ILOILO City – Three Iloilo-based universities have secured places among Asia’s ranked higher education institutions, with Central Philippine University (CPU) leading Western Visayas and Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) making its debut in the 2027 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia University Rankings.
CPU, West Visayas State University (WVSU), and NISU were among 45 Philippine higher education institutions included in the rankings released on November 3, 2026, which assessed more than 1,720 universities across 26 Asian countries and territories.
The QS Asia University Rankings evaluate institutions based on academic and employer reputation, research productivity and impact, faculty qualifications, student-to-faculty ratios, and international academic collaboration.
The rankings also consider international student and faculty populations, research citations, and student exchange programs.
CPU emerged as Western Visayas’ highest-ranked university, placing in the 1301–1400 bracket in Asia, 22nd nationwide, and 205th in Southeast Asia.
WVSU in Iloilo City and NISU in Estancia, Iloilo, both landed in the 1501+ bracket in Asia and tied for 238th place in Southeast Asia.
While CPU and WVSU maintained their presence in the international rankings, NISU’s first appearance marked a significant milestone for the state university, reflecting its growing international engagement and research capabilities.
The three universities’ recognition came as the Philippines expanded its representation in the QS Asia rankings, with 10 more institutions included compared to the previous year.
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 6 hailed the achievement as evidence that universities outside Metro Manila can compete with established academic institutions across Asia.
“The CHED family extends its profound appreciation to these Higher Education Institutions for their continued dedication to delivering quality, sustainable, and globally competitive education,” the commission said.
It added that the recognition underscored the continuing efforts of Western Visayas universities to strengthen academic excellence, research development, and international competitiveness.
The 2027 rankings carry the upcoming academic year’s designation despite their release in November 2026./PN
