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Catbalogan City, Samar – On May 5, 2025, 263 pre-service teachers from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the Philippine Association for Teachers and Educators (PAFTE) 8 Regional Pre-service Teachers’ Congress 2025, held at the Maceda Gymnasium of Samar State University (SSU). Themed “Shaping the Futures of AI-Supported Teaching and Learning: Upholding Pedagogical Duty for Inclusion and Affirmative Action,” the congress gathered aspiring educators from universities and colleges across Samar, including NwSSU Main and San Jorge Campus, SSU, Eastern Samar State University, University of Eastern Philippines, Christ the King College of Calbayog, and Samar Colleges. The event provided a platform for meaningful discussions on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in education, with a particular focus on inclusion and affirmative action in pedagogy. Photo by The Tradesman In continuation of its successful 2024 iteration, the event featured a series of insightful sessions, beginning with a keynote address by Dr. Edward Jay M. Quinto, Dean of Mapúa University’s School of Education and Basic Studies. Dr. Quinto’s address highlighted the critical role of AI in tackling global challenges within teaching and learning environments. The afternoon session included a talk show with notable Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) topnotchers from Samar Island. Featured speakers Rhea Mae Baillo (ESSU-Main, Top 6, LEPT September 2022), Maria Shara Lene Lamoste (SSU-Main, Top 10, LEPT March 2024), and Darryl Tambis (NwSSU-Main, Top 7, LEPT September 2024) shared their personal journeys to success, providing invaluable study tips and motivational insights to aspiring teachers. Photo by The Tradesman Other sessions focused on redefining pedagogy to enhance inclusivity, led by Dr. Perlita Vivero, ETEEAP Director of Leyte Normal University , and developing ethical technological frameworks for quality teaching, presented by Dr. Marife Daga, also from Leyte Normal University. These sessions aimed to equip future educators with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate an increasingly digital and inclusive educational landscape. NwSSU delegates also showcased their competitive spirit in the congress’ quiz bee, with participants finishing in second and third place, further highlighting the excellence of the university’s pre-service teachers. The PAFTE 8 Regional Pre-service Teachers’ Congress proved to be a valuable experience for NwSSU’s pre-service teachers, who actively participated in discussions and showcased their skills. Their involvement in the event highlights NwSSU’s commitment to equipping future educators with the knowledge and tools necessary for success in today’s evolving educational landscape.

After a productive series of accreditation activities, including the virtual campus tour on April 29 that showcased facilities and learning resources, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) reached another key milestone in the AACCUP Preliminary Survey Visit with the Exit Conference held via Zoom on May 2, 2025. University officials attended the virtual conference, where the accrediting team offered their general impressions of NwSSU’s performance. While no official findings or results were presented, the accreditors praised the university’s clear commitment to academic quality and continuous improvement. The well-organized virtual tour and document presentation were among the aspects positively noted during the session. The Exit Conference also featured a simple awarding of certificates to the accreditors in appreciation of their work and collaboration throughout the visit. NwSSU remains committed to pursuing excellence through active engagement in accreditation processes, using each phase as an opportunity for growth and institutional enhancement.

Tacloban City, Philippines — In a compelling presentation during the recent Technical Budget Hearing held in Tacloban City, representatives from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully defended a suite of strategic proposals amounting to ₱1.8 billion, aimed at addressing critical institutional needs and advancing the university’s academic and operational priorities. The NwSSU team presented a comprehensive portfolio of projects and programs sourced from various university units, reflecting an integrated development roadmap that spans infrastructure modernization, academic program enhancement, research, innovation, and extension services. A major highlight of the proposal is the university’s intensified effort to secure Certificates of Program Compliance (COPC) for its academic offerings, ensuring that all programs meet Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards and are aligned with national outcomes-based education frameworks. This initiative is coupled with infrastructure plans designed to support laboratories, learning spaces, and technology hubs necessary for quality assurance, research productivity, and inclusive learning. The proposed budget also includes provisions for innovation-driven programs and externally engaged projects intended to elevate NwSSU’s contribution to community development, local industry support, and regional economic growth. Notably, several proposals directly align with the government’s national development agenda and the National Budget Memorandum (NBM) priorities framework, underscoring the university’s commitment to responsive and high-impact public service. In defending the ₱1.8 billion proposal, it was emphasized that the institution’s absorptive capacity and readiness to implement projects, citing the university’s high Budget Utilization Rate (BUR) of 99.80% to 100%, and the submission of required documentary requirements. The successful presentation marks a significant step forward in the university’s ongoing transformation, as it seeks to enhance institutional performance, promote inclusive education, and fulfill its mandate as a catalyst for sustainable development in the region.

