Author: Raffy Ticong

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.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) actively joined the opening ceremonies of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) held on September 3 at the Summit Hotel, Tacloban City. Spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), this year’s celebration carries the theme “Siyensiya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan” and centers on the regional thrust “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities.” The week-long event underscores the transformative role of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in fostering inclusive and sustainable development across Eastern Visayas. On the second day, NwSSU engaged in the Inter-Consortia R&D Forum through a compelling poster and video presentation. Representing the university were Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, alongside Mr. Harris Tarrayo, Mr. Mervin Madria, Mr. Ervin Rodriguez, and Mr. Novlloyd Celeste—each contributing expertise and insight into NwSSU’s ongoing research initiatives. As RSTW unfolds, NwSSU remains committed to engaging in its full slate of activities, proudly showcasing its innovations and collaborative efforts with fellow institutions in the region. Through its presence and participation, the university foregrounds its dedication to advancing research and technology that empower resilient, future-ready communities.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) marked a significant milestone in its commitment to food technology advancement with the successful virtual inception meeting for the project “Upgrading of Food Processing Facility at NwSSU–Main Campus” held on August 27, 2025. Backed by the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agricultural Research, the initiative aims to strengthen NwSSU’s capacity in research, instruction, and extension services related to food processing. The upgraded facility is envisioned to become a dynamic hub for innovation, training, and applied research—serving both the academic community and local stakeholders.s The meeting brought together representatives from partner agencies, local government units, and community organizations, all expressing strong support for the project’s goals. Their active participation reflects a shared commitment to fostering academic excellence, industry collaboration, and inclusive development. Through this strategic undertaking, NwSSU reinforces its role as a catalyst for regional progress—enhancing its academic and research capabilities while building meaningful partnerships with local enterprises and communities. The upgraded facility is expected to unlock new opportunities for knowledge-sharing, product development, and sustainable growth.

Northwest Samar State University proudly presents Ms. Samantha G. Lapuz, a fourth-year Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English student, as its official candidate for the Miss Hadang Festival Queen 2025.A Top 8 Finalist in Miss Anyag 2023, Ms. Lapuz brings with her a wealth of pageant experience and a radiant blend of intelligence, elegance, and cultural pride. She exemplifies the empowered Filipina—articulate, resilient, and deeply rooted in tradition. The NwSSU community is warmly encouraged to rally behind Ms. Lapuz as she graces this prestigious celebration of beauty, heritage, and identity.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calbayog formally strengthened their collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on August 15, 2025, at the NwSSU Business Development Center. The agreement centers on the Flood Guard Calbayog initiative, a system designed to deliver accurate and dependable flood risk maps using Automated Weather Station (AWS) precipitation and weather data. The partnership outlines NwSSU’s commitment to ensure the system’s reliability, provide technical assistance, conduct training for LGU personnel, and share relevant data in compliance with privacy and security regulations. Meanwhile, the LGU commits to integrating the flood risk maps into disaster risk reduction plans, assigning trained personnel, and ensuring the responsible use of shared data. Present during the signing were Hon. Raymund C. Uy, City Mayor of Calbayog; Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, NwSSU President; Mr. Augusto L. Magdaraog, City Administrator; Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; and Dr. Sandro Daguman, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer. Their presence underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to building a more resilient community.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has marked another milestone in its academic advancement as two programs under the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) officially received the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office VIII. The Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) with specialization in Construction Engineering and Management, and the Bachelor of Science in Architecture have been granted the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) by the Commission on Higher Education. These recognitions certify that both programs meet CHED’s prescribed minimum requirements, ensuring their continued offering at the NwSSU Main Campus in Calbayog City, Samar. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, CEA Dean Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon, and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ramil S. Catamora represented NwSSU in receiving the certificates. The achievement follows a series of rigorous preparations, documentary compliance, and program evaluations, including the CHED ocular inspection on July 31, 2025. The COPC grant is the result of sustained institutional effort aimed at elevating the university’s engineering and architecture programs to meet and exceed national quality standards. With these certifications, NwSSU strengthens its commitment to delivering quality education that prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to infrastructure, architectural design, and sustainable development in the region.