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More Than a Signature For many students and residents, “human rights” can feel like a phrase reserved for textbooks and news headlines — important, but distant. That distance just got a little shorter. Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Region VIII formalized a renewed and strengthened partnership through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing at the NwSSU President’s Board Room. Joining them was Barangay Oquendo, whose inclusion signals a shift from policy on paper to programs that reach real neighborhoods. Two agreements anchor this partnership, and together they point toward tangible, everyday benefits for the university community and the barangay it calls home. A Campus Where Rights Are Understood, Not Just Studied The first MOA establishes the Center for Human Rights Education (CHRE), a joint undertaking between NwSSU and CHR Region VIII. For students, this could mean human rights education woven more directly into campus life — through lectures, workshops, or activities that go beyond the classroom and help clarify what rights and responsibilities actually look like in practice. For faculty and staff, it opens the door to fresh resources and training that can enrich how human rights topics are taught and discussed across programs. The ambition behind the CHRE is straightforward but powerful: a campus culture where every member — student, teacher, or staff — has a clearer grasp of their own rights, and just as importantly, a stronger sense of responsibility to respect the rights of others. In a university setting, that kind of awareness often ripples outward, shaping how graduates carry themselves as professionals and citizens long after they leave NwSSU’s halls. Building Safer, More Responsive Communities The second MOA takes a more ground-level approach, focusing on capacity building for the response to Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC), local policy development, crime prevention, and peace and order. This is where Barangay Oquendo’s role becomes especially meaningful. Local leaders and stakeholders stand to gain sharper skills and knowledge for handling VAWC cases, strengthening barangay-level policies, and supporting broader peace and order efforts. For a community, this translates into something very concrete: barangay officials and frontline workers who are better equipped to respond when someone needs help, and a local government more capable of preventing problems before they escalate. It also creates a natural bridge for NwSSU’s students and faculty — particularly those in social work, criminology, education, and related fields — to engage with real community issues, whether through extension programs, research, or future collaborative initiatives. Voices Behind the Partnership The signing ceremony brought together key figures from all three institutions: Atty. Marierose P. Alvero-Joaquin, OIC Regional Director of CHR Region VIII; Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran, DM, University President of NwSSU; and Hon. Michael M. Loberiano, Barangay Chairperson of Oquendo, each of whom shared remarks underscoring the significance of the collaboration. Their presence at the same table reflects something the MOA itself cannot fully capture on paper — a shared understanding that human rights work is most effective when the academe, government agencies, and local communities move in step with one another. Turning Commitment Into Action An MOA signing is, in many ways, just the beginning. What follows next — the workshops, trainings, and outreach activities expected to emerge from the CHRE and the VAWC capacity-building initiative — will be where students, faculty, and Barangay Oquendo residents start to feel the partnership’s impact firsthand. For the NwSSU community, this collaboration represents an invitation: to learn more about their rights, to look out for one another, and to take an active part in shaping a safer, more rights-aware campus and barangay. As the partnership moves from agreement to action, the university looks forward to seeing how students, faculty, and community members alike will help bring this shared commitment to life.

In a series of high-level engagements held on July 16, 2026, the new leadership of Northwestern Samar State University (NwSSU) took its first major steps toward reinforcing strategic partnerships with three of the country’s leading higher education institutions — Mapua University, Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), and Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP). University President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran and Vice President for Research, Innovation, Extension, and External Affairs (RIEEA) Dr. Teody Amatosa led the exploratory discussions, which were arranged by Mr. Tingzon as part of the Project and Development Office’s (PDO) continuing efforts to sustain and deepen NwSSU’s ties with fellow State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). The engagement with Mapua University served as a formal introduction of NwSSU’s new leadership to the Mapua team, opening the floor for a recalibration of existing collaborative ties. Central to the discussion was the review and strengthening of Project HARIGI, a co-creation initiative between NwSSU and Mapua, with both parties working toward its approval and eventual implementation. Beyond HARIGI, the two institutions explored possibilities for further co-creation, including micro-credentialing programs and transnational exchange initiatives — signaling a broader ambition to diversify the scope of their partnership. At the meeting with TUP, discussions centered on strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two universities, beginning with introductions of NwSSU’s new leadership to the TUP team. A key agenda item was the involvement of TUP’s Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) in the certification process for NwSSU’s own ETEEAP assessors — a move expected to enhance the quality and credibility of NwSSU’s equivalency assessment mechanisms. The two institutions also opened talks on potential joint research initiatives, laying the groundwork for future academic collaboration. The engagement with PUP likewise began with an introduction of NwSSU’s new leadership, followed by discussions on recalibrating and strengthening the partnership between the two institutions. Echoing the conversation held with TUP, NwSSU and PUP explored the co-creation and co-implementation of a certification process for NwSSU-ETEEAP assessors. The discussion further extended to collaborative opportunities in establishing NwSSU’s Open and Distance eLearning (ODeL) program, Technology Business Incubator (TBI), and other emerging initiatives. Across all three engagements, a common thread emerged: the University’s commitment to sustaining and expanding meaningful collaborations that support its academic, research, and innovation agenda. With President Fabillar-Tangaran and VP Amatosa at the helm of these discussions, NwSSU signaled a clear intent to build on existing foundations while charting new areas of cooperation with its partner institutions. The engagements mark an early but significant milestone for the university’s new leadership, reflecting a proactive approach to institutional partnership-building.

