Strengthening global ties, the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) hosted a prestigious alumni delegation from Thailand, marking the occasion with a formal ceremonial program organized by the Federated Alumni Association at Tadena Hall on December 11, 2025.
The program, highlighting cultural heritage, institutional pride, and the forging of international connections, drew University officials, staff, and students. It opened with a vibrant cultural performance, Balliwes, presented by UNP’s Matagoan Dancers, reflecting the University’s dedication to preserving and promoting Ilocano cultural identity.
“Returning ‘home’ to the University of Northern Philippines carried special meaning for its alumni, highlighted by Engr. Nestor Pajaro, Federated Alumni President, during the opening of the alumni engagement program.
Atty. Jonalyn Almachar, University and Board Secretary, formally presented the University officials, highlighting the strong leadership and organizational backbone that ensure the success of the University’s programs and initiatives.
UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna warmly welcomed the visiting alumni, highlighting the deeper significance of their gathering. In his message, he described the event as “more than a reunion—it is a celebration of shared history, a reaffirmation of friendship between nations, and a recognition of the enduring bond between our University and our alumni.” Dr. Cadorna expressed heartfelt gratitude to the delegates, affirming, “We welcome you home—home to the institution that shaped your academic journey, nurtured your personal growth, and inspired your aspirations for a brighter future.” His remarks accentuated the University’s commitment to sustaining lifelong connections with its graduates and the promotion global camaraderie among its alumni network.
Dr. Cadorna spotlighted the University of Northern Philippines’ remarkable achievements, highlighting its rising prominence on both national and global stages. The university earned a place among the world’s top 400 innovative institutions in the WURI Rankings, appeared in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings and UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, and claimed leading positions in the EduRank System.
UNP’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its high accreditation rates—93% for graduate programs and 95% for undergraduate programs—alongside a robust research output and outstanding performances in national licensure examinations. The University has produced multiple topnotchers in fields such as Geodetic Engineering, Teaching, Sanitary Engineering, Midwifery, and Psychometrics, with the College of Health Sciences ranking as the 2nd Top Performing School nationwide.
Beyond academics, UNP continues to expand its international footprint through transnational education initiatives, ISO recertification, and faculty exchange programs with partner universities across ASEAN and Australia, reinforcing its vision of delivering education that is both globally competitive and socially responsive.
Dr. Cadorna stressed the significance of collaboration in driving the University’s success, stating that “these are not just handshakes. These are the active pathways that fuel our entire mission.” He emphasized that the university’s achievements are a collective triumph, reflecting the dedicated efforts of the entire UNP community rather than any individual, highlighting the spirit of teamwork at the heart of the institution’s continued progress.
Dr. Edelyn Cadorna formally introduced one of the event’s distinguished guests, Dr. Worasak Watcharakamtorn, a proud alumnus of the University of Northern Philippines and a respected scholar from Thailand. In his keynote message, Dr. Worasak shared reflections from his academic work, highlighting lessons learned and innovations in his field that continue to shape his professional journey. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Philippines and the University that nurtured his early academic growth, proudly declaring, “I am an alumnus of the University of Northern Philippines.”
Dr. Worasak also emphasized Thailand’s enthusiastic participation in the gathering, noting that such events serve as vital platforms for fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and cross-cultural understanding. His remarks resonated with the audience, stressing the lasting impact of UNP’s international alumni network and reaffirming the strong, enduring ties between the University and its graduates abroad.
Dr. Rolando B. Navarro highlighted the enduring partnership between the University of Northern Philippines and its global alumni network during the event. He expressed deep appreciation for the UNP system’s commitment to fostering meaningful collaborations and noted that the Thai alumni community stands as a testament to the university’s growing international footprint and commitment to professional excellence. Emphasizing the mutual benefits of long-standing alumni relationships, Dr. Navarro pointed out that these connections enrich both the university and the international communities where UNP graduates make their mark.
The ceremony concluded with a powerful reflection that captured the event’s spirit: “Service rendered with compassion bears fruitful success, excellence, and gratitude.” This closing statement underscored the lasting impact of UNP graduates worldwide and the enduring unity between the university and its vibrant alumni communities.
Also in attendance were key university officials, including Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Fatima Rocamora, Vice President for Finance and Administration Mr. Albert Tejero, and the deans of various academic units, reflecting the broad institutional support for the event.”
