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Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the City Government of Calbayog conducted a foresight and tabletop workshop on El Niño–La Niña preparedness on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026, at the NwSSU Main Campus. The workshop comes as Samar is among the provinces PAGASA has placed under drought, with the current very strong El Niño expected to linger into 2027 and a La Niña possibly following. All four states of calamity Calbayog has declared since 2022 were for floods, which organizers said makes the shift from too little water to too much the city’s biggest blind spot. Participants from multisectoral agencies and civil society worked in five sector tables, each guided by NwSSU facilitators. The tables covered water; food and agriculture; health, education and social welfare; emergency response and public safety; and governance, budget and coordination. The day began with a “Worry Wall,” where participants posted their biggest concerns about too little and too much water. Emmanuel R. de Guia, resident futurist and consultant of the Senate Committee on SDGs, Innovation, and Futures Thinking, then gave a situation briefing on the El Niño outlook, from the global picture down to Calbayog. Participants were then guided through a Causal Layered Analysis to examine the deeper causes behind their concerns, followed by a session on four possible futures of Calbayog in 2036, which they presented through an “a day in the life in 2036” role-plays. In a backcasting session, the tables worked backward from a preferred 2036 vision to concrete first moves the city can take during the current El Niño. The highlight was the Pivot Drill, a tabletop exercise that tested the tables’ plans against fictional but realistic developments: drought at its peak, the regular dry season stacked on El Niño, and a sudden turn to La Niña flash floods and landslides. Dr. Sandro Daguman, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), played the council chair who approved or held requests for water, personnel and funds, testing the workshop’s guiding rule: “No owner, no commitment.” Lastly, each table pledged three commitments with a named lead office, deadline, and trigger. In the session, each participants signed personal 30-day commitment cards. Dr. Daguman said the next steps are to consolidate the outputs into a draft El Niño–La Niña Preparedness Plan, integrate its actions into the city’s existing plans and budgets, monitor PAGASA signals, and bring the approach to barangays and schools. In his closing message, City Councilor Marc Celino “Jormac” B. Tan thanked the facilitators and participants and said the commitments made at the tables are only the beginning. “We can do this together,” he said, adding that by acting early, working across offices and barangays, and holding one another to their promises, Calbayog can face both the drought and the floods ahead with confidence.

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar — In a decisive move to revitalize the province’s agricultural landscape, the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) solidified its role as a key institutional partner of the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Samar during the two-day Samar Agro-Industrial Harmonization Workshop, held from October 22 to 23, 2026, at the Samar Convention Center. Led by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and the Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, the workshop brought together regional stakeholders, academic experts, and policymakers to streamline development efforts for Samar’s high-value agro-industries: coconut, bamboo, ube, and high-value crops (HVC) such as chili. Harmonizing a Shared Vision For years, the development of Samar’s primary agricultural commodities has occurred in silos, with agencies tackling problems independently. However, the workshop showed that the challenges facing Samar’s farmers are shared across commodities. Data consolidated during the sessions revealed six recurring gaps that hold back the provincial agro-industry. These are limited planting materials and seed stock, ranging from expensive bamboo material, scarce ube seedlings, and senile coconut trees to a lack of chili seed stock; limited farmer capacity and extension support; vulnerability to climate impacts, including typhoons, droughts, pests, and diseases; fragmented production and weak institutional coordination; a lack of shared processing, postharvest, and logistics facilities; and weak market linkages that leave farmers at the mercy of volatile trading prices. Rather than addressing these barriers commodity by commodity, the workshop successfully grouped these gaps into six strategic convergence initiatives. By anchoring interventions across specific segments of the value chains—such as clustering ube processing, upgrading chili facilities, and establishing robust marketing networks for coconut and bamboo—the PLGU and its partner agencies can now deploy targeted solutions that uplift multiple farming sectors simultaneously. NwSSU at the Helm of Facilitation and Expertise As an institution deeply committed to community transformation, NwSSU sent a powerhouse team of educators and researchers to orchestrate the event and contribute technical foresight. Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, Director of the NwSSU External Affairs Office, steered the strategic direction of the sessions as the Lead Workshop Facilitator, working hand-in-hand with Provincial Planning Officer Mr. Joel Mancol. Their collaborative moderation allowed diverse agency representatives to find common ground and synthesize complex farm-level data into actionable government policies. Lending academic and scientific weight to the workshop was Dr. Jessie Sabijon, Dean of the College of Agriculture & Forestry at the NwSSU San Jorge Campus. Serving as a Small Group Facilitator, Dr. Sabijon acted as the resident expert contributor for Ube Research & Development (R&D). His insights highlighted how academe-driven crop technology can directly mitigate the planting material scarcity that currently limits local ube growers. Assisting throughout the rigorous two-day convergence were personnel from the NwSSU Project Development Office, who served as official documenters, meticulously capturing the baseline findings that will shape Samar’s next comprehensive agro-industrial master plan. Empowering the Samarnon Farmer Samar’s smallholder farmers stand to benefit most from this partnership. By addressing systemic weaknesses like funding access and farm mechanization (gaps highlighted for bamboo, coconut, and ube), the convergence framework aims to move farmers toward more competitive agro-enterprise. When farmers are equipped with high-yield seed stocks, resilient farming practices, and shared processing facilities, their post-harvest losses drop, and their profit margins rise. Sustainable market linkages ensure that the sweat and labor poured into Samar’s soil translate into stable, premium household incomes. Shaping Samar’s Economic Future The collaboration between NwSSU and PLGU-Samar marks a shift in the province’s approach to agro-industry. By moving away from fragmented initiatives and embracing a synchronized value-chain approach, Samar positions itself as an emerging agro-industrial hub in the Eastern Visayas region. Through localized research, extension services, and policy facilitation, NwSSU continues to contribute to the province’s economic development. As this harmonized blueprint rolls out, the university and the provincial government stand united in building a resilient, food-secure, and economically vibrant Samar.

