroll in lengthy academic programs. The planned offerings may also provide opportunities for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credit, giving practicing engineers additional avenues to pursue professional growth and maintain relevant competencies. On September 1, representatives from NwSSU (Engr. Teodoro Amatosa Jr.) and Mapúa University (Engr. Eira Camus) met to review and refine the proposed Collaboration Agreement in preparation for its implementation. The Collaboration Agreement is targeted for completion within September, with the first possible program delivery eyed for February 2027. Initial offerings are expected to focus on civil and mechanical engineering professionals in Region VIII, with the potential for the programs to eventually reach professionals in other parts of the country. The potential benefits also extend to employers and other stakeholders. since engineering practice continues to evolve alongside emerging technologies, digitalization, sustainability requirements, advanced construction methods, automation, and changing industry standards.  A workforce equipped with current and specialized skills can help organizations adapt to technological developments, changing standards, and emerging demands in the engineering sector. For government agencies, private companies, and other organizations involved in infrastructure and development, stronger professional capacity can contribute to improved planning, design, implementation, and management of projects and services.   At the community level, the initiative could contribute to strengthening the capacity of professionals who play vital roles in infrastructure development, disaster resilience, transportation, water systems, energy, manufacturing, and other areas essential to regional growth. The proposed collaboration therefore goes beyond providing additional training options. It reflects an effort to make lifelong learning more accessible, flexible, and responsive to the realities of professionals in the region. As NwSSU continues to strengthen its role in advancing professional development and serving the needs of its communities, initiatives such as this can help create stronger connections between higher education, industry, and the workforce.

The Planning and Development Services Office (PDSO), led by Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, convened a strategic meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the University President’s Board Room to deliberate on key matters concerning proposed projects under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) Tier II for Fiscal Year 2027. Co-chaired by Ms. Jonah L. Salcedo, the meeting brought together members of the Planning Unit, Project Development Unit, and Infrastructure and Project Management Unit, headed respectively by Engr. Marlon D. Sobreviga and Mr. Redem D. Tingzon. The assembly focused on reviewing the status of the call for project proposals, assessing the implementation readiness of submissions, and conducting a technical evaluation of proposed initiatives. Discussions also covered preparations for the upcoming consultative assembly and other relevant concerns to ensure that project priorities remain aligned with institutional goals and national development directives. The meeting reinforced PDSO’s commitment to strategic planning, evidence-based decision-making, and collaborative project development in support of the university’s pursuit of sustainable growth and institutional excellence. Through cross-unit coordination and focused deliberations, the office continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring that proposed projects are responsive, feasible, and aligned with fiscal guidelines and developmental priorities.

The Courier, the official student publication of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), earned national recognition after bagging four awards in the National Training Workshop on Campus Journalism organized by the Organization of Student Services Educators, Inc. (OSSEI) on September 25–27, 2025, at Crown Legacy Hotel, Baguio City.   The competition brought together 24 participating colleges and universities across the country, showcasing excellence in various fields of campus journalism. The Courier stood out with strong performances in both individual and publication-level categories. Jaspher C. Deculawan secured 3rd Place in Photo Essay, while James S. Nallatan followed closely with 5th Place in the same category. In Editorial Cartooning, Jimmuel D. Suarez clinched 4th Place, highlighting the publication’s creative storytelling strength. On the digital front, The Courier as an online publication was recognized with 3rd Place for Most Multi-platform Engagement, affirming its ability to reach and resonate with a wide audience.   The Courier’s success not only reflects the talent and commitment of its staff but also underscores NwSSU’s dedication to fostering student excellence in journalism. By excelling at a national stage, the publication continues to amplify student voices, strengthen campus press freedom, and inspire aspiring journalists within and beyond the university.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took a significant step in strengthening its institutional quality systems as it conducted a three-day writeshop on the Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Framework, equipping leaders and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to align governance, strategy, and operations with global standards of excellence. The writeshop, held from September 24–26, 2025, opened with an in-depth discussion on the PQA Framework and its transformative impact on State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). Led by PQA Senior Assessor Dr. Jayson M. Barlan, the first day focused on Leadership and Strategy, highlighting governance principles, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of institutional vision, mission, and goals. Interactive workshops allowed participants to assess leadership practices and map strategies that strengthen NwSSU’s pursuit of organizational excellence. Day 2 shifted attention to systems building, with sessions on Customers and Stakeholders, Measurement and Knowledge Management, Workforce, and Operations. Discussions emphasized the importance of responsive listening mechanisms, data-driven decision-making, employee engagement, and process innovation across instruction, research, extension, and administration. By examining institutional practices against PQA categories, participants sharpened their understanding of how quality systems can drive inclusivity, efficiency, and sustainable growth. The final day highlighted Results, integrating lessons from all seven PQA categories into a holistic framework for NwSSU. A post-test assessed participant learning, while the presentation of the NwSSU PQA Roadmap provided a concrete pathway for future initiatives. An open forum and Q&A session capped the event, giving participants the chance to clarify strategies and affirm shared commitments. Through this writeshop, NwSSU exemplified its dedication to continuous improvement and organizational transformation. The activity not only strengthened institutional awareness of the PQA framework but also empowered university leaders to champion a culture of excellence, ensuring that quality becomes a lived reality in all facets of the university’s operations

Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) continues its stride toward academic distinction as five programs under its College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) have been officially granted Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This recognition affirms NWSSU’s adherence to CHED’s rigorous standards for the continued offering of the following programs, namely: Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering (BSECE), Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCpE), Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME), Bachelor of Science in Architecture, and Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE), with a specialization in Construction Engineering and Management. The COPCs were formally awarded in Tacloban City, Leyte, with CHED Regional Office VIII Director V, Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, CESO III, leading the recognition ceremony. Representing NWSSU were CEA Dean Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon Jr. and esteemed faculty members of the college. With this milestone, 94.74%—or 36 out of 38—of undergraduate programs at the NWSSU Main Campus now hold COPCs, highlighting the university’s steadfast commitment to quality assurance and academic integrity. More than a compliance achievement, this recognition reflects NWSSU’s enduring mission to cultivate future engineers and architects who will shape resilient communities and drive national development.