DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Demonstrating its expanding footprint in internationalization and academic excellence, Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) garnered notable recognition during the regional forum titled “Voices of ASEAN: The Culmination – Taking the Next Steps for Internationalization in Higher Education,” held on October 22, 2026, at the Acacia Hotel Davao.
Organized by the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office XI (CHED RO XI), the forum brought together key higher education stakeholders across the region to address sustainable internationalization and global citizenship education. SPAMAST was represented by a key administrative delegation, including Dr. Arneda Jean Gonzales, Director of the Office of Internationalization and External Linkages (OIEL); Dr. Jovelyn L. Franca, Quality Assurance Director; and Ms. Angeline Lim, OIEL Focal Person.
During the afternoon recognition ceremony, “In Gratitude and Synergy,” SPAMAST was awarded two plaques of recognition by CHED RO XI: Partner Higher Education Institution (HEI): Acknowledging SPAMAST’s active contribution to regional collaborative projects and internationalization initiatives supported by CHED XI and Internationally-Ranked Institution: Celebrating SPAMAST’s inclusion across seven categories in the World University Rankings 2026, marking a significant milestone in its academic quality and research performance on the global stage.
The event featured strategic discussions on internationalization frameworks and global citizenship readiness led by CHED officials, reinforcing the commitment of higher education institutions in Region XI to foster competitive, globally aligned academic environments.
This landmark achievement directly highlights SPAMAST’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by strengthening academic standards and global comparability, as well as Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through sustainable regional and international linkages in higher education.
