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Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) continued its commitment to intellectual property education with the Sixth Session of its IP Awareness Seminar Series, held on April 30, 2025, via Zoom. The session focused on “Copyright and Related Rights” and was attended by selected faculty members and students from the College of Nursing (CON), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS), College of Agriculture and Technology (CAT), College of Education (COED), and the San Jorge Campus. Mr. Novlloyd E. Celeste, Head of Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO), led the seminar with an in-depth lecture that tackled the fundamental aspects of copyright law, including the rights of creators, the scope of related rights, and the implications of digital media on copyright protection. Participants engaged with the topic through discussions on the legal and ethical use of protected works, furthering their understanding of how copyright functions as a safeguard for intellectual and creative output. The event concluded with a message from Mr. Celeste, who also delivered the closing remarks. He emphasized the importance of respecting intellectual property as a cornerstone of academic integrity and professional ethics. This session marked another milestone in NwSSU’s observance of Intellectual Property Month, further reinforcing its goal of cultivating a knowledgeable and responsible academic community.

Aiming to elevate the quality, reach, and sustainability of its extension programs, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Extension Services Office, embarked on a multi-institutional cross-learning and benchmarking activity from April 29 to May 2, 2025. The four-day visit brought the NwSSU Extension Team to multiple academic institutions and development-driven organizations in Cagayan de Oro and Malaybalay, Bukidnon. In Bukidnon, the delegation engaged with Del Monte Philippines, Inc. and Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, where they explored institutional models of corporate social responsibility, service learning, and research-based extension practices. They were welcomed by Camp Administrator Ms. Ailene Rose Molleno and HR Manager Ms. Urchielyn Basalio at Del Monte, and by Dr. Heidi R. Rabanes, Ms. Gail dela Rita, and Engr. Dexter Lo at Xavier University. In Malaybalay, the team conducted a study visit at Bukidnon State University (BukSU) and the Bukidnon Tagoloanon Mulahay ka Kabukalagan Agriculture Cooperative (BUKTAMACO). With BukSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso, Extension and Community Engagement Unit (ESCEU) Director Dr. Jemalyn B. Paulican, Innovative & Technology Support Office Manager Mr. Kierby Depalan and other staff from BukSU, NwSSU gained insights on inclusive and impact-oriented extension initiatives. At BUKTAMACO, Founder Atty. Burt Miquibas Estrada offered valuable perspectives on community empowerment and cooperative development. The cross-learning initiative provided the NwSSU team with an in-depth understanding of different strategies and best practices in conducting, managing, and sustaining community-focused programs. It also opened doors for possible collaborations that align with the university’s mission to foster inclusive development through education, innovation, and service. Led by Extension Services Director Dr. Catherine Rodriguez, the NwSSU delegation included faculty members, extension coordinators, research heads, and representatives from the Graduate School, GAD, and various colleges and campuses – reflecting the university’s collective commitment to strengthening its extension thrusts across all disciplines. With insights gained and connections established, the NwSSU team returns from the benchmarking activity inspired and equipped to further enhance the relevance, reach and impact of its extension services across the region.

In photo is the actual affixing of the Quality Seal by Ms. Donna Joy L. Saballe, DOT-8 Accreditation team representative at the hotel lobby entrance in the presence of Mr. Ronald Ricafort, Calbayog City Tourism Officer; Ms. Almira Calbes, UHR General Manager, and the hotel employees today, May 2, 2025.

APRIL 7 — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the 803rd Infantry Brigade of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) at the President’s Boardroom of NwSSU, Calbayog City, sealing a partnership for joint peace education and extension initiatives. The agreement, signed by NwSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo and 803rd Infantry Brigade Commander BGen. Efren F. Morados, PA, in the presence of CCJS Faculty and officials from the 803rd Infantry Brigade, establishes a collaborative framework for promoting research-driven and community-based programs in peace and education advocacy. Under the MoA, both parties committed to launching coordinated projects related to peacebuilding and education. These include collaboration with civil society groups such as the Nagkakaisang Nortehanon Agricultural Cooperative (NNAC) and local people’s organizations in barangays affected by insurgency. Meanwhile, the 803rd Infantry Brigade will support implementation by providing logistical and security support, subject-matter experts, and access to relevant data, as well as government partners. Both parties are committed to fostering sustainable peace and development through education and community outreach, addressing the roots of insurgency, and promoting inclusive growth in the region. This partnership reflects a shared dedication to creating positive change and promoting peace and development in the community.

MARCH 30 — Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) launched “Project Kalinaw”, a comprehensive program designed to empower women deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the BJMP Calbayog City Jail. Spearheaded by Mr. Joar V. Uy, and implemented by NWSSU faculty and key officials, the initiative is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and empowering women in the correctional system, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive. Project Kalinaw, which stands for “Kababaihang Lumalaban, Nagtitiwala, at Nagsusulong ng Ating Wastong Karapatan,” aims to provide women in confinement with literacy enhancement, values formation, legal awareness, livelihood skills training, guidance, and life enrichment activities.  The program is grounded in the mandates of CHED Memorandum Order No. 52, series of 2016, focusing on extension services in higher education and aligning with NWSSU’s mission of providing highly technical and professional education and lifelong learning. The program was launched during National Women’s Month, highlighting the significance of women’s rights and their crucial role in nation-building. This initiative emphasized the program’s goal of ensuring that every woman, regardless of her circumstances, has access to dignity, equal opportunities, and the ability to shape her future. Project Kalinaw represents NWSSU’s commitment to social transformation and its dedication to supporting marginalized communities. The university plans to continue this vital work, seeking further support from other sectors for partnerships, further empowering women, and  contributing to a more just and equitable society.

