Author: Joseph Renor Obrino

Sponsored by the University Health Center in coordination with the Calbayog City Health Office, Northwest Samar State University promotes community health and safety by organizing a two-day Basic Life Support (BLS) Training for its teaching and non-teaching personnel held on November 25-26, 2024, at the CCIS Multimedia Room. The training, aligned with the Health Emergency Management Bureau’s vision of “Kaligtasang pang-Kalusugan sa Kalamidad sa Kamay ng Komunidad” (5K), aimed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills to respond effectively to emergencies. Participants were trained in various aspects of BLS, including: Principles of Emergency Care, Introduction to Basic Life Support, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Respiratory Arrest and Rescue Breathing, and Foreign Body Airway Obstruction. The training program followed a comprehensive approach, starting with a pre-test to assess participants’ existing knowledge, followed by interactive discussions and demonstrations led by expert resource speakers, Mr. Joseph Von P. Catorce and Ms. Ma. Fatima Shaira D. Adona. A post-test was conducted to evaluate participants’ understanding of the concepts. On the second day, participants practiced their newly acquired skills through return demonstrations and skills evaluations, overseen by Mr. Catorce, Ms. Adona, Dr. Sandro Daguman, and Ms. Jamaica Ultra. The event was anchored on the legal bases of Administrative Order 155 s. 2004, Section VI, and Republic Act 10871 – the “Basic Life Support Training in Schools Act.” This training program aligns with the strategic objective of developing the capacity of the community and families to prepare for, respond to, and cope with emergencies and disasters. “This training is very important and timely. Labi na kay this week, Intramurals na,” Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, the University Vice-President for Academic Affairs noted during his closing remarks. NwSSU’s Basic Life Support training underscores its dedication to creating a secure and healthy environment, not just within the university but also in the wider community. This initiative equips individuals to respond effectively to emergencies, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and prepared community.

The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) held its highly anticipated 79th Annual National Convention (ANC) from November 20 to 23, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center, Lanang, Davao City.Themed “Values Above All,” the four-day event gathered around 4,000 Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and finance professionals from across the nation and beyond, including representatives from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU): Mr. Gil Leovigildo Ancheta, Mr. Michael Angelo Lucero, Ms. Melanie Maria Senario, Mr. Cornelio Jr. Bautista, Mr. Rogelio Cabarles, Mr. Michael Noel Obrino, and Ms. Lizyl De Leon. The PICPA ANC, is one of the most significant event for Filipino CPAs, providing participants with opportunities to explore the latest advancements, best practices, and critical insights into the ever-evolving landscape of accountancy. With a comprehensive lineup of technical sessions led by esteemed experts, the event covered a wide range of topics, including emerging financial technologies, ethical leadership, and global accounting trends. NwSSU representatives actively engaged in the sessions, gaining new knowledge to enhance their professional expertise while also networking with peers and industry leaders. They brought out the importance of staying updated on current practices to further strengthen the university’s fiscal and administrative strategies. The convention fostered camaraderie among participants through various social activities designed to encourage collaboration and unity in the accountancy profession. NwSSU’s participation highlighted its dedication to excellence ensuring its personnel remain at the forefront of their profession.

