The University of Luzon has once again demonstrated its growing influence in higher education and sustainable development, earning a stronger position in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026. Moving up from the 1501+ band in 2025 to the 1001–1500 band in 2026, the University continues to ascend on the global stage, reflecting its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.

The Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings are among the world’s most respected measures of university performance, evaluating institutions based on their contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More than a ranking, the assessment recognizes universities that create meaningful impact through education, research, governance, and community engagement.

For the University of Luzon, this year’s results represent more than improved numbers—they tell a story of progress, dedication, and a collective commitment to making a difference.

Promoting Good Health and Well-Being

One of the University’s most remarkable achievements can be seen in SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, where it advanced from the 1001–1500 band in 2025 to the 601–800 band in 2026. This significant leap reflects the institution’s strengthened efforts in promoting health education, supporting community wellness initiatives, and producing research that contributes to better healthcare outcomes. Through its academic programs, extension activities, and health-related research, the University continues to address the evolving health needs of communities. These initiatives not only enhance public health awareness but also reinforce the institution’s commitment to improving quality of life and fostering a healthier society.

Providing Access to Quality Education

Meanwhile, its continued recognition in SDG 4: Quality Education, wherein it achieved placement in the 1001+ band in 2026 from the 1500+ band last year, affirms the University’s mission of providing transformative learning experiences that empower students to become competent professionals, responsible citizens, and future leaders, not only within the campus but also through meaningful engagement with communities, industries, and global networks. This improvement reflects the institution’s ongoing efforts to enhance academic quality, promote inclusive and accessible education, strengthen student development programs, and cultivate a culture of lifelong learning that prepares students to address the evolving needs of society.

Strengthening Foundations for Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Equally noteworthy is the University’s performance in SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, rising from the 601–800 band in 2025 to the 401–600 band in 2026. This improvement reflects the University’s commitment to ethical leadership, inclusive governance, and programs that promote accountability, civic engagement, and social responsibility. Through initiatives that encourage responsible citizenship, respect for diversity, and active community participation, the University continues to cultivate a culture of integrity and service. These efforts empower students and stakeholders to become agents of positive change who contribute to building peaceful, just, and inclusive communities.

Forging Partnerships for Lasting Impact

The University also maintained its standing in SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, remaining within the 1001–1500 band. This recognition highlights the institution’s continued dedication to building meaningful collaborations with local communities, government agencies, industry partners, and international organizations. Through these partnerships, the University strengthens its capacity to create sustainable and lasting impact.

Behind these accomplishments is the collective effort of the entire University community. Faculty members continue to pursue impactful research and innovative teaching practices. Students actively engage in programs that address real-world challenges. Administrators and staff work tirelessly to strengthen institutional systems and community partnerships. Together, the University of Luzon remains steadfast in its pursuit of academic excellence, social impact, and global relevance.

As higher education institutions around the world face increasingly complex global challenges, the University of Luzon continues to prove that meaningful progress is achieved through purpose-driven action. The improvement in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 serves as a powerful affirmation that the University’s efforts are making a measurable difference—not only within the campus but also in the communities it serves. The University of Luzon will continue to inspire even greater efforts in the years ahead.

The University of Luzon proudly recognizes Rowena Solar Ferrer, RN, MAN, a distinguished alumna whose remarkable career in nursing reflects decades of dedication, leadership, and service to the healthcare profession.

A graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program of Luzon Colleges (now the University of Luzon) in 1988, Ms. Ferrer has devoted more than three decades to advancing patient care and nursing excellence at the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) in Dagupan City.

After successfully passing the Nursing Licensure Examination in 1988, she began her professional journey as a Staff Nurse at R1MC in 1990. Through her commitment, competence, and unwavering work ethic, she steadily rose through the ranks—from Staff Nurse to Senior Nurse, Nurse Supervisor, Nurse IV, and presently serves as Nurse V, a position she has held since 2023.

Demonstrating a passion for lifelong learning, Ms. Ferrer further strengthened her professional expertise by earning a Master of Arts in Nursing from Lyceum Northwestern University. Throughout her career, she has actively participated in numerous local and national seminars, conferences, and professional development programs focused on leadership, patient safety, clinical nursing practice, healthcare innovation, and nursing administration.

