Author: Joseph Renor Obrino

PASAY CITY – Mr. LJ A. Magnaye, Faculty Member and Research Coordinator of the College of Education (COEd), has been conferred Regular Membership in the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), marking a historic achievement as the first regular member from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU). The conferment took place on March 13, 2026, during the 2026 Annual Scientific Conference and 93rd General Membership Assembly held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, under the theme “Transdisciplinary Capacity Building and Ethical Research Towards a Progressive, Unified, and SDG-Driven Nation.”Conferment as a Regular Member of the NRCP is a distinguished title bestowed upon Filipino artists, researchers, and scientists who have proven excellence through significant contributions to their fields. This recognition not only affirms Mr. Magnaye’s significant contributions to his field but also highlights NwSSU’s growing stature and active participation in the national research community.

The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and  Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration in advancing Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight initiatives in higher education. The partnership aims to enhance institutional capacity in anticipatory planning, research innovation, and strategic decision-making through the application of foresight methodologies. Under the agreement, both universities will collaborate in conducting strategic futures workshops, research capability-building activities, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that integrate foresight tools such as scenario building, drivers of change analysis, and emerging issues mapping. As part of the collaboration, both universities will share their expertise and training design in futures thinking to support the implementation of the Campus Research Caravan and other foresight-driven initiatives. The partnership also seeks to promote interdisciplinary research and develop implementation-ready research proposals anchored on emerging societal and technological trends. A key output of the initiative of the NwSSU’s FTSFC is the development of a foresight publication titled “NwSSU in 2050,” which will explore possible future scenarios for the university and identify strategic pathways to guide long-term institutional development. Through this collaboration, PUP and NwSSU reaffirm their commitment to strengthening research and innovation ecosystems within Philippine higher education and equipping academic institutions with the tools necessary to navigate future challenges and opportunities.

PALO, LEYTE – Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) College of Education (COEd) reaffirmed its regional dominance after securing the “Grand Slam” for the Largest Delegation at the 2026 PAFTE Student Congress. Mobilizing 351 pre-service teachers and 13 faculty members, NwSSU marked its third consecutive year as the largest contingent in this regional gathering of future educators in Eastern Visayas—a distinction the university has consistently maintained through its culture of professional engagement. The delegation was led by Dr. Richard N. Verdeflor, Student Teaching Coordinator, alongside program chairs Dr. Julie Ann D. Edraga (BSED), Mr. Lito M. Mag-ampo (BEED), and Mr. Remelito T. Labasbas (BPED), with SIPP Coordinator Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe. Eight additional faculty members— Mr. Lenard A. Belano, Mrs. Maria Lourdes Mae V. Billate, Mr. Niel Darryl G. Branzuela, Mr. Julif B. Calesa, Mr. Rowee O. Cañedo, Mr. Avin Carl V. Cruzada, Mr. Albros D. Mañanita, and Mrs. Christy B. De Veyra—joined as mentors and chaperones, ensuring the students were guided throughout the various pedagogical and cultural sessions. The congress featured a series of high-level addresses aimed at inspiring the next generation of teachers. Dr. Leo D. Camposano, representing the CHED Regional Director, Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, CESO III, opened the discourse by challenging students to transcend the licensure examination and become “indispensable educators” who advance national development. Keynote speaker and Samar State University President, Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, expanded on this by introducing the “AIM” philosophy. He encouraged delegates to be Adaptive to changing landscapes, Innovative in their pedagogical approaches, and Mindful of both their professional influence and their own mental health. Adding a layer of classroom reality, Master Teacher III Rodel L. Cabuhoc provided a resource talk that navigated the transition from student to professional, offering a roadmap for resilience and growth. The event balanced academic rigor with artistic school spirit. During the “Educators Got Talent” segment, NwSSU BPED students delivered a contemporary dance performance inspired by the Hadang Festival, proudly showcasing the university’s cultural heritage and artistic excellence. The afternoon sessions shifted toward professional mentorship through the “Voices of Victory” talk, where LET topnotchers from Leyte Normal University, Eastern Samar State University, Samar State University, and Biliran Province State University shared personal study strategies and insights on overcoming challenges in the teaching profession. In the competitive segments, the Pre-Service Teachers’ Teaching Pageant 2026 served as a dynamic platform for pedagogical competence. While Leyte Normal University secured first place, followed by Samar College and Palompon Institute of Technology (PIT), the event emphasized the collective passion of Region VIII’s aspiring teachers. Additionally, an “On-the-Spot Uniform Fashion Showcase” highlighted the importance of professional identity; two NwSSU representatives confidently presented the university’s official student teaching uniform, symbolizing their readiness to enter the classroom as polished professionals. The congress concluded with closing remarks from PIT Graduate School Dean and PAFTE VIII Adviser, Dr. Jennifer Gorumba. For NwSSU, the three-year “Grand Slam” achievement is more than a numerical victory; it serves as a testament to the college’s mission of producing future-ready, ethical, and collaborative educators prepared to serve the communities of Eastern Visayas and beyond.

