In photo is the actual affixing of the Quality Seal by Ms. Donna Joy L. Saballe, DOT-8 Accreditation team representative at the hotel lobby entrance in the presence of Mr. Ronald Ricafort, Calbayog City Tourism Officer; Ms. Almira Calbes, UHR General Manager, and the hotel employees today, May 2, 2025.
Tacloban City, Philippines — In a compelling presentation during the recent Technical Budget Hearing held in Tacloban City, representatives from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully defended a suite of strategic proposals amounting to ₱1.8 billion, aimed at addressing critical institutional needs and advancing the university’s academic and operational priorities. The NwSSU team presented a comprehensive portfolio of projects and programs sourced from various university units, reflecting an integrated development roadmap that spans infrastructure modernization, academic program enhancement, research, innovation, and extension services. A major highlight of the proposal is the university’s intensified effort to secure Certificates of Program Compliance (COPC) for its academic offerings, ensuring that all programs meet Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards and are aligned with national outcomes-based education frameworks. This initiative is coupled with infrastructure plans designed to support laboratories, learning spaces, and technology hubs necessary for quality assurance, research productivity, and inclusive learning. The proposed budget also includes provisions for innovation-driven programs and externally engaged projects intended to elevate NwSSU’s contribution to community development, local industry support, and regional economic growth. Notably, several proposals directly align with the government’s national development agenda and the National Budget Memorandum (NBM) priorities framework, underscoring the university’s commitment to responsive and high-impact public service. In defending the ₱1.8 billion proposal, it was emphasized that the institution’s absorptive capacity and readiness to implement projects, citing the university’s high Budget Utilization Rate (BUR) of 99.80% to 100%, and the submission of required documentary requirements. The successful presentation marks a significant step forward in the university’s ongoing transformation, as it seeks to enhance institutional performance, promote inclusive education, and fulfill its mandate as a catalyst for sustainable development in the region.
Aiming to uphold the highest standards of ethical research, the Office of Research and Development Services (ORDS) of Northwest Samar State University conducted a cross-learning activity at Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and Trinity University of Asia (TUA) on April 28-29, 2025. The two-day activity facilitated fruitful discussions between the NwSSU Research team, the ADMU Research Ethics Committee, and the TUA Research Office. The activity focused on identifying institutional policies and structures that support Research Ethics Committee (REC) operations. ADMU and TUA shared their best practices in REC operations that NwSSU may adopt in operationalizing its own REC. The ADMU team was composed of Dr. Marc P. Gellynck, UREC Chair; Dr. Eduardo Ezekiel S. Denzon, UREC Vice-Chair; Mr. Joseph B. Johnson, UREC Secretary; Ms. Camille Z. Aspillera; and Ms. Lilia Christin P. Umali, Administrative Assistants of the University Research Integrity Office. The TUA team included Dr. Maria Antonia C. Capili, URDC Director; Dr. Michael O. Baclig, Assistant URDC Director; Ms. Shaira Santiago, TUA-IERC Staff; and Ms. Kathriena Cabanting, URDC Administrative Staff. During the visit, the NwSSU team also made a courtesy visit to TUA’s President, Dr. Gisela DA. Luna and they were warmly welcomed. The NwSSU team was composed of Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, ORDS Director; Mr. Jessie Sabijon; and Ms. Mary Joy Mustacisa Capito of San-Jorge Campus Research Office; Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte; and Ms. Precious Joyce Ogdoc, University Researchers; Ms. Rhea Jenny V. Ogalesco, Communication Specialist; and Research Staff Mr. Joshua A. Rosillon, Ms. Jane Cabradilla, and Ms. Renalyn Caca. The learnings from this cross-learning activity are expected to enhance the impact and ethical standards of NwSSU’s research, as mandated by the Commission on Higher Education. This initiative demonstrates NwSSU’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of research ethics and advancing its research capabilities.
