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Northwest Samar State University’s Office of Research, Innovation, Extension, and External Affairs (RIEEA) secured 3rd Place in the Applied Research Category at the ViCARP Level 2, Cluster 2 Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Review, held September 16–17, 2026, at the University of Eastern Philippines, Catarman, Northern Samar. The team, composed of Vice President for RIEEA Teodoro A. Amatosa, Jr., together with RIEEA research staff Apollo L. Frivaldo and Aliah Zimone S. Luistro, was recognized for their paper titled “Valorization of Lead- and Copper-Contaminated Giant Bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) into Solid Fuel Briquettes: Structural and Thermal Performance.” The study explores turning bamboo contaminated with heavy metals like lead and copper into solid fuel briquettes, offering a potential approach to sustainable energy production while addressing environmental contamination. The RDE Review was conducted under the Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Program (ViCARP), the regional arm of the National Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Network under the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), which evaluates research outputs from institutions across Eastern Visayas. As RIEEA continues to expand its research portfolio, this recognition adds another marker of the office’s role in advancing science-driven solutions to real-world environmental challenges in the region.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), through the College of Education, held its School-Based Field Study Orientation and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing for School Year 2026–2027, bringing together university officials, representatives of the DepEd Schools Division of Calbayog City, school principals, faculty members, field study advisers, and student-teachers. The activity prepared student-teachers for their deployment to cooperating schools, where they will observe actual classes and learn directly from teachers, learners, and school communities. NwSSU President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran, DM urged the student-teachers to uphold professionalism and integrity, ensure safety and respect, and practice adaptability and empathy throughout their field study. Dr. Jun Nilo Dulfo, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent–OIC, delivered a message on behalf of Dr. Joel A. Zartiga, PhD, CESO VI, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent and Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Schools Division Superintendent. Dr. Ma. Maria Lucil H. Dollado, Dean of the College of Education, welcomed the participants and underscored the importance of the field study experience. A highlight of the program was the MOA signing between NwSSU and its partner schools, formalizing their shared commitment to provide meaningful and guided school-based experiences for future teachers. Also taking part in the activity were Dr. Joy Saldaña, Education Program Supervisor for Science, representing Dr. Renato S. Cagomoc, CID Chief; Dr. Josephine L. Gallardo, Division Student Teaching Coordinator; and Atty. Ma. Cecil Candida Yabao-Rueda, University Legal Officer, who discussed the Safe Spaces Act. The student-teachers were formally endorsed to their cooperating schools and oriented on important policies, school concerns, and responsibilities they are expected to observe during their field study. Through the activity, NwSSU, the DepEd Schools Division of Calbayog City, and cooperating schools strengthened their partnership in preparing future teachers for the realities and responsibilities of the classroom.