Pasay City, Philippines – Hosted by the National Capital Region School Registrars Association (NACSRA), the Federation of School Registrars Association (FOSRA) successfully held its 16th General Assembly on November 14-15, 2024, at Le Pavillon Events Hall, Pasay City, uniting school registrars and international program officers from higher education institutions across the country, with the theme “Reconnecting Registrars in Bridging Borders and Navigating the Global Impact of Internationalization on Registrar Services.” Representing Northwest Samar State University were Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV, Registrar of the Main Campus, and Engr. Elegrecio M. Timan, San Jorge Campus Registrar. A highlight of the event was the recognition of Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV, who serves as the President of the Eastern Visayas Registrars Association of Higher Education Institutions (EVRAHEI). In acknowledgment of his exemplary leadership, Engr. Zosa was appointed as a member of the Board of Trustees of FOSRA, representing Region 8. His inclusion in the Board reflects his pivotal role in advancing registrar services in Eastern Visayas and strengthening the region’s voice on the national stage. “This is both an honor and a responsibility. As President of EVRAHEI and now a member of the FOSRA Board of Trustees, I will continue to advocate for professional growth and innovation among registrars, particularly in the context of internationalization,” Zosa said. Led by experts from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and top-performing HEIs, the assembly featured discussions such as internationalization program of CHED, strategies for implementation, and its implications for registrars and international program officers, Participants also shared experiences, tackled common challenges, and explored opportunities for collaboration in the context of international education. The event fostered camaraderie among registrars nationwide and promoted proactive engagement with CHED’s global initiatives. “The insights we’ve gained will help improve our practices at NwSSU and ensure we are globally competitive,” Engr. Timan noted. NwSSU’s active participation and recognition at the FOSRA 16th General Assembly reaffirms its dedication to academic excellence, global engagement, and innovative registrar services, positioning the institution as a key player in the internationalization of higher education in the Philippines.

Calbayog City Convention Center – The 24th UFTE National Annual Tourism Educators Convention 2024 and Research Conference, themed “Tourism and Peace: Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories,” continued its second day in Calbayog City on November 20, 2024, with a blend of cultural immersion and insightful discussions. Hosted by Northwest Samar State University and LGU Calbayog, the day showcased the warm hospitality of the Waraynon and highlighted the unique tourism offerings of Calbayog and the wider Samar region. The event was made possible by the strong support of Hon. Mayor Raymund C. Uy, Hon. Vice Mayor Rex Daguman, and Hon. Gov. Sharee Ann Tan. “Thank you for the soft heart in accepting this invitation,” Dr. Rumar Abaigar, UFTE President expressed gratitude to the host of the national convention. After kicking off with a Research Conference at Leyte Normal University, the second day of the national convention began with a festive atmosphere, featuring ASCA performances showcasing the vibrant Hadang Festival and traditional folk songs of Calbayog. The day’s program featured two engaging presentations. Mr. Ronald Ricafort, Calbayog City Tourism Officer, presented “Getting to Know Calbayog,” highlighting the city’s rich history as the 19th oldest city in the Philippines and its reputation as the “City of Waterfalls in Visayas.” Through captivating videos, he showcased the city’s diverse attractions, including the Malajog Ridge Zipline, Tarangban Falls, and Isla Pawikan, while emphasizing its unique culinary, arts, cultural experiences, farm tourism opportunities, and local products. Mr. Marvin R. Piczon, Samar Provincial Tourism Officer, in his presentation titled “Fostering Conscious Travelers’ Approaches for Promoting Responsible Tourism,” explored the “Spark Samar” initiative, a program launched in 2015 to boost tourism in Samar. He highlighted the region’s challenges, including poverty, natural disasters, and insurgency, but also celebrated its achievements, such as the aesthetic lighting of the San Juanico Bridge, the “Secret Kitchen of Samar,” and the development of “Lara,” a brand name for the region’s unique banig bags. Piczon underscored the importance of community-based tourism, highlighting the training of People’s Organizations and the creation of employment opportunities. He also accentuated the international and national awards received by Samar for its unique tourism offerings. The day concluded with an open forum, heritage tour in Calbayog City, and a cultural fellowship night which is one of the spectacular highlights sponsored by the LGU of Calbayog. The second day of the convention showcased the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Calbayog City and the Samar region, highlighting the region’s potential as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. The event provided a valuable platform for tourism educators, industry partners, and local officials to share knowledge, collaborate, and explore new opportunities for the growth and development of the tourism sector in the Philippines. The UFTE National Convention will continue its third day with a Spark Samar Adventure Tour, hosted by Gov. Tan and the Provincial Government of Samar, featuring a torpedo boat ride in Paranas and an adventure to the Sohoton Cave in Basey. The convention will conclude on November 22nd with a Kalanggaman Island Tour.

