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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.         

In pursuit of enhancing its income-generating programs, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted a benchmarking visit to the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) on April 14, 2025, to learn from the latter’s established practices in managing and sustaining Income Generating Projects (IGPs). The activity aimed to draw insights from UEP’s policies, systems, and innovations to support NwSSU’s goal of strengthening its own IGP initiatives. The NwSSU delegation, comprised of Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, Dr. Donald M. Patimo, Atty. Cecile Candida Y. Rueda, Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, Mr. Rodolfo B. Corrales Jr., Dr. Nicolas I. Faller, Mr. John M. Tan, and Mr. Edward Abanilla, was warmly welcomed by UEP key officials, headed by University President Dr. Cherry I. Ultra, with support from Dr. Nelia M. Adora, Vice President for External Affairs, and other university officials. The activity began with a welcome program and introductions between participants from both institutions. This was followed by a series of presentations highlighting UEP’s IGP framework. Dr. Tia Mare L. Ebdane, Director of the Auxiliary Services and Business Affairs Office, presented an overview of UEP’s IGP policies, financial processes, and planning mechanisms. Mr. Arjay Traqueña, University Accountant, discussed financial management strategies, while Budget Officer Mr. Ferdie Reyes shared practical insights into budget planning. Dr. Ultra also addressed the group, emphasizing the importance of IGPs in supporting the mission and goals of higher education institutions. She shared UEP’s current initiatives, future directions, and expressed the university’s willingness to support NwSSU in its IGP development journey. After the program, NwSSU participants toured several of UEP’s operational IGPs, including the UEP White Beach, Kapihan, Kiddie Learning Center, Printing Press, Farmers Training Center, Garments and Textile Center, and the UEP Gymnatorium and Centennial Building. To cap the activity, NwSSU presented a Certificate of Appreciation to UEP as a gesture of gratitude for the warm reception and the knowledge shared throughout the day. The benchmarking visit marked a meaningful exchange of experiences and opened opportunities for continued collaboration between the two institutions.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through its Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) Office, successfully conducted its annual Institutional In-House Review (IHR) for Research on April 21–22, 2025, at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS) Multimedia Room. The two-day activity aimed to evaluate, strengthen, and provide expert feedback on the university’s proposed research projects, further promoting a culture of excellence in research among faculty members. This activity was organized by the Office of Research and Development Services (ORDS), headed by Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director of the Research Development Services, along with the collective efforts of ORDS personnel: Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, Ms. Precious Joyce D. Ogdoc, Ms. Rhea Jenny V. Ogalesco, Dr. Rolly L. Ortiz, and Ms. Renalyn Caca. Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, delivered the welcome remarks on Day 1, emphasizing the university’s commitment to evidence-based innovation and research-informed extension programs. He noted the important role of rigorous peer collaboration in ensuring the quality and impact of institutional research initiatives. The panel of esteemed evaluators included Dr. Marilyn Radam, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations at DOST Region 8 and Chairperson of the Internal Regional Technical Evaluation Committee; and Dr. Isabelita M. Pamposa, Senior Science Specialist and Quality Manager at DOST Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory. They were joined by Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, Research Specialist for Science and Technology of NwSSU’s Office of Research Development Services (ORDS) ; Dr. Ervin L. Rodriguez, Director of the NwSSU Innovation Office; and Dr. Catherine B. Rodriguez, Director of NwSSU’s Extension Services. The review featured research proposals from multiple NwSSU’s colleges, reflecting a wide spectrum of academic innovation and inquiry. Projects tackled pressing issues and emerging needs in fields such as inclusivity, education, economics, environmental science, disaster risk reduction and resource management, agriculture, public health, information technology, and cultural studies. Day 2 of the program continued with the remaining presentations and transitioned to Terminal Reports, which are essential tools for effectively capturing, analyzing, and presenting real-time data and system performance metrics. Each presentation was followed by constructive feedback from the panel, aimed at refining the proposals’ soundness, relevance, and practical application. The event served not only as a platform for feedback and critique but also as a venue for academic exchange, mentorship, and encouragement, reinforcing NwSSU’s role as a beacon of research-driven development in the country.

