NwSSU, LGU Calbayog Strengthen Partnership for Bolongto Eco-Tourism Development

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Calbayog City — Officials and faculty members of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) met with the Local Government Unit of Calbayog, led by Mayor Raymund Uy, to reinforce collaboration on the Bolongto Eco-Tourism Development Project. Due to budget constraints affecting the full rollout of necessary infrastructure, NwSSU sought the support and collaborative engagement of the LGU to accelerate development. Discussions centered on strengthening institutional partnership, mobilizing resources, and ensuring that tourism expansion remains balanced with ecological sustainability and local participation. Mayor Uy conveyed the LGU’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote responsible tourism and long-term socio-economic growth for Calbayog City. The meeting marks a significant step toward advancing Bolongto as a flagship eco-tourism site through coordinated and science-based development efforts.

ANNOUNCEMENT | NOTICE OF SEARCH FOR PRESIDENCY OF NORTHWEST SAMAR STATE UNIVERSITY

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

NOTICE OF SEARCH FOR THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE NROTHWEST SAMAR STATE UNIVERSTITY (NwSSU) The Northwest Samar State University – Board of Regents formally and publicly announces that the search for University President is now open. Minimum Qualifications: Not less than thirty-five (35) years old and not a day older than the sixty-first (61st) birthday at the time of the expiration of the term of the incumbent President; A natural-born Filipino citizen; Holder of an earned doctorate degree from a CHED-recognized HEI or foreign institution accredited by its respective higher education ministry/ commission or appropriate regulatory body, which is defined as Level 8 in the PQF, under RA No. 10968; With proven track record as SUC/LUC administrator (e.g., president, vice-president, dean, campus administrator, director) or high- level management executive/ administrator, whether in the public or private sector, for at least five years; Nomenclature of the position, especially in the private sector may be clarified by the GB as long position is high-level management; and Must not have been convicted for a crime involving moral turpitude, or an offense punishable by imprisonment for a period exceeding six (6) years, or suspended administratively for twelve (12) months, or dismissed from the service. Documentary Requirements Interested applicants are hereby required to submit one (1) original set and six (6) complete photocopy sets, all duly certified as true copies, together with an electronic copy saved in a flash drive, of the following documents, to the SCP Secretariat: Formal application letter addressed to the Chairperson of the NWSSU Governing Board; Hon. Desiderio R. Apag III, D.Eng, PCpE Commissioner Commission on Higher Education (CHED) 4th Floor HEDC Building, C.P. Garcia, UP Diliman, Quezon City Detailed Curriculum Vitae, attested and signed by the applicant; Transcript of records, training certifications, professional accreditations, diplomas, and employment/service records; Published research work, if any; Signed and notarized statement containing the Proposed Vision, Mission, and Development Goals for NwSSU by the applicant; Certificates/clearances from the following government agencies, obtained no more than three (3) months from the filing date of the application, indicating that the applicant has not been found guilty in any administrative or criminal case; National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Sandiganbayan Civil Service Commission (CSC) Office of the City Prosecutor Office of the Ombudsman (for government employees) Institution/Company where the applicant is previously or presently employed NOTE: In case of delay in the issuance of the agency/office concerned due to fortuitous events, proof of payment of the application fee may be used in the application, subject to submission of the Certificates/Clearances at the time of the pre-evaluation process by the SCP, the deadline of which can be set by the Search Committee. 7. Certificate of Leave of Absence (for applications who are on leave of absence); 8. Birth certificate authenticated by the Philippine Statics Authority (PSA); Medical certificate of physical fitness issued by a physician from a government health institution not in any way connected with the applicant or the SUC applied for, obtained no later than three months from the date of application; 10. Drug testing certificate pursuant to the CSC Memorandum Circular No. 13, s. 2017;  11. Neuro-psychiatric examination result from a government health institution, obtained no more than three months from the filing date of the application. In case there is none, the neuro-psychiatric examination result shall be obtained from a DOH-  accredited institution not connected with the applicant. The result shall indicate that the purpose of the neuro-psychiatric examination is for the applicant for NWSSU Presidency. The Search Communities reserves the right to verify the results of the examination 12. Duly accomplished, computerized, and notarized Personal Data Sheet (CSC Form 212); 13. Recently filed Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) (for government employees); The Search Committee reserves the right to reject any application that is not in conformity with the applicable provisions of RA No. 8292 and its IRR, and CMO No. 7, Series of 2022, aside from the enumerated requirements. The Search Committee reserves the right to verify the authenticity of submitted documents and to accept or reject any document it deems questionable. An applicant who does not meet any of the above minimum qualifications and fails to submit any of the documentary requirements shall automatically be disqualified from the search process. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION AND THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS SHALL BE NOT LATER THAN MARCH 6, 2026, 5:00 P.M All applications must be addresed to: Hon. DESIDERIO R. APAG III CHED Commissioner and Chairperson NwSSU Board of Regents Thru: Engr. ROY MONTEJO Board Secretary V Office of the University Board Secretary Northwest Samar State University, Rueda St., Calbayog City Tel. No.: (055) 533 9857 Email address: [email protected] Hon. DESIDERIO R. APAG III CHED Commissioner and Chairperson NwSSU Board of Regents Thru: Ms. ARIADNE ROSE ESQUILLON Chief of Staff / Executive Asst. IV OCC-DRAIII – Commission on Higher Education (CHED),4/F HEDC Bldg., C.P. Garcia Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City Telefax: (02) 8441 1173 Email address: [email protected]

