BatStateU hosts Erasmus+ UNICATION Final Conference, strengthens EU-Asia cooperation on inclusive internationalization

November 20, 2025 Public Relations 2:00 pm BatStateU hosts Erasmus+ UNICATION Final Conference, strengthens EU-Asia cooperation on inclusive internationalization BatStateU hosts Erasmus+ UNICATION Final Conference, strengthens EU-Asia cooperation on inclusive internationalization Elementor #309176 Batangas State University, The National Engineering University (BatStateU The NEU), opened the two‑day Final Conference of the Erasmus+ UNICATION Project on November 20 at Narra Hall, Jose Rizal Building, Pablo Borbon Campus, gathering partner universities from Portugal, France, Hungary, Cambodia, and the Philippines. As part of the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education initiative Unifying Communication by International Projects in Cambodia and the Philippines (UNICATION), the conference focuses on managing international projects and advancing “internationalization‑at‑home” across Asian higher education institutions. In his welcome message, BatStateU and PASUC President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo noted how UNICATION has strengthened the operational capacity of international offices in Philippine universities, allowing them to manage global partnerships “with greater order, consistency, and professionalism” and better prepare graduates for an interconnected digital economy. “Let it be remembered that today…we rekindled the fire to partner with all of you as we pursue the Sustainable Development Goals, especially on partnerships,” he stressed.  UNICATION Project Coordinator Ms. Natacha Moniz of Instituto Superior Técnico (Portugal) and Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth likewise underscored the value of the consortium’s two‑year collaboration and the friendships built along the way. The UNICATION Final Conference opened with Panel 1: “From Lisbon to Phnom Penh”, where representatives from IST (Portugal), University of Heng Samrin Thbongkhmum, Phnom Penh International University, and the National University of Management shared insights on coordinating cross-border projects and supporting international work within their institutions. A policy roundtable followed, discussing how ministries and universities can sustain the project’s impact through effective communication strategies, capacity-building, and collaborative practices. Two major project outputs were also launched: the Inclusivity Booklet, which offers practical guidelines to embed diversity in international engagements, and the Internationalization @ Home Guide, which promotes global perspectives within local campuses. The day concluded with a workshop on designing CBHE proposals, co-led by Phnom Penh International University and BatStateU, equipping participants with tools to build future Erasmus+ initiatives. As the UNICATION Final Conference enters its second day, BatStateU continues to demonstrate its vital role as a catalyst for meaningful EU–Asia academic partnerships. The university reaffirms its commitment to fostering a brand of internationalization that is not only globally connected but also deeply rooted in inclusion, accessibility, and relevance to local and regional development needs. By creating platforms for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaborative planning, BatStateU amplifies the voices of its stakeholders and promotes a culture of cross-border academic solidarity. With the consortium now shifting its focus from project closure to future initiatives, BatStateU stands ready to lead and support more international projects that strengthen capacity, promote sustainable development, and empower institutions to deliver quality education for all. Previous Post

BatStateU The NEU climbs in 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, breaks into 401-600 band globally

