Ensuring Excellence: NwSSU Conducts 9th Management Review Committee Meeting

Key officials of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), including deans and directors from various divisions, gathered on March 25, 2025, at the 2nd Floor of the Business Development Center (BDC) for the 9th Management Review Committee (MRC) Meeting. This meeting served as a crucial platform to evaluate the university’s Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring its alignment with institutional goals and adherence to quality standards. The meeting focused on multiple agenda which included assessing the university’s mandate and functions, reviewing the status of previous management reviews, and identifying changes in internal and external issues relevant to QMS. Discussions also tackled customer satisfaction and feedback from research, innovation, and public service activities from 2024 to the present, the conformity of processes, and the adequacy of resources. Officials analyzed the effectiveness of actions taken to address risks and opportunities, examined internal audit results from Cycle 2024, and discussed the performance of external providers. Opportunities for improvement were also explored, highlighting NwSSU’s continuous pursuit of institutional excellence. The gathering emphasized the importance of fostering a responsive, data-driven approach to achieving quality objectives and addressing non-conformities through proactive corrective actions. In addition, the university reaffirmed its commitment to improving operational processes and service delivery, ensuring that all actions align with its mission to provide high-quality education and public service. With the insights and evaluation drawn from the 9th Management Review Committee Meeting, NwSSU reinforces its commitment to delivering quality education, services, and administrative processes. This continuous commitment to quality assurance ensures that NwSSU remains adaptable, progressive, and aligned with its mission of fostering academic excellence and institutional innovation.

From Concepts to Creations: NwSSU Hosts 2nd EMC Screenwriting Workshop

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully hosted the 2nd EMC Screenwriting Workshop from March 19 to 21, 2025, at the 2nd Floor BDC. The three-day event, sponsored by the Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing (BSEMC) 2A students, brought together learners from the Development Communication (DevCom) and BSEMC programs, equipping them with essential screenwriting skills and fostering collaboration among students. Mr. Phil Harold L. Mercurio set the tone for the event by delivering the rationale, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in the digital age. He also announced the prospects of launching a student-led film festival, providing a platform for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their works. The College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS) Dean, Dr. Francisco B. Bacamante Jr., delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the significance of screenwriting in multimedia disciplines. Mr. Joshua Banzon followed with an inspiring message, encouraging students to hone their craft and harness the power of storytelling as a tool for effective communication. The workshop’s highlight was a lecture by award-winning screenwriter Mr. Jerry Gracio, known for his notable contributions to Philippine cinema. His acclaimed works include Emir (2010), Astig (2009), and Balangiga: Howling Wilderness (2017), for which he won Best Original Screenplay at the 2018 FAMAS Awards. A celebrated poet, Mr. Gracio has received prestigious awards such as the SEA Write Award, multiple Palanca Memorial Awards, and two National Book Awards for his poetry collections. Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in hands-on activities, received personalized feedback, and collaborated on group projects. The event concluded with a reflection on the participants’ growth and creativity, demonstrating the significant impact of the workshop on their skills development and creative drive. The 2nd EMC Screenwriting Workshop not only provided a platform for skills development but also strengthened the community and creative drive among DevCom and BSEMC students of NwSSU. By empowering aspiring screenwriters with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the entertainment and multimedia industry, NwSSU emphasizes its commitment to nurturing creativity, innovation, and excellence among its students.