CALBAYOG CITY, SAMAR – Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully concluded its Three-Day Orientation Program for New Entrants (OPEN) on February 27, 2026, at the University Board Room. Led by the Human Resource Development Office (HRDO) under the direction of Mrs. Jenith T. Salem, the initiative was designed to fully integrate four new faculty members—Mr. Justine Kyle A. Orquin, Ms. Ma. Christian Margarette Salomon, Mr. Aron E. Morales, and Mr. Charles Daryll A. Delmo—into the academic community. The program ensured that these new educators are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of university policies and services, enabling them to contribute effectively to the institution’s mission of quality education and community service. The first two days of the program established a critical foundation for the new hires. On February 25, the agenda focused on the university’s core identity, including its vision, mission, and professional ethics. Participants were briefed on research and extension services, human resource systems, and performance management rewards. The second day transitioned into operational standards, covering quality assurance and the University Quality Management System (QMS). New faculty members also received guidance on administrative procedures, such as travel request processes and leave policies, alongside academic standards focused on Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) to ensure a smooth transition into their teaching roles. The final day of OPEN featured an intensive series of sessions addressing the holistic aspects of working at NwSSU. Mrs. Toni Charm B. Calag, University Nurse III, opened the morning by detailing the medical and dental services available to employees, including emergency care and preventive health programs. This was followed by a discussion on gender sensitivity and mainstreaming led by Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, Director for the Gender and Development (GAD) Office. Mrs. Tapel emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, harassment-free environment. Additionally, Dr. Leo Jesus M. Lacaba, President of the Faculty Association, explained the organization’s role in advocating for faculty welfare and professional representation. The afternoon sessions shifted toward institutional compliance and personal development. Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe tackled the complexities of CHED’s CMO 63, s. 2017, providing specific guidelines on local off-campus activities to ensure student safety and institutional compliance. Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of Integrated Multimedia and Communications (IMCO), introduced the faculty to the university’s communication standards and the tools available for effective internal and external engagement. To conclude the instructional portion, Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta delivered a session on financial literacy, sharing strategies for budgeting and resource allocation to support both the university’s fiscal sustainability and the faculty’s personal financial health. ​ Prior to the formal conclusion of the program, the four new faculty members engaged in an open forum with the speakers to clarify expectations regarding benefits and work policies. This was followed by a post-test activity to assess their mastery of the orientation content. During the closing ceremony, Mrs. Maria Jona V. Ty and Mrs. Salem led the distribution of certificates to the participants. Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administration and Finance, joined virtually via Zoom to deliver the closing remarks, commending the new hires for their active engagement and encouraging them to consistently embody the university’s values of excellence and service. NwSSU emphasizes that OPEN is a foundational program tailored specifically for newly hired personnel, aiming to build a competent, informed workforce dedicated to delivering excellence in service, instruction, and research. In line with SDG 4: Quality Education, the initiative ensures that all new faculty are equipped to uphold standards for inclusive, equitable, and quality teaching, while aligning their work with global goals to expand access to quality higher education and enhance lifelong learning opportunities for all students. The orientation not only familiarizes employees with institutional systems but also strengthens their connection to the university’s vision of becoming a leading higher education institution in the region.

CALBAYOG CITY — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully bridged the gap between student welfare and proactive education through its recent seminar, “Awareness in Action: Substance Abuse and Oral Health Strategies.” Held on February 21 at the NWSSU Business Development Center (BDC), the activity was a collaborative triumph spearheaded by the University Health Clinic in partnership with the National Service Training Program (NSTP) and the College of Nursing Care (CONCare). The half-day event served as a unified front for health advocacy, drawing a diverse audience of NSTP and Nursing faculty, University Health Clinic staff, and a dedicated cohort of nursing students and NSTP student representatives. The drive aimed not only to disseminate information but to strengthen the preventive strategies necessary to protect the university community from the dual threats of substance abuse and poor oral health. The program opened with a clear sense of purpose as Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV, NSTP Director, delivered the rationale of the activity. He emphasized that addressing substance abuse among the youth requires more than just policy; it requires proactive education and consistent community engagement. This sentiment was echoed by Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon, Jr., OIC-Vice President for Academic Affairs, whose opening remarks highlighted the University’s unwavering commitment to holistic student development and the essential integration of health education into the academic experience. Expert insights formed the core of the morning’s discussions. Representing the Calbayog City Police Office, Police Colonel Michelle Cinco provided a comprehensive legal perspective on drug abuse. Her presentation detailed the specific laws governing illegal substances and the heavy penalties associated with them, reminding the audience that awareness and personal accountability are the primary shields against falling into illegal drug involvement. The medical narrative was then addressed by University Nurse, Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, who underscored the grave physical and mental health consequences of substance use, illustrating how addiction can permanently alter a student’s physiological well-being. Complementing this medical overview, Dr. Ellery D. Daguman transitioned the focus to oral health, shedding light on the often-overlooked connection between substance abuse and dental deterioration. Her session reinforced the vital importance of proper hygiene and preventive care as cornerstones of overall health. The drive concluded with a powerful charge from Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, Dean of the College of Nursing. In her closing remarks, she reminded the attendees that while knowledge is a powerful tool, awareness is only the first step. She challenged the students to translate what they learned into responsible personal choices and to act as advocates for healthy lifestyles within their own social circles. The event wrapped up with an open forum moderated by CONcare Officers, where students engaged in a candid dialogue with the speakers to further clarify the complexities of the topics discussed. Through this multi-faceted initiative, Northwest Samar State University reaffirms its dedication to preventive health programs. By empowering its students with the right information, the university continues to foster an informed, responsible, and healthy academic community ready to contribute positively to society.

Officials of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the Regional Budget Forum for FY 2027 Budget Preparation hosted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Regional Office VIII on February 10, 2026, at The Tropics, MacArthur Park, Candahug, Palo, Leyte. Representing the University were Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administration and Finance; Mr. Rodolfo B. Corrales, SAO-Finance; and Dr. Jonah L. Salcedo, Planning Officer. The forum provided comprehensive guidance on the FY 2027 budget preparation process, including formulation guidelines, submission requirements, updated budget preparation forms and instructions, and key timelines for National Budget Call compliance. The activity also featured discussions on budget convergence, performance-based budgeting considerations, and policy directions from DBM officials. The University’s participation reinforces its commitment to ensuring timely, compliant, and strategically aligned budget proposals in accordance with national budgeting policies and fiscal management standards.