ILOILO City – Seven higher education institutions in Western Visayas secured places in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026.
Their inclusion in one of the world’s leading university assessment systems underscores Western Visayas’ expanding presence in global higher education and highlights the region’s contribution to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), according to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
The Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings evaluate universities worldwide based on their contributions to the UN SDGs, recognizing institutions that demonstrate excellence in sustainability through teaching, research, outreach, and stewardship.
“These institutions exemplify how sustained investments in research, internationalization, and innovative practices can create a significant and lasting impact not only in higher education but also within society at large,” CHED Region 6 said.
The recognition reflects the institutions’ sustained commitment to embedding sustainability in education, research, governance, and community engagement while producing initiatives that create meaningful impact beyond the classroom.
The Western Visayas institutions included in the 2026 rankings are:
* Central Philippine University (Rank 1001-1500)
* Iloilo Science and Technology University (Rank 1001-1500)
* Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (Rank 1001-1500)
* University of San Agustin (Rank 1001-1500)
* Aklan State University (Rank 1001-1500, first-time entrant)
* Guimaras State University (Rank 1501+, first-time entrant)
* West Visayas State University (Rank 1501+, maintaining its global ranking)
CHED-6 described the debut of Aklan State University and Guimaras State University as a major milestone for the region, noting that their entry into the global rankings demonstrates their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration.
The agency also recognized West Visayas State University for sustaining its place in the international rankings, citing its continued pursuit of academic excellence and sustainable institutional practices.
“CHED-6 expresses its sincere appreciation and congratulations to these seven (7) HEIs for their commendable efforts in advancing sustainable, globally competitive, and quality higher education. Their hard-earned success continues to elevate the Region and contribute to the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” the agency stated.
The recognition positions Western Visayas as an emerging leader in sustainability-driven higher education and reinforces the region’s growing influence in the international academic community, it added./PN