The Business Affairs Office, in collaboration with the Project Development Unit, successfully spearheaded a lock-in write-shop on April 15–16, 2025, at the Northwest Samar State University Hotel and Restaurant Conference Hall, aimed at revising and enhancing the University’s Income Generating Projects (IGP) Manual. Organized in support of NwSSU’s strategic direction to institutionalize sustainable and policy-aligned income-generating initiatives, the write-shop gathered key university officials, technical writers, and subject matter experts to collaboratively update the 2016 IGP Manual. The event’s outcome is expected to provide a strengthened framework for financial management, integrate national guidelines from CHED, DBM, and COA, and align with relevant laws including RA 12009. It also incorporates sustainability principles, clearer performance metrics, and refined monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Tasked with refining the IGP manual were Dr. Donald M. Patimo, Dr. Nicolas L. Faller, Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, and Mr. John M. Tan with the guidance of Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, the write-shop facilitator. Providing wise technical insights as experts were Mr. Rodolfo B. Corrales, Atty. Ma. Cecile Candida Y. Rueda, Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, and Dr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta. The prorgam management staff, composed of Engineers Mariel Jane F. Saberon and Ms. Moira Angelika T. Repaja, assisted the program managers in ensuring efficiency in the conduct of the activity. The write-shop promoted collaborative discourse and expert insights of policies critical to NwSSU’s financial sustainability. It also deepened institutional awareness on efficient IGP operations and laid the groundwork for the eventual finalization of a more responsive and future-ready IGP Manual. Through this, NwSSU is poised to boost the efficiency, profitability, and transparency of its income-generating programs, reinforcing its commitment to financial sustainability and institutional development.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) is making waves in energy conservation and financial efficiency after successfully saving Php 320,402.70 on its electricity bill for 2024, which is directly attributed to the implementation of the Solar Energy Project. This achievement highlights the university’s commitment to implementing cost-saving measures and adopting sustainable energy practices. The savings were realized yearly following the installation of solar panels on the roof of the Administration Building, a key initiative spearheaded by the General Services and Infrastructure Project Management Office (GSIPMO) under the directorship of Engr. Marlon D. Sobreviga. This strategic move to harness solar energy has demonstrably reduced the university’s reliance on traditional electricity sources, resulting in substantial reductions in monthly utility expenses. “This three hundred twenty thousand pesos savings is a testament to the proactive and forward-thinking approach of the GSIPMO and the entire university administration,” stated Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, the Vice President for Administration and Finance. “The Solar Energy Project is not only a significant step towards reducing our operational costs but also aligns with our broader commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.” University President Dr. Benjamin Pecayo also commended the team’s efforts and reasserted NwSSU’s commitment to sustainability. “Our goal is to build a strong and sustainable institution that not only provides quality education but also contributes to the well-being of our community and the environment,” Dr. Pecayo said. “Initiatives like the Solar Energy Project are crucial in achieving this vision and ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of our university.” The installation of the solar panels on the Administration Building represents a tangible outcome of the university’s cost-cutting program, which aims to identify and implement innovative solutions to optimize resource utilization. The GSIPMO played a crucial role in the planning, execution, and monitoring of the project, ensuring its successful completion and the realization of these significant financial benefits. The savings incurred in 2024 will be strategically reinvested into other crucial university programs and initiatives, further enhancing the quality of education and services offered to the students and the community. This successful implementation of the Solar Energy Project serves as a model for future sustainability initiatives within the university and potentially for other institutions in the region. NwSSU remains dedicated to exploring and adopting environmentally sound and economically viable solutions that contribute to its long-term growth and sustainability.

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.

Key officials of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), including deans and directors from various divisions, gathered on March 25, 2025, at the 2nd Floor of the Business Development Center (BDC) for the 9th Management Review Committee (MRC) Meeting. This meeting served as a crucial platform to evaluate the university’s Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring its alignment with institutional goals and adherence to quality standards. The meeting focused on multiple agenda which included assessing the university’s mandate and functions, reviewing the status of previous management reviews, and identifying changes in internal and external issues relevant to QMS. Discussions also tackled customer satisfaction and feedback from research, innovation, and public service activities from 2024 to the present, the conformity of processes, and the adequacy of resources. Officials analyzed the effectiveness of actions taken to address risks and opportunities, examined internal audit results from Cycle 2024, and discussed the performance of external providers. Opportunities for improvement were also explored, highlighting NwSSU’s continuous pursuit of institutional excellence. The gathering emphasized the importance of fostering a responsive, data-driven approach to achieving quality objectives and addressing non-conformities through proactive corrective actions. In addition, the university reaffirmed its commitment to improving operational processes and service delivery, ensuring that all actions align with its mission to provide high-quality education and public service. With the insights and evaluation drawn from the 9th Management Review Committee Meeting, NwSSU reinforces its commitment to delivering quality education, services, and administrative processes. This continuous commitment to quality assurance ensures that NwSSU remains adaptable, progressive, and aligned with its mission of fostering academic excellence and institutional innovation.