Her leadership and commitment to the nursing profession have earned her notable recognitions, including the Leadership Excellence Award from the Philippine Nurses Association and a Loyalty Award from Region 1 Medical Center.

Beyond her clinical and administrative responsibilities, Ms. Ferrer has generously shared her knowledge and expertise as a resource speaker and facilitator in various nursing training programs, helping mentor and develop future generations of healthcare professionals.

She is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the Philippine Nurses Association, the National League of Government Nurses, the Association of Nursing Service Administrators of the Philippines, and the periOperative Registered Nurses Association of the Philippines (ORNAP).

Ms. Ferrer’s inspiring journey stands as a testament to the values of excellence, integrity, and service that the University of Luzon strives to instill in its graduates. Her dedication to improving healthcare delivery and empowering fellow nurses continues to make a meaningful impact on the profession and the communities she serves.

The University of Luzon proudly celebrates Rowena Solar Ferrer as a shining example of Luzonian excellence, whose career continues to inspire aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals to pursue their calling with passion, compassion, and commitment.

As we begin a new academic year, we also embark on an exciting new chapter with the launch of the Legend of UL Pillars, a unifying framework that captures the University’s vision of transforming dreams into legacies.

Rooted in the pillars of Dream, Growth, Perecias, and Valias, the Legend of UL Pillars reflects our commitment to developing graduates who are knowledgeable, innovative, highly skilled, and guided by strong values. It reminds us that education is more than the pursuit of academic excellence; it is a journey of personal growth, professional mastery, and meaningful service to society.

For every Luzonian, this journey begins with a dream. Through learning, discovery, perseverance, and purpose, that dream is transformed into a legacy that creates positive impact in our communities and beyond.

As we open this new school year, we invite every member of the UL community to embrace the Path of the Tiger—to dream boldly, learn passionately, lead responsibly, and serve with integrity.

Together, let us continue building a University that inspires excellence, shapes character, and empowers future generations.

Welcome to School Year 2026–2027.

Welcome to the Legend of UL Pillars!

Welcome to the Path of the Tiger: the Journey from Dream to Legacy!


Dr. Aurora M. Samson-Reyna
Vice-President for Academic Affairs

In a remarkable first-time showing, the University of Luzon (UL) has earned global recognition in the prestigious World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) Rankings, celebrating its dedication to innovation and holistic student development. Unveiled at Franklin University in Switzerland on June 7,2024, this achievement marks a proud milestone for UL as it positions itself among top universities worldwide in culture, entrepreneurial spirit, and student engagement.

A Celebration of Culture and Values

One of UL’s standout accomplishments is its 12th-place ranking in the Culture and Values category. This recognition celebrates the university’s commitment to an inclusive learning environment that emphasizes cultural awareness, ethical conduct, and social responsibility. UL’s ethos of fostering respect and social consciousness among students resonates deeply, setting a model for education that goes beyond academics to create compassionate global citizens.

Fostering Entrepreneurial Spirit

In another impressive feat, UL secured the 21st spot globally in the Entrepreneurial Spirit category. This placement highlights the university’s strong culture of innovation and support for student-led initiatives, encouraging a hands-on approach to learning and business creation. By equipping students with practical knowledge and mentorship, UL is empowering the next generation of business leaders and innovators, who are already making waves in their communities.

Supporting Students in Every Way

Rounding out this trio of achievements, UL was ranked 67th globally in Student Support and Engagement. This category underscores the university’s comprehensive approach to student well-being, offering a range of programs that go beyond academics. From counseling services to active campus organizations, UL is committed to creating a supportive and engaging campus life that enables students to thrive personally and academically.

These rankings stand as a testament to the tireless dedication of UL’s faculty, staff, and administrators, and especially to the visionary leadership of Dr. Carmelo Vidal and Dr. Dolores Bustillo. Under their guidance, the university has been breaking new ground, extending UL’s reach far beyond traditional academic boundaries.

A Future Defined by “Perecias y Valias”

With this remarkable WURI achievement, the University of Luzon is living up to its core principle, “Perecias y Valias”—the balance of skills and values. This success serves as an inspiring chapter in UL’s history, reminding students, faculty, and alumni alike that education is not only about knowledge but about building character and resilience.

