News and Events

The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Institutional Student Supreme Council (ISSC) hosted a unique series of events on February 14 to celebrate Valentine’s Day, offering students opportunities to give back to the community, prioritize self-care, and celebrate with friends. The event, titled “Hello, Maharuyo Again! Special Valentine’s Day Celebration”, included multiple activities for Norwesians to enjoy. A bloodletting activity was held on the 4th Floor of the Admin Building in partnership with Calbayog District Hospital – Blood Collecting Unit, encouraging everyone to donate blood and help save lives. Reaffirming the importance of self-care, free HIV testing was also offered in partnership with Calbayog City Health Office at the University Clinic for those who wish to know their status. Knowing one’s HIV status is crucial for early detection and treatment, and the ISSC aims to promote awareness and education on this important issue. Other activities included free Champorado served at the SCUAA Stage for the NwSSU community to enjoy, as well as Valentine’s Day gifts and presents at affordable prices for those looking to express their appreciation to loved ones. With these activities, the ISSC aims to make Valentine’s Day more meaningful by promoting health, appreciation, and care among students. Beyond romantic celebrations, the council hopes to emphasize the importance of self-care, empathy, and camaraderie, making the occasion not just about love, but also about compassion and well-being.

Photo courtesy of Philippine Information Agency – Samar Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, President of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), made a significant appearance at the Investiture Rites of Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, the newly inaugurated 4th president of Samar State University (SSU). Held on February 13, 2025 at the Samar State University Maceda Gymnasium, the ceremony marked the beginning of Dr. Palencia’s leadership, succeeding Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso – the university’s third president. Dr. Pecayo’s attendance underscored the commitment of NwSSU to fostering collaboration and academic excellence with SSU. He expressed optimism for strengthened partnerships between the two institutions under Dr. Palencia’s leadership, highlighting their shared vision for regional development. Anchored on the theme “Panaringsing: Sowing the Seeds of Heritage of Excellence”, Dr. Redentor S. Palencia took his Ceremonial Oath Taking and Oath of Office Signing in front of the SSU community and key officials, government officials, officials, members of the Board of Regents (BOR) from CHED, representatives from various colleges, universities, partner agencies and institutions. Dr. Marita R. Canapi, CHED Commissioner and Chairperson of the SSU Board of Regents officiated the said ceremonial turnover. Photo courtesy of Philippine Information Agency – Samar In his inaugural address, Dr. Palencia outlined his vision for SSU, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to take the challenge to continue SSU’s big picture. He also outlined his vision for SSU, aiming to establish it as a “leading university recognized as an innovation corridor center of global education and the forefront of social transformation.” Acknowledging the significance of his new role in shaping the future of SSU, the entire NwSSU community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Redentor S. Palencia!

Free Access to Canva Education and Affinity Suite for Norwessians! Students, faculty, and staff from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) can now have access to Canva’s premium tier features and Affinity’s suite of professional graphic design, photo editing, and desktop publishing software through Canva for Education! Following Canva’s acquisition of the creative suite last March 26, 2024, Affinity’s creative apps are now available for free to those with a verified Canva for Education account. Here’s how you can quickly access your very own Canva for Education account: Faculty, staff, and students can easily create an account and log in to Canva using their email address with the @nwssu.edu.ph domain. Students may also request a Canva invite link directly from their professors. Alternatively, you can reach out to Ms. Precious Joyce D. Ogdoc, MS University Website Content Manager, for the invite link. Connect with her via Facebook messenger. Unlock Free Access to Affinity with Your Canva for Education Account Follow these simple steps to gain access to Affinity for free: Download and install the Affinity apps you need on your device via this link: Affinity for Schools. 2. Sign in using your Canva for Education account. 3. Start enjoying your free access to the full Affinity Suite! Make the most out of these amazing tools and elevate your creative and academic work today!

