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CALBAYOG CITY — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is set to establish a Shared Service Facility (SSF) for the NwSSU Digital Fabrication and Printing Production Center. University President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran and SSF Project Focal Person Mr. Jake B. Calagos signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Usufruct Agreement today, June 17, 2026, at the University Board Room. Also present in the activity was Ms. Aura Rose Tamor-Felices, NC-TIDS/SSF Coordinator from the DTI Samar Provincial Office. The signed documents will be forwarded to the DTI Region 8 and Central Offices for final execution by DTI officials. Funded through the Region 8 SSF Fund under the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the ₱13-million project successfully cleared evaluations by both Regional and National Technical Committees. Under the agreement, DTI will handle the procurement of state-of-the-art equipment, while NwSSU will provide the physical housing, manpower, and operational capital. ​The center will serve local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and students, offering accessible digital fabrication and printing services at minimal fees. By providing training and assisted equipment use, the facility aims to significantly boost Samar’s local creative economy. ​The facility is scheduled to launch in the final quarter of 2026.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) once again proved its commitment to excellence as it received a Plaque of Commendation during the Gawad Parangal 2026 held on June 3, 2026, at the HRDC Gymnasium of Leyte Normal University (LNU), Tacloban City. The award recognized the University’s inclusion in the WURI 2026 Global Top 500 Innovative Universities, where NwSSU ranked 381st worldwide. The recognition reflects the institution’s continuing efforts in innovation, research, and quality higher education. Also recognized during the event was Areis Luaton Misperos from the College of Education of NwSSU for placing 10th in the September and November 2025 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) – Secondary Level. The recognition highlighted the University’s commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to producing competent, resilient and globally competitive professionals. The awarding ceremony was part of CHED’s 32nd Founding Anniversary and 6th National Higher Education Day celebration carrying the theme, “ACHIEVE-ing Knowledge Economy Together for a Future-ready Bagong Pilipinas.” These achievements continue to inspire the NwSSU community in its pursuit of excellence in instruction, research, innovation, and public service. #ASCENDNwSSU

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) has successfully finalized its Strategic Futures Workshop: Futures Thinking Towards Sustainable Development Using the ACACIA Framework on May 21, 2026, at the Business Development Center. Spearheaded by the Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) Division through the Center for Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight and in partnership with the Philippine Futures Thinking Society (PhilFutures), the activity gathered the entire university officials to embed anticipatory governance and innovation in its systems, culminating in the development of HANDUM 2050: The Futures of NwSSU under the theme “WE BUILD WHAT STORMS CANNOT BREAK.” Day 2 followed on May 12, 2026, continuing online with participants deepening their understanding of strategic foresight processes and engaged in collaborative visioning facilitated by PhilFutures Fellow Ms. Jalaine Joyce V. Malabanan. The activities produced refined, shared aspirations that became core building blocks for HANDUM (Hingyap, Andam, Naton, Dungog, Ungod, Marig-on) 2050, equipping the institution with a forward-looking foundation to guide its development and community impact. Held onsite on May 20, 2026, Day 3 opened with messages from Senators Pia S. Cayetano and Win T. Gatchalian, CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Dr. Tirso Ronquillo, President of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), and PhilFutures’ Dr. Michville A. Rivera. Expert sessions included Dr. Bert J. Tuga’s analysis of trends in higher education, Dr. Michville A. Rivera’s discussion on the McKinsey 7S Framework, and workshops of Prof. Ramces M. Dili from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) on reimagining the university’s VMOKRAPI and scenario planning, strengthening participants’ strategic capabilities and shared commitment. On May 21, 2026, the fourth and final day centered on presenting drafted vision and mission outputs from various units and division for the Samar community. Dr. Ruperto S. Sangalang presented the PATRES framework and the unified planning architecture linking VMOKRAPI (Vision, Mission, Objectives, Key Result Areas, and Performance Indicators), SPATRES (Strategy, Programs, Activities, Tasks, Resources, Evaluation System), and PATRES (People, Academics, Technology, Research, Extension, and Stewardship), while Mr. Ramces M. Dili critiqued outputs using the ACACIA Framework, recognizing San Jorge Campus for meeting the “Samar test.” The four-day futures workshop successfully equipped NwSSU officials with essential foresight tools, methodologies, and a cohesive strategic direction. With HANDUM 2050 as its flagship output, the university now stands positioned as a future-ready institution, fully prepared to drive sustainable development, transformative education, and responsive governance across Samar for decades to come.

𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐍𝐰𝐒𝐒𝐔 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬 The NwSSU announces the appointment of the new university key officials effective May 13, 2026: DR. ROMEO B. SANTOS – Vice President for Academic Affairs in concurrent capacity as Dean of the Graduate School DR. LEO JESUS M. LACABA – Vice President forAdministration and Finance DR. TEODORO A. AMATOSA, JR.Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Congratulations on your appointments!

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to innovation and global impact, earning the 381st position in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026: Global Top 500 Innovative Universities. This achievement builds upon the university’s exceptional performance in previous rankings, solidifying its place among worldwide institutions dedicated to forward-thinking strategies and transformative contributions. NwSSU’s consistent position in these prestigious rankings highlights its dedication to fostering an institution of innovation, pertinence, and sustainable development. WURI is a global ranking system which evaluates universities by focusing on their real-world contributions and societal impact, emphasizing innovation, resilience, and responsiveness in its academic, research, and community engagement. NwSSU’s participation and continued recognition in WURI emphasize its success in adopting innovative practices that address contemporary global challenges. Reflecting on its performance in the 2025 WURI Rankings, NwSSU previously achieved remarkable placements, including 24th globally in the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Trend category. The university also secured 47th worldwide in Funding for Sustainability and 51st in Crisis Management. These past achievements exemplify NwSSU’s integrated approach to sustainability, ethical leadership, resourceful financial planning, and its agility in confronting disruptions and natural disasters. NwSSU’s sustained performance in the WURI rankings, now including its 381st spot in 2026, serves as a powerful testament to its UpRISE—progressive, inclusive, and impactful educational practices. By integrating sustainability, crisis resilience, and principled governance within its core, NwSSU continues to exemplify how state universities can drive transformative change, effectively serving both local communities and addressing broader global challenges. #WURI2026 #RISENwSSU

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully concluded its SOCOTEC First Surveillance Visit on April 30, 2026, marking another significant milestone in maintaining its ISO 9001:2015 certification. The rigorous two-day audit, attended by key officials, faculty members, and non-teaching staff, emphasized the university’s steadfast commitment to quality management and adherence to international ISO standards. Led by Ms. Hannah Leah Bautista, Lead Auditor, and Ms. Harlene Vizcarra, Support Auditor, the audit aimed to ensure continuous improvement and operational excellence across all university functions. The surveillance visit commenced on April 29, 2026, with an extensive audit across both the NwSSU Main and San Jorge Campuses. On Day 1, auditors comprehensively reviewed Tertiary Education, including laboratory facilities, curriculum development, and library services at the Main Campus. A focused verification of NCm01 was also conducted for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, alongside audits of the University Registrar’s Office, SPIFPDO, Security, and the University Motorpool. Concurrently, the San Jorge Campus also underwent a thorough review of its Tertiary Education, encompassing laboratory and curriculum development, with specific verification of NCm01 and NCm02 for the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture – Animal Science (BSA – ANSCI) program, highlighting NwSSU’s dedication to diverse academic excellence. Day 2 of the audit, April 30, 2026, continued with a meticulous review of key departments of NwSSU Main Campus. The auditors thoroughly examined the operations of the offices of Research and Extension, Management Information System (MIS), Student Affairs and Services (SAS), and Guidance Services. These audits are crucial in ensuring that all facets of the university’s administration and student support systems align with the rigorous requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard, reflecting a holistic approach to quality assurance. Prior to the culmination of the activity, the auditors engaged in an internal audit, a management review, and an auditor’s meeting to consolidate their findings. The outcome of these reviews was overwhelmingly positive, indicating that NwSSU’s quality management systems are strong and effectively implemented. This positive assessment reaffirms the university’s commitment to maintaining high standards in all its operations and services, which is vital for its continuous development and reputation. The successful surveillance visit concluded with a closing meeting held at the Business Development Center (BDC) third floor. The positive results of the audit not only secure NwSSU’s ISO 9001:2015 certification but also strengthen its commitment to providing exceptional education and services to its students and stakeholders.