Strategic Alliance: NwSSU Forges Groundbreaking Initiatives

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has embarked on a mission to establish groundbreaking collaborations with esteemed institutions, paving the way for high-impact programs and projects. A ten-day exploratory visit to various government and private institutions in Metro Manila, Baguio City, and Davao City marked the beginning of this endeavor. The University’s delegation, comprising Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling (Vice President for Administration & Finance), Dr. Catherine B. Rodriguez (Director for Extension Services), and Mr. Redem D. Tingzon (Project Development Unit Head and ETEEAP Center Director), engaged in productive meetings with representatives from notable organizations. These included the United Nations, City Planning & Development Office of LGU-Baguio, University of the Cordilleras, and several other reputable institutions such as Civika Asian Development Academy, Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc., Philippine Coast Guard National Head Quarters, Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Davao University, and Galing Pook Foundation. These discussions opened up avenues for potential collaborations, enabling NwSSU to explore innovative extension initiatives and strengthen its linkages with prospective funding institutions. The meetings also facilitated the exchange of ideas and best practices, enriching the University’s portfolio of programs and projects. The initiative was made possible through the reconnection between Mr. Redem D. Tingzon and Dr. Elmer S. Soriano, a fellow from the Asian School of Governance and a long-time ally of the former in the academe. Although unable to join the delegation, University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo and the dean of the Graduate School, Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa, expressed their full support for the intensified extension programs conceptualized during these meetings. This strategic move is poised to propel NwSSU towards achieving its vision of becoming a premier institution, fostering growth and development through innovative partnerships and initiatives.

CHED Convenes Reconciliation Meeting with SUC and LUC Presidents

The Commission on Higher Education Regional Office VIII (CHED RO VIII) and university presidents from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) in Eastern Visayas gathered last January 30, 2025 at the CHED Central Office in Diliman, Quezon City, for a reconciliation meeting with the Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD). Led by Dr. Cherrie Melanie Ancheta-Diego, CESO III, Director IV of OPSD, and Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe Jr., CESO III, Director IV of CHED Regional Office VIII, the meeting centered on evaluating compliance documents submitted in response to deficiencies identified during the recent joint Technical Committee (TC) and Regional Quality Assurance Team (RQAT) evaluation of engineering programs. Additionally, the review of compliance documents for graduate programs and the scheduling of upcoming TC and RQAT visits for various graduate programs were discussed. Representatives from Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) attended the meeting, including Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa, Dean of the Graduate School; and Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon Jr., Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture. Guided by CHED Regional Memorandum Order No. 12, Series of 2025, the discussion aimed to ensure that higher education institutions in Region VIII meet the required standards, reaffirming their commitment to quality education and accreditation compliance. The reconciliation meeting marks a significant step towards enhancing the quality of higher education in Region VIII. CHED RO VIII remains committed to supporting and guiding SUCs and LUCs in their pursuit of excellence, ultimately benefiting the students and communities they serve.

Free Notarial Services of PDS and SALN of NwSSU Teaching and Non-Teaching Personnel

The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), Calbayog City District Office will conduct an Outreach Program on February 6, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. on the 4th floor of the Administrative Building, NwSSU Main Campus. During the program, PAO will offer free notarial services for the Personal Data Sheet (PDS) and Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) for all teaching and non-teaching staff. To participate, please prepare three (3) copies each of accomplished PDS and SALN. We highly encourage everyone to take advantage of this public service. Source: Human Resource Management Office.

NwSSU Empowers Sto. Niño LGUs with Digital Skills through Innovative ICT Training Program

Northwest Samar State University’s (NWSSU) College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS) has launched a pioneering ICT training program, “Digital Empowerment: Enhancing LGU Capacities Through ICT Literacy,” designed to equip local government employees in Sto. Niño, Samar with essential digital skills, enhancing their capacity to deliver efficient public services. The program’s first phase, held from January 23 to 25, 2025, provided hands-on training sessions for LGU personnel at the CCIS Computer Laboratory. A second batch is scheduled for January 30th to February 1st. Led by CCIS faculty, the training focused on Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Each day is dedicated to a specific ICT tool: Mr. Rodel R. Ventures began the training on Microsoft Word on Day 1 while Ms. Cristy S. Carpon facilitated Day 2, centering around Microsoft Excel. For the final day, Mr. Keith Benjie Pecayo focused on Microsoft PowerPoint. Each day’s morning sessions included lectures conducted by the speakers, while afternoons were scheduled for hands-on applications of the lessons learned with the guidance of the CCIS Faculty. To ensure the program’s effectiveness, a Training Needs Assessment (TNA) was conducted before the training, allowing customized training plans and materials. The interactive sessions combined lectures, workshops, group discussions, and collaborative exercises, enabling participants to apply their knowledge immediately.To sustain the impact of the program, post-training support will be provided through follow-up consultations, mentoring, and access to online resources. Participants are also tasked with creating action plans outlining how they will implement their new skills in their respective offices. This program reflects NWSSU CCIS’s dedication to community support through education and extension programs. By leveraging its expertise and facilities, the university strengthens partnerships with local governments while empowering local government employees to adapt to evolving technological demands.

NwSSU CLG, Calbayog City Housing and Development Office Explore Partnership for Improved Public Services

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

NwSSU Key Offficials Convene to Prioritize PAPs for fiscal Year 2026

January 22, 2025 — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) key officials and representatives gathered today at the President’s Boardroom to deliberate and prioritize the Proposed Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) for Fiscal Year 2026. The meeting served as a crucial step in addressing feedback and concerns raised during the Consultative Meeting with internal and external stakeholders held last October 28,2024. Through collaborative discussions, the officials aimed to align the proposed initiatives with NwSSU’s institutional goals and the needs of its constituents This strategic planning session highlights NwSSU’s commitment to inclusive decision-making, ensuring that its programs and projects are thoughtfully designed to drive institutional growth and positively impact the university’s progressive development.

NwSSU College of Nursing Supports Free Medical Mission

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.

NwSSU Hosts RIE Seminar on Scholarly Publishing

Last December 12, 2024, the Research, Innovation and Extension of Northwest Samar State University successfully conducted a seminar series on “Publication of Scholarly Papers in SCOPUS, WoS, and ACI Journals for Faculty Researchers” at the RIE Conference Room. The seminar, led by Engr. Ronald L. Orale, PhD, Professor VI of Samar State University, was designed to prepare and provide faculty researchers publishing strategies for top-tier journals. The topics covered included fundamentals and journal matching, fundamentals of research publishing, structuring a research paper, writing with AI and technology, and finalizing manuscripts. The event concluded with peer feedback and a group photo, marking a productive day of learning and innovation. This milestone advances the mission of the university in producing high impact researches and innovative solutions responsive to the local and global communities.

The Beach Litter Monitoring Project funded by PEMSEA

The Beach Litter Monitoring Project funded by PEMSEA: Year-I Monitoring Evaluation Presentation was attended by the CCJS faculty researchers headed by their project leader- EnP. Rosalina L. Tarrayo, CCJS Dean- Dr. Armando A. Alviola, VP for Academic Affairs- Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, and Brgy. Malajog and Brgy. Carayman monitoring teams.