The Municipal Government of Bayombong has conferred a commendation upon Saint Mary’s University (SMU) in recognition of its outstanding academic accomplishments, research, leadership, and community service. This distinction highlights the University’s consistent role as a source of pride for Bayombong, the Province of Nueva Vizcaya, and the nation. The award was formally presented during the Municipal Flag Raising Ceremony on September 29, 2025, at the Bayombong Municipal Grounds. Representing the University, Dr. Melanie G. Gurat, Director of the Research Center, and Mr. Sherwin Saquing, Head of Promotions and Information Office, received the commendation on behalf of the Marian community.

Municipal officials emphasized that the recognition reflects SMU’s exemplary contributions to educational excellence, innovation, and social responsibility, which have earned the institution distinction both in the Philippines and on the global stage. Over the past year, Saint Mary’s University has achieved significant milestones, including the conferment of ISO 9001:2015 certification in December 2024 and the successful completion of the Stage 2 Audit for ISO 21001:2018 in August 2025. On the international front, the University achieved remarkable placements in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2024, securing 4th place globally in Student Support and Engagement, 9th place in Entrepreneurial Spirit, and 21st place in Social Responsibility, while ranking 273rd overall among 1,070 participating institutions worldwide.

SMU was also recognized in the 2024 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, placing 470th globally among 1,477 institutions, 10th in the Philippines, and 1st in Region II for its sustainability practices and environmental education initiatives. In November 2024, the University was ranked 75th globally and 22nd in the Philippines by AppliedHE for excellence in teaching, employability, research, and internationalization. Furthermore, SMU attained Level 2 Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management under the Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Regionalization Program and was granted Autonomous Status by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the highest classification for Higher Education Institutions in the country, awarded to only 77 universities nationwide.

These accomplishments affirm Saint Mary’s University’s enduring commitment to academic quality, sustainability, and innovation. The commendation bestowed by the Municipal Government of Bayombong further validates the University’s position as a premier institution of higher learning, shaping leaders and serving communities at the local, national, and global levels.

The awarding of Saint Mary’s University by the Municipal Government of Bayombong aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It primarily supports SDG 4 – Quality Education, recognizing SMU’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and inclusive education. The event also reflects SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, by honoring the University’s innovations and contributions to knowledge and sustainable practices. Through its emphasis on community engagement and service, the recognition promotes SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, while fostering collaboration between local government and the higher education sector, in line with SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. Additionally, the commendation highlights SMU’s sustainability initiatives, linking to SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production.

Written by: Dr. Melanie G. Gurat, URC Director