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Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Office of Gender and Development (GAD), conducted a three-day workshop titled “Development of the Strategic Gender and Development Framework and Work Plan” on October 7–10, 2025, at the University Hotel and Restaurant Function Room. The activity marked a significant step in the university’s continuing effort to institutionalize inclusivity and strengthen its GAD mechanisms in alignment with national mandates and international commitments. The event was designed to capacitate key personnel in developing the 2026–2031 NwSSU GAD Strategic Framework and Agenda, in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 7192 (Women in Development and Nation Building Act) and Republic Act 9710 (The Magna Carta of Women). These laws require all government agencies, including higher education institutions, to undergo gender sensitivity and mainstreaming initiatives to ensure inclusive, equitable, and gender-responsive governance. Day 1 laid the foundation for understanding the principles and frameworks guiding gender mainstreaming. Sessions covered Gender Analysis, Mainstreaming, and Planning Principles, emphasizing the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Frameworks and the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG). Participants engaged in interactive discussions and structured learning exercises that enhanced their appreciation of gender-responsive policies, institutional planning, and budget alignment. Day 2 delved deeper into policy integration and institutionalization, with participants working on the formulation of NwSSU’s GAD Agenda. The sessions focused on embedding gender perspectives into the university’s programs, projects, and activities—ensuring that the outcomes contribute meaningfully to inclusivity and empowerment across academic, research, and community engagement dimensions. On Day 3, the focus shifted toward the finalization and validation of the university’s 2026–2031 GAD Strategic Framework and Agenda. Learning Session 7 introduced the key components of the GAD Agenda, followed by a plenary session on the development process for the new framework. In Workshop 2, participants collaborated to outline strategic priorities and measurable outcomes, which were later presented and critiqued during the plenary session. The workshop concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, who underscored the importance of sustaining gender mainstreaming efforts through shared responsibility and institutional commitment.

The Planning and Development Services Office (PDSO), led by Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, convened a strategic meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the University President’s Board Room to deliberate on key matters concerning proposed projects under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) Tier II for Fiscal Year 2027. Co-chaired by Ms. Jonah L. Salcedo, the meeting brought together members of the Planning Unit, Project Development Unit, and Infrastructure and Project Management Unit, headed respectively by Engr. Marlon D. Sobreviga and Mr. Redem D. Tingzon. The assembly focused on reviewing the status of the call for project proposals, assessing the implementation readiness of submissions, and conducting a technical evaluation of proposed initiatives. Discussions also covered preparations for the upcoming consultative assembly and other relevant concerns to ensure that project priorities remain aligned with institutional goals and national development directives. The meeting reinforced PDSO’s commitment to strategic planning, evidence-based decision-making, and collaborative project development in support of the university’s pursuit of sustainable growth and institutional excellence. Through cross-unit coordination and focused deliberations, the office continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring that proposed projects are responsive, feasible, and aligned with fiscal guidelines and developmental priorities.

The Courier, the official student publication of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), earned national recognition after bagging four awards in the National Training Workshop on Campus Journalism organized by the Organization of Student Services Educators, Inc. (OSSEI) on September 25–27, 2025, at Crown Legacy Hotel, Baguio City.   The competition brought together 24 participating colleges and universities across the country, showcasing excellence in various fields of campus journalism. The Courier stood out with strong performances in both individual and publication-level categories. Jaspher C. Deculawan secured 3rd Place in Photo Essay, while James S. Nallatan followed closely with 5th Place in the same category. In Editorial Cartooning, Jimmuel D. Suarez clinched 4th Place, highlighting the publication’s creative storytelling strength. On the digital front, The Courier as an online publication was recognized with 3rd Place for Most Multi-platform Engagement, affirming its ability to reach and resonate with a wide audience.   The Courier’s success not only reflects the talent and commitment of its staff but also underscores NwSSU’s dedication to fostering student excellence in journalism. By excelling at a national stage, the publication continues to amplify student voices, strengthen campus press freedom, and inspire aspiring journalists within and beyond the university.

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.