NwSSU at ICERD 2025: Fostering Global Collaboration for Sustainable Development

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) proudly participated in the 16th International Conference on Environmental and Rural Development (ICERD), which was held from March 13-16, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan. This prestigious event gathered experts, researchers, and educators from various institutions globally to discuss sustainable strategies for environmental and rural development. Representing NwSSU at the conference was Mr. Shian Morallos, a faculty member from the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences (CCJS), who engaged with international scholars and professionals in exploring innovative solutions for rural sustainability and environmental conservation. The conference was organized by the 16th ICERD Organizing Committee and co-organized by the International Society of Environmental and Rural Development (ISERD), the Institute of Environmental Rehabilitation and Conservation (ERECON), and Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan. ICERD 2025 featured collaborations with esteemed academic and research institutions from various countries, including the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (Japan), the University of Queensland (Australia), Universitas Gadjah Mada (Indonesia), Kasetsart University (Thailand), and Visayas State University (Philippines), among others. Discussions centered on environmental management, rural innovation, and policy frameworks that promote sustainable development. Through its participation in this international academic gathering, NwSSU strengthened its research capabilities, broadened its collaborative opportunities, and gained valuable insights into best practices applicable to local communities. The experience is expected to enhance the university’s capacity to develop innovative solutions for environmental and rural development, ultimately benefiting the local communities and contributing to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mr. Morallos’ attendance at the conference emphasizes the university’s commitment to expanding its global academic network, adopting best practices in environmental and rural development, and implementing sustainable practices within local communities. This initiative also corresponds with the university’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and nurturing global academic partnerships that benefit both students and faculty.

Forging the Blueprint: NwSSU Continues Benchmarking Journey at FABLAB CTU-Danao

March 21, 2025 — In its third stop across Central Visayas, Northwest Samar State University visited FABLAB Cebu Technological University (CTU) Danao to further enhance its knowledge on innovation and fabrication practices marking a meaningful milestone in NwSSU’s journey to establish its own state-of-the-art fabrication laboratory. The NwSSU delegation was warmly welcomed by CTU-Danao officials, led by Dr. Rose Mary L. Almacen, Campus Director, alongside Delia G. Sabio, NSTP Director; Engr. Jayson G. Bayogo, Adviser of the Engineering Society; and Dr. Joshlen B. Lim from the Information, Communications, and Public Affairs (ICPA) Office. Their guidance provided valuable insights into the facility’s operational strategies and community-oriented programs. The benchmarking activity allowed the NwSSU representatives to gain insights on FABLAB CTU-Danao’s efficient practices. The delegation observed how the facility supports student clients in prototyping projects, cultivating innovation from the ground up. Additionally, the FABLAB has shown promotion of sustainability through upcycling initiatives and played an essential role in the local creative industry by offering livelihood training programs. These workshops empower local entrepreneurs and artists, helping them turn ideas into marketable products. Beyond serving the local community, the fablab also addresses the university’s internal needs by supporting institutional multimedia production. This capability aligns with NwSSU’s goal of improving its own multimedia publication and technology-based initiatives. The NwSSU team commended the outstanding hospitality shown by CTU-Danao throughout the visit, highlighting the warm reception and collaborative spirit that fueled productive discussions and exploration on future partnerships. With this another benchmarking activity completed — following earlier visits to FABLAB Bohol and FABLAB UP Cebu — NwSSU is now equipped with a more knowledge and inspiration to guide the establishment of its own fabrication laboratory. The university remains dedicated to turning these insights into reality, promoting innovation, empowering its academic and local community, and driving sustainable development in Eastern Visayas. This marks not an end, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter for NwSSU’s vision of progress and ingenuity.

Strengthening Global Ties: NwSSU Officials Forge Partnership with Tra Vinh University

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) key officials embarked on a three-day visit to Tra Vinh University in Vietnam from March 13 to 15, marking a significant step in the institution’s efforts to expand its international collaborations. This strategic partnership is poised to elevate NwSSU’s global standing, enhance its academic programs, and provide students and faculty with invaluable opportunities for growth and exchange. The visit centered on three major objectives: the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), discussions on further partnerships, and participation in an international conference. NwSSU representatives engaged in MoU discussions that emphasized the Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP) and future research conferences on the first day of the visit. The following day, the delegation visited Tra Vinh University’s laboratories to explore potential internship opportunities for students. These engagements reinforced the universities’ shared commitment to academic excellence and cross-border educational exchange. Culminating the visit, NwSSU participated in the 1st International Conference on Education and Training for Sustainability on March 15. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, serving as one of the session chairpersons and presenters, led discussions that highlighted the role of higher education in sustainable development. Dr. Pecayo was joined by Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Dr. Iris B. Bejasa, and Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe. This initiative further strengthens NwSSU’s global engagement, paving the way for more international collaborations. The partnership with Tra Vinh University is expected to have a profound impact on NwSSU’s academic community, offering numerous benefits such as enhanced academic programs, increased opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, and broader perspectives and global understanding. By forging ties with global institutions, NwSSU continues its commitment to providing its students and faculty with broader perspectives and opportunities for academic and professional growth.  

