Strengthening Global Ties: NwSSU Officials Forge Partnership with Tra Vinh University

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) key officials embarked on a three-day visit to Tra Vinh University in Vietnam from March 13 to 15, marking a significant step in the institution’s efforts to expand its international collaborations. This strategic partnership is poised to elevate NwSSU’s global standing, enhance its academic programs, and provide students and faculty with invaluable opportunities for growth and exchange. The visit centered on three major objectives: the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), discussions on further partnerships, and participation in an international conference. NwSSU representatives engaged in MoU discussions that emphasized the Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP) and future research conferences on the first day of the visit. The following day, the delegation visited Tra Vinh University’s laboratories to explore potential internship opportunities for students. These engagements reinforced the universities’ shared commitment to academic excellence and cross-border educational exchange. Culminating the visit, NwSSU participated in the 1st International Conference on Education and Training for Sustainability on March 15. University President Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, serving as one of the session chairpersons and presenters, led discussions that highlighted the role of higher education in sustainable development. Dr. Pecayo was joined by Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Dr. Iris B. Bejasa, and Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe. This initiative further strengthens NwSSU’s global engagement, paving the way for more international collaborations. The partnership with Tra Vinh University is expected to have a profound impact on NwSSU’s academic community, offering numerous benefits such as enhanced academic programs, increased opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, and broader perspectives and global understanding. By forging ties with global institutions, NwSSU continues its commitment to providing its students and faculty with broader perspectives and opportunities for academic and professional growth.  

Exploring New Frontiers: NwSSU Benchmarks at Fablab UP Cebu

CEBU CITY — To enhance its innovation and fabrication capabilities, Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) conducted a benchmarking activity at FABLAB UP Cebu on March 20, marking the second stop in a series of visits across Central Visayas. The visit provided NwSSU representatives with key insights into the operations of Fablab UP Cebu, which primarily caters to students in arts and design, architecture, and related fields. The facility also engages in government-to-government transactions, accommodates senior high school interns in specialized disciplines during SHS work immersion, and extends services to private corporations. A designated manager oversees training programs to ensure skill development and industry alignment. Fablab UP Cebu representatives, including Manager Jonessa Abayon, Administrator Ma. Janica Marcellana, and Resident Maker Mark Cortez, guided the NwSSU delegation through the facility, showcasing its advanced fabrication tools and processes. They demonstrated how students and professionals utilize cutting-edge equipment to bring innovative designs to life and facilitated discussions on best practices, operational strategies, and potential collaborations. Their engagement highlighted the importance of fostering creativity, technical expertise, and industry linkages in advancing innovation. By exploring partnerships and best practices, NwSSU aims to enrich its academic, research, and multimedia publication initiatives. With this visit following an earlier benchmarking at FABLAB Bohol, NwSSU continues to pursue excellence in education, fabrication, and innovation. The university’s commitment to expanding its publication capabilities and exploring new frontiers in innovation is expected to have a positive impact on its students, faculty, and the wider community, driving growth, creativity, and progress in the region.

