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Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), represented by University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, joined key stakeholders across Samar during the ceremonial turnover of three landmark provincial governance documents at Padayon Samar: The 2025 Inauguration and Oath-taking Ceremony for Newly Elected Officials held on June 30 at Tandaya Hall in Catbalogan City. Governor Sharee Ann Tan led the ceremonial turnover of the province’s updated long-term plans and values formation modules, underscoring the administration’s direction toward inclusive, sustainable, and values-driven development. “These are critical in reshaping the direction of the province in the years ahead,” Gov. Tan said, referring to the three documents: the Samar Province Sustainable Strategic Cultural Management and Development Plan of 2025, the Samar Province Sustainable Strategic Tourism Development Plan 2025–2034, and the One Values Program Modules. The Cultural Management and Development Plan outlines a ten-year roadmap for preserving Samar’s cultural heritage and strengthening the province’s creative industry. The Tourism Development Plan, meanwhile, lays out a framework for community-based and heritage-driven tourism, aiming to generate livelihood without compromising local identity. The third document, the One Values Program Modules, is a comprehensive and multidisciplinary values formation initiative targeting children and families. “This progress is not only about infrastructure or economic development. It is about preparing our people morally and socially to become responsible, value-driven citizens,” Gov. Tan emphasized. Standing alongside other key provincial institutions, NwSSU reaffirmed its continuing role as a key partner in shaping forward-thinking, research-informed, and community-rooted development policies. Also present were Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Rhio Dimakiling, Graduate School Dean Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa, and University Board Secretary Engr. Roy Montejo. Governor Tan also expressed gratitude to the framers and technical working group members who helped craft the plans. “Let us recognize their hard work, vision, and dedication in shaping a long-term path for Samar: one rooted in identity, integrity, and inclusion,” she said. In alignment with this vision, NwSSU’s participation in the ceremony affirms its commitment to a development agenda that goes beyond education. The university remains ready to contribute to initiatives that cultivate not only informed minds but also responsible, value-driven communities. The ceremony highlighted the need for synchronized leadership, policy alignment, and inclusive partnerships in addressing local challenges. With its growing involvement in regional policymaking and its strengthened public sector partnerships, NwSSU positions itself at the forefront of transformative governance: ensuring that research, innovation, and public service continue to benefit the people of Samar.

Faculty and non-teaching personnel from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the Training-Workshop on High Impact Extension Innovations with Field Exposure held on June 17–19, 2025, at Igorota Hall, Benguet State University (BSU) in La Trinidad, Benguet. The event brought together extension professionals and scholars to strengthen their skills in designing, managing, and evaluating community-centered, high-impact extension initiatives. The initiative was born out of the NwSSU Graduate School’s commitment to revitalize its extension mandate. In recent years, particularly during and after the pandemic, the University acknowledged a gap in faculty- and learner-initiated extension projects. This led to a purposeful exploration led by the VP for Administration & Finance who was concurrently the GS Extension Coordinator, joined by the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School, Extension Services Office, and Project Development Unit. This has resulted in proposing the training-workshop in partnership with the Bamboo Impact Lab OPC, led by Dr. Anneth Singh, Affiliate Scientist at Ateneo de Manila University. The effort aligns with the Commission on Higher Education’s Memorandum Order No. 15, s. 2019, which mandates graduate schools to promote advanced competencies that support agro-industrial productivity, entrepreneurship, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability. The event opened with a ceremonial signing between NwSSU, Civica Knowledge Management Solutions, and Bamboo Impact OPC—formally establishing a tripartite linkage in support of innovative, partnership- driven extension work. This was followed by plenary sessions that set the tone for the workshop’s central themes. The session titled “SIGLAT: Innovations in Youth and Community Development” was delivered by Mr. Adrian Leung on behalf of Dr. Donna R. Tabangin, followed by Dr. Marren Adan’s presentation on “Blue Economy Breakthroughs: Research-Based Extensions in Countryside Maritime.” Dr. Anneth Singh led the session on “Bamboo Impact Breakthroughs: From Research-Based Innovations to Business-Based Extensions,” and the final talk, “Bridging Leadership: Connecting Leadership Innovations and High-Impact Extension,” was facilitated by Dr. Elmer Soriano. On the second day, NwSSU participants engaged in a field exposure activity at the BSU Institute of Highland Farming Systems and Agroforestry. Here, they interacted with project implementers and local stakeholders, gaining insights into how partnerships are initiated and sustained, how stakeholder relationships are nurtured, and how support systems, including funding mechanisms, are mobilized. These reflections guided the afternoon training-workshop, where participants crafted community involvement plans and designed partnership pipelines for extension projects. Outputs were presented, critiqued, and refined through collaborative feedback. The third day featured another field visit—this time to the BSU Agri-based Technology Business Incubator/Innovation Center (ATBI). Participants met with startup incubatees to learn about their entrepreneurial ventures, the institutional support provided by ATBI, and the importance of research- driven enterprise in rural development. The culminating training session back at Igorota Hall focused on developing impact assessment tools for extension programs. Participants shared their drafts and received constructive critiques to enhance effectiveness and applicability. The workshop concluded with a closing program that reinforced key insights and celebrated the participating institutions’ collective commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and high-impact extension practices. For NwSSU, the event significantly enhanced the competencies of its faculty and non-teaching staff in building strategic community linkages and responsive extension frameworks. It also enriched their professional growth and bolstered the University’s capacity to spearhead transformative, partnership- centered development in the region.