As UL steps confidently onto the global stage, this achievement is a powerful motivator for continued excellence. For the University of Luzon, the journey is just beginning. This recognition is both a celebration and a call to further uplift the institution and its students, ensuring that UL remains a beacon of innovation, integrity, and inspiration for years to come.

In a momentous ceremony marking the culmination of the 75th Diamond Jubilee, Hon. Belen Fernandez, the esteemed City Mayor of Dagupan, bestowed the prestigious Pamirbir tan Pamagalang Diamond Award of Recognition upon the University of Luzon. The university was recognized as a pioneering institution in the advancement of higher education in the vibrant city of Dagupan. Receiving the award on behalf of the university is Dr. Luis M. Samson Jr., UL’s Executive Vice President.

The Diamond Award of Recognition stands as a testament to the outstanding commitment and contribution made by the University of Luzon to the field of education, specifically within the city’s boundaries. With a legacy of excellence spanning several decades, the university has continuously strived for academic superiority, innovative programs, and transformative experiences for its students.

The university’s commitment to providing accessible and quality education has empowered countless individuals to pursue their dreams and aspirations. By fostering a nurturing environment that encourages intellectual growth and personal development, the University of Luzon has been instrumental in shaping the lives of its students and contributing to the city’s overall progress.

In addition to its academic pursuits, the University of Luzon has actively participated in various community outreach programs, forging partnerships with local organizations and government agencies. Through these collaborations, the university has contributed to the city’s social and economic development, making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of its residents.

Receiving the Pamirbir tan Pamagalang Diamond Award of Recognition is a significant milestone for the University of Luzon, symbolizing the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and innovation. It serves as a reminder of the university’s pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Dagupan City and its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to growth and progress.

As the 75th Diamond Jubilee celebrations come to a close, the University of Luzon stands as a shining example of academic excellence and community engagement. It continues to spearhead the advancement of university education in Dagupan City, serving as a beacon of inspiration for other institutions and a source of pride for the entire community.

The Award is a true testament to the institution’s unwavering dedication to educational excellence and its significant contribution to the city’s growth. It serves as a reminder that education is the cornerstone of progress and the key to a prosperous future for Dagupan City and its residents.

In the mid-1960s, when the country was experiencing unprecedented turmoil and student strikes were occurring left and right, Mario Panoringan led the officers of the Supreme Student Council of the University of Luzon to peaceful and effective resolutions of issues plaguing the student council, earning the respect of his peers and the UL administration.

During the 1969 Graduation Ceremony, UL’s president, Atty. Luis Samson, presented him with the inaugural “Leadership Award” in recognition of his exceptional leadership. He received one of the “Ten Outstanding Students” awards the same year.

Mr. Panoringan also served as the editor-in-chief of the University of Luzon’s yearbook, “Maroon and Gold,” the sports editor of The Collegian, and the executive producer of the stage play “South Pacific,” in which Linda Magno starred as the leading lady and Erna Fernandez Uka served as the director. In addition, he was the Grand Prefect of the fraternity Tau Gamma Sigma.

Moreover, he represented the University of Luzon at multiple national conferences, such as the 7th YMCA Rizal Youth Leadership Training Institute (with 100 scholars from all over the Philippines), the First Malolos Youth Congress held at the historic Barasoin Church, the First Philippine National Student Conference held at the UP Diliman campus, and the Student-Educators Seminar in Baguio, to name a few.

Mr. Panoringan discovered his passion for sports, specifically basketball, during his first and second years as a representative of Commerce B. During this period, Commerce B won two consecutive championship trophies at the intramural games. In 1965 and 1966, he was named Most Valuable Player and Leading Scorer, respectively. He was classmates and friends with Amado Espino Jr., with whom he was dubbed the fastest tandem at the time.

Finally, Mario Panoringan met the love of his life, registered nurse Norma M. Camarao, at his alma mater, our very own University of Luzon. They have been married for over 52 years.

Credentials

Mario Cendana Panoringan co-founded and was president/publisher of San Francisco’s FilAm Star News. Mr. Panoringan was the Daly City-Colma Chamber of Commerce CEO before joining FilAm Star. After 25 years running his insurance and financial services agency, he retired at 50. Before starting his consulting business in 2002, he traveled extensively for three years and worked with Outback Steakhouse, Fuddruckers Restaurant, Century Park Hotel, Philippine Airlines, Cold Stone Ice Cream, Lucky Group of Companies, and Goldilocks-SSF.

