A RECORD-BREAKING 121 higher education institutions (HEIs) from the Philippines earned spots in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, released on June 18, signaling the country’s growing commitment to sustainable development in higher education.

This figure more than doubles last year’s 56 Philippine entries and marks the highest number of ranked institutions from any Southeast Asian country. Globally, the Philippines now ranks third in terms of participation, trailing only India (147 institutions) and Pakistan (126).

Now in its sixth edition, THE Impact Rankings assess universities’ performance based on the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Metrics include research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching—highlighting how institutions contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

Top Philippine Performers

Ateneo de Manila University remained the highest-ranked Philippine university, rising to the 101–200 bracket globally—up from its 201–300 placement in 2024.

Tied in second place among local institutions were Batangas State University, Isabela State University, and the University of the Philippines, all landing within the 401–600 global range.

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) maintained its strong performance, staying in the 601–800 bracket for the fifth consecutive year. It shares this spot with Caraga State University–Ampayon campus, Ifugao State University, Mariano Marcos State University, Leyte Normal University, and Saint Louis University.

Notable Changes in Rankings

Eleven Philippine universities landed in the 801–1000 bracket, making up the fourth group of top-performing HEIs from the country. These include:

Benguet State University (retained rank)

Bukidnon State University

Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (improved from 1001–1500)

Central Luzon State University (retained rank)

De La Salle University (declined 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

Global Highlights

Australia’s Western Sydney University topped the 2025 global rankings, followed by the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. This year’s rankings featured 2,526 universities from 130 countries and regions.

To qualify for the THE Impact Rankings, universities must submit data for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and at least three other SDGs. The final score comprises 22% from SDG 17 and 26% from each of the top three highest-scoring SDGs of the institution.