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Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took a significant step in strengthening its institutional quality systems as it conducted a three-day writeshop on the Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Framework, equipping leaders and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to align governance, strategy, and operations with global standards of excellence. The writeshop, held from September 24–26, 2025, opened with an in-depth discussion on the PQA Framework and its transformative impact on State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). Led by PQA Senior Assessor Dr. Jayson M. Barlan, the first day focused on Leadership and Strategy, highlighting governance principles, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of institutional vision, mission, and goals. Interactive workshops allowed participants to assess leadership practices and map strategies that strengthen NwSSU’s pursuit of organizational excellence. Day 2 shifted attention to systems building, with sessions on Customers and Stakeholders, Measurement and Knowledge Management, Workforce, and Operations. Discussions emphasized the importance of responsive listening mechanisms, data-driven decision-making, employee engagement, and process innovation across instruction, research, extension, and administration. By examining institutional practices against PQA categories, participants sharpened their understanding of how quality systems can drive inclusivity, efficiency, and sustainable growth. The final day highlighted Results, integrating lessons from all seven PQA categories into a holistic framework for NwSSU. A post-test assessed participant learning, while the presentation of the NwSSU PQA Roadmap provided a concrete pathway for future initiatives. An open forum and Q&A session capped the event, giving participants the chance to clarify strategies and affirm shared commitments. Through this writeshop, NwSSU exemplified its dedication to continuous improvement and organizational transformation. The activity not only strengthened institutional awareness of the PQA framework but also empowered university leaders to champion a culture of excellence, ensuring that quality becomes a lived reality in all facets of the university’s operations

MANILA, Philippines — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) formalized their partnership through a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on September 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Conference Room, National Headquarters of the Philippine Coast Guard, Port Area, Manila. The agreement was signed by Commodore Rommel A. Supangan, Director of the Coast Guard Strategic Studies and International Affairs Center (CGSSIAC), for the PCG, and Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, for NwSSU. The signing was witnessed by Capt Jomel Q. Panes, Executive Director, PCG CGSSIAC and Internal Affairs; Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administration and Finance; and Redem D. Tingzon, Project Development Unit Head and ETEEAP Director. The MOU seeks to strengthen cooperation between the state university and the maritime agency in areas such as capacity-building, research initiatives, and extension projects related to maritime security, coastal governance, and the Blue Economy. It also aims to foster a forward-looking culture through strategic collaboration that supports the mandated functions of both institutions. Both parties agreed to explore joint endeavors, including research projects and publications, development of training and research systems, organization of dialogues, conferences, seminars, or workshops, and faculty and development staff. The agreement also covers on-the-job training internships for graduating students, collaboration on continuing professional development programs and Expanded Tertiary Equivalency and Accreditation Program, and certification initiatives. The event was highlighted by messages from representatives of both institutions, who emphasized the importance of government-academic partnerships in promoting the Philippines’ archipelagic identity and addressing maritime and coastal governance challenges.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) proudly announces its “Very Satisfactory” rating in the 2024 Agency Performance Review (APR), affirming its continued excellence in academic delivery, fiscal management, and institutional governance. The enhanced APR, released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) through the Budget ng Bayan Monitor, serves as a national benchmark for evaluating the performance of National Government Agencies (NGAs), Other Executive Offices (OEOs), Constitutional Commissions, and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). Institutions are assessed across three key dimensions: financial performance, physical accomplishments, and the timeliness and quality of report submissions. NwSSU achieved a commendable rating of 4.6, placing it firmly within the “Very Satisfactory” tier. This score reflects the University’s successful attainment of its academic, research, and extension targets, alongside its demonstration of sound fiscal discipline and strategic resource utilization. University officials attribute this recognition to the collective efforts of faculty members, administrative staff, and stakeholders. It stands as a testament to NwSSU’s unwavering commitment to providing quality education, fostering innovation, and delivering meaningful services to the community. More than a compliance measure, the DBM’s APR embodies principles of transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. Through this distinction, NwSSU reinforces its reputation as a dynamic and high-performing SUC—ready to contribute to national development and empower local communities. This milestone not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for future aspirations. It challenges the University to sustain its momentum, nurture innovation, and pursue even higher levels of institutional performance in the years ahead.

Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) continues its stride toward academic distinction as five programs under its College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) have been officially granted Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This recognition affirms NWSSU’s adherence to CHED’s rigorous standards for the continued offering of the following programs, namely: Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering (BSECE), Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCpE), Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME), Bachelor of Science in Architecture, and Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE), with a specialization in Construction Engineering and Management. The COPCs were formally awarded in Tacloban City, Leyte, with CHED Regional Office VIII Director V, Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, CESO III, leading the recognition ceremony. Representing NWSSU were CEA Dean Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon Jr. and esteemed faculty members of the college. With this milestone, 94.74%—or 36 out of 38—of undergraduate programs at the NWSSU Main Campus now hold COPCs, highlighting the university’s steadfast commitment to quality assurance and academic integrity. More than a compliance achievement, this recognition reflects NWSSU’s enduring mission to cultivate future engineers and architects who will shape resilient communities and drive national development.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) marked a significant milestone in its commitment to food technology advancement with the successful virtual inception meeting for the project “Upgrading of Food Processing Facility at NwSSU–Main Campus” held on August 27, 2025. Backed by the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agricultural Research, the initiative aims to strengthen NwSSU’s capacity in research, instruction, and extension services related to food processing. The upgraded facility is envisioned to become a dynamic hub for innovation, training, and applied research—serving both the academic community and local stakeholders.s The meeting brought together representatives from partner agencies, local government units, and community organizations, all expressing strong support for the project’s goals. Their active participation reflects a shared commitment to fostering academic excellence, industry collaboration, and inclusive development. Through this strategic undertaking, NwSSU reinforces its role as a catalyst for regional progress—enhancing its academic and research capabilities while building meaningful partnerships with local enterprises and communities. The upgraded facility is expected to unlock new opportunities for knowledge-sharing, product development, and sustainable growth.

NwSSU officials convened on August 26, 2025, at the 4th Floor, Administration Building for the Philippine Quality Assurance (PQA) Committee meeting. Discussions focused on an overview of the Philippine Quality Assurance Award, duties and responsibilities of committee champions and members, the indicative calendar of activities, expected outputs for the lock-in workshop, and other relevant matter. The meeting strengthened the university’s efforts toward institutional quality, ensuring that its systems and practices align with national standards for excellence and continuous improvement.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) marked a significant milestone during the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) ocular visit on July 31, 2025, conducted at the fourth floor of the Administration Building. In a positive outcome for the institution, both the Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering programs were recommended for the issuance of a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC)—a key step toward further strengthening NwSSU’s academic offerings and institutional credibility. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo emphasized NwSSU’s commitment to quality and service, stating, “If we have the opportunity to contribute, let us contribute. Let us be a blessing to everybody,” asserting the university’s mission to uplift communities through education. Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ramil S. Catamora expressed gratitude to CHED and NwSSU officials and reiterated the university’s dedication to continuous improvement. CHED representatives announced that a follow-up meeting is scheduled for August 7 to finalize discussions, with promising developments expected. This development strengthens NwSSU’s commitment to producing graduates who meet national and global standards in design, innovation, and engineering. With COPC approval on the horizon, the university is poised to expand its impact in shaping future professionals who will serve not only the region but the nation.

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.