He chaired the Daly City Planning Commission, which approved the $170 million Pacific Plaza Project on Junipero Serra Boulevard. He led the first Philippine Trade and Tourism Mission in 1999 as Daly City-Colma Chamber of Commerce president. He was president of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of San Francisco and two-time chairman of the SAMTRANS Citizens Advisory Council, serving the required nine years.

In 1998, Panoringan was named “Daly City Citizen of the Year” and “Professional of the Year” by the Peninsula Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. He was the association’s first and only Filipino president in 1994–95. He founded the Filipino American Coalition and the Daly City-Quezon City Sister City Committee.

He founded the Skyline College Presidents Council and led the Daly City Supporters of Doelger Senior Center, Inc. He was a board director of the Peninsula Community Foundation, the Peninsula Colleges Foundation, the American Heart Association, the United Way of San Mateo County, and the Seton Medical Center Services Foundation. The 12th Philippine President, Fidel V. Ramos, appointed him Honorary Consul.

Panoringan was the keynote speaker at the University of Luzon’s 1997 graduation ceremony, where he received the Most Outstanding Alumni Leadership Award. The 2011 Alumni Success Forum awarded him the Global Alumni Award. He graduated from Pangasinan National High School in 1965.

Panoringan is a Jaycees International Senator and US Jaycees Ambassador. He has received many awards for his business and civic contributions. Traveling, books, golf, and movies are his hobbies.

He married retired nurse Norma Camarao. They have two grandchildren, Ryan Jared and Katrina Nicole, and two children, Mario Jr. and Anne Marie. Mario was born in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines, to Martin and Nicetas Cendana Panoringan.

Life is a constant struggle and one cannot stay comfortably with what one has achieved or become. Things constantly change like a virus mutating. Mario Sanchez dreamt to be a doctor but due to a poverty-stricken life, Mario became a Nurse Practitioner in the United States instead. This strong-willed person is not afraid of changes and hard work. In his younger years, he recalled walking barefooted in grade school when his pair of slippers got torn off beyond repair not serving its purpose. At an early age of 8, he would wake up before the rooster crows in order to sell fruits in the market as the sun rose, then he would trek to the public elementary school in Mangatarem, Pangasinan. These things constantly remind him to always be grounded in life.

There is no time to think of self-pity with the circumstances one has but to challenge oneself through life in education. Mario graduated B.S in Medical Technology in 1987 at the University of Luzon (formerly Luzon Colleges) in Dagupan, Pangasinan. His college sacrifices paid off when he took the Philippine Medical Technology National Board Exam and got 2nd Place in August of 1988. For about 6 years, he taught at the University of Pangasinan College of Medical Technology and Natural Sciences Department. Teaching was always a natural ability whether it required various preparations like Biochemistry, Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, or Zoology. Mario’s heart was always into teaching and giving to Med Tech Students and Nursing Students. Mario knew that in order to progress he had to leave his beloved country in order to help his family by moving to Canada.

After he immigrated to Canada, he enrolled at St. Clare College – Windsor, Ontario in 1994 to earn a Diploma in Nursing with a 4.0 GPA. With this academic excellence, he then relocated to New York City to work as a staff nurse at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2008 at Long Island University, and in 2011, he completed his Master of Science in Nursing with a dual program in Family Nurse Practitioner at Long Island University, New York. He is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) candidate, June 2023 at Chamberlain University College of Nursing. Mario always loves the clinical and academic aspects. A former adjunct faculty at New York University (NYU) College of Nursing, he holds various national certifications such as being Board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner by American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC); nursing Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) and Stroke Certified Registered Nurse (SCRN). He also holds a national medical certification from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a certification that is only traditionally given to medical professionals in the United States.

Learning is something of value and Mario feels significant when he gets to update himself with new knowledge added to his career. Mario finds time to help AFTA with their flagship project, Balik Turo, for 8 years now in his hometown. Currently, he works as a Senior Clinician and as a Nurse Practitioner at the Forest Hills Rehabilitation, and works part-time as a Primary Care provider at True Care Medical PC., serving the underserved community in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Mario dreams of a greater Philippines with a healthcare system that is globally competitive, just, and equitable to the Filipino people.