Calbayog City, Samar — Demonstrating its commitment to institutional excellence and accountability, the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), under the leadership of Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran, University President, conducted the Orientation and Institutional Preparatory Meeting on the FY 2024 Performance-Based Bonus (PBB) Guidelines, held through the Planning and Development Services Office, in preparation for the University’s upcoming national evaluation and validation process. The meeting was convened in response to the issuance of Executive Order No. 61 Technical Working Group Resolution No. 2026-1 and Memorandum Circular No. 2026-1, which prescribe the guidelines for the grant of the FY 2024 Performance-Based Bonus (PBB). University officials, including Vice Presidents, College Deans, Directors, Unit Heads, Campus Administrators, and representatives from concerned offices, were oriented on the updated eligibility requirements, scoring system, four performance assessment dimensions, agency accountability measures, documentary requirements, and validation procedures. As the FY 2024 PBB is anchored on the University’s performance during Fiscal Year 2024, the activity likewise recognized the collective efforts of the University’s officials, faculty, and staff during the previous administration, whose stewardship guided the implementation of the programs, projects, and institutional initiatives that now form the basis of the current performance evaluation. The present administration continues this commitment by ensuring that all documentary requirements are properly consolidated, validated, and submitted in accordance with national guidelines. A major focus of the meeting was the University’s preparation for the submission of documentary requirements to the validating agencies on or before the prescribed deadline of 28 July 2026. Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring full compliance, as NwSSU will undergo a comprehensive evaluation covering Performance Results, Process Results, Financial Results, Citizen/Client Satisfaction Results, and Agency Accountabilities, all of which determine the University’s eligibility for the FY 2024 PBB. The orientation was facilitated by Dr. Jonah L. Salcedo, Planning Officer and University PBB Focal Person, who discussed the updated PBB guidelines, assigned office-specific responsibilities, established internal submission timelines, and strengthened inter-office coordination to ensure the timely completion and validation of all required documents. The activity reflects NwSSU’s commitment to good governance, recognizing the accomplishments  to uphold transparency, accountability, and results-based public service. Through this collaborative approach, the University remains steadfast in its pursuit of organizational excellence and compliance with national government performance standards.

