sdg4

To drive the advancement of arts, culture, and community development, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Calbayog City Arts and Culture Office (CACO) formalized a partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on May 7, 2025, at the University President’s Boardroom, setting the stage for a transformative cultural collaboration. NwSSU President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo and CACO Officer-in-Charge Ma. Salome L. Roleda led the ceremonial signing, marking the beginning of a collaborative partnership centered on arts, culture, as well as community development. The MoA outlines shared objectives to promote artistic expression, provide platforms for talents, and promote cultural awareness in Calbayog City. The partnership establishes a framework for joint initiatives, including training programs, performances, cultural mapping, and publication of local heritage materials. Witnesses to the MoA signing included Mr. Cerilo A. Irinco, Director of the Arts, Social, and Cultural Affairs (ASCA) Office; Mr. Rexor H. Magbutay, ASCA Discipline Representative; Dr. Ervin L. Rodriguez, Director of the Innovation Office; and Mr. Avin Carl V. Cruzada, Director of Creative Works. The partnership highlights the mutual commitment of both institutions to preserve, promote, and elevate the cultural and artistic heritage of Calbayog while empowering local creatives through support and partnership.

May 7, 2025 — Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) Students from Northwest Samar State University’s (NwSSU) College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) successfully hosted “Sparking Safety — An Electrical Safety Awareness Seminar” at the Admin Building in conjunction with this year’s celebration of Electrical Safety Month. The event, hosted by the Junior Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (JIIEE)—NwSSU Chapter in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Calbayog and the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (IIEE), featured relevant discussions and demonstrations centered on electrical safety and fire prevention from the BFP Calbayog. Signaling the beginning of the program, Engr. Merary C. Ca-ang from the College of Engineering & Architecture delivered his opening remarks, followed by the rationale from F/SINSP. Tereso, T. Tuazon, Acting City Fire Marshal, Calbayog City Fire Station. Both emphasized the importance of collaborative and insightful events like the seminar in promoting safety for everyone. The event’s highlight was discussions on Electrical Hazards and safety Practices, Fire Prevention Strategies, Emergency Response Procedures, and Real-Life Case Studies by the BFP Calbayog. To further enhance the participants’ learning, the program featured an Electrical Safety Awareness Walk and distribution of Pamphlets, a practical demonstration, and an interactive Q&A, allowing hands-on experience and insightful discourse. At the program’s closing, Program Chair for Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) Engr. Ma. Ritchel F. Aliman expressed her gratitude to the participants and key speakers for the success of the seminar. Participants were able to receive certificates, distributed by Engr. Ca-ang and Engr. Aliman. The success of “Sparking Safety — An Electrical Safety Awareness Seminar” reflects Northwest Samar State University’s (NwSSU) unwavering commitment to promoting the safety of the public. Through the efforts of the BSEE students and the support of partners such as the BFP Calbayog and JIIEE, and IIEE, NwSSU continues to promote a culture of safety, awareness, and public service.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through the College of College of Criminal Justice Studies (CCJS), held the Exit Conference for the Bachelor of Science in Community Development (BSCD) program on May 6, 2025, at the Business Development Center, NwSSU Main Campus. The activity marked the conclusion of the fourth-year students’ internship under the Student Internship Program of the Philippines (SIPP) and served as a venue for reporting, evaluation, and formal recognition of their fieldwork accomplishments. The program began with opening remarks from Dr. Armando A. Alviola, CCS Dean, and a rationale presented by EnP. Rosalina L. Tarrayo, MRD, BSCD Program Chairperson. Interns from various partner institutions presented their accomplishment reports, followed by feedback and messages from agency representatives. Certificates of completion were distributed after each segment. Participating partner organizations included City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), SIKAT, WESADEF, NwSSU Cooperative, Plan International Pilipinas, and Center for Empowerment and Resource Development (CERD). The conference also featured brief intermissions with performances from student interns. An inspirational message was delivered by Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Ana Gretchen Tobe, University SIPP Coordinator. The activity formally marked the conclusion of the internship phase for BSCD students and reinforced NwSSU’s continued commitment to partnership and collaboration with various community development institutions.         

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) continued its commitment to intellectual property education with the Sixth Session of its IP Awareness Seminar Series, held on April 30, 2025, via Zoom. The session focused on “Copyright and Related Rights” and was attended by selected faculty members and students from the College of Nursing (CON), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS), College of Agriculture and Technology (CAT), College of Education (COED), and the San Jorge Campus. Mr. Novlloyd E. Celeste, Head of Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO), led the seminar with an in-depth lecture that tackled the fundamental aspects of copyright law, including the rights of creators, the scope of related rights, and the implications of digital media on copyright protection. Participants engaged with the topic through discussions on the legal and ethical use of protected works, furthering their understanding of how copyright functions as a safeguard for intellectual and creative output. The event concluded with a message from Mr. Celeste, who also delivered the closing remarks. He emphasized the importance of respecting intellectual property as a cornerstone of academic integrity and professional ethics. This session marked another milestone in NwSSU’s observance of Intellectual Property Month, further reinforcing its goal of cultivating a knowledgeable and responsible academic community.

