Author: Joseph Renor Obrino

Bohol Island State University (BISU) recently initiated a benchmarking activity with Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) aimed at advancing quality assurance practices and achieving Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Stars recognition. Led by core teams from both institutions, the activity, held on June 20, 2024, at the University President’s Board Room, focused on sharing the best practices from NwSSU, insights into QS assessment instruments and portal utilization, and strategies to address challenges in achieving QS Stars results. Discussions also highlighted the role of Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) accreditation and the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) in elevating academic standards and institutional performance. This collaborative effort ensures that both universities continue to foster excellence in academic, research, and administrative aspects of higher education through strategic partnerships and knowledge exchange with peer institutions like NwSSU. #RISENwSSU

The Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), in collaboration with the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center, organized an “Introductory Course on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for SUCs’ Infrastructure and Development Projects” on June 20-21, 2024. The event took place at the Grand Ballroom of the Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay, Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City. The training aimed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of PPP frameworks tailored to the infrastructure and development needs of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). Attendees included SUC Presidents and Officers-in-Charge, Vice-Presidents for Administration and Finance and/or Planning, Directors of Project Management Offices, Directors of Planning Offices, PPP Focal Persons, and other relevant officials. The comprehensive course covered key concepts such as legal and regulatory frameworks, project identification, feasibility assessment, and the role of PPP in enhancing SUCs’ infrastructure and development. By focusing on case studies and best practices, the course aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue PPP initiatives effectively. Northwest Samar State University was represented by (L-R) Director of Planning Office, Ms. Jonah L. Salcedo, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, and Project Development Officer, Mr. Redem D. Tingzon. The event provided valuable insights into the process of project identification, feasibility assessment, and the selection of PPP initiatives, aiming to foster smart campus development and other projects aligned with each institution’s Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP).

Ms. Maria Norfrelij J. Cuadra, OIC-Focal Person of the NwSSU-Shared Service Facility (Food Processing), represented Region 8 as an official delegate at ProPak Asia 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand, from June 12-15, 2024. This international trade exhibition focuses on processing and packaging technologies for the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industries in Asia. During the event, Ms. Cuadra also participated in the DTI’s Outbound Trade and Investment Mission. The delegation engaged in various activities, including visits to the Institute of Food Research and Product Development (IFRPD) and the Faculty of Agro-Industry at Kasetsart University. These visits aimed to explore recent innovative techniques in research and development within academic settings. Additionally, the delegation toured several Thai food manufacturing industries, such as Thai Union Manufacturing Co., Ltd. and Greenday–A Calbee Group Company. These visits provided firsthand insights into their facilities, technologies, and commitment to high standards in food production. Moreover, visits to the Otop Midyear Expo and Iconsiam showcased Thailand’s broader strategy to deepen engagement with customers. This plays a crucial role in shaping public relations and fostering marketing relationships. Overall, the four-day event facilitated a positive experience, enhancing understanding of innovative practices encompassing new technologies, sustainable practices, and unique product development processes.

Representatives from the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts and the National Committee on Cultural Education arrived this morning ahead of the first leg of Durungawan 2024 Series which will be held at the Business Development Center on June 13-14, 2024. They were welcomed with music and dance by the university representatives and the City Arts and Culture Office Hadang Ritual Performers at the University Hotel and Restaurant. Photos courtesy of Catherine B. Rodriguez. #RISENwSSU#NCCA#Durungawan2024

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central and Field Office VIII, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Samar, NwSSU, and Samar State University, conducted a capacity building in preparation for the implementation of the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program from June 3-7, 2024, at the NwSSU Main Campus. The 5-day activity was attended by 58 participants, composed of tutors and Youth Development Workers (YDWs) who are set for pre-deployment to different communities in the Province of Samar in the last week of the month. #RISENwSSU#Tarabasa#AksyonPadayon#OnePeopleOneSamar#DSWD

June 6-7, 2024—The University Health Clinic of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), in collaboration with the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) of Calbayog City, organized a comprehensive Basic Life Support Training. Personnel from various university offices participated in the two-day training, which took place at the Multimedia Lab in the CCIS Building. The training aimed to equip staff members with essential life-saving skills. The event featured representatives from CDRRMO, including Dr. Sandro C. Daguman, Joseph Von P. Catorce, Ma. Fatima Shaira D. Adona, RN, and Jamaica A. Ultra, RN, who served as resource speakers and trainers. Their expertise ensured that the participants received thorough instruction and practical experience in basic life support techniques, thereby enhancing the university’s overall readiness for emergencies.

Darryl Tambis, a Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Science from Northwest Samar State University College of Education, placed 5th in the CBRC National Teacher Education Quiz Bee 2024, held last May 25 at San Andres Complex, Malate, Manila. Tambis secured his spot as the 5th placer out of 115 participants from various schools across the country. He was joined by his coach, Dr. Richard Verdeflor. Moreover, Tambis clinched the top spot of the provincial qualifying round of the said quiz bee, conducted on May 6 at the Sea View Inn, Catbalogan City, allowing him to advance to the national level, representing the Province of Samar. The NwSSU community warmly congratulates Tambis on his remarkable achievements.  #RISENwSSU

In an effort to foster international partnership and recognition, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took part in the recently held 4-day UTM Mobility Carnival (UMC) 2024, held at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Bahru Campus, Malaysia, from May 27-30. The UMC 2024 aimed to provide a platform for higher education institutions to showcase their mobility programs. During this event, each participating university had the opportunity to exhibit their institution and the mobility programs they offer. The event also featured booth exhibitions, networking and sharing sessions, as well as cultural performances. A total of sixty-six (66) participants representing thirty-nine (39) universities from sixteen (16) countries participated in this event. The event brought together students, faculty, and professionals from various disciplines and backgrounds. Dr. Iris B. Bejasa, Director of International Affairs, and Mr. John M. Tan, NwSSU-San Jorge Campus Head of International Affairs, represented NwSSU at the event. Both representatives successfully established connections with other institutions and organizations, leading to significant international linkages and collaboration for NwSSU.

The Union of Filipino Tourism Educators (UFTE) President Dr. Rumar Abaigar visited the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) to discuss its partnership for the upcoming National Convention for Tourism and Hospitality Educators in the Eastern Visayas region. The NwSSU was represented by Dr. Ramil Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Donald Patimo, Dean of the College of Management; Dr. Joseph Emil David, representative from the Research Office; and Mr. Ghilson Amor, BSTM Program Chairperson and UFTE Board Member. This event supports our quest to promote the local tourism industry in the Eastern Visayas region. Likewise, we expect educators, partners, guests, and visitors from different places and other institutions to explore the Samar and Leyte Provinces. The details of the said convention will be announced soon in collaboration with the Department of Tourism Region 8, Provincial Government of Samar, LGU Calbayog, Leyte Normal University, and Northwest Samar State University. #RISENwSSU