BSBA Interns at the Forefront: NwSSU and PNB Collaborate Towards Personal Financial Stability

FEBRUARY 28 — Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) and the Philippine National Bank (PNB) convened today to discuss initiatives to enhance financial awareness among the university’s faculty, staff, and students. As a result of the meeting, PNB will conduct a Local Marketing Activity at NwSSU to promote knowledge of banking products, savings, investments, insurance, and digital banking. Notably, NwSSU interns will take the lead in facilitating the event. A key highlight of the agreement is the involvement of NwSSU’s BS Business Administration interns, who will manage the booths and assist in promoting PNB’s financial products and banking services. This collaboration will provide the interns with hands-on experience in marketing and services while helping the NwSSU community gain better access to essential banking solutions. The said agreement was finalized after a prior meeting between Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice-President for Administration and Finance, and Mr. Alfred D. Franzuela, SM,OIC Branch Head of PNB Samar Calbayog Branch. The meeting was facilitated by Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice-President for Administration and Finance. Also in attendance were Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of the Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office (IMCO), and Mr. Jay Angelo Gohol, IMCO staff. Representing the interns were Vincent Franco, Rochelle Dacutanan, Trisha Mae Delda, and Adrienne Marri Lising. The collaboration between PNB and NwSSU aims to empower the university community with financial knowledge and access to essential banking services while providing interns with valuable training and experience. The PNB Local Marketing Activity is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 3, 2025, at NwSSU. 

Building Momentum: NwSSU Joins Second Iteration of Career Guidance Orientation at Oquendo National High School

To further strengthen career readiness and holistic education for students, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) joins Oquendo National High School (ONHS) on February 27 for the second iteration of the Division School-Based Orientation on Career Guidance Program (CGP) and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) for Grade 10 and Grade 12 learners. This initiative, spearheaded by the Schools Division of Calbayog City in collaboration with partner institutions, continues its mission of guiding students toward informed academic, career, and life decisions. Following the success of its initial launch at Trinidad National High School, the orientation at ONHS maintained a similar program designed to equip students with essential knowledge on various pathways for their academic journey. The program featured a series of discussions to prepare students for life beyond high school. A key segment of the orientation tackled Tertiary Education Courses/Programs and University/College Admission, with Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) playing an active role in the discussion. Representing NwSSU was Mr. Carl Neill M. Del Rosario, who provided insights into the different courses offered by higher education institutions and the application process for college admission. Complementing this, Mr. Ian D. Becoñado led a session on passing the university admission, aptitude, and IQ Tests, offering practical tips and strategies to help students prepare for the upcoming entrance examinations. Other important discussions in the program included an Employment Readiness Orientation delivered by representatives from TESDA, DOLE, and industry/business partners. Representatives from various universities and colleges also shared information on their programs, admission requirements, and scholarship opportunities. The initiative remains committed to empowering students with the necessary tools to make well-informed decisions about their academic and professional futures. With the support of institutions like NwSSU, the Division School-Based Orientation on Career Guidance and CSE continues to serve as a crucial stepping stone for students as they prepare for their next journey.

Public Advisory: Dengue Awareness

A public safety reminder to the Norwessian Community In light of the ongoing dengue risk, it is essential to stay informed and adopt preventive measures to help reduce the spread of this illness. Dengue is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Early detection of symptoms and adherence to recommended safety practices are crucial in preventing further transmission and safeguarding public health. To protect yourself and others, please ensure cleanliness and eliminate any stagnant water, which can be a breeding ground for dengue-carrying mosquitoes. We encourage everyone to remain safe and take the necessary steps to protect themselves and others from dengue. For more detailed information, please refer to the attached infographics. Stay safe, Norwesians!