Northwest Samar State University proudly celebrates another significant research milestone as DR. ARCHIE B. LAUDERES, Director of Extension Services and Faculty of the College of Agriculture and Technology, successfully published her research entitled: “Field-Based Evaluation of Rice Suitability Classification as Influenced by Cultural Management Interventions.” Published in the Indian Journal of Agricultural Research (Volume 60, Issue 6, June 2026, DOI: 10.18805/IJARe.AF-1037), the study validates rice land suitability classifications through field-based experiments and demonstrates how site-specific cultural management practices and soil-based fertilizer recommendations can significantly improve rice productivity across varying land suitability conditions. The findings provide valuable scientific evidence that supports sustainable agriculture, efficient resource utilization, and improved crop yields for farming communities. This remarkable achievement reflects NwSSU’s unwavering commitment to producing impactful, globally recognized research that contributes to agricultural innovation, food security, and sustainable rural development. Congratulations to Dr. Archie B. Lauderes for bringing honor to Northwest Samar State University through this outstanding scholarly contribution! Read the full research article here:Indian Journal of Agricultural Research –Field-Based Evaluation of Rice Suitability Classification as Influenced by Cultural Management Interventions (https://demo.arccjournals.com/…/indian-journal…/AF-1037) #NwSSU#ResearchExcellence #AgricultureResearch #SustainableAgriculture#RiceProduction#GlobalResearch#NwSSUResearch #CollegeOfAgricultureAndTechnology

MAY 29, 2026 – The Calbayog City Sports Center came alive with pride and excitement as Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) held the Day 2 of its 47th Commencement Exercises. Started promptly at 2:00 PM, the celebration carried the theme “Rising Beyond Limits: Shaping the Future Through Innovation and Excellence.” The venue was filled with graduates, alongside their parents and guardians, faculty, and guests, all gathered to mark a significant milestone in the academic journey of students from the College of Criminal Justice and Sciences (CCJS) and the College of Agriculture and Technology (CAT). The formal program began with the official declaration of the 47th Commencement Exercises by NwSSU University President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran. Following her declaration, Jonathan M. Peru, a Magna Cum Laude candidate for Bachelor of Science in Food Technology, delivered the address of petition, speaking on behalf of his fellow graduates. He affirmed the graduates’ readiness to take on responsibilities and serve the community with the knowledge and skills they have acquired. A key highlight of the graduation was the presentation of candidates for degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Dr. Armando A. Alviola, Dean of CCJS, presented a total of 376 candidates, while Dr. Jessie Sabijon, Dean of CAT, presented 315 candidates, recognizing each student for their hard work, perseverance, and academic achievements. This segment paved the way for the conferment of degrees and titles, as well as the investiture of caps and hoods, personally led by President Tangaran. President Tangaran then introduced the event’s Guest of Honor and Speaker, Hon. Arnold V. Tan, Vice Governor of the Province of Samar. In his address, Vice Governor Tan emphasized the significance of this year’s theme and connected it directly to the progress and development of Samar province. He encouraged the graduates to use their education and expertise to drive innovation, address community challenges, and contribute to the growth of the society, reminding them that they are the province’s greatest hope for a progressive and sustainable future. “Do not be afraid to fail, for failure is often just first drafts of innovation,” he said. “Great leaders and successful individuals are those who rise despite difficulties, continue dreaming, believing in yourself,” he added. Before the meaningful program concluded, Jerome Endiza, a Summa Cum Laude candidate for Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Major in Horticulture, delivered the address of gratitude on behalf of the entire Class 2026. He thanked everyone who played a part in their success—from parents and guardians who offered unwavering support, to teachers and administrators who guided and inspired them. Day 2 of the 47th Commencement Exercises not only celebrated academic achievement but also strengthened NwSSU’s vision: producing graduates who ASCEND above challenges, lead with excellence, and shape a better future for Samar and beyond. #ASCENDNwSSU#NwSSU47thCommencementExercises