CHED Wraps Up Two-Day University Monitoring Visit , Findings Presented on Final Day

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) concluded its two-day monitoring visit of various programs and support services of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) on February 4, 2026, at the University Function Hall. The activity brought together university key officials, college deans, teaching staff, and the CHED monitoring team to assess critical areas of institutional operations. Day 1 of the visit focused on the evaluation of compliance standards, where the CHED monitoring team conducted thorough reviews of relevant documentation, engaged in in-depth discussions with department heads, and verified the implementation of policies against established guidelines. The team examined records including curriculum alignment and faculty qualifications to ensure adherence to higher education regulations. On the same note, Day 2 continued the evaluation process and proceeded to the presentation of findings with the monitoring team, headed by Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias, Commission on Higher Education Regional Office (CHEDRO) VIII Supervising Education Program Specialist. The presentation covered assessments of institutional profile, tuition and other school fees, gender and development initiatives, student affairs and services, research and extension programs, and program offerings. Critical observations highlighted strengths in community engagement projects and areas for improvement in student support services. After the monitoring, university officials and the CHED monitoring team convened for an exit conference to discuss next steps and action plans. Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, delivered his message of commitment, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to addressing identified gaps and maintaining integrity and excellence. He also expressed gratitude for the constructive feedback provided by the CHED monitoring team. The initiative concluded with a closing message from Dr. Pecayo, who emphasized the importance of such monitoring activities in driving continuous improvement across all university-wide operations. The visit served as a crucial benchmarking tool designed to align the university’s development trajectory with national quality standards, ensuring that every development initiative contributes to enhancing the overall learning experience and preparing students for meaningful careers.

NwSSU Academic Units Undergo Rigorous Internal Quality Audit to Sustain ISO 9001:2015 Standards

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

CALBAYOG CITY — In a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and operational efficiency, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted a comprehensive Internal Quality Audit (IQA) across all academic units of its main campus on February 2, 2026. The audit, which was executed simultaneously by a dedicated pool of internal quality auditors, serves as a critical mechanism in the university’s Quality Management System (QMS). By deploying multiple audit teams at once, the university ensured a synchronized evaluation of various departments. The university’s Internal Audit Unit outlined several primary objectives for the day-long activity, starting with the verification of continued compliance with the rigorous requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard. Beyond international certification, the auditors were tasked with assessing the extent to which academic units have achieved their set performance targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This involved a deep dive into whether the institutional goals are being translated into measurable results at the classroom and departmental levels. Furthermore, the audit sought to evaluate compliance with all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements mandated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and other governing bodies, ensuring the university remains in good standing with national law. Auditors also measured conformance to the university’s own subscribed standards and internal policies to maintain consistency across the campus. Crucially, the process was designed to identify “Opportunities for Improvement” (OFIs) and potential non-conformities (NCs), allowing the university to address gaps before they impact the quality of service. During the opening meeting, the internal auditors emphasized that the audit is not a “fault-finding” mission but rather a “fact-finding” endeavor aimed at strengthening the institution’s service delivery. The auditors reviewed a vast array of documentation, including course syllabi, faculty evaluation results, research outputs, and student support service records. Interviews with department heads and staff were also conducted to verify that the documented procedures align with actual daily operations. This internal exercise precedes the regular surveillance audits conducted by external certifying bodies, ensuring that NwSSU remains “audit-ready” and consistently provides high-quality education to its stakeholders. The conduct of this internal audit reinforces Northwest Samar State University’s culture of accountability and transparency. By systematically identifying gaps in the current system, the university can implement data-driven improvements that directly enhance the student experience and faculty productivity. Ultimately, maintaining ISO 9001:2015 certification through these rigorous internal checks boosts the institution’s prestige and ensures that the “Quality Policy” is not merely a statement on a wall, but a lived reality in every classroom and office