Palo, Leyte —Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) was conferred the Higher Education Resource Partnership Award by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Regional Office No. VIII on September 17, 2026, at the Leyte Convention Complex, Brgy. Pawing, Palo, Leyte.   The recognition was given during Project BISIG (Bridging Institutions and Stakeholders for Inclusive Governance), a project under the Regional Open Government Program, held September 17–18, 2026 under the theme “Building Stronger Partnerships and Strengthening Citizen Participation for Inclusive Co-Creation and Sustained Collaboration on Public Financial Management.” The award cited NwSSU’s invaluable partnership in advancing accessible, responsive, and quality higher education through the effective and responsible management of public resources. Representing the university at the event were Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran, University President; Dr. Jonah L. Salcedo, Head of Planning; and Mr. Clark Mujeres, Budget Officer, who accepted the award on behalf of the institution.   The certificate was signed by Imelda C. Laceras, CESO III, Director IV, and Wilford Will L. Wong, Undersecretary, of DBM Region VIII. The award underscores NwSSU’s continuing collaboration with government agencies in promoting transparency, citizen participation, and sound public financial management practices.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) strengthened its role in advancing Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight in Eastern Visayas following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a one-year preparatory partnership for the development of a regional futures and foresight framework. The MOU was signed on September 16 at the EVSU’s Graduate Programs Function Hall, bringing together NwSSU, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Regional Office VIII (DEPDev VIII), and the Department of Budget and Management Regional Office VIII (DBM VIII).   Representing NwSSU, University President Atty. Lorelie M. Fabillar-Tangaran signed the agreement alongside EVSU President Dr. Dennis C. De Paz, DEPDev VIII Regional Director Meylene C. Rosales, and DBM VIII Regional Director Imelda C. Laceras, represented by DBM VIII Budget and Management Specialist Carl Patrick H. Bernardo. The partnership establishes groundwork for coordination, capacity-building, and the proposed Eastern Visayas Futures and Foresight Framework (EVFFF). It is anchored on the Concept Paper, “The Paglusad, Pagsaka, and Pagsaad of Eastern Visayas: A Foresight-to-Policy Framework,” and responds to the policy directions under Republic Act No. 12145, or the Economy, Planning, and Development Act, as well as the Eastern Visayas Regional Development Plan 2023–2028 Midterm Update. For NwSSU, the partnership further advances the University’s institutional commitment to Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight through its Center for Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight (CFTSF). Leading the University’s foresight initiatives is Dr. Jonah L. Salcedo, Head of the Planning Office and Director of the Center for Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight, who represented NwSSU’s institutional foresight work during the regional partnership. Through the CFTSF, NwSSU has been strengthening its capacity to apply Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight to institutional planning, development, innovation, and decision-making. The University’s continuing efforts seek to cultivate an anticipatory approach to emerging challenges and opportunities and support more forward-looking strategies for institutional and regional development. The regional MOU provides NwSSU with an avenue to contribute its institutional experience in foresight while collaborating with academic institutions and government agencies in developing approaches that can support evidence-informed and future-oriented regional planning. The initiative brings together academic and government institutions in establishing groundwork for the proposed Eastern Visayas Futures and Foresight Framework, which aims to strengthen the integration of foresight approaches into regional development and policy processes. Also present during the signing were Dr. Jovito B. Madeja, Director of the EVSU Institutional Planning and Development Office; Jensen D. Rico, Supervising Economic Development Specialist of DEPDev VIII; and Emmanuel R. De Guia, Resident Futurist. The partnership reflects NwSSU’s continuing efforts to expand its role beyond traditional academic functions and contribute to strategic conversations on the future of Eastern Visayas. By strengthening Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight, the University contributes to building institutional and regional capacities to anticipate change, examine alternative futures, and develop more responsive strategies for long-term development. Through the collaboration, NwSSU reaffirms its commitment to innovation, strategic planning, and partnerships that support sustainable and future-oriented development in Eastern Visayas.

CALBAYOG CITY, Samar — Civil and mechanical engineers in Eastern Visayas may soon have greater access to flexible, industry-responsive learning opportunities as Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and Mapúa University move toward a collaboration on upskilling programs and micro-credentials. The proposed initiative is envisioned to provide engineers with more accessible pathways to strengthen their competencies while continuing their careers and professional responsibilities. Through online, face-to-face, or blended learning modalities, the planned programs seek to respond to the evolving needs of engineers and the industries and communities they serve. Flexible learning opportunities can help reduce geographic and logistical barriers that may prevent professionals from participating in specialized training programs traditionally concentrated in major urban centers. Micro-credentials can provide professionals with focused opportunities to develop specific competencies without necessarily having to enroll in lengthy academic programs. The planned offerings may also provide opportunities for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credit, giving practicing engineers additional avenues to pursue professional growth and maintain relevant competencies. On September 1, representatives from NwSSU (Engr. Teodoro Amatosa Jr.) and Mapúa University (Engr. Eira Camus) met to review and refine the proposed Collaboration Agreement in preparation for its implementation. The Collaboration Agreement is targeted for completion within September, with the first possible program delivery eyed for February 2027. Initial offerings are expected to focus on civil and mechanical engineering professionals in Region VIII, with the potential for the programs to eventually reach professionals in other parts of the country. The potential benefits also extend to employers and other stakeholders. since engineering practice continues to evolve alongside emerging technologies, digitalization, sustainability requirements, advanced construction methods, automation, and changing industry standards.  A workforce equipped with current and specialized skills can help organizations adapt to technological developments, changing standards, and emerging demands in the engineering sector. For government agencies, private companies, and other organizations involved in infrastructure and development, stronger professional capacity can contribute to improved planning, design, implementation, and management of projects and services.   At the community level, the initiative could contribute to strengthening the capacity of professionals who play vital roles in infrastructure development, disaster resilience, transportation, water systems, energy, manufacturing, and other areas essential to regional growth. The proposed collaboration therefore goes beyond providing additional training options. It reflects an effort to make lifelong learning more accessible, flexible, and responsive to the realities of professionals in the region. As NwSSU continues to strengthen its role in advancing professional development and serving the needs of its communities, initiatives such as this can help create stronger connections between higher education, industry, and the workforce.