NwSSU’s College of Nursing Gear Up through ConBoarding 2025

Northwest Samar State University’s (NwSSU) College of Nursing students and faculty gathered at the NwSSU Nursing Amphitheater on February 26 for ConBoarding 2025: an event designed to reinforce their understanding of the college’s vision, policies, and academic framework by providing them with a clear roadmap for the academic year. The event aimed to ensure students remain aligned with the institution’s standards as they progress through their nursing education. Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, opened the program with a message highlighting the vital role of nursing students in shaping the healthcare scene. Following this, College of Nursing Program Chair Carl Neill M. Del Rosario, RN, MAN, LPT, presented the event’s rationale, emphasizing the importance of the learners’ proactive participation. Student representatives took the stage to present principles guiding the College of Nursing. Joyce Floriane C. Acebuche (Level 1-A) introduced the College of Nursing’s vision, mission, and goals, while Jillian Gayle G. Maquidato (Level 1-B) outlined the college’s objectives and core values. The program also included a session on faculty introductions, class schedules, fee structures, and course requirements, led by College of Nursing Dean, Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, RN, MAN, CHRA. Rosilda D. Macapanas, RN, MAN, LPT, one of CoN’s advisers, detailed classroom policies, while Mr. Del Rosario, in his role as CoN’s Clinical Coordinator, discussed Related Learning Experience (RLE) policies essential for the nursings students’ academic journey. A significant part of the event was the election of class officers, facilitated by Mr. Francis Joelrey B. Portugaliza, CONCARE President, to select key student officials ensuring the students will have credible student leaders at the forefront. The event concluded with closing remarks from College of Nursing Dean, Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, who expressed gratitude for everyone’s collaborative participation and encouraged the students to embrace their academic journey with dedication and perseverance.

Fueling the Future: NwSSU Joins DOST TTCC Zonal Conference to Propel Innovations

Cebu City — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), represented by Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Extension, and Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director of Research and Development Services, took part in the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization (TTCC) Zonal Conference for the Visayas Cluster on February 20, 2025, at Cebu Technological University. The conference introduced Program PROPEL, DOST’s commercialization arm designed to accelerate the transformation of scientific and technological innovations into successful enterprises. The event also highlighted other progressive initiatives, including STI4SDGs (Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development Goals) and PAGTANAW 2050, a long-term roadmap to align the Philippines’ STI efforts with global sustainability goals. DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization (TTCC), Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr., opened the conference, emphasizing the need for stronger collaborative innovation between academic institutions, government agencies, business chambers, and private enterprises. Cebu Technological University President Dr. Joseph C. Pepito and Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia delivered welcome messages, both expressing enthusiasm and optimism for the flagship projects. At the same time, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. highlighted the role of innovation in holistic national development. Representatives from various DOST regional offices and research institutions expressed their support for these initiatives, including Engr. Jesus F. Zamora Jr. (DOST VII Regional Director), Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga (DOST VI Regional Director), Dr. Leah J. Buendia (DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development)., Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang (Undersecretary for Regional Operations), Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora (Executive Director, DOST-PCAARRD), and Her Excellency Laure Nicole Stephanie Beaufils, British Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau. The conference featured presentations and workshops on emerging technologies such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. Among the key speakers were Mr. Glenn Quiro, a technology advocate from the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International and a former Intel executive, as well as Dr. John Anthony Jose from De La Salle University. As the conference concluded, participants engaged in networking opportunities aimed at boosting collaborations for future technological commercialization endeavors. The presence of NwSSU at the event emphasizes the university’s commitment to leveraging science, technology, and innovation in promoting sustainable and highly adaptable ventures for economic and technological growth.

Congratulations to our new Mechanical Engineers for passing the February 2025 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination!

Congratulations to our new Mechanical Engineers for passing the February 2025 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination! Your dedication and perseverance have paid off, and your NwSSU family is incredibly proud of your achievement. This milestone marks the beginning of your bright future, and we celebrate this success with you! #RISENwSSU

NwSSU Joins Site Attraction Evaluation for Samar’s Sustainable Strategic Tourism Development Plan 2025-2034

In a proactive move towards sustainable tourism, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in shaping Samar’s Sustainable Strategic Tourism Development Plan 2025-2034 by joining a Site Attraction Evaluation across the province from February 18-22, 2025. Representing NwSSU’s Tourism Management program, Assistant Professors Ghilson B. Amor and Mia Cheryl E. Casiracan assessed cities and municipalities, identifying and evaluating potential and existing tourist attractions that align with sustainable development goals. This project is a collaborative effort with the University of Santo Tomas College of Tourism and Hospitality Management, represented by Assistant Professor Jame Monren Mercado, the UST Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (CCCPET), represented by Ms. Beverly M. Bautista, and the Samar Provincial Tourism Office, represented by Mr. Mario R. Piczon. Through this partnership, NwSSU reinforces its commitment to contributing to regional tourism development, supporting initiatives that benefit the province’s economy, tourism, and environment through sustainable means. 

