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The English Educators Association (EEA) took a heartfelt approach to Valentine’s Day this year by hosting an outreach program titled Strengthen, Promote, and Advocate Reading for Knowledge (SPARK). This event aimed at inspiring high school students of Bagacay Integrated School (BIS) to embrace the joy of reading and enhance their literacy, while simultaneously promoting community engagement and collaborative learning. Held on February 17, 2025, the SPARK initiative was spearheaded by EEA Officers, and advisers – Dr. Maria Lucil H. Dollado, Mrs, Maria Lourdes Mae V. Billate, Mr. Avin Carl Cruzada, Mr. Albros D. Mañanita, and the program chair of English, Dr. Julie Ann D. Edraga. The event was filled with a range of activities, starting with a silent reading session for the BIS students. This allowed participants to immerse themselves in a variety of reading materials, followed by fun activities that tested their comprehension and critical thinking. The interactive nature of the event helped keep students motivated while reinforcing the importance of reading for education and personal development. After the activities, each student received a thoughtful gift package, which included educational materials and other tools to support their journey toward better literacy. The gifts were tokens of appreciation and symbols of the EEA’s commitment to promote the love for reading and learning. The SPARK outreach program emphasizes the value of collaboration and the importance of supporting students not just academically, but their personal growth as well. It also highlights how the month of love, traditionally celebrated with gifts and affection, can be an opportunity for educational organizations to give back and make a meaningful impact on the lives of learners. As EEA continues its mission of promoting literacy and education, the SPARK event serves as a reminder that reading is not only an academic skill but also a powerful tool in shaping one’s future. Through this outreach program, NwSSU continues to promote and advocate for learning and help empower young minds to reach their full potential.

February 17, 2024 – The Vice President for Academic Affairs Conference Room served as the venue for an insightful orientation and workshop designed for the College Student Internship Program in the Philippines (SIPP) & Local Off-Campus Coordinators. This event brought together coordinators to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of internship programs across the institution. Led by Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe, SIPP Coordinator, and supported by Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, the workshop aimed to strengthen coordinators’ knowledge and enhance collaboration in managing internship programs. The comprehensive agenda covered crucial aspects of the internship process, ensuring alignment with institutional and national standards. The first topic addressed was the SIPP Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing and Review Process and Guidelines. The session was led by Atty. Cecile Candida Y. Rueda, who provided valuable insights on legal stipulations, contract guidelines, and the clear delineation of responsibilities among all parties involved. Participants were guided through the templates and requirements necessary for establishing a MOA with partner companies. Coordinators were also oriented on SIPP Reporting and Familiarization with SIPP Forms, focusing on proper report formatting, relevant annexes, and best practices for compiling and submitting comprehensive internship documentation. Additionally, the workshop covered the Policies and Guidelines on Local Off-Campus Activities, ensuring that coordinators are well-versed in the requirements for organizing and supervising off-campus activities while maintaining compliance with institutional and government regulations. Beyond local opportunities, the workshop also tackled International Linkages and Incorporating Internships Abroad. This segment encouraged the development of global partnerships, providing students with broader professional exposure and enhancing their career prospects through international experiences. The event concluded with participants expressing renewed confidence in facilitating effective and compliant internship programs. By reinforcing critical processes and fostering collaborative networks, NwSSU continues to take significant steps in enhancing student internship experiences, both locally and internationally.

