Author: Joseph Renor Obrino

The Office of Extension Services of Northwest Samar State University, through the leadership of Dr. Catherine B. Rodriguez and other review panel members, held an In-House Review 2024 on November 11-12 at the RIE Conference Room. The two-day event showcased innovative extension proposals which were reviewed by the institutional extension review panel members together with two expert evaluators, Dr. Getulio A. Barcenas Jr. and Oscar D. Billate Jr. The two-day event gathered personnel of the university, extensionists, and stakeholders to review a diverse array of projects designed to address critical community needs in the Samar region. The first day featured a wide range of projects emphasizing agriculture, environmental conservation, and community development, presented by a dedicated group of experts. The second day highlighted initiatives aimed at educational and community empowerment, with a particular focus on supporting educators and enhancing learning systems for lasting impact. The In-House Review 2024 became the proving ground for the expansion of NwSSU academic expertise in addressing real-world issues. It targets initiatives in disaster preparedness, agriculture, digital literacy, and education support that could empower Samar communities toward sustainable solutions. These extension projects reinforce NwSSU’s dedication to quality education and meaningful societal contributions, ensuring a lasting positive impact on local communities.

Northwest Samar State University took a significant step toward fostering innovation and intellectual property (IP) awareness by hosting the “Invention Spotting: Patent Search Workshop” held on November 4-5, 2024 at RSU-Socio Cultural Center. Organized by the NwSSU Innovation Office, the workshop provided participants with essential skills to conduct effective patent searches and understand the process of securing intellectual property rights for their inventions. The two-day workshop featured interactive sessions, each lasting eight hours, led by Dr. Ervin L. Rodriguez, NwSSU’s ITSO Manager and Director of the Innovation Office. The event drew over 400 participants, including third-year BSIT students, MSME beneficiaries, and representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Center for Excellence in Intellectual Property (CEIPO). This initiative aligns with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL)’s “DREAM” mandate, which promotes the use of patent knowledge as a tool for technological advancement. By offering this training, NwSSU plays a vital role in empowering its community to protect and develop new ideas, contributing to local and national innovation. Through this workshop, NwSSU positions itself as a key driver of technological progress in Samar, equipping students, faculty, and local stakeholders with the tools to secure intellectual property and forge future innovations.

On November 8, 2024, the College of Management of Northwest Samar State University transformed the RSU Socio-Cultural Center into a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture with its “Fiesta Fiasco” event. Aligned with the Philippine Tourism, Geography, and Culture course, the event aimed to honor and showcase the nation’s rich heritage through music, dance, and traditional attire which are evident to the valiant performers from first year BS Hospitality Management and BS Tourism Management students. The highlight of “Fiesta Fiasco” was a vivacious competition in which students performed traditional dances, musical numbers, and showcased costumes, each team striving to capture the essence of a Filipino fiesta. The event commenced with an invocation, followed by an opening message from Dr. Donald M. Patimo, Dean of the College of Management. Mrs. Camela B. Gabia, a core faculty member for the BSTM program, then presented the rationale behind the celebration. Dr. Iris Bejasa, a core faculty member of the BSHM program, delivered closing remarks to conclude the formal program, with other faculty members in attendance. Awards were presented to outstanding participants in recognition of their creativity and dedication to celebrating Filipino culture. “Fiesta Fiasco” proved to be both an enjoyable and educational experience, inspiring students and attendees alike to embrace and take pride in their cultural heritage.