For the second time, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has recognized Northwest Samar State University’s commitment to agricultural innovation by awarding a PHP 4.992 million grant from the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF) for the upgrade of its food processing facility through an official signing of the grant agreement. The grant agreement was signed by representatives from the two institutions: Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of DA and Head, ACEF Executive Committee, and Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, President of NwSSU. The project, led by Ms. Maria Norfrelij J. Cuadra, Program Chairperson of the BS Food Technology (BSFT) program, intends to strengthen agricultural research that would be of great advantage to local farmers and fisherfolk through the boosting of innovation in food technology. It will enhance NwSSU’s capacity to deliver frontline advanced trainings and research on food processing, while designing and implementing sustainable practices that will lift regional economic growth. Ms. Cuadra with her co-project leaders, Dr. Rosalia L. Briones, Dr. Lorelie F. Tangaran, Ms. Nelissa A. Sudaria, and Ms. Maria Joana T. Nicolas, will oversee the upgrade of the food processing facility, including renovations, procurement of essential equipment, and the development of an operational manual. This falls with the thrust of DA in empowering rural communities through new opportunities and increased productivity for the agricultural sector in Samar. The entire NwSSU community extends heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Norfrelij Cuadra and her co-project leaders to their leadership in bringing this project to realization. This endeavor not only strengthens NwSSU’s infrastructure but also solidifies its role as a catalyst for growth and resilience within Samar’s agricultural sector. NwSSU also expresses its deep gratitude to the DA and ACEF Executive Committee for this invaluable opportunity. #RISENwSSU#DAACEFGrantsNwSSU

In a retro vibe, Northwest Samar State University marked a momentous occasion with its Papuri and Pasundayag Night, uniting the university community to honor its 64th Foundation Anniversary, 42nd Charter Day, and 15th Universityhood Anniversary all under the theme, “Unity in Milestones: Celebrating 64 Years of Tradition, Transformation, and Triumph,” on November 18. As part of the two-day University Days celebration, the event, hosted by the College of Education, featured the much-awaited State of the University Address (SUA) 2024 delivered by University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo. In his address, Dr. Pecayo outlined the university’s significant accomplishments over the past year, including infrastructure projects, curriculum advancements, and research breakthroughs, while sharing ambitious goals for the future. One of the most anticipated parts of the program was the Papuri/PRAISE Awarding, which acknowledged outstanding contributions from faculty, staff, and stakeholders. Leading the ceremony were Dr. Pecayo, university’s key officials, and the PRAISE Committee, who presented the awards such Retiree Service, Loyalty, Best Supervisor, and Posthumous to deserving employees of the university. The event continued through “Pasundayag” kicking off a lively presentation from the ASCA performers. The excitement continued with a singing competition, where solo and duet performers battled. For dance competition, participants dazzled with their mastery of Cha-Cha, Swing, and Tango routines. Adding to the excitement was the raffle draw, where lucky participants won special prizes. The evening concluded with a solidarity dance, embodying the spirit of togetherness and celebration that defines the NwSSU community.