Strengthening its commitment to advancing the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Batangas State University, The National Engineering University (BatStateU The NEU), has made a significant leap in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, rising from the 601–800 band to the 401–600 band out of 2,318 participating universities worldwide, as announced on June 18. Among 113 Philippine (PH) higher education institutions making the list, BatStateU The NEU secured 2nd place nationally—further affirming its leadership in driving SDG-aligned initiatives and championing inclusive, sustainable development. Despite intensified global competition—with 355 additional institutions participating this year—BatStateU not only ascended to a higher bracket but also recorded its highest overall performance score to date: 74.9. This marks a 10.47% increase from the previous year and an impressive 19.65% growth since its inaugural participation in 2023. “BatStateU is honored to be recognized once again by Times Higher Education,” said Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, University President. “This achievement reflects the steadfast efforts of our academic community—faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners—who bring our mission to life every single day. As we continue to elevate our global standing, we remain grounded in our purpose: to engineer meaningful change through inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking innovation. My deepest thanks to everyone who walks this journey with us as we strive to build a more resilient and sustainable world,” he added. The THE Impact Rankings represents the first global initiative to assess how universities contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), evaluating performance across four key areas: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. Among the 17 UN SDGs, BatStateU stood out in four key areas, earning placements within the Top 101–200 universities globally, with one SDG breaking into the Top 100. Leading the charge is SDG 5: Gender Equality, where the University ranked 68th out of 1,559 institutions, its highest SDG ranking to date. This achievement was driven by a substantial rise in the percentage of senior female academic leaders—from 34.6 to 72.5—as well as enhanced measures for student access and increased representation of first-generation female students. Equally noteworthy is the University’s performance in SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, where it earned high scores in water usage and care, boosting its overall score to 72.3, a significant leap from 63.3 in 2024. For SDG 14: Life Below Water, BatStateU maintained its strong global standing through consistent efforts in aquatic ecosystem preservation and improved marine-sensitive waste management. Lastly, under SDG 15: Life on Land, the University maintained its upward momentum, achieving a commendable score of 71.0 through expanded environmental education programs and advances in biodiversity research. In addition, the University has also outperformed the global average scores in 9 out of 17 SDGs, including Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), which is a mandatory goal for the said ranking. Batangas State University, designated as the Philippines’ National Engineering University through Republic Act No. 11694, is widely recognized for its excellence in engineering education. A Level-IV state university, it has produced over 180 engineering board topnotchers, solidifying its reputation as the country’s largest engineering university. Notably, BatStateU is also a pioneer in quality assurance for engineering education. It is the first state university in the Philippines to have engineering programs accredited by the Philippine Technological Council through its Accreditation and Certification Board for Engineering and Technology (PTC-ACBET). Moreover, it remains the first—and to date, the only—state university in the country with engineering and computing programs accredited by the US-based Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), through both its Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) and Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC). With a QS Stars Rating of three stars, BatStateU has also earned global recognition for its commitment to sustainability, ranking as the 304th Most Sustainable University in the 2024 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. Furthermore, it was also recognized as the 128th most innovative university globally in the prestigious World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2024. At the forefront of these efforts is the University’s Center for Sustainable Development (CSD), which serves as the central hub for advancing BatStateU’s sustainability agenda. Recognizing the urgent need for action in support of national and global sustainability goals, the CSD integrates sustainability across the University’s core functions—instruction, research, innovation, extension, and administrative services. Through active collaboration with students, faculty, staff, and partner communities, the Center fosters a shared responsibility for building a sustainable future. As such, it is envisioned to evolve into a leading platform for transformative action and thought leadership in sustainable development, both locally and globally. For the full rankings and methodology of THE Impact Rankings, detailed information can be accessed at the THE Website. #THEGlobalImpact#THEUniRankings#LeadingInnovations#TransformingLives#BuildingtheNation

PH engineering students win big at WED Hackathon 2025 in Paris

BATANGAS CITY — Batangas State University (BatStateU), the Philippines’ National Engineering University, celebrates a momentous victory of its BS Chemical Engineering students at the World Engineering Day (WED) Hackathon 2025. Team ECO BEADa from BatStateU Alangilan, secured 2nd place in this prestigious global competition, hosted by UNESCO and the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) on March 4 in Paris, France. Led by mentor Assoc. Prof. Rhonalyn V. Maulion, the team members Trixie Mae V. Parañaque, Abraham F. Quintia Jr., Krishna Laida L. Sadsad, and Charisse May V. Castillo, bested over 3,000 participants from more than 90 countries, earning global recognition for their groundbreaking solution to address pressing environmental and agricultural challenges in the Philippines. The ECO BEADa project, supported by BatStateU’s Center for Innovation in Engineering Education (CIEE), focuses on the growing crisis faced by Filipino farmers due to water contamination from untreated wastewater. The team introduced an innovative solution using phosphate-absorbing beads made from eelgrass biochar and kaolinite clay — natural, abundant materials that purify wastewater and convert harmful phosphates into eco-friendly fertilizers. This solution aims to revitalize the soil, improve agricultural sustainability, and protect the environment, empowering farmers to combat water contamination, soil depletion, and the broader impacts of climate change. The project not only addresses the immediate agricultural challenges but also promotes long-term sustainability. The team’s solution is designed to be cost-effective and scalable, offering an affordable, community-driven approach to improving water quality and soil fertility in farming communities. With a total treatment cost of just ₱750 per 25 kg of biochar fertilizer, the project provides a sustainable, low-cost alternative to synthetic fertilizers, typically costing up to ₱1,730. “Our success at the WED Hackathon 2025 is a proud moment for BatStateU and for the Philippines,” said University President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo. “Team ECO BEADa has shown that through ingenuity and tenacity of Filipino engineers, we can help solve real-world problems and bring lasting positive change to communities, not just in the country but also across the globe,” he added.  The project’s approach also aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). By addressing phosphate runoff and wastewater contamination, the project contributes to cleaner ecosystems, more sustainable agricultural practices, and a stronger, more resilient environment for farming communities. Additionally, the team has incorporated farmer education programs, including community-based water treatment systems, to ensure long-term success and empower local communities. Themed “Shaping Our Sustainable Future Through Engineering,” the WED Hackathon 2025 attracted brilliant minds from around the world, with participants presenting innovative solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing issues. Team ECO BEADa stood out not only for their technical excellence but also for their commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. In recognition of their outstanding achievement, the team was awarded a €2,000 prize for their impactful contribution to advancing sustainable solutions for a better world. Claiming the top spot, ManufacturingBox from the University of Twente, Netherlands, won first place, while Team Torpedo from the University of Hertfordshire/PSB Academy took third. Furthermore, the People’s Choice Award went to AgriConnect, a collaboration between Ghana and France. For more information about the World Engineering Day Hackathon, please visit this link. About Batangas State University, The National Engineering University Batangas State University (BatStateU), the Philippines’ National Engineering University, by virtue of Republic Act No. 11694, has built a legacy of over 120 years in engineering education excellence. Recognized as the country’s largest engineering university, BatStateU The NEU has produced over 180 engineering board topnotchers, solidifying its reputation for academic distinction. Notably, BatStateU is the first state university with engineering programs accredited by the Philippine Technological Council through its Accreditation and Certification Board for Engineering and Technology (PTC-ACBET), and the first and, thus far, the only state university in the Philippines with engineering and computing programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Engineering Accreditation Commission and Computing Accreditation Commission. With a commitment to sustainability, BatStateU has earned global recognition, ranking as the 304th Most Sustainable University in the 2024 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. Furthermore, BatStateU ranks 128th in the world for innovation according to the 2024 WURI rankings and is placed between 601st-800th globally in the 2024 THE Impact Rankings, covering 2,152 universities across 125 countries.