PASAY CITY — Delegates from Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU), led by University President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar – Tangaran alongside key university officials, attended the opening day of the 2026 Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Annual Convention and General Assembly. The three-day event kicked off today, July 13, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Anchored on the theme, “Transformative Leadership and Strategic Governance: Empowering SUCs for Sustainable and Inclusive Futures,” this year’s convention coincides with PASUC’s 59th Founding Anniversary. The gathering brings together higher education leaders, policymakers, and industry partners to address systemic shifts and chart strategic directions for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the country. Adhering to the prescribed cultural attire, the NWSSU delegation joined fellow academic executives from across the archipelago in wearing traditional Filipiniana and Barong Tagalog. Registration officially commenced, paving the way for a jam-packed Day 1 roster focused on setting the strategic direction for public higher education. The Opening Ceremonies formally began with a grand processional of PASUC regional chairs, national officers, and distinguished guests. Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta, PASUC Auditor, introduced the delegates, followed by a formal welcome and opening declaration from PASUC President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo. Hon. Michelle A. Ong, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), delivered an inspirational message, emphasizing collaborative governance and institutional excellence. The morning session reached its peak with an opening keynote address from Senate President Sherwin “Win” T. Gatchalian of the 20th Congress, who spoke comprehensively on how transformative leadership can empower SUCs to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth. Following a welcome luncheon, the afternoon transition shifted from ceremonial to rigorous policy dialogue. The NWSSU officials participated in a High-Level Dialogue featuring key national education agency heads, including Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez. Moderated by Dr. Karol Mark R. Yee, Executive Director of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), and council member Hon. Ma. Cynthia Rose B. Bautista, the dialogue zeroed in on “Navigating the Role of SUCs: Translating National Education Reforms into Institutional Transformation”. The discussion provided NWSSU and other member institutions with critical policy updates and structural frameworks aimed at aligning campus governance with the country’s long-term workforce and development goals.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) welcomed officials from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for the first day of the scheduled monitoring visit covering various academic programs, held at the university’s Board Room on May 26, 2026. The activity brought together NwSSU’s key officials and CHED representatives in a collaborative effort to assess the institution’s compliance, quality of instruction, and adherence to national standards in higher education. The program formally began with an opening message delivered by University President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran, DM, who expressed the institution’s full support and openness to the evaluation process. She emphasized that the visit serves as a pivotal opportunity for the university to identify areas for improvement, validate its best practices, and ensure that students receive education that meets or exceeds national benchmarks while strengthening its commitment to quality assurance and academic development. Meanwhile, the CHED Representative Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias presented the rationale of the monitoring activity, outlining the standards, guidelines, and key areas that would be evaluated throughout the visit. This segment allowed both parties to discuss current status, challenges, and notable achievements, serving as a constructive dialogue aimed at sustaining and elevating the quality of programs offered by the university. All attendees from both parties look forward for the presentation and evaluation of findings in the days ahead.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) marked a significant milestone as it held its first Flag Raising Ceremony for the newly-elected University President, Atty. Lorelie M. Fabillar-Tangaran, on May 18, 2026, at the university grounds. The event was led by the faculty and students of the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences (CCJS), with teaching and non-teaching personnel, and student gathering for the solemn occasion. In a message delivered on behalf of the governing board, NwSSU Board Secretary, Mr. Roy N. Montejo extended a warm welcome to President Tangaran, expressing confidence in her ability to steer the university toward progress. During her address, Atty. Tangaran appealed for full support from all members of the university community to fulfill the institution’s mission and vision, and to help NwSSU “ASCEND to greater heights.” The ceremony also featured important announcements and organizational updates, as Atty. Tangaran discussed plans to update and reassign key officials across various offices to enhance operational efficiency and overall development. She formally introduced the newly appointed vice presidents — Dr. Romeo B. Santos, Vice President for Academic Affairs in concurrent capacity as Dean of the Graduate School; Dr. Leo Jesus M. Lacaba, Vice President for Administration and Finance; and Dr. Teodoro A. Amatosa Jr., Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE), highlighting that each official was selected based on their qualifications, impeccable track records, and strong dedication to service. The program concluded with the oath-taking ceremony of the new vice presidents, pledging their commitment to fulfill their duties with integrity and excellence while setting the direction for the university’s future endeavors.

Lj Magnaye, faculty member and College Research Coordinator of the College of Education, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), earned international recognition after winning First Place Best Paper and First Place Best Oral Presenter (Cluster 1: Culturally Responsive and Contextualized STEAM Education) at the 2026 NOSTE International Research Conference and Training Workshops held on April 23–25, 2026 at St. Louis University, Baguio City. Magnaye’s award-winning study, titled “Teaching Indigenous Science through Culturally Responsive Pedagogy: Shaping Environmental Perception and Cultural Resilience in Science Education,” centers on culturally responsive science education and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems. His research stood out among a diverse pool of local and international participants, highlighting the importance of contextualized teaching approaches in fostering environmental awareness, cultural resilience, and meaningful science learning. The conference was organized by the National Organization of Science Teachers and Educators, Inc. (NOSTE) in collaboration with St. Louis University (SLU), Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), and West Visayas State University – Center for Research in Science and Mathematics Education (WVSU CRISMEd). NOSTE is a professional organization dedicated to advancing science education in the Philippines through research, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives. Its international conference serves as a platform for educators, researchers, and practitioners to share scholarly work and best practices in science and STEAM education. Anchored on the theme “STEAM Education for Sustainable Futures: Empowering Teachers and Volunteers as Change Catalysts,” the conference gathered experts and scholars from across the globe to promote transformative and sustainable educational practices. This achievement highlights NwSSU’s continued commitment to research excellence and its growing presence in the international academic community.