Republic of the Philippines

Commission on Higher Education

REGIONAL OFFICE 1

With the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 1, in partnership with Pangasinan State University, conducted the 2025 Timpuyog: ASEAN Conference for Region 1 Higher Education Institutions on September 29, 2025, at the Convention Hall, Pangasinan State University, Lingayen, Pangasinan.

The conference served as a platform for fostering collaboration, innovation, and shared regional goals among higher education institutions across Region 1.

It brought together academic leaders, educators, students, and internationalization representatives to advance the region’s collective vision for sustainable and inclusive education.

The event commenced with the acknowledgement of guests and participants led by Dr. Al Gerald S. Barde, Education Supervisor II of CHED RO1.

This was followed by a message from the host institution delivered by Dr. Celeste T. Mercado, PSU Vice President for Quality Assurance Division, on behalf of PSU President Dr. Elbert M. Galas.

In the presentation of the 2025 Internationalization Regional Plans, CHED RO1 Director Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to advancing internationalization in higher education through the principles of inclusivity and sustainability.

She emphasized that this strategic direction seeks to build equitable global partnerships, ensure that no learner is left behind, and establish resilient systems that benefit future generations.

Her Excellency Nina Yulianti, Education and Culture Attaché of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Manila, delivered a presentation titled “Strengthening Regional Unity through Education and Collaboration.”

On the other hand, Atty. Lily Frieda M. Milla, Director of the CHED International Affairs Service, was represented by Ms. Mabel A. Gutierrez, OIC – Chief Education Program Specialist, who presented “CHED’s Support for Regional Collaboration through Internationalization.”

A Ribbon Cutting and Commitment Signing Ceremony followed, marking the united pledge of participating HEIs to strengthen their efforts in promoting inclusivity and sustainability in internationalization.

Showcasing the creativity and brilliance of the youth, the event also featured the presentation of student-led Sustainable Development Goals initiatives and proposals.

In the Top 5 SDG Innovators’ Initiatives, PSU Sta. Maria Campus emerged as the Champion, followed by Northwestern University as First Runner-Up and Universidad de Dagupan as Second Runner-Up.

The PSU Lingayen Campus and the University of Luzon were also recognized as finalists in the competition.

Meanwhile, in the Top 5 ASEAN SDG Living Labs Challenge, the University of Luzon claimed the championship, with Northwestern University securing the First Runner-Up position and Union Christian College taking Second Runner-Up. Completing the list of finalists were the Perpetual Help College of Pangasinan and another entry from Union Christian College.

In recognition of global achievements, CHED RO1 commended 18 Higher Education Institutions in Region 1 that earned prestigious international placements in the World University Rankings for Innovation and Times Higher Education rankings.

Adding color and cultural vibrance to the conference were the performances from the Pangasinan State University Himig Ensemble, Pangasinan State University Matalunggaring Dance Troupe, and Koro Universidad de Dagupan, which celebrated the region’s artistry and creative spirit.

A special award for “Best in ASEAN-Inspired Attire” was given to Dr. Mario P. Obrero, President of Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College and Dr. Donna T. Padilla-Taguiba, President of Panpacific University.

Each participating Higher Education Institution brought a variety of snacks and local delicacies, which participants graciously shared and enjoyed together as part of the salu-salo.

In her closing remarks, Engr. Angelica Q. Dolores, CHED RO1 Supervising Education Program Specialist, commended the participants for their passion and commitment in advancing the region’s higher education landscape through inclusivity and sustainability.

𝘣𝘺 𝘑. 𝘉𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘻