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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.

In its continued drive to enhance professional development opportunities, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted a one-day Collaborative Writeshop on March 27, 2025, at the 4th Floor of the Administration Building, Main Campus. The event, titled “Designing Innovative CPD Programs,” focused on creating strategic Continuing Professional Development (CPD) initiatives to serve faculty, staff, and educators in the region. With the goal of becoming a top CPD provider, NwSSU aims to develop innovative programs that will support professional growth and help teachers and other professionals earn CPD points, a requirement for PRC license renewal. The writeshop also explored ways to partner with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other organizations to offer specialized training aligned with educational needs. Participants, including university key officials, college deans and faculty members, shared insights and brainstormed creative approaches to improve CPD offerings. Discussions centered on essential components for designing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs, including curriculum innovation, skills upgrading, interdisciplinary learning, and professional development strategies, to ensure that the future programs are adaptive and impactful. By fostering collaboration and tapping into the expertise of its faculty, NwSSU seeks to position itself as a leader in CPD delivery in the region. The institution’s ongoing efforts reflect its commitment to improving the quality of education by supporting the continuous learning and professional development of its academic community and beyond. As NwSSU progresses with its CPD initiatives, it reaffirms its mission to be a driving force for professional and educational advancement, benefiting not only the university community but also the wider educational sector nationally.

Ormoc City, Leyte – In a bid to promote economic empowerment and sustainability, Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) collaborated with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Ormoc City, in partnership with the Integrated Population Gender and Development Office (IPGDO) of Ormoc City to implement a multidisciplinary outreach program focusing on dishwashing liquid production, titled “Multidisciplinary Outreach for Sustainable Livelihood: A Gender-Inclusive Initiative for Barangay Officials”. The two-day event, held on March 21-22, 2025, at the Liga ng mga Barangay Conference Hall, gathered Sangguniang Barangay (SB) members from Ormoc City, Leyte, to equip them with practical skills in small-scale livelihood ventures. The initiative aimed to foster economic empowerment and sustainability within their respective communities. Recognizing the importance of capacity-building and skills development, the program featured a range of topics, including a gender-inclusive livelihood initiative discussed by Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel. Other topics included innovative uses of recycled materials, such as using recycled dishwashing bottles for vertical gardening, presented by Dr. Getulio A. Barcenas Jr., and creating innovative mini-greenhouses using used dishwashing liquid plastic bottles, demonstrated by Mr. Eduardo G. Espejon Jr. The participants were also taught how to produce simplified dishwashing liquid, led by Mrs. Jayrose P. Ortiz. On the second day, selected participants showcased their skills in a return demonstration, applying the knowledge and skills they acquired from the program. Additional topics covered included using social media as a powerful communication tool for business growth, discussed by Mrs. Margerie Mae B. David, creating customer loyalty and pricing strategies, presented by Dr. Iris B. Bejasa, designing display booths, demonstrated by Architect Vanessa R. Ayllon, enhancing biosecurity through the use of dishwashing liquid in footbaths, led by Mrs. Sance J. Secondez, and customer service communication, presented by Mr. John M. Tan. Each participant received a dishwashing liquid production kit, complete with pails, dippers, and plastic bottles, to facilitate the cascading of their newfound skills to their constituents. This initiative is a testament to the commitment of NWSSU, DILG Ormoc City, and IPGDO to promote sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment among Barangay officials. The event was made possible with the help of Mr. Jean Redi T. Briones, the City Local Government Operations Officer of DILG Ormoc City, and the rest of his colleagues and subordinates in DILG Ormoc City. By providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge, they can create a positive impact in their respective communities, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As Ormoc City is aptly known as the “City of Beautiful People,” this outreach program serves as a shining example of the city’s dedication to fostering beautiful and sustainable communities.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) spearheaded the Bida Ka Fire Square Roadshow at Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) RSU Socio-Cultural Hall on March 25, 2025, as part of the nationwide Fire Prevention Month campaign. The event aimed to promote fire safety awareness and preparedness among the participants, including NwSSU criminology students, members of various organizations, and students from other schools in Calbayog. Participants engaged in fire prevention activities with the guidance of BFP personnel to enhance their understanding of safety protocols. These included sessions on fire warning signs, electrical safety, basic life support, first aid, and rescue operations such as rappelling and knot-tying. They also explored simulated emergency environments, such as the Smoke Control Fire Tunnel and Bahay ni EDITH, which highlighted effective evacuation techniques. The Bida Ka Fire Square Roadshow not only equipped the participants with practical skills and fire safety knowledge but also strengthened the university’s role in fostering community linkages and disaster preparedness. Through this initiative, NwSSU reaffirmed its commitment to promoting public safety and equipping its students with life-saving skills, contributing to a safer and more resilient community.

March 21, 2025 — In its third stop across Central Visayas, Northwest Samar State University visited FABLAB Cebu Technological University (CTU) Danao to further enhance its knowledge on innovation and fabrication practices marking a meaningful milestone in NwSSU’s journey to establish its own state-of-the-art fabrication laboratory. The NwSSU delegation was warmly welcomed by CTU-Danao officials, led by Dr. Rose Mary L. Almacen, Campus Director, alongside Delia G. Sabio, NSTP Director; Engr. Jayson G. Bayogo, Adviser of the Engineering Society; and Dr. Joshlen B. Lim from the Information, Communications, and Public Affairs (ICPA) Office. Their guidance provided valuable insights into the facility’s operational strategies and community-oriented programs. The benchmarking activity allowed the NwSSU representatives to gain insights on FABLAB CTU-Danao’s efficient practices. The delegation observed how the facility supports student clients in prototyping projects, cultivating innovation from the ground up. Additionally, the FABLAB has shown promotion of sustainability through upcycling initiatives and played an essential role in the local creative industry by offering livelihood training programs. These workshops empower local entrepreneurs and artists, helping them turn ideas into marketable products. Beyond serving the local community, the fablab also addresses the university’s internal needs by supporting institutional multimedia production. This capability aligns with NwSSU’s goal of improving its own multimedia publication and technology-based initiatives. The NwSSU team commended the outstanding hospitality shown by CTU-Danao throughout the visit, highlighting the warm reception and collaborative spirit that fueled productive discussions and exploration on future partnerships. With this another benchmarking activity completed — following earlier visits to FABLAB Bohol and FABLAB UP Cebu — NwSSU is now equipped with a more knowledge and inspiration to guide the establishment of its own fabrication laboratory. The university remains dedicated to turning these insights into reality, promoting innovation, empowering its academic and local community, and driving sustainable development in Eastern Visayas. This marks not an end, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter for NwSSU’s vision of progress and ingenuity.