The Quality Assurance and Internal Audit (QAIA) unit conducted a three-day training workshop on Quality Assurance and Internal Audit from November 5-7, 2024. The activity was held at the 2nd floor of BDC building with sessions of the last day held at the University Hotel Conference Room. This workshop was participated in by newly hired teaching and non-teaching personnel of Northwest Samar State University. In a significant move to enhance its quality management practices, the Quality Assurance and Internal Audit (QAIA) program spearheaded by the university’s ISO Focal Person and IQA Head, Claville Meneses, aims to bolster the institution’s dedication to achieving excellence in education and institutional performance. Key speakers at the event included Ms. Claville Meneses, Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, Mrs. Maria Lourdes V. Billate, and Mr. Paolo N. Meñozo. Topics covered included a comprehensive overview of the Quality Management System (QMS) and its requirements (Clauses 4-10), principles of internal quality auditing, characteristics of an effective auditor, best practices in conducting audits, and detailed insights into NwSSU’s internal quality audit processes. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo also attended, showing strong support for the initiative. The QAIA project seeks to orient and train a team of internal quality auditors within NwSSU, with an emphasis on fostering a deeper understanding of the university’s Quality Management System (QMS) processes and ISO 9001:2015 standards. The Tagalog word “KAYA,” meaning “can” or “able to,” encapsulates the empowering mission of this training, which encourages every participant to contribute actively to quality assurance efforts. The workshop is designed not only to educate but also to equip staff with practical, hands-on auditing skills to help drive improvements across campus operations.

In a drive to strengthen research capabilities, NwSSU delegation, led by Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, VP for Research, Innovation, and Extension, actively participated in the Capacity Building Committee Training on Research Designs, Data Science, and Analysis, hosted by the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium from November 5-7, 2024, at Hotel de Fides, Tacloban City. The event aimed to enhance research proficiency among 33 member institutions in Eastern Visayas. The training comprised lecture and workshop sessions covering Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods, as well as Data Science and Data Analytics. Mr. Avin Carl Cruzada, a dedicated NwSSU graduate school faculty member, also presented outputs, demonstrating the practical application of the knowledge gained during the training. The NwSSU delegation also included Jayrose Paldez-Ortiz from San Jorge Campus, Vincent Masecampo from the College of Management, and Neil Darryl Branzuela from the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences. The university’s involvement in this training signifies its continuous efforts to enhance research capabilities and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and data analysis in the academic landscape, thereby cultivating research excellence and innovation.

Today, November 4, the flag raising ceremony at Northwest Samar State University is marked by two significant observances: a Day of National Mourning for the victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine and the kick-off of English Month Celebration 2024. In accordance with Proclamation No. 728 from the President of the Philippines, the Philippine National Flag is flown at half-mast as a sign of respect for those who lost their lives in the recent storm. Following the observance of the Day of National Mourning, the English Month Celebration 2024 is officially launched under the theme “English as a Catalyst: Fostering Global Communication and Innovation.” Dr. Maria Lucil Dollado, an English Professor at NwSSU, provided the rationale for the theme, explaining its significance in today’s interconnected world. The English Educators Association further enhanced the ceremony with an inspiring speech choir performance of “Peace not War” by Patricia Lithuanian. The powerful rendition served as a reminder of the unifying power of language and the importance of promoting peace and understanding. The flag raising ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the importance of national unity and the role of language in bridging cultures and connecting people across the globe.

November 7, 2024- A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement by and between the LGU-Calbayog City and NwSSU providing for the release of a P1,000,000.00 of the former as its tangible partnership share in the latter’s hosting of the SCUAA 2024, took place at Business Development Center, NwSSU. The Hon. Raymund C. Uy, being the City Mayor represented the LGU-Calbayog while Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, the University President, represented the NwSSU as both stalwarts expressed strong commitment to offer the best possible experience for the SCUAA delegates and guests. “Damo kami challenges san pag host san SCUAA. As a matter of fact, I am worried. Medyo nagkukusog la akon buot, an akon kursunada kun nakita ako damo nasuporta para san SCUAA. Nawawara akon ka worry kun nakita ako damo nagbuburublig,” said Pres. Pecayo who expressed his concerns while being overwhelmed by the support of the stakeholders. Meanwhile, Mayor Uy assured the President and the University of his full support, further urging everyone to contribute to its success. “Diri ini magiging successful kun diri an kada tagsa magburubligay,” he emphasized. Several City Councilors, LGU Department Heads, representatives from other agencies, University key officials, and SCUAA Committee chairpersons were present during the said significant event and were witnesses to the commitments shared by both parties. The MOA signing was immediately followed by a series of presentations on the general overview on SCUAA 2024, preparation of facilities, opportunities for economic gains, preparation for medical and response to emergencies, parade and tourism preparations, media and promotional activities, and coordination of sports events from which the participants have drawn their ideas and expressed suggestions on what help can be provided from various ends. This cooperative effort aims to deliver a seamless flow of events that celebrate student-athlete excellence, foster camaraderie among state universities and colleges, and showcase the Calbayog City’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

Northwest Samar State University proactively sent a delegation to AACUP initiative titled, “Accreditors’ Bayanihan,” held from November 6-8, 2024, at the ICON Center, Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite, with the theme, “Moving Together toward Accreditation 4.0 to Advance Quality Assurance in The Digital Age.” Accreditors’ Bayanihan embodies the Filipino spirit of solidarity, promoting collaboration among educators to elevate higher education standards. It emphasizes digital innovation in quality assurance procedures aligning with educational global trends, including flexible and convertible learning approaches. By this, AACUP aims to streamline accreditation practices, and promote adaptability and responsiveness, ultimately empowering Filipino higher education institutions for the modern, tech-driven world. The NwSSU delegation, comprised of Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Rolyn A. Catamora, Director for Quality Assurance, Mr. Albros D. Mañanita, QA Focal Person, Ms. Jireh S. Fortaleza, Administrative Officer IV, Ms. Jocelyn Legaspi, University Librarian, and Ms. Nilda Jamin, QA Head of San Jorge Campus, actively participated in the event’s diverse sessions. These sessions covered crucial topics such as: Overview of Accreditation 4.0, Technology and Accreditation, Sharing of Best Practices in Internalization and Internationalization, and Managing Stress, Mindfulness, and Socialization in Accreditation. NwSSU’s participation in Accreditor’s Bayanihan is an epitome to its educational advancement endeavor. By engaging with the latest trends in accreditation and collaborating with other institutions, NwSSU aims to further enhance and solidify its quality assurance processes.

Northwest Samar State University participated a trio of prestigious events- 12th Annual ATU-Net Board Meeting and Higher Education Leaders’ Forum, the 7th International Conference and Annual Meeting on STEM Education (IAMSTEM 2024), and MakersCon 3.0, all hosted by Mindanao State University- Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte from November 4-7, 2024. Demonstrating the university’s dedication to innovation, global collaboration, and the future of higher education, Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, NwSSU Vice President for Administration, attended the events and represented the university on behalf of University President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo. The gatherings convened leaders, educators, and creators in the world to explore higher education, STEM learning, and technological innovation. NwSSU is a new member of the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net), which consists of 45 member institutions from Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, China, Japan, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, and India. Its annual board meeting aims to amplify collaboration and enhance the quality of education and research in engineering and technology across Asia. On the other hand, the Higher Education Leaders’ Forum focused on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on higher education, exploring strategies for integration and addressing ethical considerations. Further, the IAMSTEM 2024 conference discussed the future of STEM education in the digital age, with the theme, “Reimagining STEM Education in the Digital Transformation Era.” MakersCon 3.0, meanwhile showcased the latest innovations and projects from artists, entrepreneurs, and makers, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Engr. Dimakiling’s attendance at these events demonstrates NwSSU’s mission of staying at the forefront of global trends in higher education and technology. These gatherings will provide valuable opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and exploring new avenues for innovation and research.

The College of Nursing facilitated a two-day training for the SUSIE S901 simulator, on November 6-7, 2024, at the Nursing Amphitheater, with expert guidance from the technical support team of SUSIE’s supplier. Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, Mr. Carl Neill M. Del Rosario, Mrs. Rosilda D. Macapanas, Mrs. Toni Charm B. Calag, Mrs. Jessa C. Moloboco, and Mr. Christian Emmanuel M. Rubante participated in the training, which focused on equipping faculty and staff with the skills to integrate the SUSIE S901 simulator into the curriculum. This training strengthens the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical practice by enabling students to engage in realistic, simulated scenarios. This promotes critical thinking, decision-making, and hands-on experience, ultimately boosting student competency and confidence in patient care.The adoption of this advanced technology will elevate nursing education by providing a safe, realistic environment for students to hone their skills. With this, the College of Nursing continues to prioritize quality education, ensuring that the students are prepared for the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare industry.