“The state of the University of Northern Philippines is strong – strong in service, strong in spirit, and strong in our desire to create a future together.”
With these reflective words, University President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna opened his State of the University Address (SUA), held on November 6, 2025, before a hall filled with university officials, faculty, staff, students, and distinguished guests. The moment was both a celebration of achievement and a reaffirmation of purpose marking six years of transformation under his leadership.
In his report, Dr. Cadorna proudly announced that UNP climbed from 287th to 219th place in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). The University also ranked 3rd in the world for Industrial Application and Ethics and Integrity, and 9th for Student Support and Engagement.
“These are not just numbers,” he said. “They are the results of our shared commitment to relevance, integrity, and compassion in everything we do.”
UNP likewise secured improved standings in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings and the UI Green Metric World University Rankings, where it now places 325th in the world, a leap of more than 140 places from last year. “These global recognitions are reflections of who we are,” Dr. Cadorna emphasized. “A university in a heritage city that can compete and lead on the world stage.”
He also underscored the University’s achievements in quality assurance and accreditation. UNP now boasts 14 out of 15 graduate programs (93%) and 35 out of 37 undergraduate programs (95%) accredited by AACCUP. Furthermore, the University also earned Institutional Accreditation Level III and holds 50 Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) from CHED, solidifying its position as a premier higher education institution in the North.
He highlighted also that UNP continues its strong record in licensure examinations. The past year produced eight national topnotchers. The College of Health Sciences was recognized as the 2nd Top-Performing School nationwide in the April 2025 Midwifery Licensure Examination.
The University’s internationalization efforts also flourished this year with 40 active international linkages across Asia and Europe, including partnerships in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, South Korea, and Italy. Notably, the College of Medicine received accreditation from the Medical Council of Thailand, allowing Thai students to enroll and complete core subjects at UNP. On the domestic front, UNP sustained 416 local partnerships, linking the University with government agencies, LGUs, industries, and civic organizations.
Dr. Cadorna also reported that 75 research projects were completed, with 42 published papers, 27 of which were indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. UNP also hosted the 5th Biennial International Conference of the Nurse Educators and Practitioners Guild, drawing participants from five countries.
He stressed that over 4,300 students benefited from scholarships and financial assistance this year, while 60 accredited student organizations actively fostered leadership, service, and creativity on campus. “Our students are the heartbeat of UNP,” Dr. Cadorna said. “Their passion gives life to our mission.”
In closing, Dr. Cadorna emphasized, “The state of UNP is strong because its people stand united. Let us continue to lead with courage, to serve with heart, and to build with purpose. When we move as one, there is nothing we cannot overcome, and there is no limit to what we can achieve.”
The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Eucharistic Mass at 7:30 a.m. at the UNP Gymnasium, presided over by the clergy of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. The solemn ceremony was an offering of gratitude for the University’s blessings and accomplishments.
The Testimonial Program followed, graced by members of the Board of Regents, administrative officials, faculty and staff, alumni, and guests.
Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Fatima F. Rocamora, delivered the welcome address, where she reflected on the meaning of the number six, both as a symbol of luck and transition. She emphasized that as UNP turns another page under Dr. Cadorna’s leadership, these six fruitful years serve as both a testament to past accomplishments and an invitation to embrace new opportunities and challenges together.
The event concluded with messages of support from the Faculty Regent, Dr. Aldrin Jaramilla; Student Regent, Jake Axel Tacadena; and Alumni Regent, Engr. Nestor Pajaro.
The closing remarks was delivered by Vice President for Finance and Administration, Mr. Albert R. Tejero. In his message, he acknowledged the dedication of every member of the UNP community and posed a heartfelt challenge to translate their pledge of commitment into meaningful action. He also reiterated his faith in collective effort and visionary leadership: “Nothing is impossible because we are being led by a servant leader through our president, Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna. We are excited, but let’s put that excitement into action.”
From ISO recertifications and topnotchers to global rankings and innovations, UNP’s journey reflects what Dr. Cadorna calls “servant leadership in action.”
Indeed, under Dr. Cadorna’s leadership, the University of Northern Philippines continues not just to rise, but to soar.