Forging Excellence: NwSSU Holds 3-Day Orientation Program for New Entrants

Northwest Samar State University through the Human Resource Development Office(HRDO), in partnership with the Human Resource Management Office(HRMO), hosted a comprehensive 3-Day Orientation Program designed to welcome and integrate new entrants into the organization from February 19 to 21, 2025, on the 2nd Floor of the NwSSU BDC Building Day 1: Institutional Overview and Professional Ethics The program’s first day began with opening remarks from Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension. He emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration among its faculty and staff. A pre-test facilitated by Ms. Jenith T. Salem, HRDO-Main Campus Director, and Mr. John M. Tan, HRDO-San Jorge Campus Associate Professor II followed to assess the participants’ knowledge. Ms. Jonah L. Salcedo, Head of the Planning Office, introduced NWSSU’s Vision, Mission, Core Values, and Quality Policy, providing a comprehensive overview of the university’s guiding principles. She emphasized how these foundational elements shape institutional policies and drive the university’s long-term goals. Following this, she presented the key officials and offices of NWSSU, detailing their respective roles and responsibilities in the institution. Dr. Helen S. Cabral then discussed professional ethics and workplace etiquette, providing the participants with insights on proper conduct. The session continued with Dr. Teody Lester V. Panela, University Statistician and former Director of Research and Development Services, elaborating on the university’s research services. Dr. Catherine B. Rodriguez, Director of Extension Services, tackled extension programs of the University, highlighting the university’s commitment to forging partnerships and linkages. The day concluded with an in-depth discussion on NWSSU’s customized PRIME-HRM System of NwSSU and its processes which includes: RSP, L&D, SPMS, and R&R led by Ms. Maria Jona V. Ty, NwSSU Main Campus HRMO, Mr. John M. Tan, HRDO of NwSSU San Jorge Campus, Vice-president for Research, Innovation and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, and Mr. John Lloyd B. Tarrayo, HRMO Support Staff on behalf of Vice-president for Administrative Affairs Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling. Day 2: Quality Assurance, Finance, and Pedagogical Strategies The second day of the event focused on quality assurance and administrative processes. Ms. Claville Meneses, Head of Internal Quality Audit, discussed NWSSU’s quality assurance measures, followed by Ms. Jireh S. Fortaleza’s presentation on the University’s Quality Management System. Ms. Melanie Maria J. Senario, NwSSU San Jorge Campus Accountant and Ms. Jenith T. Salem, HRDO Director of NwSSU Main Campus provided guidelines on travel request processes and requirements, while Mr. Rodolfo B. Corrales, Jr., Supervising Administrative Officer, explained university financial matters. Personnel policies on government working hours and leave privileges were also presented by NwSSU Main Campus HRMO, Ms. Maria Jona V. Ty. The day concluded with a session led by Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon Jr., Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture, on Outcomes-Based Education, teaching strategies, syllabus construction, grading systems, and class management. Day 3: University Services, Associations, and Financial Literacy The final day highlighted university services and personnel development. Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, University Nurse III, introduced medical and dental services within the university, while Ms. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, Director of the Gender and Development Office, discussed gender sensitivity and gender mainstreaming. Dr. Jannel C. Alviola, Dean of the College of Education, elaborated on the four-fold functions of teachers. This was followed by a presentation from Dr. Leo Jesus M. Lacaba, Confederated President of FFPA-NWSSU and President of FANWSSU, introducing the Faculty Association, highlighting its role in advocating for the welfare of teaching personnel as well as the university’s Non-Teaching Personnel Association and its mission of upholding the rights of non-teaching personnel. The session also included an overview of Communication Manual CMO 63, s. 2017, by SIPP Coordinator Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe, and a discussion on financial literacy by Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, Director of Planning and Development Office. An open forum followed, allowing participants to raise questions and clarifications. The post-test assessment was conducted afterward. The event concluded with a closing ceremony where certificates were distributed by Ms. Maria Jona V. Ty, Ms. Jenith T. Salem, Mr. John M. Tan, and Ms. Florida C. Sison. In his closing remarks, For. Reynaldo R. Aquino, Campus Administrator of the San Jorge Campus, emphasized NWSSU’s commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, ensuring that all faculty and staff are well-equipped to fulfill their roles effectively. The program reaffirmed the university’s dedication to empowering its faculty and staff, ensuring that they are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to NWSSU’s mission of delivering quality education and public service. By equipping both teaching and non-teaching personnel with essential knowledge of university policies, ethical standards, and institutional goals, NWSSU aims to create an environment that promotes excellence, professional growth, and collaboration.

