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In an effort to promote health awareness and responsible decision-making among students, the University Health Center, in collaboration with the Guidance and Testing Office, PDA-Calbayog Chapter, BPED 3 students, and National Service Training Program (NSTP), conducted a symposium on Substance Abuse and Oral Care for NSTP-Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Literacy Training Service (LTS) students on February 15, at the RSU Socio-Cultural Center. Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ramil S. Catomora, formally opened the symposium, welcoming attendees and emphasizing the importance of health awareness in shaping responsible and informed citizens. Following this, Student Affairs and Services (SAS) Director Dr. Myra L. Pilpa provided an overview of the event, stressing the importance of proactive education on these issues. PLT. Antonino T. Sabenicio tackled the laws regarding substance abuse, explaining the existing laws and penalties associated with drug use, possession, and distribution. He warned students about the serious legal consequences and societal impact of drug-related offenses. Dr. Cesar T. Sabenicio followed with an in-depth discussion on the health ramifications of substance abuse. He detailed the physiological and psychological effects of drugs on the human body, from organ damage to mental health deterioration. His talk encouraged students to make informed decisions and seek support when needed. Shifting the focus to oral health, Dr. Ellery D. Daguman emphasized the significance of proper dental hygiene in maintaining overall well-being. Her presentation, “Brushing ang Key sa Ngiping Healthy,” highlighted the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental check-ups. She also gave attendees free toothbrushes as tokens. Dr. Honey Clemens then addressed the issue of unauthorized dental practice, warning students about the risks of seeking unlicensed dental services. She explained how illegal practitioners often lack proper training and equipment, leading to unsafe procedures that can cause complications and permanent damage, or even life-threatening complications. An open forum, facilitated by Mr. Jeilo Maga, provided an opportunity for students to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions with the speakers. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates followed by closing remarks from NSTP Director and University Registrar, Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV. In his speech, he commended the speakers for their invaluable insights and encouraged students to apply their learnings in their daily lives. Through this symposium, NWSSU reaffirmed its commitment to holistic education by equipping students with essential knowledge on very crucial topics, empowering them to become a safe, healthy, and well-informed student community.

FEBRUARY 17 – Following the flag ceremony today, Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, took the opportunity to address NWSSU’s security personnel, reaffirming the importance of maintaining proper security measures across the campus and emphasizing the vital role they play in maintaining a safe and welcoming campus environment. He provided a series of essential reminders aimed at strengthening safety measures and ensuring the well-being of Norwesians. Dr. Dimakiling highlighted that the security personnel’s responsibilities go beyond enforcement, as they contribute significantly to creating a secure and supportive atmosphere on campus. The Vice President also reminded the personnel about the renewal of vehicle passes for 2025, stressing the importance of proper documentation to regulate vehicle access within the university. He encouraged them to facilitate the process efficiently, ensuring that all vehicles entering the premises comply with NwSSU’s security protocols. Through these reminders, Dr. Dimakiling underscored the university’s commitment to campus safety and the crucial role of its security personnel in upholding order and safety within NwSSU.

Photo courtesy of Philippine Information Agency – Samar Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, President of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), made a significant appearance at the Investiture Rites of Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, the newly inaugurated 4th president of Samar State University (SSU). Held on February 13, 2025 at the Samar State University Maceda Gymnasium, the ceremony marked the beginning of Dr. Palencia’s leadership, succeeding Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso – the university’s third president. Dr. Pecayo’s attendance underscored the commitment of NwSSU to fostering collaboration and academic excellence with SSU. He expressed optimism for strengthened partnerships between the two institutions under Dr. Palencia’s leadership, highlighting their shared vision for regional development. Anchored on the theme “Panaringsing: Sowing the Seeds of Heritage of Excellence”, Dr. Redentor S. Palencia took his Ceremonial Oath Taking and Oath of Office Signing in front of the SSU community and key officials, government officials, officials, members of the Board of Regents (BOR) from CHED, representatives from various colleges, universities, partner agencies and institutions. Dr. Marita R. Canapi, CHED Commissioner and Chairperson of the SSU Board of Regents officiated the said ceremonial turnover. Photo courtesy of Philippine Information Agency – Samar In his inaugural address, Dr. Palencia outlined his vision for SSU, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to take the challenge to continue SSU’s big picture. He also outlined his vision for SSU, aiming to establish it as a “leading university recognized as an innovation corridor center of global education and the forefront of social transformation.” Acknowledging the significance of his new role in shaping the future of SSU, the entire NwSSU community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Redentor S. Palencia!