The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Bamboo Impact Lab OPC on June 17, 2025 at the Igorota Hall of the Northern Philippines Rootcrops Research and Training Center of Benguet State University to launch the Sustainable Bamboo Resource Optimization and Innovation Program (SBROIP), a university-led research and extension initiative by NwSSU. The agreement was signed by NwSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo and BIL OPC President Dr. Anneth S. Rigon. The ceremonial signing was witnessed by Project Leader Teody Lester V. Panela, NwSSU Graduate School Dean Dr. Eliza B. Gamusa, and Bamboo Impact Lab Managing Director Dr. Elmer S. Soriano. SBROIP aims to address local challenges in the bamboo industry through research, community engagement, and sustainable innovation. With focus areas including resource mapping, bamboo processing, digital systems development, and training, the project aligns with multiple global development goals and opens pathways for future policy, academic, and market collaborations between NwSSU and BIL OPC. Under the agreement, NwSSU is responsible for implementing the project, managing its budget allocation across personnel services, MOOE, and capital outlay, and submitting financial and terminal reports. The Bamboo Impact Lab OPC, on the other hand, will contribute technical expertise in bamboo processing and silica extraction, assist in capacity-building activities, and support market development and policy integration. For NwSSU, the partnership reinforces its commitment to applied research, community development, and innovation; positioning the university as a key member in advancing sustainable resource industries in the province and the region.

April 28, 2025 – Representatives from Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) attended the UNESCO World Heritage Nomination and Climate Change Mitigation Conference for Community Leaders of Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) held at the Samar Convention Center. The event, organized by the Provincial Government of Samar in partnership with the University of Santo Tomas Graduate Studies – Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics, brought together community leaders, environmental agencies, academic institutions, and government representatives to discuss the ongoing efforts to nominate SINP as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As an academic partner of UST-CCCPET, NwSSU was among the participating institutions supporting the initiative. The university was represented by Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz, with Mr. Joshua Rosillon, and Mr. Novlloyd Celeste, head of the Innovation Technology and Support Office, who attended the program and engaged in discussions on conservation, climate change mitigation, and community participation in heritage protection. Building on a week of focused environmental initiatives, the April 28 conference served as the culmination of a series of preparatory activities aimed at advancing the SINP Climate Change Action Plan. These included a Research Training session on April 23 and Data Gathering Sessions held from April 24 to 25. The conference highlighted the critical role of the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. With its dense forests, unique flora and fauna, and cultural significance, SINP is recognized as a vital natural resource that warrants global recognition and protection. Among the highlights of the event were presentations from key agencies such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Tourism (DOT), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), along with discussions on the ecological value of SINP, climate change challenges, and the responsibilities of barangays in environmental protection. With the continued support of institutions like NwSSU, the vision of elevating SINP to global recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site moves closer to reality, promising a more sustainable and resilient future for the people of Samar.