Innovative Leap: NwSSU Benchmarks FABLAB Bohol

March 19, 2025 — In a strategic move to revolutionize the university’s multimedia production, Northwest Samar State University conducted a benchmarking activity at FABLAB Bohol, the country’s pioneering fabrication laboratory housed at Bohol Island State University. The visit provided NwSSU Officials with key insights into the lab’s management systems, operational workflows, innovative practices, and production experiences. These learnings are expected to guide NwSSU in establishing its own fabrication laboratory while enhancing its income-generating projects and technological initiatives. FABLAB Bohol stands as a model of innovation-driven development. It was established through a collaboration among the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and BISU. Operating under BISU’s Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) division, the facility has become a vital platform for the students, faculty, and researchers to advance their skills in digital fabrication, prototype development, and innovative project implementation—strengthening BISU’s commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Welcoming the delegation, Ms. Darlene Angelica A. Loquias, Head of University Publication at BISU, delivered remarks on behalf of BISU’s Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension. She expressed BISU’s support for NwSSU’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in helping the university establish its own fabrication laboratory—guided by the shared academic spirit of resilience, integrity, service, and excellence. Dr. Jerome P. Manatad, University Director for FABLAB Bohol, highlighted the lab’s extensive services and its success in positioning BISU as a regional hub for innovation, supporting both academic projects and local industry growth. With a strong interest in fostering collaboration, BISU and FABLAB Bohol expressed their readiness to support NwSSU by sharing expertise and best practices that could significantly contribute to NwSSU’s capacity-building efforts and future innovation projects. NwSSU’s benchmarking visit marks a significant step toward expanding the multimedia production and development initiatives, laying the groundwork for growth in communities in Eastern Visayas. The visit to BISU’s FABLAB Bohol is the first of several benchmarking activities lined up for NwSSU, as the university is set to visit other institutions in Central Visayas in the coming days to gather more insights for the development of its own FABLAB.

RDC-SDC Endorses 23 Priority Programs and Projects of NwSSU for FY 2026 Funding

Palo, Leyte – On March 12, 2025, the Regional Development Council – Social Development Committee (RDC-SDC) officially endorsed 23 priority programs and projects from the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) during a meeting held at the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) – Regional Office VIII. The endorsement marks a significant milestone for the university, which presented the second-highest number of implementation-ready proposals among the institutions reviewed. This achievement ensures that NwSSU is aligned with the Policy Management Guidelines and adheres to all relevant legal issuances as part of the rigorous process for securing funding under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. The proposals, which span various key areas of infrastructure development, and academic, and research advancement, were thoroughly vetted by the university’s Planning and Development Services Office (PDSO) to ensure their feasibility and compliance with national development goals. This endorsement represents an important step toward further strengthening the university’s contribution to regional and national growth, as well as providing much-needed funding to enhance educational services and infrastructure for the upcoming fiscal year.

Strengthening Research Excellence: 15 Faculty Members Recognized as NwSSU Ranks 190th in AD Scientific Index 2025

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) has secured the 190th spot among 336 institutions nationwide in the AD Scientific Index 2025, reaffirming its growing presence in the research community. The AD Scientific Index is a global ranking system that evaluates scientists and institutions based on research productivity and scholarly impact across various academic fields. NwSSU also placed 8th among state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Eastern Visayas, a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The university’s faculty researchers continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, solidifying NwSSU’s reputation as a hub for scientific inquiry. A total of 15 faculty members from both NwSSU campuses have been recognized in the index, reflecting their dedication to high-impact research. Their contributions not only enhance the university’s academic standing but also support its mission of fostering a strong research culture. NwSSU acknowledges the invaluable efforts of these faculty members, whose work elevates NwSSU’s standing in the scientific community. As the university continues to champion research and innovation, this recognition marks another step toward expanding its influence in the academic and scientific landscape.

From Ideas to Impact: NwSSU Faculty Embark on Hands-On Research Training Workshop

