News and Events

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.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), through the Office of Undersecretary of E-Government David L. Amirol Jr., has officially endorsed the Information Systems Strategic Plan (ISSP) of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) for Fiscal Year 2024-2026. On February 5, 2025, Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling personally received the stamped NwSSU-ISSP and the endorsement letter from Undersecretary Almirol. In a formal endorsement letter addressed to Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, Almirol emphasized that the NwSSU-ISSP “demonstrates a clear understanding of the University’s current technological landscape, setting a roadmap for future advancements and enhancements.” Engr. Rhio Dimakiling, being the Head Planner, led the development of the NwSSU-ISSP, along with Engr. Romeo Corsiga, MIS Director, as Co-Head Planner. Corsiga recalled that the university had long been working on the completion of this extensive document, but it was only in 2024, under Pecayo’s and Dimakiling’s leadership that the effort was revived and completed. A Technical Working Group (TWG), co-chaired by Mr. Redem Tingzon, Project Development Unit Head, assisted the Head Planners in determining detailed specifications and crafting the plan. The TWG members included Engr. Mariel Jane F. Saberon, Ms. Xenon Chloe Gaden, Engr. Eugene Calong, Engr. Nicko De Guzman, and Mr. Dexter Catienza. This endorsement marks a significant milestone for NwSSU as it strives to modernize its technological infrastructure, demonstrating the university’s commitment to accessible, equitable, and inclusive services.

The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Calbayog City District Office conducted a free notarization service outreach program for Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) faculty and staff today, February 6th. The initiative, held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Administration Building’s 4th floor was part of PAO’s outreach program. University personnel were able to have their Personal Data Sheets (PDS) and Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) notarized without incurring any fees for the said services. The notarization of these documents is a crucial requirement for all government employees to ensure compliance with administrative and legal obligations. For many employees, the event provided a convenient and cost-free way to complete this much-needed transaction. Instead of seeking private legal services, which often require additional time and expense, faculty and staff were able to process their paperwork swiftly with the assistance of PAO through Atty. Shirley Joyce B. Matados and Atty. Jamela B. Sani. The program was well-received by university personnel, who expressed their gratitude for the accessibility of the free service. By bringing legal assistance directly to NWSSU, PAO helped ease the burden of processing documents for employees, reinforcing its commitment to efficient public service and legal accessibility.

NwSSU’s Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Rhio Dimakiling together with representatives of other SUCs MANILA – Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) is actively taking part in the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting, represented by Dr. Rhio Dimakiling on behalf of University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo. The two-day event which opens today, is currently being held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Manila, gathering over 800 participants from more than 40 countries and 20 local governments to advance open governance, public participation, and digital transformation. The meeting serves as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and commit to ambitious reforms under the Open Gov Challenge, a global initiative introduced at the 2023 OGP Global Summit in Tallinn. This challenge urges governments to design and implement policies that address today’s governance complexities while promoting participatory and resilient democracies. Photo by: Presidential Communication Office During the opening plenary, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the country’s commitment to open governance, highlighting key initiatives aimed at promoting transparency and public participation. “Beyond our variances in our approaches, our shared vision is clear-cut: we want every budget allocation, policy decision, and program implementation to involve public participation—all in pursuit of the empowerment and upliftment of our people,” he stated. Dr. Dimakiling joined high-level decision-makers and leaders as they outlined their vision for strengthening transparency and accountability in governance. Key discussions throughout the day included leadership strategies for advancing OGP’s goals from 2023 to 2028, the role of artificial intelligence and digital transformation in governance, and initiatives promoting open data inclusivity. A session on the road ahead for open government in the Philippines tackled governance reforms and challenges specific to the country. Photo by: Presidential Communications Office The event also highlighted the importance of youth participation in climate change policies, along with strategies to protect public space and empower civil society organizations. Conversations on mainstreaming citizen participation in decision-making and strengthening national-local collaboration were also key areas of focus. Today’s schedule will conclude with a Cultural Night, where participants may engage in a cultural exchange showcasing various world heritages. Discussions will continue tomorrow, with sessions focusing on mainstreaming open government, citizen participation in policymaking, and national to local collaboration. NWSSU’s participation emphasizes the institution’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement as it aligns with global and regional movements toward open government. The 2025 OGP Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting highlights the shared dedication of governments and civil society to foster more inclusive, transparent, and accountable societies by advancing open governance.