Exploring New Frontiers: NwSSU Benchmarks at Fablab UP Cebu

CEBU CITY — To enhance its innovation and fabrication capabilities, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted a benchmarking activity at FABLAB UP Cebu on March 20, marking the second stop in a series of visits across Central Visayas. The visit provided NwSSU representatives with key insights into the operations of Fablab UP Cebu, which primarily caters to students in arts and design, architecture, and related fields. The facility also engages in government-to-government transactions, accommodates senior high school interns in specialized disciplines during SHS work immersion, and extends services to private corporations. A designated manager oversees training programs to ensure skill development and industry alignment. Fablab UP Cebu representatives, including Manager Jonessa Abayon, Administrator Ma. Janica Marcellana, and Resident Maker Mark Cortez, guided the NwSSU delegation through the facility, showcasing its advanced fabrication tools and processes. They demonstrated how students and professionals utilize cutting-edge equipment to bring innovative designs to life and facilitated discussions on best practices, operational strategies, and potential collaborations. Their engagement highlighted the importance of fostering creativity, technical expertise, and industry linkages in advancing innovation. By exploring partnerships and best practices, NwSSU aims to enrich its academic, research, and multimedia publication initiatives. With this visit following an earlier benchmarking at FABLAB Bohol, NwSSU continues to pursue excellence in education, fabrication, and innovation. The university’s commitment to expanding its publication capabilities and exploring new frontiers in innovation is expected to have a positive impact on its students, faculty, and the wider community, driving growth, creativity, and progress in the region.

Exploring Opportunities: NwSSU Promotes Academic and Career Opportunities at Calbayog City National High School

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) continued its mission to guide students in making informed career choices by participating in the Division School-Based Orientation on Career Guidance Program (CGP) and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) at Calbayog City National High School (CCNHS) on March 19, 2025. The initiative aimed to equip Grade 10 and Grade 12 learners with essential knowledge on higher education opportunities and professional pathways. The event featured discussions led by experts from multiple sectors, including NwSSU, providing students with valuable insights into university programs and career options. Mr. Shian Morallos introduced NwSSU’s diverse academic offerings, giving an overview of the university’s programs, highlighting NwSSU’s Environmental Science program, and walking the students through the admission process. Another key focus of the orientation was NwSSU’s nursing program, with College of Nursing Dean Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio and other nursing faculty members presenting an in-depth discussion on the curriculum, career prospects, and the critical role of nurses in the healthcare industry. Their session emphasized the prospects for healthcare professionals and encouraged students to consider nursing as a future career path. Through its continued participation in the career guidance program, NwSSU empowered students with essential knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures. By providing students with a comprehensive understanding of higher education opportunities and career pathways, NwSSU aims to inspire and motivate students to pursue their passions and achieve their full potential. The successful event marked another milestone in NwSSU’s commitment to supporting students in their transition from high school to higher education, ensuring they receive the guidance needed to pursue their academic and professional aspirations. By fostering partnerships with local schools and communities, NwSSU continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of education and career development in the region.

