News and Events

The Graduate School of Northwest Samar State University hosted a two-day Capacity Building for its Graduate School faculty, held on October 29-30, 2024, at the Administrative Building’s 4th floor. This event brought together Graduate School faculty and selected undergraduate faculty members, with the goal of improving their innovative teaching strategies and cutting-edge tools to enhance their professional development and deliver high-quality education, ultimately benefiting students and strengthening the university’s academic reputation. The training featured a series of discussions and workshops led by experts from various departments within the university. Topics covered included: Principles of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and the University Syllabus Format, and Basics of Instructional Materials presented by Mr. Nheru B. Veraflor, Head of the Innovative Teaching Office; Gender Inclusivity in the Curriculum discussed by Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, Director of the GAD Office; University TOS Format and TOS Development by Mr. Niel Darryl G. Branzuela, Director of the Innovative Teaching and Technology Office; Evaluation of Instructional Materials (IMs) by Mr. Perpetuo C. Epilogo, Head of the Instructional Materials Development and Production Office; The Learning Management System (LMS) by Dr. Francisco B. Bacamante, Jr., Dean of the College of Computing and Information System; and Utilizing NwSSU LMS presented by Mr. Keith Benjie C. Pecayo, Head of the Learning Management System. Each session provided an interactive open forum. The second day of the training concluded with workshops where participants applied the knowledge gained and presented their outputs. In his closing remarks, Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the importance of continuous learning for faculty members. “We should have guides or reference in teaching that is why we have this kind of activity. I also encourage the attendees to impart what they have learned today to other faculty members,” he said.

Endorsed by the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), this premier event which will be held on November 21-22, 2024 in Taguig City, brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions in resource management and governance. Interested participants may refer to the attached photo for registration procedures. #RISENwSSU

October 28, 2024 – NwSSU prepares for the upcoming Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings for 2025, a prestigious initiative recognizing universities that excel in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A meeting was convened at NwSSU Board Room discussing the application and focusing on: (1) publicizing of application materials, which included packaged entries for each Sustainable Development Goal category, and (2) enhancing the university website’s user-friendly interface to effectively present application materials, ensuring clear presentation of each SDG category. Present in the meeting were Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, alongside Ms. Jonah L. Salcedo, Planning Officer III; Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office Director; Mr. Philip Joseph C. Franco, Planning Office Staff; Mr. Nicko G. De Guzman, Website Administrator; Mr. Joseph Renor C. Obrino, IMCO Staff; and Mr. Dane Jhad G. Ortiz, IMCO Staff. By securing a spot in THE Impact Rankings 2025, NwSSU aims to enhance its local and global reputation and visibility, attract local and international partnerships and collaborations, and foster a culture of sustainability and social responsibility.

October 28, 2024 – Bringing together university personnel and stakeholders, Northwest Samar State University held a Civil Society Organization Consultative Assembly at the Business Development Center to present the updates on the FY 2025 Budget Proposals, solicit comments and recommendations for the FY 2026 Budget Proposals, and forge Budget Partnership Agreement.  University President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo welcomed the attendees, followed by Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, Director for Planning & Development, who presented the assembly’s goals. Key agenda items included proposed Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) for FY 2026, budget management, and prioritization criteria, elaborated by Planning Officer III Ms. Jonah L. Salcedo. Budget updates were provided by Ms. Ivy B. Aligam., SAO and OIC-Budget Officer.  The assembly featured presentations of proposed Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) by key university leaders, each detailing strategic initiative across university sectors. Engr. Marlon D. Sobreviga and Engr. Mary Grace Ramirez-Lopez shared the infrastructure priorities; Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling outlined vehicle-related initiatives; Mr. Redem Tingzon presented the Information Systems Strategic Plan; Dr. Ramil Catamora covered the Laboratory and Academic Development Plan; and Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz discussed initiatives in Research, Extension, and Innovation. The session provided a comprehensive overview of the university’s strategic goals. The assembly concluded with evaluations, a partnership agreement signing, and closing remarks by Engr. Dimakiling. The event paved way to foster a culture of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability aligning the university’s future projects and programs to its mission and vision towards enhanced academic and community developmen

On October 25, 2024, the NwSSU College of Nursing participated in the Zumba for a Cause, a collaborative initiative with the Rotaract Club of Greater Calbayog. Held in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this event united students, faculty, and community members to promote health, fitness, and awareness on breast cancer. The event kicked off with opening remarks from Dr. Marlene S. Longara, President of the Rotaract Club of Greater Calbayog, who emphasized the importance of community engagement in raising breast cancer awareness. Following was Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, Dean of the College of Nursing, who provided a brief overview of breast cancer, highlighting the significance of early detection and education. Adding a personal touch, Ms. Analie C. Gontiñas, a breast cancer survivor, shared her powerful testimony. Her journey underscored the strength found in community support and the critical need for awareness. Throughout the event, the dedicated nursing students and faculty served as standby medics, ensuring a safe environment for all participants. They also conducted blood pressure readings, reinforcing the importance of regular health check-ups as part of a healthy lifestyle. The energetic Zumba sessions, led by local instructors, provided a fun way for participants to engage in fitness while sparking meaningful conversations about breast cancer awareness. This event not only raised funds but also fostered a spirit of unity and encouragement for cancer survivors and their families. Through collaborative effort, this initiative makes strides in raising awareness, promoting healthy habits, and standing strong in support of those affected by breast cancer. This ignites a spirit of inspiration and work towards a healthier, more informed community!

