Author: Raffy Ticong

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Office of Extension Services, reviewed 39 extension proposals addressing disaster resilience, eco-tourism, livelihood, education, and health during its In-House Review 2026, held on November 10 and 11 at the RIEEA Smart Hub Conference Room on the Main Campus. Proponents from seven colleges and the Graduate School presented their proposals before a panel of evaluators composed of Engr. Deodatus G. Sagadal of the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP), Dr. Jose Marlon J. Refuncion Jr. of Samar State University (SSU), Dr. Ervin Rodriguez, Director of the NwSSU Innovation Office, and Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, Director of NwSSU’s Gender and Development Services. Nineteen proposals were presented on the first day and 20 on the second. Many of the proposed projects respond to challenges already faced by Samar communities. These include rainwater harvesting systems for water-scarce barangays, renewable energy solutions for disaster preparedness, and women-led island resilience initiatives. Others focus on livelihood and agriculture, including farmer training on managing toxic elements in mine-impacted farmland in Taft, Eastern Samar, and the establishment of a sustainable agriculture cooperative in Barangay Bayo. Eco-tourism and environmental protection also figured prominently in the proposals. Among these were initiatives to expand source-to-sea eco-tourism in unserved and underserved communities, train boat operators in Paranas on financial management, and establish a no-plastic policy for pilgrims visiting Calvary Hill in Santa Margarita. Education and health-related proposals included reading support initiatives, and teacher licensure examination review programs, such as the SAGIP-KABATAAN: Capacity Building on Comprehensive Sexual Health Education, Peer Counselling, and Local Referral Network Linkages for Youth Leaders, proposed by the College of Nursing. The initiative seeks to equip youth leaders with knowledge and skills in sexual health education, peer support, and referral mechanisms, strengthening access to appropriate guidance and services for young people. Through the In-House Review, NwSSU ensures that its extension initiatives are grounded in sound project plans and responsive to the needs of their intended beneficiaries. The process reinforces the University’s commitment to delivering purposeful, relevant, and community-centered programs across Samar’s barangays, farms, and schools.

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar — In a decisive move to revitalize the province’s agricultural landscape, the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) solidified its role as a key institutional partner of the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Samar during the two-day Samar Agro-Industrial Harmonization Workshop, held from October 22 to 23, 2026, at the Samar Convention Center. Led by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and the Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, the workshop brought together regional stakeholders, academic experts, and policymakers to streamline development efforts for Samar’s high-value agro-industries: coconut, bamboo, ube, and high-value crops (HVC) such as chili. Harmonizing a Shared Vision For years, the development of Samar’s primary agricultural commodities has occurred in silos, with agencies tackling problems independently. However, the workshop showed that the challenges facing Samar’s farmers are shared across commodities. Data consolidated during the sessions revealed six recurring gaps that hold back the provincial agro-industry. These are limited planting materials and seed stock, ranging from expensive bamboo material, scarce ube seedlings, and senile coconut trees to a lack of chili seed stock; limited farmer capacity and extension support; vulnerability to climate impacts, including typhoons, droughts, pests, and diseases; fragmented production and weak institutional coordination; a lack of shared processing, postharvest, and logistics facilities; and weak market linkages that leave farmers at the mercy of volatile trading prices. Rather than addressing these barriers commodity by commodity, the workshop successfully grouped these gaps into six strategic convergence initiatives. By anchoring interventions across specific segments of the value chains—such as clustering ube processing, upgrading chili facilities, and establishing robust marketing networks for coconut and bamboo—the PLGU and its partner agencies can now deploy targeted solutions that uplift multiple farming sectors simultaneously. NwSSU at the Helm of Facilitation and Expertise As an institution deeply committed to community transformation, NwSSU sent a powerhouse team of educators and researchers to orchestrate the event and contribute technical foresight. Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, Director of the NwSSU External Affairs Office, steered the strategic direction of the sessions as the Lead Workshop Facilitator, working hand-in-hand with Provincial Planning Officer Mr. Joel Mancol. Their collaborative moderation allowed diverse agency representatives to find common ground and synthesize complex farm-level data into actionable government policies. Lending academic and scientific weight to the workshop was Dr. Jessie Sabijon, Dean of the College of Agriculture & Forestry at the NwSSU San Jorge Campus. Serving as a Small Group Facilitator, Dr. Sabijon acted as the resident expert contributor for Ube Research & Development (R&D). His insights highlighted how academe-driven crop technology can directly mitigate the planting material scarcity that currently limits local ube growers. Assisting throughout the rigorous two-day convergence were personnel from the NwSSU Project Development Office, who served as official documenters, meticulously capturing the baseline findings that will shape Samar’s next comprehensive agro-industrial master plan. Empowering the Samarnon Farmer Samar’s smallholder farmers stand to benefit most from this partnership. By addressing systemic weaknesses like funding access and farm mechanization (gaps highlighted for bamboo, coconut, and ube), the convergence framework aims to move farmers toward more competitive agro-enterprise. When farmers are equipped with high-yield seed stocks, resilient farming practices, and shared processing facilities, their post-harvest losses drop, and their profit margins rise. Sustainable market linkages ensure that the sweat and labor poured into Samar’s soil translate into stable, premium household incomes. Shaping Samar’s Economic Future The collaboration between NwSSU and PLGU-Samar marks a shift in the province’s approach to agro-industry. By moving away from fragmented initiatives and embracing a synchronized value-chain approach, Samar positions itself as an emerging agro-industrial hub in the Eastern Visayas region. Through localized research, extension services, and policy facilitation, NwSSU continues to contribute to the province’s economic development. As this harmonized blueprint rolls out, the university and the provincial government stand united in building a resilient, food-secure, and economically vibrant Samar.