On March 4 to 5, the NwSSU Business Development Center resonated with scholarly discourse as researchers and faculty from various department gathered for two – day workshop on Basic Research Methods and Proposal Crafting. Day 1: Laying the Foundation of Research The day began with welcome remarks from Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE), setting the tone for the sessions ahead. He also called for collaboration, urging participants to bridge gaps between theory and real-world impact by participating in initiatives aimed at training the faculty with technical skills in the fields of research, innovation, and extension. Following this, Mr. Harris C. Tarrayo, Director of the Center for Innovative Computing and Data Analytics, introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Leni Yap-Dejeto, a seasoned professor and researcher from UP Tacloban with a wealth of expertise in the fields of marine biology and aquatic Dr. Leni Yap – Dejeto opened her lecture by emphasizing the importance of research – why it needed to be conducted and what researches could gain from it. Her first talk focused on formulating the introduction of a research study, covering key components such as the objectives, background of the study, and significance of the study. Participants then engaged in a workshop where they began drafting their own research titles, objectives, and study background. The session then transitioned into a hands – on workshop where participants began drafting key elements of their proposals – including crafting effective titles and stating their research objectives and backgrounds. Participants were given the freedom to collaborate with other college departments, allowing for more innovative outputs. In the afternoon, faculty members presented their outputs for feedback and discussion, giving participants a chance to refine their ideas through collaborative discourse. Later, Dr. Yap – Dejeto returned to deliver a talk on Research Design and Research Methods, further expanding on the techniques and approaches essential for strong research planning. Day 2: Strengthening Research Proposals The second day of training delved into the financial and logistical aspects of research, equipping participants with the necessary skills to develop well-structured and feasible research proposals. Dr. Yap-Dejeto led a comprehensive lecture on the Line-Item Budget (LIB) and Work Plan, emphasizing the importance of precise financial planning and strategic allocation of resources in research projects. Following the lecture, participants engaged in a hands – on workshop where they meticulously revise and refined their research outputs. Through collaboration, attendees strengthened the clarity and feasibility of their research framework. The training culminated in a mock proposal presentation, where participants showcased their refined research proposals before their peers and mentors. This simulation allowed them to receive constructive feedback, further polishing their work in preparation for real – world research endeavors. Afterwards, participants shared their impressions of the event, reflecting on how the training deepened their understanding of research proposal writing. Many expressed appreciation for the structured guidance and expert insights provided, noting that the experience had enhanced their confidence in pursuing research projects. After the presentations, the awarding of the certificates was led by the Vice – President for Research, innovation, and Extension (RIE), Dr. Ortiz, with the assistance of Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director of the Office of Research and Development Services. In his closing remarks, Dr. Joseph Emil David, Director of Research and Development Services, expressed his gratitude to the guest speaker for sharing valuable expertise and to the participants for their active engagement throughout the training. He encouraged them to continue exploring research opportunities, emphasizing that their outputs held significant potential for academic and real – world impact. He also reiterated the university’s support for research endeavors, motivating faculty members to pursue innovative and meaningful studies. By the end of the intensive training, NwSSU faculty members gained a stronger foundation in research proposal crafting, equipping them with the knowledge to pursue meaningful research that contributes to their fields of expertise and the university’s research initiatives.

Innovation in Action: NwSSU’s SIPAG Project Approved by NEDA for 2024 Innovation Grant

Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) has secured a significant milestone after its project, “SIPAG of Vegetable Farms: Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid with Mobile Control,” was selected as one of the 13 recipients of the 2024 Innovation Grants from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). This groundbreaking project was conceptualized and proposed by Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, a faculty member of the College of Agriculture and Technology, who spearheaded the development of the SIPAG initiative.  SIPAG, which stands for Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid, revolutionizes agricultural practices by integrating renewable energy and modern technology. The project focuses on utilizing solar-powered irrigation systems to provide a continuous and cost-effective water supply for vegetable farms. By harnessing solar energy, farmers can reduce their reliance on traditional fuel-powered machinery, decreasing operational costs and promoting environmental sustainability.  The initiative also emphasizes the application of biopesticides, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This approach enhances crop protection and production while maintaining soil health and biodiversity. Furthermore, the integration of mobile control systems enables farmers to monitor and manage irrigation and pest control processes remotely, increasing efficiency and productivity.  The approval of SIPAG aligns with the goals outlined in the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document 2023-2032, showcasing Filipino ingenuity in addressing local agricultural challenges. By adopting innovative solutions, NWSSU aims to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.  The SIPAG initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing Philippine agriculture by integrating renewable energy and smart technologies. NWSSU’s SIPAG project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how technology-driven solutions can transform traditional farming practices for a greener and more efficient future.

