Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) was recognized by the Commission on Higher Education-Regional Office IX for its achievements in international university rankings during the CHEDRO9 ASEAN 2026 celebration held on September 18 at the Dr. Juanito A. Bruno Gymnasium.
WMSU received recognition for placing 115th globally in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, earning a spot among the Global Top 500 Innovative Universities. The University was also recognized for its placement in the 801β1000 rank band of the Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026 and for receiving a 3-Star Overall rating in the QS Stars University Rankings.
CHEDRO9 likewise recognized other higher education institutions in Region IX for their international achievements. In the WURI 2026, the recognized institutions included Universidad de Zamboanga, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Sulu State University, Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology, Mindanao State UniversityβSulu, and J.H. Cerilles State College.
For the THE Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026, CHED recognized Mindanao State UniversityβZamboanga Sibugay, Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, and Mindanao State UniversityβSulu.
In her message, Dr. Marivic V. Iriberri, OIC, Office of the Director IV of CHEDRO9, emphasized that internationalization goes beyond rankings and ratings, creating opportunities for students, strengthening institutions, and advancing knowledge and innovation. She linked the recognized accomplishments to CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupisβ ACHIEVE Agenda, describing them as βACHIEVE in action.β
Meanwhile, Dr. Clarissa Alvarez, OIC, Supervising Education Program Specialist of CHED Regional Office IX, underscored the importance of sustaining efforts toward internationalization and institutional development, noting that global recognition reflects the continuing work of higher education institutions in strengthening their programs, partnerships, and contributions.
Following the recognition of the regionβs international achievements, WMSU also emerged as a top performer in the CHEDRO9 ASEAN-inspired competitions, securing first place in the song, dance and short film competitions.
The celebration highlighted the growing participation of Region IX higher education institutions in global academic benchmarks while showcasing the creativity, talent, and active engagement of students in initiatives that promote ASEAN cooperation, cultural appreciation, and regional development. (LMP/MKMQuin, PAO)
