Saint Mary’s University regained its autonomous status for three years from Sept. 16, 2024 to Sept. 15, 2027.

In CMO No. 7 series of 2024 released on Sept. 23, 2024, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) identified SMU as one of the 77 private higher education institutions in the Philippines that met the criteria for an autonomous status covering the performance and achievement of the institutions from July 1, 2019 to Sept. 15, 2023. SMU is one of the only two HEIs in Region 2 given the present distinction.

SMU was evaluated in the following criteria: commitment to program excellence; excellence in instruction, scholarly works, and community engagements; and institutional quality and excellence.

“The Commission observed that several PHEI applicants for the status faced challenges in meeting specific indicators due to pandemic-related constraints that affected the achievements/performance in some indicators and in the submission of required evidences…However, it is crucial for these institutions to achieve exemplary performance with the requirements of the grant…” part of the memo says.

Previously, SMU was granted autonomous status in 2001-2006 and 2016-2019.

With this new status, SMU is poised to enhance further its reputation as a leading institution of higher learning in the region and beyond. The university is committed to leveraging its autonomy to create a dynamic and innovative learning environment for its students and contribute to advancing knowledge and society. (Report from PERIO)