Faculty members from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) completed a two-day Basic Research Ethics Training on October 19-20, 2026, at the 3rd floor of the BDC Building, organized by the Research Integrity Office with the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board – Committee on Information Dissemination, Training, and Advocacy (PHREB – CIDTA) of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), under the Department of Science and Technology. Faculty members from the different colleges of the NwSSU Main Campus and the San Jorge Campus participated in the training which aimed to equip them  to apply research ethics principles, evaluate protocols, and navigate the national and institutional ethics process. PHREB’s Dr. Leslie Michelle M. Dalmacio and Prof. Maria Cecilia C.G. Conaco both served as resource speakers. The Day 1 lectures covered historical research abuses, protections for human participants, core ethics principles, informed consent, and justice. Through group work, participants applied these principles to cases and protocols, then reviewed a protocol, consent form, and relevant guidelines. On Day 2, the resource speakers discussed research ethics governance, the roles of institutional research ethics committees, types of ethics review, researcher responsibilities, and current issues such as “publish or perish” and artificial intelligence. Participants also had group discussions and shared their own experiences related to the topics covered. The training, spearheaded by Mr. Felix John Refamonte, Director of NwSSU’s Research Integrity Office, marks another step toward the full operationalization of the university’s Research Ethics Committee. A response to the need to uphold research integrity and scientific soundness in the work of both faculty and students.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) students Princess Paris G. Luciano and Raymond Jun B. Ortiz represented the University in the Digital Poster Making Competition at rSCENE 2026 in Catbalogan City, with Luciano placing first runner-up. Luciano is a second year Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing (BSEMC) student. The team was guided by coaches Ronald A. Amoguez and Dr. Rolly L. Ortiz. The Regional Smart Communities Exposition and Networking Engagement (rSCENE) 2026 was initiated by the City Government of Catbalogan in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology and ran from October 6 to 8. Held under the theme “The Living Tapestry: Weaving the Threads of Innovation and Heritage,” it brought together local officials, technology practitioners, educators, and other stakeholders to present innovations and explore technology-driven approaches to local governance and community development. Luciano competed on behalf of Calbayog City, which also placed second overall in the Smart LGU Overall Championship. The team’s performance puts NwSSU’s digital design talent on the regional stage and shows what student designers can contribute to the region’s smart community efforts.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) strengthened its commitment to community resilience and disaster preparedness as it hosted the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for an orientation on the Philippine Community Resilience Project (PCRP) on October 6, 2026, at the University Hotel Function Room. Organized by the Center for Local Governance and the University Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Office in partnership with DSWD, the activity brought together university officials, academic representatives, extension personnel, and DRRM focal persons to explore opportunities for collaboration in disaster risk reduction, sustainable livelihoods, and community-driven development. The orientation featured discussions on the DSWD’s KALAHI-CIDSS program, disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), and Sustainable Livelihood Program. Ms. Susana F. Urmeneta, Team Leader of DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS, together with Francis C. Batula and Jinky Rose A. Merino and Maria Christina L. Manicani of DSWD, shared insights on community-driven initiatives that promote preparedness, sustainable livelihoods, and resilience among vulnerable communities. The discussions centered on the Panahon ng Pagkilos: Philippine Community Resilience Project, a national initiative designed to help communities address disaster risks, environmental challenges, and economic shocks through participatory development and locally driven solutions. The orientation also provided an avenue for university representatives to explore how NwSSU’s academic programs, research initiatives, and extension services can contribute to community-based resilience efforts. The activity concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration and translating the insights gained into initiatives that support disaster preparedness, sustainable development, and safer, more resilient communities. Through partnerships with national agencies and local stakeholders, NwSSU continues to advance its A.S.C.E.N.D. commitment to responsive education, meaningful extension services, and inclusive community development.

NwSSU strengthened its international academic presence as Dr. Donald M. Patimo, Professor 5 of the College of Management, represented the University at the International Visiting Professor Program (IVPP) at Parul University in Vadodara, Gujarat, India, from September 1 to 25, 2026. Dr. Patimo joined 26 delegates from 15 countries in the international program, which brought together academics for teaching, research, and cross-border academic exchange. Parul University is the youngest university in India to receive an “A++ accreditation grade” from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). As part of the program, Dr. Patimo was hosted by the Parul Institute of Management Studies, where he delivered 32 hours of instruction in Project Management and Data Analytics to selected Master of Business Administration (MBA) students. He also participated in eight hours of research meetings with Parul University faculty to explore potential collaborations in joint research projects and publications. For Dr. Patimo, the experience extended beyond academic and research engagements. His immersion in Indian culture and interaction with academics from different countries offered new perspectives on teaching, collaboration, and the role of cultural understanding in international education. The experience further reinforced the value of stepping beyond familiar academic environments to learn from different perspectives and bring those insights back to the University. Dr. Patimo’s participation in the IVPP highlights NwSSU’s continuing commitment to internationalization, faculty development, academic mobility, and global research collaboration, providing its faculty with opportunities to share expertise and build partnerships beyond the Philippines.   Photo Courtesy: Parul University

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.