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Kapit-Bisig Sa Mawacat Association (KASAMA) strengthened their commitment to community-driven growth with a landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on November 14, 2025, at the NwSSU Board Room. Led by Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, and Mrs. Dionesia T. Mayran, KASAMA President, the collaboration institutes the extension project “Strategic and Sustainability Planning for KASAMA,” designed to empower the Brgy. Mawacat community through innovative livelihood strategies. The partnership aligns with NwSSU’s mandate to advance education, research, and extension services while supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). NwSSU’s extension efforts, through the College of Management, in Brgy. Mawacat emerged as a model of community-led development, focusing on poverty alleviation, skills training, and agricultural innovation. The 2022 assessment of KASAMA highlighted the need for enhanced strategic planning to ensure long-term sustainability, stimulating NwSSU’s renewed pledge to support the association. The MOA emphasizes a shared vision fostering equitable, innovative, and sustainable partnerships that connects academic expertise with community needs. With Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, NwSSU Project Leader, Mr. Esteban C. Sabar Jr., COM Extension Coordinator, Dr. Francis C. Toleza, and KASAMA members including Mrs. Ma. Linda M. Judloman, the project aims to refine cooperative strategies, enhance member capacities, and enhance public sector partnerships.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the 2025 International and National Summer Course hosted by Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, Indonesia. Designed as a hybrid program combining online and onsite sessions, the course runs from June to August 2025, with the onsite sessions held from June 22 to 27. The program revolved around the theme “Innovative Agricultural Technologies for Future Food Security, Green Industry, and Environmental Sustainability,” delving into forward-looking frameworks and emerging technologies aimed at redefining sustainability within the agro-industrial landscape. Representing NwSSU was Jonathan M. Peru, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Food Technology student, accompanied by a BSFT faculty member – Ms. Maria Joana T. Nicolas. Their participation marked the implementation of the institutional collaboration between NwSSU and Universitas Brawijaya, reflecting a shared commitment to cross-border academic mobility and scholarly exchange. Mr. Peru made a remarkable impression during the summer course, hailed as the Champion for the Best International Group Presenter and earned the second place in the Artefact (Dance Competition). His commendable performance showcased not only individual aptitude but also the university’s growing imprint in international academic excellence. This engagement highlighted NwSSU’s commitment to global linkages and preparing students to be proactive contributors in solving global challenges, particularly in food security and environmental sustainability. By engaging in such initiatives, the university continues to build a strong presence in international academic communities.

Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) has secured a significant milestone after its project, “SIPAG of Vegetable Farms: Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid with Mobile Control,” was selected as one of the 13 recipients of the 2024 Innovation Grants from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). This groundbreaking project was conceptualized and proposed by Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, a faculty member of the College of Agriculture and Technology, who spearheaded the development of the SIPAG initiative.  SIPAG, which stands for Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid, revolutionizes agricultural practices by integrating renewable energy and modern technology. The project focuses on utilizing solar-powered irrigation systems to provide a continuous and cost-effective water supply for vegetable farms. By harnessing solar energy, farmers can reduce their reliance on traditional fuel-powered machinery, decreasing operational costs and promoting environmental sustainability.  The initiative also emphasizes the application of biopesticides, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This approach enhances crop protection and production while maintaining soil health and biodiversity. Furthermore, the integration of mobile control systems enables farmers to monitor and manage irrigation and pest control processes remotely, increasing efficiency and productivity.  The approval of SIPAG aligns with the goals outlined in the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document 2023-2032, showcasing Filipino ingenuity in addressing local agricultural challenges. By adopting innovative solutions, NWSSU aims to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.  The SIPAG initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing Philippine agriculture by integrating renewable energy and smart technologies. NWSSU’s SIPAG project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how technology-driven solutions can transform traditional farming practices for a greener and more efficient future.