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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.

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.

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.

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.