Author: Joseph Renor Obrino

University President Dr. Benjamin Pecayo and FANwSSU Vice President Dr. Romeo B. Santos convened with key officials, heads of offices, and representatives to deliberate on the implementation of Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Budget Circular 2025-2 governing the grant of the Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) Incentive. During the meeting, it was affirmed that the University fully satisfied all prescribed conditions for the grant of the CNA Incentive, namely: the existence of a valid CNA, the achievement beyond established performance accomplishment targets, and the timely submission of required accountability reports. In line with DBM guidelines on the allowable amount, the University is set to release the assured CNA Incentive to eligible personnel not earlier December 15, 2025. The CNA Incentive may be granted to both management and rank-and-file employees of agencies with approved and successfully implemented CNAs, serving as recognition of collective efforts in meeting performance targets at lower cost and in advancing more efficient and sustainable operations through cost-cutting measures and systems improvement. This development underscores the University’s sustained commitment to performance excellence, accountability, and shared gains arising from effective labor-management cooperation.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) held its Health Symposium on December 6, 2025, at the NwSSU BDC, with the theme “Heal, Protect, Transform: Integrated Health Sessions on Mental Wellness and Anti-Sexual Harassment.” Hosted by the University Health Center, the event brought together Graduate School Students, for a day of learning and empowerment focused on critical health and safety issues. Undergraduate students with Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Literacy Training Service (LTS) courses also attended the event virtually as part of their academic learning. The session kicked off with Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, Gender and Development (GAD) Director, who delivered a warm welcome message and shared the rationale behind the symposium—emphasizing the need to address gaps in mental health support and sexual harassment awareness among the university community. Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, University Nurse, then introduced the first speaker, Dr. Ofelia Amores Monesit-Abayan, who led the discussion on mental health. Dr. Abayan’s discussion centered on the profound psychological impact of violence, discrimination, and harassment on individuals’ lives, while also providing practical guidance on how to respond when faced with such challenges—including knowing when and how to voice out and take action. Attendees actively engaged by sharing their personal experiences, fostering a safe environment. She also highlighted key tools and skills for mental wellness, such as integrating positive practices and strengthening resiliency to empower self-esteem. Following her insightful presentation, the university awarded Dr. Abayan with a certificate of appreciation. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Moving to the next phase of the event, Dr. Ellery D. Daguman, University Dentist, introduced Atty. Ma. Cecile Candida Yabao-Rueda, who discussed on sexual harassment and the legal frameworks governing it, mainly focusing on Republic Act (RA) 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) and RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995). Atty. Rueda elaborated complaint and investigation procedures, the role of the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), penalties for violations, and strategies for prevention—including education, orientation, and gender sensitivity programs. She also stressed the importance of inclusivity and protection for all genders. After which, she was also awarded by the university a certificate of appreciation. The day concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Ian D. Becoñado, Multi-Faith Services Coordinator and CWTS Team Leader, who expressed gratitude to the university for prioritizing the safety and well-being of its stakeholders, as well as to the speakers for sharing their knowledge and expertise. He encouraged all students to not hesitate to report concerns to the University Health Center or GAD Office while assuring them full support and protection. Beyond benefiting the attendees, the symposium benefited as well NwSSU with its commitment to foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive academic institution. The event also enhanced the university’s institutional reputation as a leader in addressing mental health and gender equality, aligned with its academic values of holistic student development. By equipping students and graduate students with knowledge and resources, the event prepares them to be responsible individuals who advocate for justice and wellness.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) played a critical role in regional economic collaboration by joining the Eastern Visayas Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Summit 2025. The event was held on December 5, 2025, at The Tropics at McArthur in Palo, Leyte. As one of the valued SSF cooperators, NwSSU was represented by Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, Supervising Administrative Officer, and Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of the Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office (IMCO). Their participation reflected NwSSU’s commitment to addressing challenges and shaping actionable solutions for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) development through local SSF Programs. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the summit united SSF partners across Eastern Visayas to celebrate achievements, share best practices, and explore opportunities for business growth and networking. The SSF Program is designed to empower MSMEs and boost their productivity by providing access to essential machinery, equipment, tools, and skills. NwSSU currently manages two SSFs for Food Processing across both its campuses and is preparing to launch an upcoming SSF for a Digital Fabrication and Printing Production Center. This highlights its potential role as a catalyst for economic innovation in the region. The summit commenced with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the SSF Photo Gallery and Region 8 Product Special Setting, led by DTI Regional Director Dr. Celerina T. Bato. Opening remarks emphasized collaboration, featuring messages of support from regional directors and focal persons. Attendees then delved into an agenda that blended reflective discussions with forward-looking strategies. Mr. Artemio T. Almazan III, OIC of the Chief of the Business Development Division (BDD), provided an overview of the summit’s goals, followed by Mr. Alfee Rei Galapon, Chief Trade Industry Development Specialist (CTIDS), who presented the SSF Physical and Financial Accomplishments. An open forum concluded the morning session, allowing stakeholders to voice concerns, with DTI’s Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development (BSMED) pledging national action to address regional challenges. adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. The afternoon session featured the event’s highlight: the presentation of the Best SSF Project Award 2025 from the SSF Programs across Eastern Visayas’ six provinces. A “Fast Talk” segment then showcased insights from the Region 8 Best SSF 2025 Nominees, offering inspiration for scalable models in various sectors, including digital manufacturing. NwSSU’s representatives actively participated, sharing expertise on best practices and strategies concerning presentation, usufruct agreements, ownership transfer, and local MSME development. As academic cooperators, they focused on the integration of academic resources with industry needs. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to the Region 8 Best SSF Project 2025 awardee and the panel judges. The awardee’s acceptance speech highlighted the transformative potential of partnerships, while the judges emphasized the importance of adaptability in sustaining MSME competitiveness. The SSF Summit 2025 not only celebrated progress but also outlined a roadmap for resiliency and inclusive growth. By nurturing interaction among academia, government, and industry, events like this strengthen the SSF Program’s impact, turning challenges into opportunities. NwSSU’s proactive role signals its evolution from an educational institution to a key regional development partner, ready to equip MSMEs with the means to thrive in an evolving economy. As Eastern Visayas embraces innovation and collaboration, the summit’s outcomes promise a brighter future for local enterprises and communities across the region.

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) solidified its commitment to advancing graduate employability by formalizing a key collaboration during the “Bridging Futures: Partnership Signing and Turnover Ceremony,” held on December 5, 2025, at the Balay Samarnon (Old PNB Building). University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo played a pivotal role in the event, signing the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Career Development Support and Employment Facilitation Program. This strategic partnership aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring graduates gain streamlined access to career opportunities. Hon. Sharee Ann Tan, Governor of Samar Province, opened the ceremony with an inspiring welcome message, emphasizing the region’s dedication to fostering education that transforms lives. The highlight of the event was the partnership signing and turnover, symbolizing a unified effort among NwSSU, Samar State University (SSU), and the Schools Division Offices (SDOs) of DepEd Catbalogan, Calbayog, and Samar. Representatives from each institution emphasized their shared goals: equipping graduates with competitive skills and facilitating sustainable employment. Messages from DepEd SDO officials and university presidents further emphasized the vital link between education and workforce development. ​Before the ceremony concluded, Mr. Klint Francis P. Langi, President of the Samar National High School SSLG, delivered a heartfelt closing speech, urging the representatives to persist in their efforts to secure a bright future for the student body. The event concluded with the turnover of partnership documents, marking a new chapter for Samar’s educational institutions. The ceremony not only celebrated institutional unity but also asserted a collective mission to turn education into opportunity, ensuring every graduate steps confidently into a thriving future.