In a move to expand its international partnerships and academic collaborations, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has officially established a partnership with the Engineering Council of Thailand (ECT), St. Robert’s International College (SRIC), and Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon (RMUTPN) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on Feb 9, 2025, at Las Palmas Hotel, Manila. The agreement paves the way for collaborative academic initiatives that will benefit all the institutions and their respective constituents through the newly established linkage. The agreement was signed between NwSSU, represented by its President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, and the leaders of the three partner institutions: Dr. Chieanchung Kalayanamitr, President of the Engineering Council of Thailand (ECT); Dr. Robert F. Galindez, President of St. Robert’s International College (SRIC); and Dr. Natworapol Rachsiriwatcharabul, President of Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon (RMUTPN). Grounded in a shared commitment to educational excellence, leadership and community service, and intellectual freedom, the agreement also establishes collaboration in key areas such as faculty, student, and researcher exchange programs, joint research projects, lectures and symposia, exchange of academic materials and information, dual and joint degree offerings, and other academic initiatives. Also present at the ceremonial signing to represent NwSSU were Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension; Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Dr. Eliza V Gamusa, Dean of NwSSU Graduate School and Engr. Ignacio Tocayon, Jr. Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture.  The collaboration between the institutions signifies a major step toward NWSSU’s goal of expanding its partnerships and linkages, providing its students and faculty with broader opportunities for global engagement and academic excellence.

On February 12, experts from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 8 Technical Committee and the Regional Quality Assessment Team (RQAT) conducted a comprehensive assessment of Northwest Samar State University’s (NWSSU) engineering programs at the BDC building. The joint evaluation aimed to determine whether the programs meet the requirements for the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC), which is a recognition of the program’s quality and standards. NWSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo set the tone for the event, reflecting on the long history of the university’s engineering programs. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to meeting CHED’s policies, standards, and guidelines, acknowledging that the process, though challenging, is essential in ensuring quality education. Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias from CHED RO8 Technical Committee introduced the evaluation team and expressed appreciation for the university’s proactive efforts in making the joint visit possible. NWSSU presented a comprehensive presentation highlighting the strengths of the university’s engineering programs, including its distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry linkages. Following the presentation, NWSSU CEA officials participated in focused breakout sessions with CHED TC members, including Dr. Catherine O. Iglesias, Dr. Nelly L. Labrada, Dr. Jan Paolo K. Vega, and Engr. Cydric B. Suyom. Engineers Engr. Lyndon Bague, Engr. Flordeliza Villasenor, Engr. Noel Linsangan, and Engr. Nelson Pasamonte joined via Zoom. RQAT members from various engineering disciplines also joined the sessions, including Engr. Julius O. Paler and Engr. Allan L. Bargamento (Electronics Engineering), Engr. Leovegildo E. Cardenas and Engr. Gabino C. Hilvano (Civil Engineering), Engr. Jameson C. Buhayang and Engr. Charito D. Sabate (Computer Engineering), Engr. Ronald B. Lacaba and Dr. Vinyl H. Oquino (Electrical Engineering), Engr. Vic Angelo L. Impas and Engr. Ramon L. Pitao, Jr. (Mechanical Engineering), and Engr. Daniel Leslie S. Tan and Engr. Tessie A. Guial (Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering). Together, they meticulously reviewed the programs in collaboration with NWSSU key officials and CEA faculty. The evaluation identified areas for improvement, and presented a clear roadmap for NWSSU’s continued pursuit of development. Engr. Lyndon Bague, the CHED TC team leader, presented the evaluation’s findings. As a result, the university now has key insights and a strategic plan for improvement. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that NWSSU will work diligently to meet CHED’s requirements for the upcoming reevaluation. The program concluded with Dr. Ramil S. Catamora expressing gratitude to the CHED evaluation team, RQAT members, NWSSU officials, and CEA faculty members for their cooperation and dedication throughout the process. In recognition of their efforts, certificates of appreciation were awarded by NWSSU’s key officials to the CHED TC and RQAT representatives. With NWSSU’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, the university is optimistic about its prospects for obtaining the COPC. NWSSU will continue to work towards meeting the requirements, ensuring that its engineering programs comply with the standards and its graduates meet industry demands.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) key officials and representatives from the Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) convened today at 8 AM in the NWSSU Board Room to inspect and evaluate the university’s Food Technology program. This evaluation aimed to assess NWSSU’s compliance with the Policies, Standards, and Guidelines (PSGs) set for the Food Technology program. Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, speaking on behalf of University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, formally opened the meeting. Hon. Anthony C. Sales, Chairperson of the PRB for Food Technology, emphasized the importance of periodic evaluations, stating that all higher education institutions (HEIs) offering Food Technology must undergo PRC inspections every three years for recertification. The evaluation, led by PRB Chairperson Hon. Anthony C. Sales, alongside Hon. Remedios V. Baclig and Mr. Jericho O. Espada, focused on ensuring NwSSU’s alignment with the PSGs for the Food Technology program. Compliance is essential for the Bachelor of Science in Food Technology (BSFT) program to secure a Certificate of Compliance (COC), which enables graduates to take board examinations and enhances their employability. Ms. Maria Nofrelij J. Cuadra, the BSFT Program Chair, led the presentation detailing NWSSU’s actions to address previous inspection findings. These actions included facility renovations, budgeting for recommended equipment, and implementing faculty and staff development programs. The discussion also covered the status of past program graduates. The PRB made several recommendations to elevate the program further, including the proposal to issue graduates a Certificate in Food Technology (FT). This certificate would allow graduates to seek employment in the field without the necessity of board examinations, thereby increasing their employability. Following the evaluation, NWSSU was recognized for its progress toward full compliance. The university is optimistic about closing the remaining gaps necessary for achieving this status. Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, delivered a message underscoring the university’s commitment to addressing the evaluation results and enhancing the program. In closing, Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed confidence that through ongoing improvements and collaboration, NWSSU would soon achieve full compliance. This achievement would ensure that Food Technology graduates are well-equipped to enter the industry and pursue licensure.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) formalized their commitment to academic and educational cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing today, February 10, at the Executive Conference Room of the Office of the Chancellor, University of the Philippines Los Baños. The partnership aims to create a mutual understanding between the two institutions by developing collaborative activities in various academic areas. These include faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, collaborative research and extension projects, lectures, symposia, capacity-building programs, and the sharing of academic materials and information. Both universities also expressed their openness to other forms of academic cooperation as mutually agreed upon. Leading the ceremonial signing were UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr. and NwSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo. The event was also attended by key officials from NwSSU, including Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Rhio Dimakiling, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz, Dean of the Graduate School, Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon, San Jorge Campus (SJC) Dean Dr. Getulio A. Barcenas Jr., SJC Director of Research, Innovation and Extension For. Eduardo G. Espejon, and BSABE Program Chair Engr. Renell Jay Villaluz. This partnership is expected to create and open new collaborative opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers from NwSSU and UPLB, strengthening academic linkages and institutional ties in pursuit of excellence in the field of higher education, research, and innovation through proactive collaboration.