The Graduate School of Northwest Samar State University successfully conducted a seminar titled, “Precision in Doing Research: A Seminar on Selecting Appropriate Statistical Tests for Your Research.” It was held at the 2nd Floor of the Business Development Center last October 25, 2024.  The seminar featured an expert in statistical analysis, Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, who drew a diverse audience of faculty, graduate school students, and key university personnel. Among those present were University President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Dean of the Graduate School Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa, and Vice President for Research, Innovation, Extension, Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, and Graduate School Program Chairs The event aimed to provide researchers with the information and expertise required to choose the appropriate statistical tests for their research projects, likewise, strengthen the academic body’s competencies in academic practice and uphold university standard status in the delivery of research excellence. Participation in the seminar provided practical insights into decision processes, allowing student researchers to confidently apply statistical tests that align with their research questions and methodologies.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has achieved a significant milestone by securing top 60 out of 234 higher education institutions in the Philippines based on the latest 2024 UniRank list. The university also placed rank 2 in Eastern Visayas, after Visayas State University in Baybay City. The ranking is particularly significant for NwSSU, as it underscores the university’s commitment to quality education and its growing reputation within the Philippine higher education landscape. UniRank is a prominent international higher education platform that offers an approximate global ranking of institutions based on their online presence, popularity, and web metrics such as traffic, domain trust, and quality link popularity. It ensures fairness by using objective web metrics to assess universities’ online impact. Universities are chosen based on specific criteria, including accreditation by the appropriate education authorities, offering bachelor’s or postgraduate degrees, and delivering courses in a traditional, non-distance education format. This recognition for NwSSU indeed marks an ongoing set of efforts to enhance academic excellence together with expanding opportunities for its students, faculty members, and researchers. NwSSU remains committed to fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment. The top 60 placement in UniRank is not only a testament to the university’s progress but also a reflection of the hard work and dedication of its community. As NwSSU continues to climb in rankings, it reaffirms its commitment to shaping future leaders and scholars in the Eastern Visayas region and beyond. Congratulations, Norwesians! #RISENwSSU

October 24, 2024 – To bolster local media collaboration, initial discussions have taken place between Mr. Joseph Oriendo Jr., Broadcast Aide from Radyo Pilipinas Calbayog and NwSSU Representatives, Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administrative Affairs and Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office. The recent meeting highlighted Radyo Pilipinas Calbayog’s recognition of NwSSU’s contributions to local development and its commitment to keeping the community informed about daily advancements at the university. Both parties expressed a mutual interest in establishing a broadcast media partnership aimed at disseminating timely news and updates related to NwSSU. The proposed collaboration aligns with the objectives of NwSSU’s Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office, which seeks to enhance information dissemination and extend its reach within the community. By partnering with Radyo Pilipinas Calbayog, NwSSU hopes to strengthen its broadcast media presence, ensuring that local residents remain informed about important developments and initiatives As discussions progress, the potential partnership promises to foster closer ties between the university and the community, enhancing the flow of information and supporting local development efforts.

Bagyong Kristine recently ravaged Calbayog City leaving some families and students displaced and struggling to recover. To support those affected, join NwSSU in supporting the victims of the recent typhoon. We are calling for your generous contributions. Let us be “KAUGOP SAN CALBAYOGNON” by donating the following: financial assistance and canned goods/food. For GCash/Cash Donation, you may contact Ms. Jonah Salcedo, Finance Committee Focal Person, at 09556929447. Drop-Off Donation Venue is at NwSSU RSU Socio-Cultural Center. You may also contact Mr. Eugene Calumba, University Disaster Risk Reduction Officer and Goods Focal Person.Your donation can make a difference. Every contribution counts!

The National Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP) has achieved a significant milestone with the preconstruction meeting for a new hydroponics facility, featuring solar panel technology, valued at 1.6 million pesos. This upgrade aims to enhance laboratory resources for the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Bachelor of Agricultural Technology programs at Northwest Samar State University. In addition to educational purposes, the hydroponics facility is intended to serve as a hub for production, research, and extension services. An area validation was conducted during the meeting to confirm the site’s readiness for this innovative endeavor. The meeting brought together key university officials, including Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President; Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, VP for Administrative Affairs; Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz, VP for Research, Innovation and Extension; Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, VP for Academic Affairs; Engr. Marlon Sobreviga, Director of NwSSU’s Infra-Development Office; Dr. Rosalia Briones, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Technology; and faculty members from the Agriculture and Food Technology departments. Also present were representatives from relevant agencies, including Mr. Gerard Conge from the City Agriculture Office and several members from the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 8: Mr. Loren Joseph Arnaiz, NUPAP Coordinator; Ms. Judith A. Mendoza, NUPAP Focal Person; Mr. Jason Fabillar, APCO Samar Area; Ms. Iamie P. Cantilang, Project Assistant 3; Engr. John Rey Laurente; Engr. Joyce Ultras; and Engr. Krystel Denice L. Labrador. Through this initiative, NwSSU aims to establish itself as a training center for hydroponics technology, equipping local farmers in Calbayog with essential knowledge and resources. This project promises to enhance research opportunities for both faculty and students while also generating additional income for the university through various income-generating projects (IGPs). As NwSSU invests in modern agricultural practices, this facility represents a crucial step toward sustainable urban agriculture, benefiting both the university and the broader community.