BatStateU ascends to rank 300th globally in the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking

From its 351st rank in 2022 among 1050 higher education institutions (HEIs) across the globe, Batangas State University (BatStateU) enters the top 300 most sustainable universities among 1,183 universities worldwide in the 2023 UI GreenMetric World University Ranking. Initiated by Universitas Indonesia in 2010, this ranking evaluates universities worldwide based on their green campus initiatives and environmental sustainability efforts through 39 indicators across 6 key criteria. This significant leap forward further solidifies BatStateU’s strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The marked improvement in this year’s ranking signifies the University’s deliberate efforts to enhance its environmental initiatives since its inaugural participation. The University has shown substantial improvements in its sustainability indicator scores between the UI GreenMetric rankings of 2023 and 2022. The university displayed notable enhancements across various areas, particularly an impressive 63.37% increase in energy and climate change, a commendable 30% advancement in water management initiatives, and a 12.80% progress in transportation sustainability initiatives. BatStateU’s notable advancement in these areas demonstrates its holistic approach towards fostering a greener campus and implementing sustainable practices. “BatStateU’s notable ascent in the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking reflects the collaborative efforts of our entire university community in implementing eco-friendly practices, promoting sustainability initiatives, and cultivating a green mindset among our students, faculty, and staff,” expressed by Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, the BatStateU President as he expressed his elation on this achievement. This year marks the second time BatStateU participated in the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking. BatStateU’s notable progress reflects its proactive approach to creating a more sustainable higher education space through innovative programs on energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainability-facing education. Just this August, the University was appointed as the National Coordinator for UI GreenMetric in the Philippines given its dedication to promoting sustainability not only within its campuses but also in the entire country.

LeX2023: Fostering Innovation and Global Solidarity Through Empathy and Collaboration

LeX2023, our 14-day immersive journey, brought together 31 passionate minds from Batangas State University and 30 brilliant students from Singapore Polytechnic, guided by six dedicated facilitators. Through the lens of Design Thinking, we shaped social innovation projects that resonate with the heartbeats of local communities. In the scenic embrace of the Municipality of Lobo, LeX2023 made waves in Barangay Lagadlarin, nurturing the precious Lagadlarin Mangrove Forest, and in Barangay Sawang, harnessing the power of Collapsible Solar Energy for Irrigation. These projects weren’t just about solutions; they were about understanding—the pulse of these communities’ social, economic, and political challenges. This initiative isn’t just about innovation but bridging gaps, learning languages, and making lasting connections. LeX2023 wasn’t just a program but a testament to the transformative power of empathy, collaboration, and global solidarity. Here’s to making a difference, one innovative idea at a time!This program targets the External Affairs internationalization programs on Inbound Student Mobility and G2L (Global to Local) Community Engagement.