In response to rising temperatures and the Extreme Caution Heat Index Alert recently issued by PAG-ASA across several provinces, the Calbayog City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) consulted with Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) for technical support—specifically on heat index data generated by the university’s Automatic Weather Station (AWS). On April 22, 2025, CDRRMO personnel, including Mr. Joseph Von P. Catorce, Operation and Warning Division Chief; Mr. Ritchie Yabao, Early Warning Section Team Leader; and Mr. John Christian Tarrayo, Weather Forecasting Focal Person, visited the Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) at NwSSU. They were welcomed by Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for RIE, to review the latest data from the Automatic Weather Station. The meeting focused on understanding the current heat index levels and discussing how this real-time weather data could help mitigate the impact of extreme heat on the local population. The conversation centered on the AWS’s ability to track key weather variables like temperature, humidity, and wind speed which are essential for issuing accurate heat warnings and minimizing the risks associated with intense heat waves for the community. As a resource for public safety, the AWS plays an important role in turning weather data into actionable insights. Through this collaboration, NwSSU continues to contribute to local government efforts, showing how research and innovation can provide practical solutions for addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Both NwSSU and CDRRMO expressed the need to improve data-sharing, ensuring that both institutions are better prepared to tackle the increasingly unpredictable climate patterns facing the region. They also expressed interest in formalizing their partnership with a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to solidify their ongoing collaboration and further strengthen disaster preparedness efforts.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) is making waves in energy conservation and financial efficiency after successfully saving Php 320,402.70 on its electricity bill for 2024, which is directly attributed to the implementation of the Solar Energy Project. This achievement highlights the university’s commitment to implementing cost-saving measures and adopting sustainable energy practices. The savings were realized yearly following the installation of solar panels on the roof of the Administration Building, a key initiative spearheaded by the General Services and Infrastructure Project Management Office (GSIPMO) under the directorship of Engr. Marlon D. Sobreviga. This strategic move to harness solar energy has demonstrably reduced the university’s reliance on traditional electricity sources, resulting in substantial reductions in monthly utility expenses. “This three hundred twenty thousand pesos savings is a testament to the proactive and forward-thinking approach of the GSIPMO and the entire university administration,” stated Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, the Vice President for Administration and Finance. “The Solar Energy Project is not only a significant step towards reducing our operational costs but also aligns with our broader commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.” University President Dr. Benjamin Pecayo also commended the team’s efforts and reasserted NwSSU’s commitment to sustainability. “Our goal is to build a strong and sustainable institution that not only provides quality education but also contributes to the well-being of our community and the environment,” Dr. Pecayo said. “Initiatives like the Solar Energy Project are crucial in achieving this vision and ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of our university.” The installation of the solar panels on the Administration Building represents a tangible outcome of the university’s cost-cutting program, which aims to identify and implement innovative solutions to optimize resource utilization. The GSIPMO played a crucial role in the planning, execution, and monitoring of the project, ensuring its successful completion and the realization of these significant financial benefits. The savings incurred in 2024 will be strategically reinvested into other crucial university programs and initiatives, further enhancing the quality of education and services offered to the students and the community. This successful implementation of the Solar Energy Project serves as a model for future sustainability initiatives within the university and potentially for other institutions in the region. NwSSU remains dedicated to exploring and adopting environmentally sound and economically viable solutions that contribute to its long-term growth and sustainability.

Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) has secured a significant milestone after its project, “SIPAG of Vegetable Farms: Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid with Mobile Control,” was selected as one of the 13 recipients of the 2024 Innovation Grants from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). This groundbreaking project was conceptualized and proposed by Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, a faculty member of the College of Agriculture and Technology, who spearheaded the development of the SIPAG initiative.  SIPAG, which stands for Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid, revolutionizes agricultural practices by integrating renewable energy and modern technology. The project focuses on utilizing solar-powered irrigation systems to provide a continuous and cost-effective water supply for vegetable farms. By harnessing solar energy, farmers can reduce their reliance on traditional fuel-powered machinery, decreasing operational costs and promoting environmental sustainability.  The initiative also emphasizes the application of biopesticides, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This approach enhances crop protection and production while maintaining soil health and biodiversity. Furthermore, the integration of mobile control systems enables farmers to monitor and manage irrigation and pest control processes remotely, increasing efficiency and productivity.  The approval of SIPAG aligns with the goals outlined in the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document 2023-2032, showcasing Filipino ingenuity in addressing local agricultural challenges. By adopting innovative solutions, NWSSU aims to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.  The SIPAG initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing Philippine agriculture by integrating renewable energy and smart technologies. NWSSU’s SIPAG project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how technology-driven solutions can transform traditional farming practices for a greener and more efficient future.

MANILA – Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) actively participated in the final day of the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting on Friday, reaffirming its dedication to open governance. Represented by Dr. Rhio Dimakiling on behalf of University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, NWSSU joined discussions on pressing governance issues and strategies to strengthen democratic institutions. The day began with high-level roundtable conversations on the intersection of open government, economic development, and democratic security, emphasizing how transparency can drive sustainable progress across all regions. A session on women, peace, and security highlighted the role of open governance in advancing gender-inclusive policymaking. Another talk focused on safeguarding electoral integrity by addressing issues that arise during elections, such as state resource abuse, vote buying, and vote selling. Other discussions explored ways to enhance collaboration among local leaders, public organizations, and development partners in promoting good governance. The role of data interoperability in governance and strategies for a fair and credible energy transition were also examined. Conventions in the afternoon provided a platform for in-depth conversations on designing impactful reforms, with a key focus on open contracting and fiscal openness. A session on political finance transparency examined ways to ensure accountability in electoral processes. Legal enforcers were also recognized as key players in championing inclusive governance and upholding justice reforms. As the two-day summit came to a close, NWSSU’s participation highlighted the importance of integrating open governance principles into institutional and national frameworks. The university’s engagement with regional and global discussions reinforced its role in promoting transparency and public participation. With new insights and strengthened partnerships, NWSSU remains committed to promoting open governance within its community and beyond.

Facilitated by University Health Center, twenty-four participants from Quick Response Team (QRT) students and Administrative Division underwent the Standard First Aid Training last December 4-6, 2023 at the Business Development Center, NwSSU Main Campus. The free training’s professional trainers were Dr. Sandro C. Daguman, Mr. Joseph Von P. Catorce, Ms. Ma. Fatima Shaira D. Adona, RN, and Ms. Jamaica A. Ultra, RN. The timely training serves as preparation for emergencies resulting from calamities and disasters. The activity concluded with the awarding of certificates of training which is valid for 2 years.