In a significant development for university staff and administrators, top management and department heads convened on Friday, February 7, 2025, for a crucial meeting regarding the 2023 Performance-Based Bonus (PBB). The meeting, which took place at the Business Development Center’s 2nd floor, addressed key concerns following recent correspondence from the Department of Budget and Management about the university’s eligibility status. During the extensive afternoon session, officials delved into a thorough review of performance ratings, identifying departments with performance ratings below the required threshold for improvement based on the PBB criteria. Officials engaged in constructive discussions to address performance gaps, with commitments made to enhance internal processes and maintain a culture of excellence. Similarly, the discussion focused on non-compliance with agency accountabilities, reviewing areas that required immediate attention. The meeting emphasized the importance of compliance to strengthen the university’s standing in future PBB evaluations. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the newly implemented guidelines under Executive Order No. 61 and TWG Resolution No. 2024-2, which outline the appeals process for PBB 2023. These guidelines introduce a structured process for addressing concerns and clarifications, ensuring fairness and transparency. Attendees were informed of the process, which provides a clear framework for resolving issues related to PBB eligibility. The meeting also resulted in the finalization of documentary requirements for PBB release. Various departments were assigned specific responsibilities to expedite the processing of bonuses, streamlining the approach to ensure timely distribution to eligible employees. This development represents a significant step toward finalizing the performance incentive system for university employees, affecting employees university-wide. Officials emerged from the meeting with clear directives on both the appeals process and the timeline for PBB distribution. With clear action points and a renewed focus on efficiency, the university will navigate the PBB process confidently, reinforcing NWSSU’s dedication to rewarding outstanding performance and accountability.

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.