Aiming to uphold the highest standards of ethical research, the Office of Research and Development Services (ORDS) of Northwest Samar State University conducted a cross-learning activity at Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and Trinity University of Asia (TUA) on April 28-29, 2025. The two-day activity facilitated fruitful discussions between the NwSSU Research team, the ADMU Research Ethics Committee, and the TUA Research Office. The activity focused on identifying institutional policies and structures that support Research Ethics Committee (REC) operations. ADMU and TUA shared their best practices in REC operations that NwSSU may adopt in operationalizing its own REC. The ADMU team was composed of Dr. Marc P. Gellynck, UREC Chair; Dr. Eduardo Ezekiel S. Denzon, UREC Vice-Chair; Mr. Joseph B. Johnson, UREC Secretary; Ms. Camille Z. Aspillera; and Ms. Lilia Christin P. Umali, Administrative Assistants of the University Research Integrity Office. The TUA team included Dr. Maria Antonia C. Capili, URDC Director; Dr. Michael O. Baclig, Assistant URDC Director; Ms. Shaira Santiago, TUA-IERC Staff; and Ms. Kathriena Cabanting, URDC Administrative Staff. During the visit, the NwSSU team also made a courtesy visit to TUA’s President, Dr. Gisela DA. Luna and they were warmly welcomed. The NwSSU team was composed of Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, ORDS Director; Mr. Jessie Sabijon; and Ms. Mary Joy Mustacisa Capito of San-Jorge Campus Research Office; Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte; and Ms. Precious Joyce Ogdoc, University Researchers; Ms. Rhea Jenny V. Ogalesco, Communication Specialist; and Research Staff Mr. Joshua A. Rosillon, Ms. Jane Cabradilla, and Ms. Renalyn Caca. The learnings from this cross-learning activity are expected to enhance the impact and ethical standards of NwSSU’s research, as mandated by the Commission on Higher Education. This initiative demonstrates NwSSU’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of research ethics and advancing its research capabilities.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took a significant step forward in its pursuit of enhanced academic facilities as it welcomed representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF) on April 29, 2025. The CHED team, comprising Ms. Carolyn M. Patayan (Project Evaluation Officer III), Ms. Nica B. Duran (Project Technical Staff II), Mr. Patrick James M. Arao (Project Technical Staff I), and Mr. Christian Mark R. Carreon (Project Support Staff V) from the Central Office, along with Ms. Ma. Cristina Sheryl G. Culaban (Admin Assistant III/Property Custodian Designate) from CHED Region 8, arrived at the University Hotel and Restaurant where they were warmly received by Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, Supervising Administrative Officer (SAO) Admin, and Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of the Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office (IMCO). Their arrival signaled the commencement of the scheduled inventory and tagging of equipment. On April 30, the CHED delegation paid a courtesy call to University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, marking the commencement of their official activities. The team conducted a thorough inspection, inventory, and tagging of equipment across several key university facilities, including the Engineering laboratories, Hotel and Management laboratories, the Speech Laboratory of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS), and the Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) Office. A highlight of the visit was the turnover of a drone and drybox to the RIE Office, with Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz receiving the equipment on behalf of the university. This addition is expected to bolster NwSSU’s research capabilities and support innovative projects. In addition to the equipment received, the CHED team reviewed two other items, which are currently undergoing final refinements to ensure they meet the highest standards. This proactive approach reflects NwSSU’s dedication to continuous improvement and its commitment to aligning with CHED’s Policies, Standards, and Guidelines. This collaborative effort between NwSSU and CHED reflects a shared dedication to elevating the quality of higher education in the region, ensuring that students and faculty have access to updated resources conducive to learning, research, and innovation.

In its continuing commitment to academic innovation and educational access, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the National Public Consultation on the Draft Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 12124, otherwise known as the “Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act,” held on April 29, 2025, at the CHED Auditorium, Higher Education Development Center Building, C.P. Garcia Avenue, UP Diliman, Quezon City. Representing NwSSU in the consultation were Dr. Ramil Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, Director of the NwSSU ETEEAP Center. Their participation highlights the University’s commitment to shaping policies that expand access to higher education for Filipinos. The public consultation, organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through its Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD), gathered presidents, vice presidents, academic officials, faculty members, students from both public and private higher education institutions, as well as regional CHED directors and key stakeholders from across the country. During the session, attendees were invited to provide feedback and recommendations on the proposed IRR to ensure that the expanded ETEEAP remains responsive to the needs of lifelong learners and working professionals seeking academic advancement through adaptive pathways. Through its active involvement, NwSSU emphasizes its support for inclusive and flexible education systems that recognize and value prior learning and professional experience, opening more opportunities for people to achieve their educational and career goals.