NwSSU Explores Scopus and Scopus AI to Elevate Research Excellence

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through the Office of Research and Development Services (ORDS), recently held an online engagement with representatives from Elsevier to explore how Scopus and Scopus AI can further strengthen the university’s research ecosystem. The virtual session brought together key NwSSU research personnel and Elsevier/Scopus representatives to discuss tools that can support evidence-based scholarship. Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director for Research and Development Services, and Mr. Ian D. Becoñado, University Statistician, represented Northwest Samar State University. From Elsevier/Scopus, Ms. Rafida Inas Fairuz, Sales Development Representative, and Ms. Cristy Pineda, Account Manager, joined the meeting to present how Scopus can serve as a strategic platform for institutional research growth. Scopus is Elsevier’s curated abstract and citation database that indexes literature from more than 27,000 academic journals across disciplines. Ms. Rafida Inas Fairuz opened the program with welcome remarks and a brief introduction of Elsevier and its suite of research solutions tailored for higher education institutions (HEIs). She emphasized Elsevier’s commitment to partnering with universities like NwSSU in building a more robust research culture and in advancing societal impact. This was followed by a comprehensive presentation from Ms. Cristy Pineda on how Scopus can help NwSSU researchers navigate global literature, identify influential works, and track citation impact more efficiently. She also provided an overview of Scopus AI, a generative AI–powered search tool that offers topic summaries, concept overviews, and key references using trusted Scopus content. During the session, Elsevier reiterated its readiness to support NwSSU through capacity-building activities, including specialized training for faculty members to become more proficient in using Scopus and Scopus AI for literature review, research design, and impact tracking. Scopus AI enables researchers to ask natural-language questions and receive synthesized, cited summaries of research topics, helping them quickly grasp existing work and identify gaps for further study. The NwSSU-ORDS expressed its intent to formally tap Scopus as a key partner in enhancing the visibility and quality of NwSSU research outputs. As a state university mandated to undertake research and extension services, NwSSU sees the integration of advanced analytics and discovery tools as vital to strengthening its contribution to national development and its standing in the global research community. By leveraging Scopus and Scopus AI, NwSSU aims to equip its faculty and researchers with deeper insights into global scholarship, more strategic publication planning, and stronger evidence of research impact, which can lead to increased Scopus-indexed outputs for the university. The collaboration is expected to support NwSSU’s drive to cultivate a more vibrant, data-informed research culture aligned with its vision of producing globally competitive and innovative graduates.

Congratulations, Architect Mark John Paul T. Ortiz!

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

​Northwest Samar State University marks a significant chapter in its academic history with the success of Architect Mark John Paul T. Ortiz in the January 2026 Architecture Licensure Examination (ALE). ​Ar. Ortiz, a member of the pioneering Bachelor of Science in Architecture batch of 2023, achieved this milestone on his first examination attempt. His success serves as a formal validation of the university’s commitment to excellence since the Architecture program’s inception. ​The NwSSU administration, faculty, and staff extend their warmest congratulations to Ar. Ortiz. His achievement stands as a beacon of inspiration for current students and a proud moment for the entire university community.

NwSSU Surges to 7th in Eastern Visayas for Scopus-Indexed Research

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has reached a new benchmark in academic excellence, securing the 7th rank among universities in Region VIII for Scopus-indexed publications as of January 25, 2026. This milestone highlights the university’s aggressive push toward becoming a powerhouse of research and innovation in Eastern Visayas. ​The university has demonstrated a remarkable upward trajectory in its scholarly output according to the latest metrics from Elsevier’s Scopus database. In the opening month of 2026 alone, NwSSU produced 14 new publications, effectively raising its total document count to 56. This represents a significant 33% increase from the previous year’s total of 42, signaling a rapid acceleration in the institution’s research productivity. ​Scopus serves as the world’s leading multidisciplinary abstract and citation database, managed by Elsevier to provide a global yardstick for institutional quality in science, technology, and medicine. For NwSSU, an increase in these indexed documents directly translates to increased global visibility, as faculty research becomes accessible to international scholars. Furthermore, it enhances the university’s prestige and ensures that the work produced by its researchers has a higher potential for impact within the global scientific community. ​This achievement is based on validated data compiled by Don Prisno of Global Health Focus (GHF) University Excellence, emphasizing a significant shift in NwSSU’s institutional culture—moving beyond the classroom to contribute meaningful data to the global body of knowledge. As the university continues to provide resources and support for its faculty, this 7th-place ranking is viewed not just as a destination, but as a stepping stone toward further regional leadership in research and development. #RISENwSSU

