Cordillera leads PH in global university sustainability rankings, showcasing region's commitment to sustainable development

Tabuk City, Kalinga – The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) posted the highest participation rate among all regions in the Philippines in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, underscoring the region's growing role in promoting sustainability and strengthening its global reputation in higher education.

According to the 2026 results released by Times Higher Education (THE), 11 higher education institutions (HEIs) from the Cordillera were included in the global rankings, representing 28.95 percent of all HEIs in the region—the highest participation rate nationwide.

Of the 11 institutions, seven improved their ranking bands, three maintained their previous positions, while one joined the rankings for the first time, reflecting the region's continued progress in advancing sustainable development through higher education.

The ranked institutions are Ifugao State University, Kalinga State University, Saint Louis University, Benguet State University, Mountain Province State University, University of the Cordilleras, Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology, Cordillera Career Development College, University of Baguio, Apayao State College, and King's College of the Philippines.

What is Times Higher Education?

Times Higher Education (THE) is one of the world's leading authorities on higher education. Based in the United Kingdom, it publishes globally recognized university rankings that assess institutions based on academic excellence, research performance, international outlook, innovation, and contributions to society.

Its rankings are widely used by universities, governments, researchers, and students as a benchmark for measuring institutional performance and global competitiveness.

What are the THE Impact Rankings?

Unlike traditional university rankings that focus primarily on research and academic reputation, the THE Impact Rankings evaluate how universities contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The rankings assess institutions based on their performance in research, teaching, stewardship, and community engagement, measuring how they address global social, economic, and environmental challenges, including quality education, climate action, gender equality, good health, clean energy, and poverty reduction.

By participating in the rankings, universities demonstrate how their programs and initiatives create positive impacts not only within their campuses but also in the communities they serve.

With 11 institutions recognized this year, the Cordillera continues to strengthen its presence in the international higher education landscape. The region's leading participation rate reflects the commitment of its colleges and universities to producing globally competitive graduates while advancing sustainable and inclusive development across the Cordillera.

The achievement also reinforces the important role of higher education institutions in helping communities address today's most pressing environmental, economic, and social challenges while contributing to the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.