In a move to expand its international partnerships and academic collaborations, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has officially established a partnership with the Engineering Council of Thailand (ECT), St. Robert’s International College (SRIC), and Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon (RMUTPN) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on Feb 9, 2025, at Las Palmas Hotel, Manila. The agreement paves the way for collaborative academic initiatives that will benefit all the institutions and their respective constituents through the newly established linkage. The agreement was signed between NwSSU, represented by its President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, and the leaders of the three partner institutions: Dr. Chieanchung Kalayanamitr, President of the Engineering Council of Thailand (ECT); Dr. Robert F. Galindez, President of St. Robert’s International College (SRIC); and Dr. Natworapol Rachsiriwatcharabul, President of Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon (RMUTPN). Grounded in a shared commitment to educational excellence, leadership and community service, and intellectual freedom, the agreement also establishes collaboration in key areas such as faculty, student, and researcher exchange programs, joint research projects, lectures and symposia, exchange of academic materials and information, dual and joint degree offerings, and other academic initiatives. Also present at the ceremonial signing to represent NwSSU were Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Dr. Eliza V Gamusa, Dean of NwSSU Graduate School and Engr. Ignacio Tocayon, Jr. Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture.  The collaboration between the institutions signifies a major step toward NWSSU’s goal of expanding its partnerships and linkages, providing its students and faculty with broader opportunities for global engagement and academic excellence.

On February 12, experts from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 8 Technical Committee and the Regional Quality Assessment Team (RQAT) conducted a comprehensive assessment of Northwest Samar State University’s (NWSSU) engineering programs at the BDC building. The joint evaluation aimed to determine whether the programs meet the requirements for the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC), which is a recognition of the program’s quality and standards. NWSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo set the tone for the event, reflecting on the long history of the university’s engineering programs. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to meeting CHED’s policies, standards, and guidelines, acknowledging that the process, though challenging, is essential in ensuring quality education. Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias from CHED RO8 Technical Committee introduced the evaluation team and expressed appreciation for the university’s proactive efforts in making the joint visit possible. NWSSU presented a comprehensive presentation highlighting the strengths of the university’s engineering programs, including its distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry linkages. Following the presentation, NWSSU CEA officials participated in focused breakout sessions with CHED TC members, including Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias, Dr. Nelly L. Labrada, Dr. Jan Paolo K. Vega, and Engr. Cydric B. Suyom. Engineers Engr. Lyndon Bague, Engr. Flordeliza Villasenor, Engr. Noel Linsangan, and Engr. Nelson Pasamonte joined via Zoom. RQAT members from various engineering disciplines also joined the sessions, including Engr. Julius O. Paler and Engr. Allan L. Bargamento (Electronics Engineering), Engr. Leovegildo E. Cardenas and Engr. Gabino C. Hilvano (Civil Engineering), Engr. Jameson C. Buhayang and Engr. Charito D. Sabate (Computer Engineering), Engr. Ronald B. Lacaba and Dr. Vinyl H. Oquino (Electrical Engineering), Engr. Vic Angelo L. Impas and Engr. Ramon L. Pitao, Jr. (Mechanical Engineering), and Engr. Daniel Leslie S. Tan and Engr. Tessie A. Guial (Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering). Together, they meticulously reviewed the programs in collaboration with NWSSU key officials and CEA faculty. The evaluation identified areas for improvement, and presented a clear roadmap for NWSSU’s continued pursuit of development. Engr. Lyndon Bague, the CHED TC team leader, presented the evaluation’s findings. As a result, the university now has key insights and a strategic plan for improvement. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that NWSSU will work diligently to meet CHED’s requirements for the upcoming reevaluation. The program concluded with Dr. Ramil S. Catamora expressing gratitude to the CHED evaluation team, RQAT members, NWSSU officials, and CEA faculty members for their cooperation and dedication throughout the process. In recognition of their efforts, certificates of appreciation were awarded by NWSSU’s key officials to the CHED TC and RQAT representatives. With NWSSU’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, the university is optimistic about its prospects for obtaining the COPC. NWSSU will continue to work towards meeting the requirements, ensuring that its engineering programs comply with the standards and its graduates meet industry demands.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) key officials and representatives from the Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) convened today at 8 AM in the NWSSU Board Room to inspect and evaluate the university’s Food Technology program. This evaluation aimed to assess NWSSU’s compliance with the Policies, Standards, and Guidelines (PSGs) set for the Food Technology program. Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, speaking on behalf of University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, formally opened the meeting. Hon. Anthony C. Sales, Chairperson of the PRB for Food Technology, emphasized the importance of periodic evaluations, stating that all higher education institutions (HEIs) offering Food Technology must undergo PRC inspections every three years for recertification. The evaluation, led by PRB Chairperson Hon. Anthony C. Sales, alongside Hon. Remedios V. Baclig and Mr. Jericho O. Espada, focused on ensuring NwSSU’s alignment with the PSGs for the Food Technology program. Compliance is essential for the Bachelor of Science in Food Technology (BSFT) program to secure a Certificate of Compliance (COC), which enables graduates to take board examinations and enhances their employability. Ms. Maria Nofrelij J. Cuadra, the BSFT Program Chair, led the presentation detailing NWSSU’s actions to address previous inspection findings. These actions included facility renovations, budgeting for recommended equipment, and implementing faculty and staff development programs. The discussion also covered the status of past program graduates. The PRB made several recommendations to elevate the program further, including the proposal to issue graduates a Certificate in Food Technology (FT). This certificate would allow graduates to seek employment in the field without the necessity of board examinations, thereby increasing their employability. Following the evaluation, NWSSU was recognized for its progress toward full compliance. The university is optimistic about closing the remaining gaps necessary for achieving this status. Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, delivered a message underscoring the university’s commitment to addressing the evaluation results and enhancing the program. In closing, Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed confidence that through ongoing improvements and collaboration, NWSSU would soon achieve full compliance. This achievement would ensure that Food Technology graduates are well-equipped to enter the industry and pursue licensure.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) formalized their commitment to academic and educational cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing today, February 10, at the Executive Conference Room of the Office of the Chancellor, University of the Philippines Los Baños. The partnership aims to create a mutual understanding between the two institutions by developing collaborative activities in various academic areas. These include faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, collaborative research and extension projects, lectures, symposia, capacity-building programs, and the sharing of academic materials and information. Both universities also expressed their openness to other forms of academic cooperation as mutually agreed upon. Leading the ceremonial signing were UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr. and NwSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo. The event was also attended by key officials from NwSSU, including Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Rhio Dimakiling, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz, Dean of the Graduate School, Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon, San Jorge Campus (SJC) Dean Dr. Getulio A. Barcenas Jr., SJC Director of Research, Innovation and Extension For. Eduardo G. Espejon, and BSABE Program Chair Engr. Renell Jay Villaluz. This partnership is expected to create and open new collaborative opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers from NwSSU and UPLB, strengthening academic linkages and institutional ties in pursuit of excellence in the field of higher education, research, and innovation through proactive collaboration.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) actively participated in a collaborative project aiming to conserve Samar’s historic fortifications, primarily the Sta. Rita, Bangahon, and Zumarraga fortification sites, last February 5-8, 2025. The initiative, titled “Safeguarding the Sentinels of the Seas: Conservation of Samar Fortifications,” funded through the Ambassadors Fund of Cultural Preservation of US Department of State through US Embassy in the Philippines and the Provincial Government of Samar is led by the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (USTGS-CCCPET) headed by Ms. Beverly M. Bautista, in partnership with Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), along with Samar State University (SSU) represented by Ms. Maria Rubi M. Parrocho, and Samar Provincial Tourism Office (SPTO) represented by Mr. Etelbert Conde. Representing NwSSU in this endeavor is Dr. Joseph Emil A. David (Director of Research and Development Services), alongside EnP. Novlloyd Celeste (Head of the Innovation and Technopreneurship Hub), and Architect Vanessa Ayllon. Their involvement focuses on collaborating with USTGS-CCCPET on research, documentation, and architectural assessment, contributing to the broader efforts of preserving the province’s historical structures. The four-day site visit encompassed comprehensive ocular inspections and assessments of 13 historic fortification sites. These sites included Basey, Villareal, Bangahon, Tinago ruins, Bangon, Napalisan, Caparangasan, Zumarraga (Arteche Historical Park), Samar Provincial Jail, Paranas, Jiabong, Pinabacdao, and Sta. Rita, showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Throughout the project, the teams will conduct site surveys and memory mapping, engage in archival and historical research, and perform detailed architectural and structural analyses of various historical sites across Samar. These efforts aim to develop a comprehensive site development plan that will guide future conservation initiatives. By working alongside USTGS-CCCPET, and the Samar Provincial Tourism Office, NwSSU strengthens its role in cultural heritage preservation. The university’s participation highlights its commitment to integrating research and collaborative efforts to enable Samar’s fortifications and ensure their conservation for future generations.