Fueling the Future: NwSSU Joins DOST TTCC Zonal Conference to Propel Innovations

Cebu City — Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), represented by Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Extension, and Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director of Research and Development Services, took part in the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization (TTCC) Zonal Conference for the Visayas Cluster on February 20, 2025, at Cebu Technological University. The conference introduced Program PROPEL, DOST’s commercialization arm designed to accelerate the transformation of scientific and technological innovations into successful enterprises. The event also highlighted other progressive initiatives, including STI4SDGs (Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development Goals) and PAGTANAW 2050, a long-term roadmap to align the Philippines’ STI efforts with global sustainability goals. DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization (TTCC), Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr., opened the conference, emphasizing the need for stronger collaborative innovation between academic institutions, government agencies, business chambers, and private enterprises. Cebu Technological University President Dr. Joseph C. Pepito and Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia delivered welcome messages, both expressing enthusiasm and optimism for the flagship projects. At the same time, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. highlighted the role of innovation in holistic national development. Representatives from various DOST regional offices and research institutions expressed their support for these initiatives, including Engr. Jesus F. Zamora Jr. (DOST VII Regional Director), Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga (DOST VI Regional Director), Dr. Leah J. Buendia (DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development)., Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang (Undersecretary for Regional Operations), Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora (Executive Director, DOST-PCAARRD), and Her Excellency Laure Nicole Stephanie Beaufils, British Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau. The conference featured presentations and workshops on emerging technologies such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. Among the key speakers were Mr. Glenn Quiro, a technology advocate from the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International and a former Intel executive, as well as Dr. John Anthony Jose from De La Salle University. As the conference concluded, participants engaged in networking opportunities aimed at boosting collaborations for future technological commercialization endeavors. The presence of NwSSU at the event emphasizes the university’s commitment to leveraging science, technology, and innovation in promoting sustainable and highly adaptable ventures for economic and technological growth.

USWAG Regional Startup 2025 Caravan Spurs Innovation in Eastern Visayas

The USWAG Regional Startup 2025 Caravan drove startup growth and innovation across Eastern Visayas during its two-day event last February 20-21, 2025. Held to empower aspiring entrepreneurs, the initiative brought together industry experts and startup advocates to discuss opportunities, strategies, and collaborative development programs. Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, Unversity President set the tone with a welcome message emphasizing the importance of promoting a dynamic startup ecosystem in the region. His remarks highlighted the role of innovation and extension in driving economic progress and sustaining long-term growth. Key discussions included “Strategies on Drafting Proposals for Funding,” led by Engr. Raven C. Tabiongan, SIGISDAC Center Director of Samar State University (SSU). His session guided participants in crafting proposals to secure financial support for startup ventures. The Startup Grant Fund (SGF) Program was also highlighted, with Engr. Reggie S. Mendoza, USWAG Project Assistant at SSU, detailing funding mechanisms available for emerging businesses. Meanwhile, Dr. Vivian L. Moya, Executive Director of Extension Services and USWAG Project Leader at SSU presented the RESEED & USWAG Program, which aims to accelerate startup growth through research-driven initiatives and extension services. An open forum provided attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the key speakers, addressing concerns and gaining deeper insights. Dr. Ervin L. Rodriguez, Director of NwSSU Office of Innovation closed the event, reinforcing the commitment of the USWAG Regional Startup 2025 Caravan to supporting entrepreneurial innovation and sustainable development in the region. The caravan marked another milestone in the push for a stronger startup network in Eastern Visayas, equipping local visionaries with the knowledge and resources to turn their ideas into impactful initiatives.

Creating a Safe Haven: NwSSU Crafts Operational Manual for Student Dormitory

On February 17, Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administration and Finance, led a meeting to develop an operational manual for the student dormitory. The gathering brought together heads of various offices and representatives from different colleges to establish comprehensive guidelines for effective dormitory management and student welfare. Key discussion points included admission procedures, room allocations, facility maintenance, security protocols, and student support services. The manual aims to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for students while promoting operational efficiency. The meeting concluded with a commitment to refining the draft based on the feedback received, ensuring that the final manual addresses the student’s needs and concerns. A follow-up session has been scheduled to finalize the guidelines before their implementation. This initiative underscores NwSSU’s dedication to creating a secure, well-managed, and student-friendly living environment that enhances the overall experience for its constituents.