How Did 121 PH Schools Rank in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings?

Ateneo de Manila University Leads Philippine Institutions in THE Impact Rankings 2025

The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings for 2025 have revealed a remarkable advancement for Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs). With a record-breaking 121 universities making it to this year’s rankings, the Philippines is showcasing its commitment to sustainable development in academia. This significant leap from 56 institutions last year not only underscores the nation’s dedication to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also positions the Philippines as a leader in Southeast Asia.

Ateneo de Manila University continues to shine as the top-ranking university in the country, climbing to the 101-200 global bracket. This improvement from its previous 201-300 placement exemplifies Ateneo's ongoing commitment to excellence in sustainable education. The rise in rankings and the increased number of participating institutions in the Philippines reflect a broader trend of prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility in higher education.

The Growth of Philippine Higher Education Institutions in Rankings

The 2025 THE Impact Rankings is particularly noteworthy because it includes more institutions than ever before from the Philippines. This growth indicates a collective effort among universities to adopt practices that contribute to sustainability. The following sections will delve deeper into the implications of this expansion, the specific universities that have made significant strides, and what it means for the future of higher education in the Philippines.

Overview of THE Impact Rankings

Established six years ago, the THE Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These rankings evaluate various aspects of university performance, including:

• Research: The extent of research output that contributes to sustainable practices.
• Stewardship: The management of resources to promote sustainability.
• Outreach: Community engagement and partnerships that advance the SDGs.
• Teaching: Curriculum development focusing on sustainability.

Each participating university must submit data on SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and at least three additional SDGs to be eligible for the rankings. The methodology assigns different weights to each SDG, with SDG 17 receiving 22% and the top three performing SDGs each contributing 26% to the final score. This structured approach ensures that institutions are recognized not only for their goals but also for the practical impact they have on society.

Ateneo de Manila University: A Beacon of Sustainability

Ateneo de Manila University has consistently set the standard for educational excellence in the Philippines. As the top-ranked university in the country for the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, Ateneo's rise to the 101-200 global bracket marks a significant achievement. This progress can be attributed to its dedicated focus on sustainability initiatives, which include:

• Innovative Research Programs: Ateneo has developed numerous research initiatives aimed at addressing local and global sustainability challenges.
• Community Engagement: The university actively engages with local communities to promote sustainable practices and awareness.
• Sustainable Campus Initiatives: Ateneo has implemented eco-friendly policies within its campus operations, including waste reduction and energy conservation measures.

The university's commitment to aligning its academic goals with the UN's SDGs not only enhances its reputation but also serves as a model for other institutions striving for similar recognition. By prioritizing sustainability in its core values, Ateneo is leading the way for future generations of students to embrace responsible practices.

Other Notable Philippine Institutions in the Rankings

Following Ateneo in the rankings, several other universities have made noteworthy advancements. Batangas State University, Isabela State University, and the University of the Philippines have all secured a spot in the 401-600 global bracket. This tie for second place among local HEIs highlights the growing competitiveness of Philippine universities on the international stage.

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has maintained its strong performance, landing in the 601-800 band for the fifth consecutive year, sharing this position with several other institutions. The continued success of these universities indicates a collective commitment to sustainable development and an increasing capability to meet global educational standards.

Institutions in the 801-1000 Bracket

Furthermore, a total of 11 universities from the Philippines placed in the 801-1000 bracket. This group includes:

• Benguet State University (retained rank)
• Bukidnon State University
• Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (up from 1001-1500)
• Central Luzon State University (retained rank)
• De La Salle University (down from 401-600)
• Kalinga State University
• Mapúa University (retained rank)
• Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (up from 1001-1500)
• Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (retained rank)
• Southern Luzon State University

This expansion indicates a significant shift within the Philippine higher education landscape, as more institutions recognize the importance of addressing sustainability challenges through their educational offerings.

Global Context and Competitiveness

The 2025 THE Impact Rankings included a staggering 2,526 universities from 130 countries and regions, with Western Sydney University in Australia taking the top spot. The global competition for recognition in sustainability efforts is fierce, making the achievements of Philippine universities even more remarkable. The Philippines now ranks third in terms of the number of participating institutions within Asia, following India and Pakistan.

This increased representation is a clear sign that Philippine universities are not only responding to local needs but also participating in a global dialogue around sustainability and responsible education. The rise in rankings reflects the universities' ability to innovate and adapt their programs to meet the challenges posed by climate change and sustainable development.

Driving Sustainable Education Forward

The unprecedented number of Philippine universities in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings is a pivotal moment for the country's higher education sector. It emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainable practices into educational frameworks and underscores the potential of universities to drive societal change. The commitment to sustainability in higher education aligns with global trends and reflects a collective desire to contribute positively to society.

As more institutions strive for recognition in sustainability efforts, the landscape of higher education in the Philippines will likely continue to evolve. The increasing commitment of universities to the SDGs will not only enhance their global standing but also impact the local communities they serve.

Conclusion: The Future of Higher Education in the Philippines

The 2025 THE Impact Rankings have highlighted the remarkable progress made by Philippine higher education institutions in their pursuit of sustainability. With Ateneo de Manila University leading the charge and numerous other universities demonstrating their commitment, the future looks bright for sustainable education in the country. As the role of higher education continues to expand in addressing global challenges, it will be crucial for institutions to remain focused on integrating sustainability into their core missions.

Ultimately, the successes of these universities serve as an inspiration for future generations of students, educators, and institutions to strive for excellence in sustainable practices. By prioritizing responsible education, the Philippines can continue to position itself as a leader in the global movement toward sustainability.

FAQs

What are the THE Impact Rankings?

The THE Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, evaluating aspects such as research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching.

How many Philippine universities are included in the 2025 rankings?

A record-breaking 121 Philippine higher education institutions made it to the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

What is the ranking of Ateneo de Manila University in the 2025 Impact Rankings?

Ateneo de Manila University is ranked in the 101-200 global bracket for the 2025 rankings, an improvement from its previous placement.

Which other universities ranked closely behind Ateneo in the Philippines?

Batangas State University, Isabela State University, and the University of the Philippines all tied for second place, landing in the 401-600 global bracket.

What does a university need to do to be eligible for the THE Impact Rankings?

To be eligible, a university must submit data on SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and at least three other SDGs.

The growth of Philippine universities in the THE Impact Rankings signifies a commitment to sustainability that resonates globally. What do you think are the next steps for these institutions to further enhance their impact? #SustainableEducation #ImpactRankings #PhilippineUniversities