Leaders of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) gathered at the University of Rizal System (URS) Morong Campus for the 3rd SUCs Executive Forum, which officially commenced on September 1, 2026, under the theme “Building Smart SUCs Through Collaborative Leadership, Digital Innovation, and Institutional Excellence.” Spearheaded by Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Dr. Desiderio R. Apag III, the three-day forum runs until September 3, 2026, and aims to institutionalize modern frameworks and foster digital adaptation among among State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). The conference opened with a warm reception led by URS President Dr. Nancy T. Pascual, alongside kumustahay moments with other SUC leaders. Highlights of the opening sessions included the State of the Commissioner’s Address (SOCA), delivered by Commissioner Apag III, and the highly anticipated launch of the SMART SUCs 2030 Framework, which outlines a comprehensive digital ecosystem and development roadmaps for local public universities over the next decade. Key activities lined up for the executive forum include the OCDRA Election for Executive Officers, managed by PSAU President Dr. Anita G. David, and a dedicated “SMART SUCs Excellence Showcase” featuring institutional breakthroughs from Bukidnon State University, Davao Oriental State University, and the University of Antique. SUC leaders, including NwSSU President Atty. Lorelie Fabillar-Tangaran, DM, also joined the President’s Roundtable Discussion. NwSSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Romeo B. Santos, together with Mrs. Maria Lourdes Mae V. Billate, Ms. Jireh S. Fortaleza, Mr. Redem D. Tingzon, and Ms. Miel Rosse C. Solayao, participated in technical talks on the SMART University Ecosystem led by BEFIED GROUP Chief Executive Mr. Ryan Soh. The subsequent days of the forum will focus heavily on governance and compliance, covering technical workshops on board protocols, CHED-OIQAG universityhood status led by Dr. Lora L. Yusi, and Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) guidelines under Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes. Technical staff will also run specialized presentation and workshop tracks covering crucial internal platforms, such as the Travel Authority System, E-Agenda, and the SUCs Profiling Integrated System, ensuring that operational and administrative efficiency scales uniformly across all participant institutions. The forum is scheduled to wrap up on September 3 following an open forum, a community exhibition networking night, and a general thanksgiving mass hosted by the University of Rizal System.

Institutional Research and Development In-House Review 2026 The faculty and non-teaching staff of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) are invited to showcase their scholarly work by submitting their research proposals and/or terminal reports for presentation at the 2026 Institutional Research and Development In-House Review. October 21–23, 2026 RIEEA Conference Room Northwest Samar State University Your research matters. Your findings deserve to be heard. Your ideas can create impact. Make your research count. Submit your paper on or before the deadline. Submission Deadline: October 2, 2026. Please see the details below for the complete information and submission guidelines. #ASCENDNwSSU #NwSSUResearch2026

Northwest Samar State University proudly celebrates the research accomplishment of Dr. Rolly L. Ortiz and Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, esteemed faculty members of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS), together with Dr. Francisco B. Bacamante, former Dean of the College of Computing and Information Sciences, on the successful publication of their research study titled: “𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑬𝒏𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑼𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑬𝒙𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑺𝒎𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒅 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒍𝒆 𝑺𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒎 𝑶𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒛𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏.” Published in the International Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Vol. 6 No. 4s (2026), the study introduces an AI-enhanced forecasting model that combines Exponential Smoothing and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to improve the accuracy of enrolment predictions. The findings provide higher education institutions with a reliable decision-support tool for strategic planning, resource optimization, and institutional development. This publication exemplifies Northwest Samar State University’s commitment to advancing research that harnesses emerging technologies to create smarter, data-driven, and future-ready educational systems. Research that predicts. Innovation that transforms. Excellence that leads. Congratulations to Dr. Rolly L. Ortiz, Dr. Francisco Bacamante, and Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz for this outstanding contribution to artificial intelligence and educational innovation. Read the full article: https://doi.org/10.51483/IJAIML.6.4s.2026.17-25 #ASCENDNwSSU#NwSSUResearchSpotlight #ResearchExcellence#MachineLearning #EducationalInnovation#PredictiveAnalytics