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Ormoc City, Leyte – In a bid to promote economic empowerment and sustainability, Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) collaborated with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Ormoc City, in partnership with the Integrated Population Gender and Development Office (IPGDO) of Ormoc City to implement a multidisciplinary outreach program focusing on dishwashing liquid production, titled “Multidisciplinary Outreach for Sustainable Livelihood: A Gender-Inclusive Initiative for Barangay Officials”. The two-day event, held on March 21-22, 2025, at the Liga ng mga Barangay Conference Hall, gathered Sangguniang Barangay (SB) members from Ormoc City, Leyte, to equip them with practical skills in small-scale livelihood ventures. The initiative aimed to foster economic empowerment and sustainability within their respective communities. Recognizing the importance of capacity-building and skills development, the program featured a range of topics, including a gender-inclusive livelihood initiative discussed by Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel. Other topics included innovative uses of recycled materials, such as using recycled dishwashing bottles for vertical gardening, presented by Dr. Getulio A. Barcenas Jr., and creating innovative mini-greenhouses using used dishwashing liquid plastic bottles, demonstrated by Mr. Eduardo G. Espejon Jr. The participants were also taught how to produce simplified dishwashing liquid, led by Mrs. Jayrose P. Ortiz. On the second day, selected participants showcased their skills in a return demonstration, applying the knowledge and skills they acquired from the program. Additional topics covered included using social media as a powerful communication tool for business growth, discussed by Mrs. Margerie Mae B. David, creating customer loyalty and pricing strategies, presented by Dr. Iris B. Bejasa, designing display booths, demonstrated by Architect Vanessa R. Ayllon, enhancing biosecurity through the use of dishwashing liquid in footbaths, led by Mrs. Sance J. Secondez, and customer service communication, presented by Mr. John M. Tan. Each participant received a dishwashing liquid production kit, complete with pails, dippers, and plastic bottles, to facilitate the cascading of their newfound skills to their constituents. This initiative is a testament to the commitment of NWSSU, DILG Ormoc City, and IPGDO to promote sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment among Barangay officials. The event was made possible with the help of Mr. Jean Redi T. Briones, the City Local Government Operations Officer of DILG Ormoc City, and the rest of his colleagues and subordinates in DILG Ormoc City. By providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge, they can create a positive impact in their respective communities, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As Ormoc City is aptly known as the “City of Beautiful People,” this outreach program serves as a shining example of the city’s dedication to fostering beautiful and sustainable communities.

On February 17, Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administration and Finance, led a meeting to develop an operational manual for the student dormitory. The gathering brought together heads of various offices and representatives from different colleges to establish comprehensive guidelines for effective dormitory management and student welfare. Key discussion points included admission procedures, room allocations, facility maintenance, security protocols, and student support services. The manual aims to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for students while promoting operational efficiency. The meeting concluded with a commitment to refining the draft based on the feedback received, ensuring that the final manual addresses the student’s needs and concerns. A follow-up session has been scheduled to finalize the guidelines before their implementation. This initiative underscores NwSSU’s dedication to creating a secure, well-managed, and student-friendly living environment that enhances the overall experience for its constituents.

NwSSU’s Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Rhio Dimakiling together with representatives of other SUCs MANILA – Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) is actively taking part in the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting, represented by Dr. Rhio Dimakiling on behalf of University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo. The two-day event which opens today, is currently being held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Manila, gathering over 800 participants from more than 40 countries and 20 local governments to advance open governance, public participation, and digital transformation. The meeting serves as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and commit to ambitious reforms under the Open Gov Challenge, a global initiative introduced at the 2023 OGP Global Summit in Tallinn. This challenge urges governments to design and implement policies that address today’s governance complexities while promoting participatory and resilient democracies. Photo by: Presidential Communication Office During the opening plenary, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the country’s commitment to open governance, highlighting key initiatives aimed at promoting transparency and public participation. “Beyond our variances in our approaches, our shared vision is clear-cut: we want every budget allocation, policy decision, and program implementation to involve public participation—all in pursuit of the empowerment and upliftment of our people,” he stated. Dr. Dimakiling joined high-level decision-makers and leaders as they outlined their vision for strengthening transparency and accountability in governance. Key discussions throughout the day included leadership strategies for advancing OGP’s goals from 2023 to 2028, the role of artificial intelligence and digital transformation in governance, and initiatives promoting open data inclusivity. A session on the road ahead for open government in the Philippines tackled governance reforms and challenges specific to the country. Photo by: Presidential Communications Office The event also highlighted the importance of youth participation in climate change policies, along with strategies to protect public space and empower civil society organizations. Conversations on mainstreaming citizen participation in decision-making and strengthening national-local collaboration were also key areas of focus. Today’s schedule will conclude with a Cultural Night, where participants may engage in a cultural exchange showcasing various world heritages. Discussions will continue tomorrow, with sessions focusing on mainstreaming open government, citizen participation in policymaking, and national to local collaboration. NWSSU’s participation emphasizes the institution’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement as it aligns with global and regional movements toward open government. The 2025 OGP Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting highlights the shared dedication of governments and civil society to foster more inclusive, transparent, and accountable societies by advancing open governance.

Open a Kabayan Savings Account to:- Save starting with Php100- Enjoy waived maintaining balance for as long as there is regular international remittance transaction for 2 years- Get an ATM debit card and a passbookVisit the booth on July 13, 2023 located near the Registrar’s Office from 1:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Today, the Commission on Human Rights, represented by its Chairperson, Hon. Richard P. Palpal-Latoc, and University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo signed the memorandum of agreement on the establishment, development, strengthening, and continuous operationalization of a Center for Human Rights Education (CHRE) at NwSSU. The said project is part of the commission’s efforts to encourage SUCs and private HEIs to establish their Centers for Human Rights Education as their main mechanisms for helping accelerate the building of a culture of human rights in the academic communities and in the geographic area of jurisdiction where they operate. Both parties agreed to the establishment of a CHRE within the campus, the designation of a Center Director, the selection and capacity building of human rights educators, and the launching of the center. CHR will develop information education and communication (IEC) materials and standard training modules on human rights, access to justice, and the rule of law that can be used, reproduced, and/or disseminated by NwSSU-CHRE. Also present at the event were CHR Region 8 Director Atty. Desiree V. Pontejos, Administrative Aide VI Winzhel Campiones, CHR Calbayog City Office Attorney IV Atty. Joy P. Sodusta, and OIC of Education and Information Section Ma. Rona S. Lomuardo.

March 10, 2023 – The Samar Island Partnership for Peace and Development (SIPPAD) Assembly – a partnership of the Church, Government, Academe, and Civil Society in the three provinces of the island of Samar – held its 46th Assembly at the Centennial Pastoral Center, Calbayog City. The event which had the theme “Improving Road Connectivity in Samar Island Particularly the Heavily Damaged Segment of the Maharlika Highway (from Allen, Northern Samar to San Juanico Bridge): A Key to Economic Progress” was attended by NwSSU representatives headed by the Vice President for Administrative Affairs Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling. The assembly conveners were Catarman Bishop- Emmanuel Trance, DD, Calbayog Bishop- Most Rev. Isabelo Abarquez, DD, and the Bishop of Borongan-Most Rev. Crispin Varquez, DD.