BatStateU Delegation Excels at Singapore’s Youth Model ASEAN Conference 2023, Forging Stronger ASEAN Ties and Global Insights

Batangas State University, The National Engineering University, proudly represented at Singapore’s Youth Model ASEAN Conference 2023. With passionate minds converging from across ASEAN and beyond, students delved deep into critical issues shaping the ASEAN region. Through vibrant discussions, insightful debates, and collaborative action planning, students honed their understanding of regional challenges and crafted innovative solutions aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. The BatStateU delegation included BS Mechanical Engineering students Dariele Michael A. Alaban, Renz Ivan J. Palbecal, Roi Emmanueal D. Cunan, BS Architecture student Armon M. Landicho, and the Department Chair of BS Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Donnalyne Cabaces. This participation echoes BatStateU’s commitment to global academic cooperation, fostering international connections while enhancing cultural intelligence. The YMAC experience not only enriched students’ perspectives but also propelled them toward a future of impactful change. Here’s to bridging borders, fostering understanding, and shaping a brighter, more collaborative ASEAN community!

Bridging the Gap: BatStateU Microcredentials Usher in the Future of Transformative Learning

In the ever-shifting job market landscape, the demand for specialized skills and knowledge has reached unprecedented heights. It’s a world where the traditional rules no longer apply.  To navigate this new reality, Batangas State University (BatStateU), in a groundbreaking collaboration with industry leaders, has introduced an educational innovation set to revolutionize career development: BatStateU Industry Microcredentials. These agile, compact courses are tailored to meet the demands of an ever-evolving industry and empower learners with the tools they need to excel. More agile and streamlined than traditional degrees, BatStateU Industry Microcredentials represent the answer to swiftly acquiring the skills necessary to take big leaps and meet immediate industry demands. These bite-sized courses provide a focused and efficient path to mastering competencies aligned with one’s career aspirations. The BatStateU Industry Microcredentials exemplify this innovative approach to learning, empowering students to get ahead toward their professional goals. What sets BatStateU Industry Microcredentials apart is that these programs in Data Security, Cybersecurity, Project Management, Internet of Things (IoT), Building Information Modeling, and Geographic Information System (GIS) are co-created and co-delivered with leaders in the industry. This close collaboration with Microsoft, Cisco Networking Academy, CGTD, Inc., CIM Technologies, Inc., and Geodata Systems ensures that each microcredential course undergoes validation in consultation with industry stakeholders, thus maintaining consistently high-quality standards. Recognizing the importance that education should be as adaptable as the world we live in, BatStateU Industry Microcredentials are designed to be flexible and dynamic, ensuring they keep pace with the ever-shifting landscape of industry demands. They offer inclusivity, expanding educational access to a broader audience and contributing significantly to cultivating a diverse workforce. Completers of these microcredential programs are equipped with valuable skills and receive verifiable credentials in the form of badges. These credentials can be showcased on professional networks or online job market platforms, enhancing their employability and promoting their professional expertise. Furthermore, a collaborative assessment process involving industry experts and the University ensures a comprehensive evaluation of competencies, enhancing the value and recognition of the microcredentials. Aligned seamlessly with the goals outlined in the Philippine Development Plan (2023-2028), BatStateU Industry Microcredentials signify a significant stride toward a future where education remains in sync with progress. It equips and empowers individuals to flourish in an ever-evolving and dynamic world. The time is now to propel yourself into a future of opportunities! On October 14, 2023, mark the beginning of your transformation. Take big leaps and get ahead with BatStateU Industry Microcredentials.  Your exciting future starts here! 

Forging the Future: GUILd Summit 2023 Ignites Synergy for National Development

Halfway to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline, the United Nations (UN) issued a report in July 2022, highlighting an alarming trend of regression in various critical areas, including poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and essential services due to external factors like COVID-19 and climate change. Nearly half of the 140 assessed SDG targets were off-track a year later, with 30% regressing since 2015. The UN called for immediate action, urging governments to commit to seven years of accelerated efforts while emphasizing the industry’s role in innovation and academia’s duty to provide quality education. A whole-of-society approach is crucial, promoting collaboration among government, academia, and industry. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlighted the industry’s potential for societal well-being and the importance of open-access data. Universities guide advancements through research and education, fostering collaboration between academia and industry, supported by government policies. Amidst this sense of urgency and collaboration, we are excited to introduce GUILd Summit 2023, a platform aimed at synergizing innovation among government, university, and industry leaders to drive national development. This summit fosters partnerships and insights to propel transformative change and progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Our collective journey towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals becomes more accessible as we prepare to unveil the blueprint for a brighter, more sustainable future rooted in the harmonious collaboration of government, university, and industry. Take part and discover next-generation infrastructure, manufacturing, trade, digital innovations, ICT transformation, health, biotechnology, nutrition, climate resilience, and sustainable ecosystems. Join us at the GUILd Summit 2023 on October 14, where we take tangible steps towards a more sustainable and innovative world. The time for action is NOW!