DECEMBER 2, 2025 — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through the Office of Community that Adapts Sustainable Paralled Gender Inclusive Beneficial Opportunities and Nurturing Governance (CASUGBONG), united and demonstrated its commitment to ending Violence Against Women (VAW) with a dynamic 18-Day Celebration event at the RSU Socio-Cultural Center. The campaign’s activities, themed “VAW-Free Philippines,” blended advocacy, education, and community engagement to raise awareness about gender-based violence and empower faculty, students, and staff to take action. The morning session commenced with the VAW-Free Philippines Motorcade 2025, a vibrant procession from the university to the Calbayog community highways, symbolizing solidarity against gender-based violence. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, Director of the Office of Gender and Development, emphasized the event’s rationale, highlighting the urgency of addressing VAW through collective efforts. Calbayog PNP officer followed with a safety briefing, ensuring participants adhered to protocols during the motorcade. After the motorcade, the focus shifted to education with a symposium on RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), led by Atty. Ma. Cecile Candida Y. Rueda. Her discussion emphasized the law’s role in combating online harassment and protecting women in cybercrimes. Concurrently, students showcased their creativity and knowledge through an On-the-Spot Slogan Contest and Quiz Bee, fostering student involvement in the advocacy. The afternoon session opened with Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivering welcome remarks that reaffirmed NwSSU’s dedication to gender equality. Atty. Rueda resumed her symposium, diving deeper into cybercrime prevention strategies and ones’ rights, giving participants practical insights into legal protections and reporting mechanisms. The event then celebrated outstanding students with the Awarding of Winners for the slogan and quiz competitions, recognizing their contributions to boosting the campaign’s goal. As the day concluded, Mr. Alvin Lentejas, NwSSU’s Multi-Purpose Manager, delivered a sincere message of support, urging the university and the society to sustain momentum beyond the 18-day observance. His speech highlighted the university’s role as a pioneer for societal change, calling for continuous collaboration among students, faculty, and local partners. NwSSU’s 18-Day Campaign Celebration not only educated participants but also strengthened solidarity to eradicate VAW. By integrating policy education, creative expression, and institutional leadership, the event exemplified the principles of a VAW-Free Philippines, inspiring hope and action across Samar and beyond.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) proudly celebrates the success of its Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) major in English students who distinguished themselves at the 1st International and 3rd National Language and Literature Undergraduate Research Conference. Hosted by Leyte Normal University on November 27–28, 2025, the event saw NwSSU students showcasing exceptional research capability and academic confidence, earning recognition on the international stage. BSED English student Simon Peter Carl D. L. Maala brought home the Outstanding Paper Presentation Award after delivering a compelling presentation of his group’s study, “Exploring Pre-Service Teachers’ Perceptions of Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Tool.” Maala’s strong command of the topic, clear articulation, and insightful discussion impressed evaluators during the parallel sessions. The paper, co-authored with Regilene O. Salomon, Azi L. Cajurao, Ma. Fe Donadillo, and Alimar C. Deliquiña, was developed under the mentorship of Dr. Maria Lucil H. Dollado, whose guidance significantly strengthened the study’s scholarly depth. Representing the university with equal distinction, Aila L. Atis presented her group’s study titled “AI Reliance among Education Students: Basis for a Capability-Building Workshop on Responsible AI Use.” Delivered with poise and clarity, Atis’s presentation contributed to vital discussions on emerging technologies in education. The research, which highlights the need for ethical digital practices in academic work, was conducted with Dawn Bustillo, Rhea Encenares, John Alkind Pantaleon, Jesica Pobadora, and Vieda Zosie Talon under the advisership of Mr. Avin Carl V. Cruzada. These accomplishments strengthen NwSSU’s commitment to nurturing a robust research culture within the College of Education. The students’ success not only brings pride to the institution but also affirms the capability of “Norwesians” to excel in national and international academic arenas. NwSSU extends its warm congratulations to the presenters, researchers, and advisers for bringing honor to the university through their outstanding participation.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Kapit-Bisig Sa Mawacat Association (KASAMA) strengthened their commitment to community-driven growth with a landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on November 14, 2025, at the NwSSU Board Room. Led by Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, and Mrs. Dionesia T. Mayran, KASAMA President, the collaboration institutes the extension project “Strategic and Sustainability Planning for KASAMA,” designed to empower the Brgy. Mawacat community through innovative livelihood strategies. The partnership aligns with NwSSU’s mandate to advance education, research, and extension services while supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). NwSSU’s extension efforts, through the College of Management, in Brgy. Mawacat emerged as a model of community-led development, focusing on poverty alleviation, skills training, and agricultural innovation. The 2022 assessment of KASAMA highlighted the need for enhanced strategic planning to ensure long-term sustainability, stimulating NwSSU’s renewed pledge to support the association. The MOA emphasizes a shared vision fostering equitable, innovative, and sustainable partnerships that connects academic expertise with community needs. With Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, NwSSU Project Leader, Mr. Esteban C. Sabar Jr., COM Extension Coordinator, Dr. Francis C. Toleza, and KASAMA members including Mrs. Ma. Linda M. Judloman, the project aims to refine cooperative strategies, enhance member capacities, and enhance public sector partnerships.