MSU TCTO ranks 201-300 Globally in SDG 14 (Life Below Water), becomes first HEI in Bangsamoro to enter THE Impact Rankings

MSU TCTO ranks 201-300 Globally in SDG 14 (Life Below Water), becomes first HEI in Bangsamoro to enter THE Impact Rankings

Bongao, Tawi-Tawi – June 18, 2025 – Mindanao State University - Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO) has achieved a historic milestone: earning a rank in the prestigious 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. This marks the first time a university from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), located in the southernmost part of the country, has received this global recognition.

MSU-TCTO placed in the 3rd bracket (201-300) globally for SDG 14: Life Below Water, out of participating universities and colleges around the world. This is an exceptional achievement considering the rigorous evaluation criteria and the inherently complex, interdisciplinary demands of marine sustainability. This recognition is particularly significant for Tawi-Tawi and the Southern Philippine archipelago, where the University plays a critical role in advancing research and advocacy for ocean conservation, coastal ecosystem protection, and the sustainable management of marine resources in one of the country's most biodiverse yet vulnerable maritime regions.

On its first attempt to join the THE Impact Rankings, MSU-TCTO placed within the 1501+ bracket among 2,500 universities worldwide, with commendable performance in their dedication towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings evaluate universities’ contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), measuring their commitment to sustainability and societal impact. The 2025 rankings, unveiled at the Times Global Sustainable Development Congress in Istanbul, Türkiye, highlight institutions excelling in these global priorities.

“This is an incredibly proud moment for MSU-TCTO and for the Bangsamoro,” stated Chancellor Dr. Mary Joyce Guinto-Sali, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in guiding MSU-TCTO to this monumental success. “Our inclusion in these rankings underscores our commitment to making a tangible difference in our communities and beyond, especially as a pioneering institution from this vital part of the Philippines,” she added.

This significant achievement for MSU-TCTO contributes to the broader success of the MSU System, as sister campus MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology also secured a place in these highly regarded rankings. It also stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the late President of the MSU System, Atty. Basari D. Mapupuno, whose dedicated stewardship laid the groundwork for such remarkable accomplishments across the university system.

MSU-TCTO’s accomplishment is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating that factors like scarce resources, geographical distance, or institutional size are not insurmountable barriers to advancing the SDGs. Situated at the southernmost tip of the Philippines, MSU-TCTO proves that dedication and strategic initiatives can lead to impactful work and global recognition. Guided by its vision of “a society where education knows no boundaries” and its mission of “Creating Opportunities and Transforming Lives,” MSU-TCTO is actively broadening access to education and knowledge sharing.

This recognition is a powerful acknowledgment of the University’s relentless efforts in forging a sustainable future, especially for the island Province of Tawi-Tawi. A region acutely vulnerable to the pervasive effects of climate change, Tawi-Tawi is home to many vulnerable sectors of society whose livelihoods and well-being are directly impacted by environmental shifts. MSU-TCTO’s deep engagement with the rich heritage of Tawi-Tawi and its active participation in community outreach underpin its commitment to local initiatives with global impact.

In the past decades, MSU-TCTO has always been a major player in the Blue Economy through its College of Fisheries and the Institute of Oceanography and Environmental Science. The University cultivates a robust research culture and actively promotes technology transfer across all sectors of its academic community. This is demonstrated by the substantial volume of scholarly outputs, particularly those published in reputable, peer-reviewed, Scopus-indexed journals, alongside strong citation metrics. Emphasis is often placed on translating research findings into practical applications, including the development of innovative technologies, policy recommendations, and strategic intervention through capability-building trainings, functional literacy programs, and boosting the island’s rich aquatic resources to empower local communities through education and entrepreneurial development.

Aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos’ vision of to develop the Blue Economy, MSU-TCTO is engaging in discussions with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) on the Blue Economy Governance Framework, affirming Tawi-Tawi's strategic location within the Coral Triangle, reflecting the University's commitment to integrating Blue Economy principles into its academic programs, research activities, and community engagement; fostering sustainable development in Tawi-Tawi and the wider region, while also reinforcing the Philippines’ identity as an archipelagic country and a strong maritime nation.

For the people at the grassroots level, this achievement translates into tangible benefits. MSU-TCTO’s work in line with the SDGs means more targeted research on climate change adaptation, improved community resilience programs, enhanced access to education and sustainable livelihoods, and stronger partnerships with local stakeholders to address pressing environmental and social issues. This international recognition validates and amplifies these crucial efforts, potentially opening doors for increased funding, collaborations, and expertise that will directly benefit Tawi-Tawi’s most vulnerable communities.

This historic feat not only ascends MSU-TCTO’s standing on the international stage, but also shines a spotlight on the academic excellence and societal contributions emanating from southern Philippines. The University remains dedicated to fostering research, education, and community engagement that align with sustainable development principles.

For more information about the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, please visit:

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