Recently, he received the Dangal ng Lahi 2022 Award from AFTA (the Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America), the highest honor bestowed by the Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America for outstanding achievement and service to the teaching profession. The awardees honor not only Fil-Am educators in the United States but also our Philippine heritage.

Related Link

Hall of Fame

Coastal development, population growth, climate change, and the loss of habitat are all factors that are increasing the severity of the impacts of coastal flooding. The presence of mangroves acts as a first line of defense against erosion and flooding. They also reduce the impact of waves and storm surges. Mangroves can also provide adaptive defenses because, given the right conditions, they can keep pace with the rise in sea level through a process called vertical accretion. In national budgets and wealth accounts, the monetary worth of mangroves in terms of the services that are dependent on their preservation, such as flood protection, is typically not taken into account. Estimates of the benefits of flood protection have traditionally been restricted to studies conducted at the local and national scales.

On October 19, 2022, the top award for environmental action was given to the Bonuan Boquig National High School, which is located in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. The announcement was made during a press conference in London, United Kingdom, via YouTube live. The T4 World’s Best School for Environmental Action Prize was established to recognize the significance of youth, students, and schools in climate action that engage with potential solutions to the problems posed by global warming. The school’s Mangrove Planting Project, with Professor Maria Linda Roman-Ventenilla as project lead, which was initiated in 2010 after a massive flooding event that destroyed hundreds of hectares of bangus (milkfish) ponds, was selected as the winning entry. During that time, Professor Maria Linda Roman-Ventenilla was serving as the principal of the school. Over 100,000 mangroves have been planted since it started. Currently, she is the chief of the City Schools Division’s curriculum implementation division.

The fact that Professor Maria Linda Roman-Ventenilla attended and graduated from our very own University of Luzon is a source of immense pride for all of us here at UL. Professor Roman-Ventenilla is just one more example of the kind of brilliant, ambitious leader that our school has a history of turning out—people who go on to leave an indelible mark on the world. We are grateful to her for her advocacy and the active implementation of projects that assist in the fight against climate change and the degradation of the environment, a problem that humanity can only overcome through cooperation and collaboration.

Professor Roman-Ventenilla was a former faculty member of the College of Liberal Arts and an esteemed graduate of the said college, batch 1987.

Related Links

World’s Best School Prizes: Bonuan Boquig National Highschool, Philippines
BBNHS is T4 World’s Best School in Environmental Action

Dagupan City, Philippines – The University of Luzon (UL) has proudly upheld its status as an autonomous institution for over 13 years, a distinction first granted in 2009 by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This recognition, the first of its kind in Region I (Ilocos Region), underscores UL’s unwavering commitment to excellence in higher education.

Autonomy, as defined by CHED, is reserved for universities that demonstrate a high standard of instructional quality, supported by robust internal quality assurance systems. These institutions boast outstanding program outcomes, marked by a significant proportion of accredited programs, recognition as Centers of Excellence or Development, and international certifications. In essence, autonomy is a badge of honor that reflects a university’s dedication to providing the highest quality education.

The University of Luzon’s journey toward autonomy is a testament to its relentless pursuit of academic excellence. This distinction represents the institution’s commitment to delivering top-tier education, continuously innovating and adapting to the demands of the modern world. UL’s enduring autonomy is not merely a status; it is a promise to its students and stakeholders that they deserve nothing less than the best.

“Our autonomous status is a direct result of our devotion to life long learning,” President Macarthur M. Samson Sr. stated. “We are inspired by the tiger’s relentless spirit—unyielding, focused, and ever-determined. This symbolizes our drive to continually achieve and maintain our autonomous status while striving to be the best version of ourselves.”

With its autonomous status, UL enjoys greater academic freedom to innovate, develop new programs, and implement cutting-edge curricula, empowering students and faculty alike. As the only university in the region to receive this recognition at the time, UL has cemented its place as a leader in higher education.

Looking forward, the University of Luzon remains steadfast in its mission to improve and adapt, ensuring it stays ahead in the ever-evolving educational landscape. Its journey of progress is far from over, as the university continues to embody the vision of being a beacon of excellence for students, faculty, and the community it serves.

With autonomy as both a responsibility and a reward, UL solidifies its legacy as a trailblazer in education, proving that true excellence is not a destination, but an ongoing pursuit.