The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Parole and Probation Administration RO8 (PPA R08) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen community-based rehabilitation programs through Project THRIVE (Therapeutic Holistic Rehabilitation and Integration for Valuable Empowerment) on April 3, 2025 at the NwSSU President’s Boardroom, formalizing a collaborative effort to support the reintegration of probationers, parolees, and pardon recipients into society. NwSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo and PPA R08 OIC Regional Director Ma. Beverly D. Ampo led the signing ceremony, reinforcing both institutions’ commitment to holistic rehabilitation. Project THRIVE, whose main proponent is Mr. Joar V. Uy from the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences (CCJS), aims to provide educational, skills training, livelihood, and values formation programs for individuals under parole and probation. Others present in the ceremonial signing were Mr. Wendell V. Yee, Calbayog City PPO Head, and Dr. Catherine B. Rodriguez, Director of NwSSU’s Extension Services. Through this partnership, NwSSU will offer its expertise in research, quality education, and community development to implement initiatives that equip beneficiaries with the necessary tools for successful reintegration. These efforts align with the university’s mission to engage in socially responsive projects that promote inclusive development. OIC Regional Director Ampo expressed her gratitude for NwSSU’s support, noting that Project THRIVE provides an avenue for parolees and probationers to transform their lives through structured interventions. She highlighted the role of education and capacity-building in promoting personal growth and reducing recidivism. The MOU officially seals a long-term collaboration between NwSSU and PPA R08, ensuring sustained implementation of Project THRIVE. With this initiative, NwSSU and PPA R08 reinforce their shared vision of restorative justice and community transformation, offering second chances to individuals striving to rebuild their lives.

Faculty members from the Bachelor of Science in Development Communication and Bachelor of Science in Criminology programs of the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences (CCJS) conducted an outreach activity on campus journalism and a campaign against bullying and school-related threats at Panoypoy Integrated School on Monday, March 17, 2025. The event aimed to educate elementary and junior high school students on responsible campus journalism and to raise awareness about bullying and school-related threats. The outreach included a series of lectures and workshops designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to practice ethical journalism and to promote a safer school environment. BSDevCom faculty members led the session on campus journalism, which focused on media laws and ethics, the basics of news writing, feature writing, photojournalism, science journalism, and writing for broadcast. The lectures emphasized the role of student journalists in fostering a well-informed school community. Meanwhile, BSCrim faculty members conducted lectures and a workshop on identifying and addressing bullying and other threats in school settings, emphasizing the importance of reporting incidents and supporting peers. Gender and Development Office Director, Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, also lectured about the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the Bawal Bastos Law. The activity was also attended by faculty members from the Bachelor of Science in Industry Security Management, Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Administration, and College of Education, Human Resource Development Officer – Main Campus, Ms. Jenith T. Salem, and the Dean of the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences, Dr. Armando A. Alviola. Through this outreach activity, the students gained valuable knowledge and skills on responsible campus journalism and anti-bullying strategies, enabling them to become more responsible and empathetic members of their school community. The distribution of hygiene kits and slippers also promoted a sense of well-being and inclusivity among the students. The outreach activity reflects the commitment of the NwSSU BSDevCom and BSCrim faculty to promote responsible communication and ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for students. By empowering students with the knowledge and skills to address social issues, the faculty members aim to create a positive impact on the students’ lives and contribute to the development of a more informed and compassionate society.

The Committee on Anti-Red Tape Authority (CART) of the Northwest Samar State University recently held an online re-orientation aimed at reinforcing the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 11032 and other relevant Anti-Red Tape (ARTA) issuances on March 19, 2025. The event was designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of key anti-red tape measures and guidelines. Key topics covered during the session included a brief overview of RA 11032, the Committee on Anti-Red Tape, the Report Card Survey 2.0, and the Whole-of-Government Reengineering Manual. Additionally, the orientation delved into the Citizen’s Charter, the Harmonized Client Satisfaction Measurement Guidelines, and the Zero Backlog program—all vital components in ensuring improved service delivery and transparency in government transactions. Through this online re-orientation, the university’s CART aims to empower stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to uphold the goals of RA 11032. As a result, the university expects to see significant improvements in service delivery, including reduced processing times, increased transparency, and enhanced public satisfaction. By streamlining its processes and eliminating unnecessary red tape, the university aims to provide better services to its stakeholders, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective public service. The successful implementation of RA 11032 is expected to have a positive impact on the university’s operations, enabling it to provide faster, more efficient, and more transparent services to its students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and promoting a culture of transparency and accountability, the university aims to create a more conducive environment for learning, research, and community engagement.

The Procurement Unit of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took a significant step towards enhancing its capabilities by participating in a training program on the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). The program, titled “Procurement in Transition: Aligning with the NGPA,” was held on March 13-14 at the GPPB-TSO Bldg. in Quezon City. The training program aimed to equip the Procurement Unit with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the new procurement landscape under the NGPA. The delegation, led by Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Chair, and Ms. Florliza A. Morilao, Procurement Unit Head, actively participated in lectures, Q&A sessions, and online assessments to maximize their understanding of the NGPA. The NGPA, also known as Republic Act No. 12009, was enacted to promote good governance, transparency, and accountability in government procurement. It governs the procurement process for all branches and instrumentalities of the national government, including state universities and colleges, government-owned and controlled corporations, and local government units. With the enhanced capabilities of the Procurement Unit, NwSSU is expected to benefit from improved procurement processes, increased transparency, and accountability. The NGPA’s streamlined procurement process, new procurement modalities, and emphasis on sustainable procurement will enable the university to achieve better value for money while minimizing environmental impact.