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NOVEMBER 12, 2025 — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) formalized a transformative partnership on Wednesday through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the NwSSU Board Room. The agreement marks the launch of a 2-hectare mulberry plantation project designed to strengthen the local silk industry and establish NwSSU as a hub for sustainable agricultural innovation. The signing ceremony was led by Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, and Mr. Joseph S. Salas, PhilFIDA Regional Director for Region VIII. They were joined by key academic leaders including Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; Dr. Reynaldo R. Aquino, Campus Administrator of San Jorge Campus; Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director for Research and Development Services; and For. Eduardo G. Espejon, Director for Research and Extension at San Jorge Campus. At the heart of the initiative is the cultivation of mulberry leaves—an essential food source for silkworms—intended to revitalize silk production in the region. Yet the project’s impact extends beyond sericulture. Mulberry fruits, prized for their nutritional and medicinal properties, offer potential for diversified income streams and expanded research opportunities. Mr. Salas highlighted the plantation’s promise to unlock new avenues in medicine, agro-economics, and fiber research. The collaboration aligns with PhilFIDA’s mandate to advance the country’s fiber industry through education, innovation, and strategic partnerships. The MOA represents a significant stride in the region’s agricultural and academic landscape. By integrating PhilFIDA’s technical expertise with NwSSU’s research capabilities, the partnership seeks to foster sustainable development, empower local farmers, and position Samar as a leader in eco-friendly fiber production. Closing the ceremony, Dr. Pecayo expressed heartfelt gratitude to PhilFIDA, emphasizing the university’s commitment to the shared vision. The agreement signals a vibrant future—where government, academia, and agriculture converge to transform innovation into enduring progress.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has expanded its global research footprint, with Mr. Novlloyd E. Celeste, Head of the Information Technology Support Office (ITSO), representing the institution at the international conference, “Innovations for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development.” The event, organized by the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI), took place from September 22 to 24, 2025. The three-day conference served as a vital platform, convening researchers, policymakers, and development experts from across Asia and the Pacific. Delegates from nations including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam exchanged knowledge on fostering sustainable and inclusive agricultural systems. ​Mr. Celeste presented his paper, “Transition to Circular Bioeconomy: Opportunities and Challenges,” which was co-authored with Dr. Anthony B. Halog of the University of Queensland, Australia. His active participation demonstrated NwSSU’s dedication to tackling global agricultural and environmental challenges through research-backed innovation. The conference featured focused discussions on key areas such as high-value agriculture, the circular bioeconomy, e-commerce’s role in rural development, and policy frameworks for agro-food trade. Participants benefited from real-time feedback provided by distinguished journal editors, cultivating a setting of professional development, collaboration, and scientific exactitude. ​Reflecting on the opportunity, Mr. Celeste shared that the experience was both a humbling and empowering milestone. “Communicating research outputs and receiving critique for professional growth is invaluable. It demands humbleness, open-mindedness, critical thinking, and courage,” he stated. Through this engagement, NwSSU asserted its position as an emerging force in global discussions on sustainable development. The university confirmed its commitment to linking local innovation with international collaboration, striving for a more resilient and research-focused future.

July 11, 2025 — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office, successfully conducted a Gender Sensitivity Orientation Seminar on July 11, 2025, at the Business Development Center. The event gathered university personnel, staff, and invited participants with the aim of deepening their understanding of gender sensitivity and promoting a more inclusive and respectful academic and workplace environment. The seminar commenced with an Opening Remarks and the Rationale of the Activity delivered by Mr. Eugene C. Calumba, Head of the University Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, on behalf of Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz. In his message, Mr. Calumba emphasized the significance of fostering safe, equitable spaces in academic and professional settings, reaffirming NwSSU’s strong commitment to gender equality and the mainstreaming of gender-sensitive practices across all university units and services. The first session was led by Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, GAD Director, who delivered an engaging and timely discussion on Gender Sensitivity in the Workplace. She addressed the importance of dismantling gender stereotypes, promoting equity, and ensuring fair and respectful treatment for all, regardless of gender identity or orientation. A legal perspective was provided by Atty. Ma. Cecile Candida Y. Rueda, University Ombudsman, through her session on Laws on Gender Sensitivity. Her presentation highlighted relevant national policies, legal safeguards, and the institutional responsibilities in addressing gender-based discrimination and upholding human rights. Health and emergency response topics were also covered. Ms. Toni Charm Calag, University Nurse, led a session titled “The Medical Responders”, which focused on the role of healthcare professionals in applying gender-aware approaches during medical emergencies. Representing the Bureau of Fire Protection, FO2 Evann Steve P. Ultra delivered a presentation titled The Rescuers, on behalf of City Fire Marshal FSINSP Tereso T. Tuazon. FO2 Ultra stressed the need for gender-sensitive strategies in emergency response and rescue operations, reinforcing the relevance of inclusivity even in crisis situations. The program concluded with the awarding of certificates to the speakers and participants, followed by the closing remarks. Through this initiative, NwSSU strengthens its ongoing commitment to equipping its academic community with the knowledge, tools, and values needed to build a more inclusive, respectful, and gender-sensitive university environment.

On January 22, 2025, officials and staff from the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Center for Local Governance (CLG) and the Calbayog City Housing and Development Office (CHDO) gathered at the NWSSU Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) Conference Room to discuss a potential collaboration aimed at enhancing public service delivery in the city. The discussions, led by Dr. Nicolas L. Faller, Director of NWSSU CLG, and Engr. Ricky A. Moreno, Head of Calbayog CHDO marked the initial step in forging a partnership to streamline the CHDO’s operations and improve accessibility for city residents. Others present in the said meeting include Ms. Glomarie Orongan from NWSSU CLG, Engr. Shena Mae M. Marmita and Mr. Aran Jay P. Andaya from CHDO. The proposed initiative, which highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing the growing demands of urban development and housing management, included integrating essential housing and development services to digital and online means. By leveraging digital tools through a collaboration of both parties, the project seeks to expedite transactions, reduce delays, and ensure a more efficient delivery of services. With a shared commitment to enhancing local governance and public services, this partnership

On January 19, 2025, the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) College of Nursing actively participated in a free medical mission organized by Immanuel Church Calbayog, in partnership with various community organizations, including the Rotary Club of Calbayog, Rotaract Club of Greater Calbayog, Content Vloggers of Calbayog, Calbayog City Dental Chapter Incorporated, and several local businesses, held at the Brgy. Carmen Covered Court. The initiative aimed to provide essential healthcare services to approximately 170 residents from various barangays in Calbayog City. The medical mission offered tooth extractions, adult and child consultations, blood pressure check-ups, free medicines, eye examination, and free reading glasses. NwSSU’s nursing students and faculty participated in patient assessment, vital signs and weight taking, and medication dispensing. Their involvement also included conducting valuable health education sessions and assisting with the logistical organization of the medical station. This effort highlights NwSSU’s commitment to supporting community health and service while reinforcing its role in training future healthcare professionals through hands-on experience in public health initiatives.