Batangas State University’s Engineering Programs achieve Highest Re-Accreditation from Global Accreditor—EAC-ABET

BATANGAS CITY—Batangas State University (BatStateU), recognized as the Philippines’ National Engineering University, proudly announces that eight of its engineering programs have achieved the highest mark of re-accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Based in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, ABET is a global accreditor for college and university programs in applied and natural sciences, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. This prestigious accreditation was officially posted on the ABET website on October 1, 2023. The exceptional quality of BatStateU’s engineering programs was underscored by a comprehensive evaluation conducted by experts and representatives from EAC-ABET. These assessments took place during an extensive visit to the Philippines from November 13 to 15, 2022. The outcome reaffirmed the paramount significance of ABET accreditation and verified that BatStateU’s engineering programs consistently meet rigorous standards. These ABET-accredited programs include BS Chemical Engineering, BS Civil Engineering, BS Computer Engineering, BS Electrical Engineering, BS Electronics Engineering, BS Industrial Engineering, BS Mechanical Engineering, and BS Sanitary Engineering. BatStateU, renowned for its engineering education excellence, has produced over 180 engineering board topnotchers, cementing its position as the country’s largest engineering university, offering 46 engineering degree programs, the highest among higher education institutions (HEIs) nationwide. Additionally, the university offers 27 emerging programs in engineering and allied fields, showcasing its dedication to staying at the forefront of educational excellence. Notably, BatStateU is the first and, thus far, the only state university in the Philippines with engineering programs accredited by ABET. “This ABET accreditation serves as a compelling affirmation of BatStateU’s commitment to providing world-class engineering education at par with other global engineering universities. It assures that our graduates from these programs are not only well-equipped to excel in critical technical fields but also primed to drive innovation and proactively meet the imperatives of the global knowledge economy,” University President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo shared. Sought worldwide, ABET’s voluntary peer-review process enjoys global recognition for enhancing the quality, precision, and safety of academic programs in technical disciplines. This rigorous assessment is carried out by teams of experts from industry, academia, and government, focusing on evaluating program curricula, faculty expertise, facilities, and institutional support. To check the EAC-ABET accredited programs of Batangas State University, kindly visit this link: https://www.abet.org/. For more information about the Philippines’ National Engineering University, please visit www.batstate-u.edu.ph/about/

Batangas State University, The National Engineering University, soars high in the THE Impact Rankings 2023

On the heels of its recent recognition in the Top 100 Global Innovative Universities, Batangas State University, The National Engineering University secured a 601st-800th spot among 1,591 universities from 112 countries/regions in the Impact Rankings of the Times Higher Education (THE), released June 1, 2023. It emerged 4th highest-ranked University among universities in the Philippines. The THE Impact Rankings is the first global attempt to measure the contributions of universities worldwide to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. The University is recognized for its significant initiatives in advancing SDG 14 (Life Below Water), crediting especially the University’s efforts in protecting, conserving, and strategically managing the Verde Island Passage (VIP), landing in the Global Top 200 most impactful programs. Meanwhile, BatStateU-The NEU’s programs in contributing to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) have been recognized as some of the world’s best initiatives, ranking within the Top 400. BatStateU-The NEU is ranked in all 17 SDGs, thereby affirming its position as one of the leading institutions of higher learning that contributes to attaining the global goals. BatStateU-The NEU’s ranks in the other SDGs are: Top 600 in SDG 13 (Climate Action), and Top 800 in SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). The University is also acknowledged in the Top 800+ in SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and among the Top 1000 in SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being). “As the University receives this third international recognition of our efforts to engineer a sustainable world, along with UI GreenMetric and World University Ranking for Innovations (WURI), our commitment to make a lasting impact not only in the country but all over the world is intensified. We are more determined to put forward innovative programs designed to strategically address the pressing needs of today while upholding the importance of safeguarding future generations,” asserted Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, University President. Batangas State University is the Philippines’ National Engineering University, by virtue of R.A. 11694, and is a Level IV State University. Regarded as the country’s largest engineering university, BatStateU-The NEU is the first and thus far the only state university in the Philippines with engineering, IT, and computer science programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) – Engineering Accreditation Commission and Computing Accreditation Commission. The University was recently ranked 351st Most Sustainable University in the world by the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings in 2022 and the 90th Most Innovative University globally by WURI earlier this 2023. For the full rankings and methodology of the THE Impact Rankings, detailed information can be accessed at the THE Website.