Business Development Center | Northwest Samar State University hosted a timely and informative forum on HIV, Cervical Cancer, and SOGIE 101 awareness as part of its University Days celebration on November 18, 2024. This collaborative effort, led by Gender and Development (GAD) Office, Guidance Office, University Clinic, and Faculty Association of NwSSU (FANwSSU), with support from the LGU of Calbayog City, drew faculty and staff together, aiming to raise awareness and promote preventive measures related to these critical health and social issues. Dr. Ma. Felipa Fabrigaras, a physician and resource speaker at the forum, stressed the importance of prevention when it comes to cervical cancer. She stated that prevention is better than cure and that women should undergo regular checkups and vaccinations, even if they do not experience any symptoms. She recommended HPV vaccines, pap smear tests, and visual inspection with acetic acid as effective preventive measures. Dr. Fabrigaras also emphasized that addressing cervical cancer is a shared responsibility, urging both men and women to be informed about the disease. Another esteemed resource speaker and Human Rights advocate, Atty. Marcel Milliam, addressed SOGIE 101 and HIV-AIDS. He discussed salient insights on sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, and sexual characteristics. He then urged parents to allow children to express themselves freely. “Parents should not suppress children in following specific gender roles while playing. Let them play and soon they will discover their identity,” he said as suppression will further lead to fixation. He then stressed that, “SOGIE is personal and self-determined.” Atty. Milliam also highlighted the importance of understanding HIV. He explained that people should bear in mind the ESSE Principle of HIV Transmission – Exit, Sufficiency, Survival, and Entry. He concluded by stating that HIV patients need support, not discrimination. The forum served as a valuable platform for raising awareness and promoting open dialogue about these important issues within the NwSSU community. As part of this initiative, the University Clinic also offered free screening and testing for HIV, cervical cancer, and syphilis to pregnant women. This reflects the university’s dedication to strengthening a safe and inclusive environment where all members feel supported and empowered to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Northwest Samar State University is celebrating a noteworthy breakthrough with the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) approval and research funding support of ₱4 million pesos for the project titled, “Upgrading of Poultry and High Value Crops Production Facility.” The project proposal, led by Dr. Archie Lauderes with project members- Dr. Rosalia L. Briones, Mr. Wendell L. Ultra, Ms. Sance J. Secondez, Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, Dr. Eugenia A. Lonzaga, and Mr. Mark Vincent G. Latras, was submitted to the DA through the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) and has secured a research grant under the Agricultural Competitive Enhancement Fund ( ACEF). The project aims to: (1) operate the upgraded laboratory facilities to support extension and research activities, benefiting farmer beneficiaries in Calbayog City, (2) augment laboratory facilities and equipment for the BS in Agriculture (BSA) and Bachelor of Agricultural Technology (BAT) programs, leading to skills development in students, and (3) provide the necessary laboratory requirements to achieve Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) and meet the standards of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). This funding will enable NwSSU to strengthen its commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainable development in the Samar region. The DA’s support is an epitome of the strength of NwSSU’s project proposal and its potential to contribute to the advancement of agriculture in the region. Congratulations to Dr. Lauderes and the entire NwSSU team for this remarkable achievement!

In accordance with the provisions of RA 7722 or the Higher Education Act of 1994, and by virtue of the Commission on Higher Education Commission En Banc Resolution No. 580-2024, CHED Central Office has issued the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) of NwSSU’s BS Nursing Program. The COPC certifies that the university complies with at least the prescribed minimum requirements stipulated in the program policies, standards, and guidelines by CHED to offer the program. The COPC was received today, November 13, 2024 by the Vice President for Administration and Finance, Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling at the CHED Central Office in Quezon City. Congratulations, NwSSU! #RISENwSSU#NwSSUBSN

The Center for Local Governance of Northwest Samar State University -Research Innovation and Extension had a productive meeting with Hon. Mayor Felix R. Panganoron of Sta. Margarita, Samar, on November 12, 2024. The meeting, which took place in Sta. Margarita, gathered key figures from both the local government and NwSSU, including Dr. Nicolas L. Faller, Director of the Center for Local Governance, Engr. Eugene S. Calong, University Network Administrator, and Ms. Glomarie Orongan, office staff of the CLG. The main agenda is to propose Smart Municipality project in digitizing various aspects of Sta. Margarita’s local governance and services. The project which will be a partnership between the local government and NwSSU’s Center for Local Governance, seeks to enhance the municipality’s efficiency and accessibility by integrating modern digital technologies. The initial discussions were positive, with Mayor Felix expressing enthusiasm and looking forward for a successful partnership with the project. The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with plans for further collaboration and development of the smart municipality framework set to continue in the coming months. This partnership will mark the exciting phase of modernization in the Sta. Margarita local government as NwSSU expertise takes the lead in turning the municipality into a more connected and efficient community.