Saint Mary’s University (SMU) received national recognition at the Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards 2025, held on Dec. 10, 2025, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and organized by the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Staff (CHED IAS). The university was honored for its strong performance in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), reaffirming its commitment to innovation and global competitiveness.

SMU was represented by University President Dr. John Octavious Palina and Dr. Clara Gonzales, Head of the Internationalization Office, who accepted the award on behalf of the institution. The recognition highlights SMU’s achievements in innovation-driven initiatives, international partnerships, and programs that address real-world challenges.

The ICONS Awards, organized annually by CHED IAS, celebrates higher education institutions that demonstrate excellence in internationalization, innovation, and global engagement. SMU joined various higher education institutions in the country honored by CHED for their global rankings in WURI, Quacquarelli Symonds Asia Rankings, Times Higher Education World Rankings, Times Higher Education Asia Rankings, and Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

SMU’s recognition at this year’s ceremony strengthens its growing presence in international rankings and underscores its dedication to expanding educational opportunities beyond borders.

With this achievement, SMU continues to position itself as a leading institution in the Philippines—one that champions innovation, fosters global connections, and prepares its students for an increasingly interconnected world.