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took a significant step forward in its pursuit of enhanced academic facilities as it welcomed representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF) on April 29, 2025. The CHED team, comprising Ms. Carolyn M. Patayan (Project Evaluation Officer III), Ms. Nica B. Duran (Project Technical Staff II), Mr. Patrick James M. Arao (Project Technical Staff I), and Mr. Christian Mark R. Carreon (Project Support Staff V) from the Central Office, along with Ms. Ma. Cristina Sheryl G. Culaban (Admin Assistant III/Property Custodian Designate) from CHED Region 8, arrived at the University Hotel and Restaurant where they were warmly received by Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, Supervising Administrative Officer (SAO) Admin, and Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of the Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office (IMCO). Their arrival signaled the commencement of the scheduled inventory and tagging of equipment. On April 30, the CHED delegation paid a courtesy call to University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, marking the commencement of their official activities. The team conducted a thorough inspection, inventory, and tagging of equipment across several key university facilities, including the Engineering laboratories, Hotel and Management laboratories, the Speech Laboratory of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS), and the Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) Office. A highlight of the visit was the turnover of a drone and drybox to the RIE Office, with Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz receiving the equipment on behalf of the university. This addition is expected to bolster NwSSU’s research capabilities and support innovative projects. In addition to the equipment received, the CHED team reviewed two other items, which are currently undergoing final refinements to ensure they meet the highest standards. This proactive approach reflects NwSSU’s dedication to continuous improvement and its commitment to aligning with CHED’s Policies, Standards, and Guidelines. This collaborative effort between NwSSU and CHED reflects a shared dedication to elevating the quality of higher education in the region, ensuring that students and faculty have access to updated resources conducive to learning, research, and innovation.
In its continuing commitment to academic innovation and educational access, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the National Public Consultation on the Draft Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 12124, otherwise known as the “Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act,” held on April 29, 2025, at the CHED Auditorium, Higher Education Development Center Building, C.P. Garcia Avenue, UP Diliman, Quezon City. Representing NwSSU in the consultation were Dr. Ramil Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, Director of the NwSSU ETEEAP Center. Their participation highlights the University’s commitment to shaping policies that expand access to higher education for Filipinos. The public consultation, organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through its Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD), gathered presidents, vice presidents, academic officials, faculty members, students from both public and private higher education institutions, as well as regional CHED directors and key stakeholders from across the country. During the session, attendees were invited to provide feedback and recommendations on the proposed IRR to ensure that the expanded ETEEAP remains responsive to the needs of lifelong learners and working professionals seeking academic advancement through adaptive pathways. Through its active involvement, NwSSU emphasizes its support for inclusive and flexible education systems that recognize and value prior learning and professional experience, opening more opportunities for people to achieve their educational and career goals.
After five days of intensive capacity-building sessions, tutors and youth development workers from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) are now set to officially begin their roles in the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program, a national initiative that empowers youth to promote literacy and community development. Held from April 21 to 25, 2025, at the NwSSU RSU Socio-Cultural Center, the preparatory sessions equipped the volunteers with essential skills in pedagogy, child development, values formation, and community engagement, crucial in supporting early-grade learners who struggle with reading. The capability-building also emphasized the importance of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and educational equity in tutoring marginalized youth. In addition to assisting children, the program also includes parents as participants in the Nanay Tatay Sessions, a program facilitated by youth development workers that educates parents on the importance of a nurturing and loving home environment in a child’s development. The Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program, launched by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in partnership with State University Colleges, Deped, and PLGU Samar through Gov. Sharee Ann Tan, is a community-based initiative designed to assist low-income families with young learners while providing college students the opportunity to earn through a cash-for-work scheme. The program empowers youth to serve as literacy and parent education champions, promoting inclusive community development. Now equipped with training and guidance, NwSSU’s youth development workers will soon be deployed across their assigned communities, ready to advance foundational literacy and demonstrate NwSSU’s commitment to education-driven nation-building, community service, and youth leadership.
Lj Magnaye, a faculty member of the College of Education at Northwest Samar State University, received the Best Paper – First Place Award at the 2nd International Conference on Multicultural Education and Interdisciplinary Studies (ICMIES) 2025 held in Butuan City. The paper, titled “Beliefs, Practices, and Challenges of Integrating Multimodality in Science in the New Normal,” explores how the integration of multimodal approaches has shaped science education during the pandemic. Recognized during the conference held from April 23 to 25, 2025, the study offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by educators in adapting science teaching to a blended learning environment. It examines the evolving beliefs and practices of teachers in incorporating digital tools and interactive methods into instruction. This work was developed in collaboration with Jamielou Bustarde of Rizal Technological University and Dr. Antriman Orleans of Philippine Normal University, whose contributions enhanced the depth and scope of the findings. The research sheds light on the impact of multimodal teaching strategies, offering important perspectives on how education can continue to evolve amid ongoing global changes. This recognition brings pride to Northwest Samar State University, underscoring its commitment to advancing research and innovation in education. Congratulations to Lj Magnaye on this outstanding achievement! Your hard work and dedication are truly inspiring!
