News and Events

Northwest Samar State University, a member of the Association of Universities in Asia and the Pacific (AUAP), actively participated in the 8th AUAP Forum. The forum took place on August 26, 2024, at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel in Manila, Philippines. Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, NwSSU’s Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, represented the university at the event. The forum which is themed, “Leadership and Value-Driven Schemes for Higher Education Development in the Philippines,” promised to be a transformative gathering, bringing together thought leaders and key stakeholders from various sectors of higher education. It aimed to promote dialogue and cooperation among institutions to stimulate the development of higher education in the region. This significant event was organized in collaboration with the Commission for Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines, NIMS University Rajasthan-Jaipur, India, and the Master’s Institute Development Academy Seminary (MIDAS) in Thailand. One of the key highlights of the forum was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) between the participating institutions. This ceremony aimed to consolidate partnerships and encourage greater cooperation in the field of higher education. The Secretariat provided participants with the protocol for the signing, as well as a network of the Memorandum of Integration and a model of the Intender to ensure smooth preparations. Professor Balvir S. Tomar, Founder and Chancellor of NIMS University, Rajasthan-Jaipur, India, also expressed his support for the AUAP Forum. His participation underscored NIMS University’s commitment to advancing educational collaborations across Asia and the Pacific.

August 22, 2024 – The International Summer Camp 2024 came to a vibrant conclusion with a celebratory program hosted by the International Affairs Office at Northwest Samar State University. The event was marked by colorful cultural and modern dance performances, along with singing presentations by representatives from Universitas Brawijaya and Tra Vinh University. This lively showcase of artistic talent underscored the rich cultural diversity and strengthened the spirit of international cooperation among the participating universities. The program commenced with a series of inspirational messages, beginning with a goodwill address from NwSSU President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, who commended the collaborative efforts of all involved in the camp. Following this, Aulia Luqman Aziz, Universitas Brawijaya’s Coordinator of Partnership for Southeast Asia and Africa, and Nguyen Duong Thu Nguyet, a faculty member from Tra Vinh University, delivered speeches emphasizing the significance of international cooperation and cultural exchange in education. Dr. Ramil S. Catamora provided the closing remarks, reflecting on the successful outcomes of the camp and the strengthened bonds between the institutions. The event concluded with the awarding of plaques and certificates to the participants from Universitas Brawijaya and Tra Vinh University, recognizing their contributions and achievements throughout the camp. In a gesture of mutual respect and gratitude, tokens of appreciation were also presented by the participants to the university officials.

On August 24, 2024, Northwest Samar State University hosted a comprehensive health session aimed at equipping students and faculty with critical life-saving skills. This initiative, spearheaded by the University Health Clinic under the leadership of Dr. Ellery Daguman, was a collaborative effort which brought together several key stakeholders, including the NSTP-CWTS & LTS components led by NSTP Director- Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV, and the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) under the direction of Dr. Sandro Daguman. The primary objective of the health session was to empower students with the essential knowledge and skills required to act decisively in emergency scenarios. Through their training in CPR and PFA, participants are equipped to offer both life-saving interventions and emotional support, significantly enhancing their ability to contribute to community resilience. The event was divided into two key sessions, each targeting different aspects of emergency preparedness. The morning session, held at the RSU Cultural Center, centered around a Basic Life Support (BLS) lecture and demonstration. The session provided participants, including NSTP-CWTS faculty and students, with hands-on training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The mass return demonstration ensured that all attendees had the opportunity to practice and refine their skills, thus reinforcing their ability to respond swiftly and effectively in real-life situations. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to Psychological First Aid (PFA), a critical component of emergency response that addresses the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals during crises. Mr. Cerilo Irinco led this session, with support from SACRED X, an organization headed by Atty. Fidel Amacna. This session aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and techniques necessary to provide immediate psychological support, helping to alleviate distress and promote recovery in the aftermath of traumatic events. The event was further distinguished by the presence of Calbayog City Mayor Raymond C. Uy, who underscored the importance of such initiatives in fostering a well-prepared and resilient community. Mayor Uy’s participation highlighted the local government’s commitment to public health and safety, as well as its support for collaborative efforts between educational institutions and other community stakeholders.

On August 21-22, 2024, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) hosted a two-day workshop which focused on the development of Instructional Materials (IMs) and the utilization of Learning Management System (LMS). Organized by the Innovative Teaching and Technology Center (ITTC), the event took place at the 4th floor, Administration Building, NwSSU Main Campus. The seminar-workshop was attended by all concerned personnel as part of the university’s continuous efforts to improve the education offered its teachers. The program aimed to equip educators with the skills to develop course-relevant learning materials and to effectively use the university’s LMS, an essential tool in modern education. The ITTC, operating under the Academic Division, continues to play a crucial role in supporting NwSSU’s commitment to academic excellence. By offering this workshop, the center responds to the growing need for innovative teaching methods and technology integration in the classroom.