Aiming to elevate the quality, reach, and sustainability of its extension programs, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Extension Services Office, embarked on a multi-institutional cross-learning and benchmarking activity from April 29 to May 2, 2025. The four-day visit brought the NwSSU Extension Team to multiple academic institutions and development-driven organizations in Cagayan de Oro and Malaybalay, Bukidnon. In Bukidnon, the delegation engaged with Del Monte Philippines, Inc. and Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, where they explored institutional models of corporate social responsibility, service learning, and research-based extension practices. They were welcomed by Camp Administrator Ms. Ailene Rose Molleno and HR Manager Ms. Urchielyn Basalio at Del Monte, and by Dr. Heidi R. Rabanes, Ms. Gail dela Rita, and Engr. Dexter Lo at Xavier University. In Malaybalay, the team conducted a study visit at Bukidnon State University (BukSU) and the Bukidnon Tagoloanon Mulahay ka Kabukalagan Agriculture Cooperative (BUKTAMACO). With BukSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso, Extension and Community Engagement Unit (ESCEU) Director Dr. Jemalyn B. Paulican, Innovative & Technology Support Office Manager Mr. Kierby Depalan and other staff from BukSU, NwSSU gained insights on inclusive and impact-oriented extension initiatives. At BUKTAMACO, Founder Atty. Burt Miquibas Estrada offered valuable perspectives on community empowerment and cooperative development. The cross-learning initiative provided the NwSSU team with an in-depth understanding of different strategies and best practices in conducting, managing, and sustaining community-focused programs. It also opened doors for possible collaborations that align with the university’s mission to foster inclusive development through education, innovation, and service. Led by Extension Services Director Dr. Catherine Rodriguez, the NwSSU delegation included faculty members, extension coordinators, research heads, and representatives from the Graduate School, GAD, and various colleges and campuses – reflecting the university’s collective commitment to strengthening its extension thrusts across all disciplines. With insights gained and connections established, the NwSSU team returns from the benchmarking activity inspired and equipped to further enhance the relevance, reach and impact of its extension services across the region.

To bolster their competency in clinical documentation, Level I nursing students of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in an intensive three-day seminar-workshop titled “Developing Drug Monograph, Mastering FDAR Documentation, and Formulating Nursing Care Plan.” The event took place from April 1-3, 2025, on the 2nd Floor of the Business Development Center. Mr. Carl Neill M. Del Rosario delivered the opening message, emphasizing the importance of mastering patient documentation in nursing practice. Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, Dean of the College of Nursing, led the discussions, covering critical components of professional nursing practice The subsequent days focused on hands-on activities, where students applied their learning through workshops that simulated real clinical scenarios. The outputs from the workshop were critiqued by a panel consisting of the College of Nursing (CON) faculty members and esteemed guests, including Mr. Erjee L. Balandray, Mr. Charles Daryll A. Delmo, Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, Ms. Kristine M. Ignacio, Ms. Rosilda D. Macapanas, Mr. Carl Neill M. Del Rosario, and Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio. Each session concluded with a synthesis, highlighting the significance of precision and thoroughness in documentation. In her closing remarks, Ms. Rosilda D. Macapanas encouraged the students to continue refining their skills, emphasizing the critical role they play in patient care and nursing practice. Through this intensive training, the College of Nursing reaffirmed its commitment to producing competent and practice-ready nursing professionals. This initiative not only refined students’ clinical skills but also strengthened the university’s role in producing skilled healthcare professionals, underscoring NwSSU’s dedication to academic excellence and professional development in nursing education.

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.

Northwest Samar State University marked the conclusion of National Women’s Month with a culminating event on March 31, 2025, at the RSU Socio-cultural Center. Organized by the NwSSU’s Gender and Development Office, the event highlighted gender equality and women empowerment, in line with this year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.” A songwriting and singing competition served as the centerpiece of the program, providing a platform for creative expression while reinforcing the advocacy for women’s rights. Participants showcased original compositions that reflected themes of empowerment, resilience, and equality. Dr. Riz Rupert Ortiz, VP for Research, Innovation and Extension, delivered the welcome message, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to forging an inclusive society. University Ombudsman Atty. Ma. Cecille Candida Y. Rueda also discussed the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), underscoring the importance of creating secure and respectful environments for all individuals. The program also featured intermission performances and a solidarity dance, symbolizing unity in the ongoing pursuit of gender equality. In closing, Dr. Myra Pilpa, SAS Director, expressed gratitude to participants and reaffirmed the university’s dedication to gender advocacy. As a final gesture of commitment, attendees wore purple, signifying support for the cause. The celebration reinforced NwSSU’s role as an institution that champions gender equality and inclusivity. Through events like this, the university continues to cultivate a culture of empowerment, where all are encouraged to be active advocates for women’s rights and social change.

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.

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.