With its commitment to promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the harmonization of its programs, research, and partnerships with the ACHIEVE Agenda of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the University, represented by University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales Jr., participated in the Higher Education Summit 2026 held on March 10–12, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Clark in Clark.
Anchored on the theme “Achieving Sustainable Futures: Transformative Higher Education for Human Capital, Innovation, and Global Responsibility,” the summit convened leaders and representatives from higher education institutions (HEIs) across the country to advance significant discussions, partnerships, and knowledge exchange.
The three-day summit aimed to promote holistic discourse on curriculum relevance, science-driven human capital strategies, and the development of cross-sector partnerships to better prepare graduates for complex societal challenges. The event was spearheaded by CHED in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
During the summit, CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis emphasized that the Philippines already possesses the institutions, expertise, and knowledge base needed to accelerate progress toward the SDGs. She stressed the importance of aligning these resources more deliberately and mobilizing them strategically to maximize their impact in advancing national development and sustainability efforts.
In response, Pres. Gabales emphasized the crucial role of collaboration among educators and HEIs in strengthening the Philippine higher education system.
“The discussions during the summit reaffirm the crucial role of higher education institutions in advancing sustainable development. At USeP, we are committed to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible and equipped with the skills, innovation mindset, and global awareness needed to address today’s complex challenges. Through strengthened partnerships and responsive programs, the University will continue to contribute to building sustainable communities and a resilient nation,” Pres. Gabales said.
While at the summit, Pres. Gabales also met with several institutional partners, including Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), a long-standing partner of the University in various research initiatives supporting agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources development.
Despite the evolving economic landscape, Pres.Gabales assured that USeP remains committed to adapting to emerging challenges and opportunities in higher education.
“As economic and societal conditions continue to evolve, the University of Southeastern Philippines will remain proactive in adapting our programs, strengthening our research capabilities, and nurturing future-ready graduates who can thrive and lead in an increasingly complex world,” he added.
Meanwhile, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between CHED and DOST-PCAARRD to support the Technology Business Incubation (TBI) Program. The initiative aims to strengthen innovation and support technology incubation among higher education institutions, including USeP, which is among the state universities with an existing Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator under the DOST-PCAARRD National ATBI Network.
The summit served as an important platform for HEIs like USeP to align their initiatives with national priorities, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to championing a more sustainable and innovative future for Philippine higher education.
The summit also highlighted the role of higher education institutions in advancing SDG 4: Quality Education through strengthened academic programs and research initiatives. It also emphasized collaboration and innovation in support of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
#USePCARES
#WeBuildDreamsWithoutLimits
#TransformingLivesAndCommunities
#SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG17