In a significant development for university staff and administrators, top management and department heads convened on Friday, February 7, 2025, for a crucial meeting regarding the 2023 Performance-Based Bonus (PBB). The meeting, which took place at the Business Development Center’s 2nd floor, addressed key concerns following recent correspondence from the Department of Budget and Management about the university’s eligibility status. During the extensive afternoon session, officials delved into a thorough review of performance ratings, identifying departments with performance ratings below the required threshold for improvement based on the PBB criteria. Officials engaged in constructive discussions to address performance gaps, with commitments made to enhance internal processes and maintain a culture of excellence. Similarly, the discussion focused on non-compliance with agency accountabilities, reviewing areas that required immediate attention. The meeting emphasized the importance of compliance to strengthen the university’s standing in future PBB evaluations. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the newly implemented guidelines under Executive Order No. 61 and TWG Resolution No. 2024-2, which outline the appeals process for PBB 2023. These guidelines introduce a structured process for addressing concerns and clarifications, ensuring fairness and transparency. Attendees were informed of the process, which provides a clear framework for resolving issues related to PBB eligibility. The meeting also resulted in the finalization of documentary requirements for PBB release. Various departments were assigned specific responsibilities to expedite the processing of bonuses, streamlining the approach to ensure timely distribution to eligible employees. This development represents a significant step toward finalizing the performance incentive system for university employees, affecting employees university-wide. Officials emerged from the meeting with clear directives on both the appeals process and the timeline for PBB distribution. With clear action points and a renewed focus on efficiency, the university will navigate the PBB process confidently, reinforcing NWSSU’s dedication to rewarding outstanding performance and accountability.

MANILA – Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) actively participated in the final day of the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting on Friday, reaffirming its dedication to open governance. Represented by Dr. Rhio Dimakiling on behalf of University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, NWSSU joined discussions on pressing governance issues and strategies to strengthen democratic institutions. The day began with high-level roundtable conversations on the intersection of open government, economic development, and democratic security, emphasizing how transparency can drive sustainable progress across all regions. A session on women, peace, and security highlighted the role of open governance in advancing gender-inclusive policymaking. Another talk focused on safeguarding electoral integrity by addressing issues that arise during elections, such as state resource abuse, vote buying, and vote selling. Other discussions explored ways to enhance collaboration among local leaders, public organizations, and development partners in promoting good governance. The role of data interoperability in governance and strategies for a fair and credible energy transition were also examined. Conventions in the afternoon provided a platform for in-depth conversations on designing impactful reforms, with a key focus on open contracting and fiscal openness. A session on political finance transparency examined ways to ensure accountability in electoral processes. Legal enforcers were also recognized as key players in championing inclusive governance and upholding justice reforms. As the two-day summit came to a close, NWSSU’s participation highlighted the importance of integrating open governance principles into institutional and national frameworks. The university’s engagement with regional and global discussions reinforced its role in promoting transparency and public participation. With new insights and strengthened partnerships, NWSSU remains committed to promoting open governance within its community and beyond.