Northwest Samar State University Climbs Global Rankings in 2026 Webometrics Report

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Congratulations to Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) for securing 8th place regionally and an impressive 5,413th globally in the January 2026 edition of the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities! This milestone represents a monumental leap from the previous year’s world ranking of 23,112th. While maintaining its strong regional position at 8th place, this global ascent is a powerful testament to the university’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence, digital presence, and its commitment to delivering high-quality education. Webometrics, also known as the Ranking Web of Universities, has been published since 2004. Its primary mission is to promote Open Access to the knowledge generated by institutions worldwide. The January 2026 edition evaluated 33,649 higher education institutions (HEIs). The rankings are determined by a composite indicator that evaluates web presence and research impact, with data gathered from reputable sources such as Majestic, Google Scholar, and Scimago-Scopus. We are immensely proud of this achievement and remain steadfast in our mission to strive for even greater excellence in the years to come!r

Shaping Practice Teachers, Shaping the Future: NwSSU COED Gears Up Practice Teachers in Pre-Teaching Internship Orientation

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) College of Education (COED) joined hands with the Schools Division of Calbayog City for its Pre-Teaching Internship Orientation, themed “Shaping the future, one prepared educator at a time!” on January 20, 2026 at the RSU Socio-Cultural Center. The gathering brought together COED fourth-year practice teachers, faculty members, and principals from partner schools in the division. The university aims to align theory with practice between classroom learning and real-world teaching experience, ensuring that aspiring educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to nurture the next generation of learners. The event commenced with warm welcome remarks from Dr. Jannel C. Alviola, COED Dean, followed by inspiring messages from Dr. Margarito A. Cadayona, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd Calbayog City Division, and Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President. During the event, student teachers posed for commemorative photos alongside the principals of their assigned schools, COED faculty, and the university president – marking the official start of their journey into professional teaching. The orientation then featured key discussions on regulatory guidelines, with Ms. Corie B. Senolos, Division Student Teaching Coordinator, presenting salient points from DepEd Order No. 3, Series of 2012 and Joint Division-City Memorandum Order No. 1, Series of 2021. Mrs. Ma Gemma L. Tapel, Director of the Office of Gender and Development, also led a session on Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act, emphasizing the importance of fostering respectful and inclusive learning environments. Before the activity ended, an open forum moderated by Mr. Rowee O. Cañedo, COED faculty member, allowed practice teachers to raise concerns and clarify questions about their upcoming internship. The program concluded with closing remarks from Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon, Jr., OIC Vice President for Academic Affairs, who encouraged the student teachers to embrace their role as catalysts for positive change in education.

Lights On, Ideas Rolling: NwSSU BTLED–ICT Brings “Kingkoy Chronicles” to Tagapul-an Schools

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Creativity and public service converged as Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its BTLED Major in ICT students, conducted the “Kingkoy Chronicles: LGU Animated Info Series” outreach program in Tagapul-an, Samar, on December 12–13, 2025. This two-day activity was designed to strengthen the public information dissemination of the Local Government Unit (LGU) by utilizing the power of creative digital animation to reach the community more effectively. The first day of the program was held at Baquiw National High School and Tagapul-an National High School, where the focus was placed on orienting learners regarding the importance of animation as a modern communication tool. Participants were introduced to how animated content can simplify complex information, improve audience engagement, and significantly enhance the impact of LGU public information campaigns. This theoretical foundation was immediately followed by hands-on activities, in which learners applied basic animation skills to create their own digital outputs. The success of the outreach was made possible through the collaboration of local leaders and educators. The organizers extend their sincere appreciation to Hon. Vicente Jun M. Limpiado, Municipal Vice Mayor, and Mayor Princess Kate Limpiado for their warm welcome and the generous provision of accommodations and meals. Furthermore, gratitude is extended to Mr. Roy S. Atega, Mr. Jestoni R. Sajorda, and Mr. Ederick A. Dela Cruz for their invaluable coordination and hospitality. The program concluded by encouraging learners to view ICT skills as a tool for both personal growth and community development, reinforcing NwSSU’s commitment to service-learning.