Baguio Central University (BCU) hosted an orientation on the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, featuring Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes, the Regional Director of CHED-NCR, as the resource speaker. He was introduced by Dr. Michael T. Sebullen, the BCU’s Director of Research and Development Office. The event, themed “Building Institutional Capacity for SDG-Driven Internationalization,” brought together university leaders, faculty, and staff to deepen their understanding of how BCU can strategically align its mission and operations with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
(THE) Impact Rankings provide a globally recognized framework that assesses universities’ contributions to the 17 SDGs through four key pillars: Research, Stewardship, Outreach, and Instruction. These pillars serve as vital levers to drive meaningful and lasting change both locally and globally. This move is aligned with the City of Baguio local government initiative in collaboration with the UNDP-Philippines
Our resource speaker, Dr. Jimmy Catanes enlivens reflection on SDG progress and motivates action to address gaps.
Dr. Catanes encouraged BCU participants to reflect on and review the university’s commitment to impactful research, emphasizing its essential role in addressing sustainability challenges. He expressed that by focusing on research projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and collaborating with both local and international research networks, the university can enhance its contribution to innovative solutions that benefit society at large.
With regards to managing resources or stewardship, the speaker grouped the participants to review and assess if the University, as custodians of human, intellectual, and physical resources, carries its responsibility in managing these assets ethically and sustainably. The speaker allowed the participants per group to recognize the importance of fostering a supportive environment that promotes sustainability across all the University’s operations.
Front: CTELA Research Coordinator Ms. Aiza Bheal Kitani, Graduate School CES Coordinator Dr. Michael De Roxas, and CCJE faculty Mr. Ranty Pao-eng, together with Vice President Dr. Elma Donaal, share insights on their assigned SDG areas.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of BCU’s mission. Strengthening partnerships at local, regional, and global levels ensures that the university’s work transcends campus boundaries, creating a positive societal impact. The speaker challenged participants to assess where the university stands in terms of community engagement against the criteria set by the THE Impact Rankings.
Ma’am Amalia F. Ancheta provides corrections to the data presented by Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, as Dr. Elma Donaal and Dr. Samuel K. Neyney attentively observe.
Against the criteria set by THE, the speaker challenged participants to examine more deeply how instruction, research, community extension, publication of research and creative works, as well as the production of instructional materials, contribute to quality education—the foundation of transformation. Embedding sustainability principles into the curriculum equips students with the knowledge and values necessary to become agents of change in their careers and communities.
Dr. Cherrie Mae Manuel and Engr. Lorelie S. Malit present their group’s responses to the questionnaires, prompting Dr. Catanes to offer insightful critiques aimed at refining the data for greater clarity and impact.
Mr. Ranty M. Pao-eng and Ms. Arlene A. Mintas presented their group’s report, after which Dr. Catanes provided constructive feedback to enhance the points discussed.
THE Impact Rankings evaluate performance across all 17 SDGs, reflecting a comprehensive global vision for a better, more inclusive, and sustainable world. From quality education and gender equality to climate action and peace, BCU is committed to advancing these goals through its core functions.
Next Steps for Baguio Central University
Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang outlines actionable steps to advance SDG-driven internationalization.
Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Internationalization Relations Officer, synthesized the discussions and outlined actionable steps for the university. She emphasized: 1) Prioritizing research initiatives that directly support the SDGs and foster collaborations with local and global partners to amplify impact. 2) Reviewing and improving resource management policies to ensure the sustainable and innovative use of university assets. 3) Building stronger community partnerships to extend BCU’s positive influence beyond the campus. 4) Integrating sustainability comprehensively into academic programs to prepare students for future challenges. And 5) Participating in international rankings like THE Impact Rankings to benchmark progress, identify growth areas, and elevate BCU’s global standing in SDG-driven internationalization.
The session concluded with a powerful call to action for the entire BCU community to embrace the journey toward sustainability with unwavering dedication and unity. As Dr. Kupang wisely stated, “The road to international rankings is long, but the impact is worth the effort.” With the full support of the Board of Trustees, administrators, and all stakeholders, BCU stands united in its resolve to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact—committed to building a sustainable and just future for all.
Dr. Perfecto Lopez, Sir Karl Matthiue Rillera, and Dr. Elma Donaal pose with Dr. Jimmy Catanes after presenting him with a token and Certificate of Appreciation.
The BCU Management Team, through its Vice President for Academic Affairs who delivered the Closing Remarks, thanked Dr. Jimmy Catanes for joining Baguio Central University on this transformative journey. She urged everyone to continue working together with joy, freedom, and unwavering support as we advance BCU’s vision-mission in alignment with the global goals.
BCU participants share a moment with Dr. Jimmy Catanes after an inspiring session on “Building Institutional Capacity for SDG-Driven Internationalization.” Together, they renew their commitment to global impact and academic excellence.
Photo credit: Michael S. Rodriguez; Author: Genevieve B. Kupang