“We must conform to standards to guarantee quality assurance, especially with AACCUP. Meeting performance standards is a must, but if we don’t challenge ourselves, the University will remain stagnant,” said Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, in his opening speech. Northwest Samar State University took a significant step toward academic accreditation as it kicked off its Preliminary Survey Visit (PSV), conducted by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP). Over the next five days, the University will undergo a thorough evaluation, essential to upholding high-quality education and meeting national standards. The PSV is designed to assess NwSSU’s readiness for full accreditation, helping the University ensure that it is on track for continuous growth and improvement. The opening program featured several key activities, including the introduction of the area chairpersons and accrediting team. Dr. Pinky B. Carig, Dr. Jay B. Fallan, Prof. Ma. Monette D. Tugay, and Ar. Gina G. Flanders are the accreditors who will evaluate how well the University aligns with AACCUP’s standards. The University President stressed the importance of adhering to high-quality benchmarks. The programs being evaluated during this PSV include offerings from the College of Education, such as the Bachelor of Secondary Education, with majors in Values Education, Filipino, and Social Studies; the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, majoring in Information Communication Technology; and the Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education, majoring in Food and Service Management. The Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the College of Engineering and Architecture is also part of the evaluation. Tomorrow, April 29, 2025, the accreditors will get a closer look at NwSSU’s facilities through a virtual tour, which will showcase the University’s infrastructure, learning resources, and support services. The opening program set a positive and focused tone for the accreditation process, as NwSSU continues to strive for excellence and work toward surpassing national standards in higher education. This accreditation process is expected to enhance NWSSU’s reputation, increase stakeholder confidence, and ultimately benefit students, faculty, and the community by ensuring the university’s programs meet rigorous standards. The successful outcome of this evaluation will likely lead to improved academic programs, facilities, and services, further solidifying NwSSU’s commitment to delivering high-quality education and contributing to the region’s development.
In pursuit of enhancing its income-generating programs, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted a benchmarking visit to the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) on April 14, 2025, to learn from the latter’s established practices in managing and sustaining Income Generating Projects (IGPs). The activity aimed to draw insights from UEP’s policies, systems, and innovations to support NwSSU’s goal of strengthening its own IGP initiatives. The NwSSU delegation, comprised of Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, Dr. Donald M. Patimo, Atty. Cecile Candida Y. Rueda, Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, Mr. Rodolfo B. Corrales Jr., Dr. Nicolas I. Faller, Mr. John M. Tan, and Mr. Edward Abanilla, was warmly welcomed by UEP key officials, headed by University President Dr. Cherry I. Ultra, with support from Dr. Nelia M. Adora, Vice President for External Affairs, and other university officials. The activity began with a welcome program and introductions between participants from both institutions. This was followed by a series of presentations highlighting UEP’s IGP framework. Dr. Tia Mare L. Ebdane, Director of the Auxiliary Services and Business Affairs Office, presented an overview of UEP’s IGP policies, financial processes, and planning mechanisms. Mr. Arjay Traqueña, University Accountant, discussed financial management strategies, while Budget Officer Mr. Ferdie Reyes shared practical insights into budget planning. Dr. Ultra also addressed the group, emphasizing the importance of IGPs in supporting the mission and goals of higher education institutions. She shared UEP’s current initiatives, future directions, and expressed the university’s willingness to support NwSSU in its IGP development journey. After the program, NwSSU participants toured several of UEP’s operational IGPs, including the UEP White Beach, Kapihan, Kiddie Learning Center, Printing Press, Farmers Training Center, Garments and Textile Center, and the UEP Gymnatorium and Centennial Building. To cap the activity, NwSSU presented a Certificate of Appreciation to UEP as a gesture of gratitude for the warm reception and the knowledge shared throughout the day. The benchmarking visit marked a meaningful exchange of experiences and opened opportunities for continued collaboration between the two institutions.
In anticipation of the upcoming Online AACCUP accreditation, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) is stepping up its preparations to ensure its academic programs are ready for evaluation. On April 23, 2025, the university convened an online coordination meeting to review progress, align tasks, and address remaining requirements. The session brought together key officials and staff involved in the accreditation process, providing a clear overview of the current accreditation status of various programs. A brief refresher on the AACCUP process outlined the evaluation framework and standards that need to be met. The meeting focused on updates from the College of Education and the College of Engineering and Architecture, both working on their accreditation documents. Progress reports were shared, and areas needing further attention were identified. The importance of properly handling and organizing accreditation materials was also emphasized, ensuring documents are complete, clearly arranged, and meet the expected quality. The meeting served as a strategic touchpoint, allowing departments to coordinate efforts and maintain momentum. As preparations continue, NwSSU remains focused on upholding academic quality and institutional improvement.