Innovative Leap: NwSSU Benchmarks FABLAB Bohol

March 19, 2025 — In a strategic move to revolutionize the university’s multimedia production, Northwest Samar State University conducted a benchmarking activity at FABLAB Bohol, the country’s pioneering fabrication laboratory housed at Bohol Island State University. The visit provided NwSSU Officials with key insights into the lab’s management systems, operational workflows, innovative practices, and production experiences. These learnings are expected to guide NwSSU in establishing its own fabrication laboratory while enhancing its income-generating projects and technological initiatives. FABLAB Bohol stands as a model of innovation-driven development. It was established through a collaboration among the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and BISU. Operating under BISU’s Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) division, the facility has become a vital platform for the students, faculty, and researchers to advance their skills in digital fabrication, prototype development, and innovative project implementation—strengthening BISU’s commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Welcoming the delegation, Ms. Darlene Angelica A. Loquias, Head of University Publication at BISU, delivered remarks on behalf of BISU’s Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension. She expressed BISU’s support for NwSSU’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in helping the university establish its own fabrication laboratory—guided by the shared academic spirit of resilience, integrity, service, and excellence. Dr. Jerome P. Manatad, University Director for FABLAB Bohol, highlighted the lab’s extensive services and its success in positioning BISU as a regional hub for innovation, supporting both academic projects and local industry growth. With a strong interest in fostering collaboration, BISU and FABLAB Bohol expressed their readiness to support NwSSU by sharing expertise and best practices that could significantly contribute to NwSSU’s capacity-building efforts and future innovation projects. NwSSU’s benchmarking visit marks a significant step toward expanding the multimedia production and development initiatives, laying the groundwork for growth in communities in Eastern Visayas. The visit to BISU’s FABLAB Bohol is the first of several benchmarking activities lined up for NwSSU, as the university is set to visit other institutions in Central Visayas in the coming days to gather more insights for the development of its own FABLAB.

BSDevCom, BSCrim Faculty Leads Outreach Activity in Panoypoy Integrated School

Faculty members from the Bachelor of Science in Development Communication and Bachelor of Science in Criminology programs of the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences (CCJS) conducted an outreach activity on campus journalism and a campaign against bullying and school-related threats at Panoypoy Integrated School on Monday, March 17, 2025. The event aimed to educate elementary and junior high school students on responsible campus journalism and to raise awareness about bullying and school-related threats. The outreach included a series of lectures and workshops designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to practice ethical journalism and to promote a safer school environment. BSDevCom faculty members led the session on campus journalism, which focused on media laws and ethics, the basics of news writing, feature writing, photojournalism, science journalism, and writing for broadcast. The lectures emphasized the role of student journalists in fostering a well-informed school community. Meanwhile, BSCrim faculty members conducted lectures and a workshop on identifying and addressing bullying and other threats in school settings, emphasizing the importance of reporting incidents and supporting peers. Gender and Development Office Director, Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, also lectured about the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the Bawal Bastos Law. The activity was also attended by faculty members from the Bachelor of Science in Industry Security Management, Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Administration, and College of Education, Human Resource Development Officer – Main Campus, Ms. Jenith T. Salem, and the Dean of the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences, Dr. Armando A. Alviola. Through this outreach activity, the students gained valuable knowledge and skills on responsible campus journalism and anti-bullying strategies, enabling them to become more responsible and empathetic members of their school community. The distribution of hygiene kits and slippers also promoted a sense of well-being and inclusivity among the students. The outreach activity reflects the commitment of the NwSSU BSDevCom and BSCrim faculty to promote responsible communication and ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for students. By empowering students with the knowledge and skills to address social issues, the faculty members aim to create a positive impact on the students’ lives and contribute to the development of a more informed and compassionate society.

University’s CART Conducts Online Re-orientation to Strengthen RA 11032 Implementation

The Committee on Anti-Red Tape Authority (CART) of the Northwest Samar State University recently held an online re-orientation aimed at reinforcing the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 11032 and other relevant Anti-Red Tape (ARTA) issuances on March 19, 2025. The event was designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of key anti-red tape measures and guidelines. Key topics covered during the session included a brief overview of RA 11032, the Committee on Anti-Red Tape, the Report Card Survey 2.0, and the Whole-of-Government Reengineering Manual. Additionally, the orientation delved into the Citizen’s Charter, the Harmonized Client Satisfaction Measurement Guidelines, and the Zero Backlog program—all vital components in ensuring improved service delivery and transparency in government transactions. Through this online re-orientation, the university’s CART aims to empower stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to uphold the goals of RA 11032. As a result, the university expects to see significant improvements in service delivery, including reduced processing times, increased transparency, and enhanced public satisfaction. By streamlining its processes and eliminating unnecessary red tape, the university aims to provide better services to its stakeholders, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective public service. The successful implementation of RA 11032 is expected to have a positive impact on the university’s operations, enabling it to provide faster, more efficient, and more transparent services to its students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and promoting a culture of transparency and accountability, the university aims to create a more conducive environment for learning, research, and community engagement.