Expanding Educational Opportunities: NwSSU Strengthens Bid for ETEAAP Center

In its bid to establish the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Center, the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) underwent a series of coaching sessions under the tutelage of the Technological University of the Philippines, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and Arellano University on February 18 to 20, 2025. The sessions focused on essential topics such as assessment, admission, and registration procedures. The participants also shared insights on developing assessment tools and rubrics, as well as designing supplemental and enrichment tools. The delegation team headed by the NwSSU – ETEEAP Center Director, Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, also visited the Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD) at the CHED Central Office where they received practical ideas on the deputization process in accordance with the relevant CMO’s and other standing policies. The meeting was presided over by Cherrie Melanie Ancheta-Diego, CESO III, the Chief of OPSD. Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling (VP for Admin & Finance), Dr. Donald M. Patimo (Dean of the College of Management), Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV (University Registrar), Dr. Jessica C. Alorro (Program Chair, BSHM), Ms. Bevelyn A. Puerto (Program Chair, BSOAd), Dr. Rolyn A. Catamora (ETEEAP Assessment Coordinator), Ms. Ivy B. Aligam (ETEEAP Finance Coordinator) and Mr. Edward Abanilla (ETEEAP Admission & Records Management Staff) joined Mr. Tingzon in the said endeavor. The establishment of the ETEEAP Center is authorized under Board Resolution No. 75, s. 2024, which allows the University President to pursue deputization for the ETEEAP. The program will offer Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOAd) programs. The CHED Memorandum Order No. 29, s. 2021 defines the ETEEAP as a comprehensive program of identifying, accessing, validating, and assigning the equivalent undergraduate level of prior learnings from formal, non-formal, and informal training and relevant work experience and completion of competency enrichment and other program requirement/s toward the final granting of appropriate academic degrees. This program is in adherence with Executive Order No. 330 titled Adopting the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency And Accreditation Program as an Integral Part of the Educational System and Designating the Commission on Higher Education as the Authority Responsible for its Implementation, which was issued by His Excellency Fidel V. Ramos. The said EO No. 330 was aimed at “expanding and strengthening the system of academic equivalency and validation of the knowledge and expertise derived by individuals from relevant work experience and high level, non–formal training to harness their full potentials.” The full deputization of the NwSSU – ETEEAP Center is envisioned to expand the University’s reach for strengthening the Samarnon manpower, both locally and internationally.

Leading Students Towards Success: NWSSU Partners with TriNHS for Career Guidance

February 24 — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) in collaboration with Trinidad National High School (TriNHS) took a proactive step in shaping the future of students by hosting the Division School-Based Orientation on Career Guidance Program (CGP) and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) for Grade 10 and Grade 12 learners. The event provided essential insights to help students make informed decisions about their career paths and personal development. The program commenced with a warm welcome from School Principal I, Mrs. Wilma L. Reyes, who emphasized the importance of career preparedness and responsible decision-making. Dr. Renato S. Cagomoc, Chief of the Curriculum and Instruction Division (CID), followed with an inspiring message, urging students to maximize the opportunities presented to them. Mrs. Gina R. Montilla, Senior High School Guidance Designate, then delivered the rationale behind the orientation, highlighting its significance in guiding students toward their future career paths. A series of informative sessions unfolded, starting with a discussion on Career Pathing and Entrepreneurial Skills led by Mr. Arnold M. Jaraba, Education Program Supervisor in TLE and Senior High Division Coordinator. His presentation emphasized the importance of skill development and adaptability in today’s competitive professional environment. Dr. Nelson R. Bello, Education Program Supervisor for ESP and Guidance, provided an in-depth look into the Career Guidance Program for Grade 12 students. He outlined the curriculum exit options and career portfolio preparation strategies, equipping students with the tools necessary for a seamless transition into higher education and professional endeavors. Representatives from various universities and colleges, including Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) introduced the diverse tertiary education courses available, with a notable presentation from Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, Dean of the College of Nursing, who promoted the university’s Nursing program. Additionally, experts from TESDA, DOLE, and industry partners offered crucial insights into employment readiness and the development of middle skills, preparing students for a range of vocational and professional opportunities. Guidance counselors from higher education institutions (HEIs) provided valuable strategies for successfully passing university admission tests, IQ tests, and aptitude assessments. Their guidance aimed to boost students’ confidence and readiness for academic challenges ahead. The event proved to be an essential platform, empowering students with knowledge and guidance as they navigate their future careers and personal growth. By being proactive in fostering career awareness and holistic education, NwSSU continues to uphold its commitment to help prepare learners for a brighter future.