COL Raymundo C. Picut Jr. (GSC) PA, Director of the 803rd CDC, awarded a plaque of recognition to the NwSSU ROTC Unit for being the 2nd Runner-up in the recently concluded Regional Annual Administrative & Tactical Inspection (RAATI). The award was received by Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, the university president, on July 23, 2024. Present during the awarding of certificate were Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, VP for Administrative Affairs, Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, VP for Research, Innovation, and Extension, Dr. Gil Leovigildo Ancheta, Chief Administrative Officer, Finance Services, Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV, NSTP Director, and Mr. Joshua Guinar Torres II, NwSSU ROTCU Corps Commander, along with personnel from the 803rd RRIBn. Additionally, the NwSSU ROTC Unit celebrated another notable achievement: Cdt Gilbert N. Vere Jr. won the Gold Medal in the Boxing Flyweight Category at the Philippine ROTC National Championship. This accomplishment not only highlights the unit’s dedication to excellence but also instills pride in NwSSU.

VP Academic Affairs’ Conference Room, August 22, 2024 – As part of the International Summer Camp 2024, students from Tra Vinh University, Vietnam, and Brawijaya University, Indonesia, and Northwest Samar State University participated in a series of enriching sessions that featured an academic exchange between the universities. Nguyen Duong Thu Nguyet, a respected faculty member from Tra Vinh University, discussed on “Engaging the Audience in Public Speaking.” Her session provided practical techniques for effective communication, helping students develop skills to capture and maintain audience interest. Following Nguyet’s session, Dr. Archie B. Lauderes, Associate Professor from NwSSU, delivered a presentation on “Factors to Consider in Selecting a Research Topic.” Dr. Lauderes shared valuable advice on choosing research topics that align with personal interests and career goals, offering guidance to students on making informed decisions for their academic research. This segment of the summer camp was well-received by participants from both NwSSU and the international universities.

August 20, 2024 – The NwSSU Governing Board convened its 63rd Regular Board Meeting, marking a memorable occasion as the board meeting was held at the NwSSU Main Campus. Led by Dr. Ethel Agnes P. Valenzuela, CHED Commissioner and Chairperson of the NwSSU Board of Regents, the meeting was followed by a dinner at the Business Development Center, NwSSU Main Campus. The event strengthened connections among the university’s key officials and offered a chance for reflection and collaboration after the board’s discussions. The dinner was attended by key officials, including President Pecayo, Vice Presidents, Directors, and Deans, Heads of Offices, Students, and our visitors from Vietnam and Indonesia. The event featured speeches from President Pecayo, Commissioner- Dr. Ethel Agnes P. Valenzuela, and VP Admin- Engr. Dimakiling. President Pecayo emphasized NwSSU’s continued growth and its ongoing efforts to enhance academic and research opportunities through potential international collaborations. He also highlighted the university’s focus on strategic development and upcoming events. After overseeing 18 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Commissioner Valenzuela praised NwSSU’s facilities and leadership, admiring the university’s progress. She encouraged the university community to keep pursuing excellence and fostering a positive work environment. Commissioner Valenzuela was also thrilled to witness performances by the NwSSU Singers, NwSSU Acoustic, and NwSSU Rondalla, which added more excitement to the evening. VP Admin Dimakiling also expressed appreciation for recent administrative changes and support, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and job satisfaction. Additionally, the Commissioner had the opportunity to meet with international students from Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, and Tra Vinh University, Vietnam, who were present for the International Summer Camp 2024.

The FUTURESPHIL conference, taking place from August 22-24, 2024, at the Manila Prince Hotel, stands as a significant event in the realm of sustainable development, innovation, and futures thinking. This conference brings together an impressive array of 80 out of 117 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), along with representatives from private institutions across the Philippines, underscoring its significance in shaping the country’s future. The central theme of the conference is to build a forward-looking community committed in anticipating and crafting a better future. Attendees will explore how public policies and decisions can be informed and refined through future-oriented strategies and foresight. The conference aims to create a collaborative space for developing roadmaps that guide the nation toward sustainable development and innovative solutions. The participants will be engaged in deep discussions and sharing insights on the use of future thinking and strategic foresight, and they will contribute to create in actionable plans that can effectively navigate the complexities of tomorrow. The FUTURESPHIL Conference provides a platform for networking and idea exchange and empowers attendees to play a crucial role in crafting policies and decisions that shape a resilient and progressive future for the Philippines.