A moment of pride and inspiration unfolded as presidents of Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) from Eastern Visayas joined national leaders in higher education during the Higher Education Summit 2026, held at the SMX Convention Center Clark from March 10–12.

The three-day summit, themed “Achieving Sustainable Futures: Transformative Higher Education for Human Capital, Innovation, and Global Responsibility,” brought together leaders from state universities and colleges (SUCs), LUCs, and private higher education institutions across the country.

Through this gathering, stakeholders sought to strengthen collaboration while addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities confronting tertiary education in the Philippines.

Among the distinguished participants were Eastern Visayas LUC presidents, including Dr. Clemelle Montallana of Abuyog Community College, Dr. Jett C. Quebec of Burauen Community College, Dr. Nigel Cornejo of Catbalogan Community College, Dr. Inday Lynn Orsolino of Colegio De Las Navas, and Atty. Nolito M. Quilang of City College of Ormoc. Their presence underscored the region’s active participation in shaping the national discourse on higher education reform.

Notably, their participation was made possible through the initiative and steadfast support of Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office VIII. Through his leadership, collaboration among higher education institutions in Eastern Visayas continues to gain momentum, further strengthening the region’s voice in national educational initiatives.

Meanwhile, the summit itself was spearheaded by the Commission on Higher Education under the leadership of Chairperson, Dr. Shirley Agrupis.

The event aimed to advance the ACHIEVE Agenda, a strategic framework designed to transform higher education through innovation, global competitiveness, and sustainable practices aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

During the opening program, Dr. Agrupis emphasized that the strength of the nation ultimately depends on a resilient and responsive higher education system.

Such a system, she explained, must equip learners with the competencies needed to navigate increasingly complex societal challenges.

“The future of higher education will be shaped by how effectively this entire ecosystem works together,” she stressed, highlighting the importance of collaboration among institutions, policymakers, and industry leaders.

Furthermore, the summit was organized in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology that fostered meaningful discussions on curriculum relevance, science-driven human capital strategies, and cross-sector partnerships.

These dialogues, in turn, aimed to better prepare graduates for the demands of a rapidly changing and interconnected world.

Ultimately, for the LUC leaders of Eastern Visayas, their participation in the Higher Education Summit 2026 signified more than mere attendance. Rather, it reflected a shared commitment to strengthening local higher education institutions while contributing to national progress through transformative, inclusive, and sustainable educational reforms.