CALBAYOG CITY — Numerous Calbayognons from various sectors gathered at dawn on February 15 for the 12th Walk for a Healthy Heart, organized by Saint Camillus Hospital of Calbayog (SCHC). The event, held to celebrate Philippine Heart Month and the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope, carried the theme “WALK for a Healthier Heart and be a HOPE for others.” Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) students, faculty, and staff actively participated in the walk, which began at the Calbayog City Hall Stage at 4 AM with a warm-up exercise. Other participants included nursing students and faculty from various schools, members of Calbayog’s Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and representatives from other sectors. The walk traversed the National Highway en route to SCHC, where participants registered and received breakfast meals. A lively Zumba session followed, promoting physical fitness and well-being. The event continued with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Jaime A. Roa, MD, MI, SCHC Hospital Chaplain, with Fr. Gabriel V. Garcia, MI, SCHC Hospital Director, delivering the homily. The mass emphasized the gathering’s spiritual significance. Youth attendees enjoyed parlor games and fun activities, fostering community and fellowship. Simultaneously, a health screening was conducted, offering free tests for various health indicators – random blood sugar (RBS), cholesterol, uric acid, complete blood count (CBC), blood typing, urinalysis, and ECG, along with free consultations and medicines. The walk symbolized unity and hope, reminding everyone that small steps can lead to a healthier and more connected community. By participating in this event, NwSSU demonstrated its commitment to promoting health and wellness among its students, faculty, and staff.

The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Institutional Student Supreme Council (ISSC) hosted a unique series of events on February 14 to celebrate Valentine’s Day, offering students opportunities to give back to the community, prioritize self-care, and celebrate with friends. The event, titled “Hello, Maharuyo Again! Special Valentine’s Day Celebration”, included multiple activities for Norwesians to enjoy. A bloodletting activity was held on the 4th Floor of the Admin Building in partnership with Calbayog District Hospital – Blood Collecting Unit, encouraging everyone to donate blood and help save lives. Reaffirming the importance of self-care, free HIV testing was also offered in partnership with Calbayog City Health Office at the University Clinic for those who wish to know their status. Knowing one’s HIV status is crucial for early detection and treatment, and the ISSC aims to promote awareness and education on this important issue. Other activities included free Champorado served at the SCUAA Stage for the NwSSU community to enjoy, as well as Valentine’s Day gifts and presents at affordable prices for those looking to express their appreciation to loved ones. With these activities, the ISSC aims to make Valentine’s Day more meaningful by promoting health, appreciation, and care among students. Beyond romantic celebrations, the council hopes to emphasize the importance of self-care, empathy, and camaraderie, making the occasion not just about love, but also about compassion and well-being.

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.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) actively participated in a collaborative project aiming to conserve Samar’s historic fortifications, primarily the Sta. Rita, Bangahon, and Zumarraga fortification sites, last February 5-8, 2025. The initiative, titled “Safeguarding the Sentinels of the Seas: Conservation of Samar Fortifications,” funded through the Ambassadors Fund of Cultural Preservation of US Department of State through US Embassy in the Philippines and the Provincial Government of Samar is led by the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (USTGS-CCCPET) headed by Ms. Beverly M. Bautista, in partnership with Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), along with Samar State University (SSU) represented by Ms. Maria Rubi M. Parrocho, and Samar Provincial Tourism Office (SPTO) represented by Mr. Etelbert Conde. Representing NwSSU in this endeavor is Dr. Joseph Emil A. David (Director of Research and Development Services), alongside EnP. Novlloyd Celeste (Head of the Innovation and Technopreneurship Hub), and Architect Vanessa Ayllon. Their involvement focuses on collaborating with USTGS-CCCPET on research, documentation, and architectural assessment, contributing to the broader efforts of preserving the province’s historical structures. The four-day site visit encompassed comprehensive ocular inspections and assessments of 13 historic fortification sites. These sites included Basey, Villareal, Bangahon, Tinago ruins, Bangon, Napalisan, Caparangasan, Zumarraga (Arteche Historical Park), Samar Provincial Jail, Paranas, Jiabong, Pinabacdao, and Sta. Rita, showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Throughout the project, the teams will conduct site surveys and memory mapping, engage in archival and historical research, and perform detailed architectural and structural analyses of various historical sites across Samar. These efforts aim to develop a comprehensive site development plan that will guide future conservation initiatives. By working alongside USTGS-CCCPET, and the Samar Provincial Tourism Office, NwSSU strengthens its role in cultural heritage preservation. The university’s participation highlights its commitment to integrating research and collaborative efforts to enable Samar’s fortifications and ensure their conservation for future generations.