After five days of intensive capacity-building sessions, tutors and youth development workers from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) are now set to officially begin their roles in the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program, a national initiative that empowers youth to promote literacy and community development. Held from April 21 to 25, 2025, at the NwSSU RSU Socio-Cultural Center, the preparatory sessions equipped the volunteers with essential skills in pedagogy, child development, values formation, and community engagement, crucial in supporting early-grade learners who struggle with reading. The capability-building also emphasized the importance of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and educational equity in tutoring marginalized youth. In addition to assisting children, the program also includes parents as participants in the Nanay Tatay Sessions, a program facilitated by youth development workers that educates parents on the importance of a nurturing and loving home environment in a child’s development. The Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program, launched by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in partnership with State University Colleges, Deped, and PLGU Samar through Gov. Sharee Ann Tan, is a community-based initiative designed to assist low-income families with young learners while providing college students the opportunity to earn through a cash-for-work scheme. The program empowers youth to serve as literacy and parent education champions, promoting inclusive community development. Now equipped with training and guidance, NwSSU’s youth development workers will soon be deployed across their assigned communities, ready to advance foundational literacy and demonstrate NwSSU’s commitment to education-driven nation-building, community service, and youth leadership.

“We must conform to standards to guarantee quality assurance, especially with AACCUP. Meeting performance standards is a must, but if we don’t challenge ourselves, the University will remain stagnant,” said Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, in his opening speech. Northwest Samar State University took a significant step toward academic accreditation as it kicked off its Preliminary Survey Visit (PSV), conducted by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP). Over the next five days, the University will undergo a thorough evaluation, essential to upholding high-quality education and meeting national standards. The PSV is designed to assess NwSSU’s readiness for full accreditation, helping the University ensure that it is on track for continuous growth and improvement. The opening program featured several key activities, including the introduction of the area chairpersons and accrediting team. Dr. Pinky B. Carig, Dr. Jay B. Fallan, Prof. Ma. Monette D. Tugay, and Ar. Gina G. Flanders are the accreditors who will evaluate how well the University aligns with AACCUP’s standards. The University President stressed the importance of adhering to high-quality benchmarks. The programs being evaluated during this PSV include offerings from the College of Education, such as the Bachelor of Secondary Education, with majors in Values Education, Filipino, and Social Studies; the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, majoring in Information Communication Technology; and the Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education, majoring in Food and Service Management. The Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the College of Engineering and Architecture is also part of the evaluation. Tomorrow, April 29, 2025, the accreditors will get a closer look at NwSSU’s facilities through a virtual tour, which will showcase the University’s infrastructure, learning resources, and support services. The opening program set a positive and focused tone for the accreditation process, as NwSSU continues to strive for excellence and work toward surpassing national standards in higher education. This accreditation process is expected to enhance NWSSU’s reputation, increase stakeholder confidence, and ultimately benefit students, faculty, and the community by ensuring the university’s programs meet rigorous standards. The successful outcome of this evaluation will likely lead to improved academic programs, facilities, and services, further solidifying NwSSU’s commitment to delivering high-quality education and contributing to the region’s development.

In anticipation of the upcoming Online AACCUP accreditation, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) is stepping up its preparations to ensure its academic programs are ready for evaluation. On April 23, 2025, the university convened an online coordination meeting to review progress, align tasks, and address remaining requirements. The session brought together key officials and staff involved in the accreditation process, providing a clear overview of the current accreditation status of various programs. A brief refresher on the AACCUP process outlined the evaluation framework and standards that need to be met. The meeting focused on updates from the College of Education and the College of Engineering and Architecture, both working on their accreditation documents. Progress reports were shared, and areas needing further attention were identified. The importance of properly handling and organizing accreditation materials was also emphasized, ensuring documents are complete, clearly arranged, and meet the expected quality. The meeting served as a strategic touchpoint, allowing departments to coordinate efforts and maintain momentum. As preparations continue, NwSSU remains focused on upholding academic quality and institutional improvement.