ISUFST earns first ICONS award for global efforts

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) received national recognition at the Commission on Higher Education’s 2025 Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards on Dec. 10 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

ISUFST was among the Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) honored for advancing internationalization in teaching, research, and community engagement — marking a milestone in its 68-year history.

The ICONS Awards recognize HEIs showing momentum in global engagement, rising visibility in international rankings, and commitment to sustainability, ASEAN awareness, and inclusive education.

Representing ISUFST at the event was Dr. Jeanette G. Bayona, director of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages.

“ISUFST may be a small university by national standards, but our dreams for our students have always been big,” Bayona said. “This award tells us that our efforts — to connect, to collaborate, and to open global doors for our learners — are finally being seen.”

University President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr., CESO VI, described the award as a collective achievement shaped by the contributions of educators, students, and community members.

“This is a milestone shaped by many hands — teachers who give more than what is required, students who dare to dream beyond our shores, and communities who believe in the promise of education,” he said.

“For the first time in our history, ISUFST has been recognized on a national stage for internationalization. This is a victory we dedicate to the families and fisherfolk who built this university from the ground up.”

He added that the recognition strengthens ISUFST’s commitment to developing programs and partnerships that preserve its fisheries heritage while pursuing global relevance.

The university also marked two other milestones in 2025 — its debut in the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings and the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, particularly under the “Life Below Water” indicator.

Founded in coastal Iloilo, ISUFST has steadily expanded its international reach through academic exchanges, faculty training, and sustainable development programs rooted in community needs.

Siason said the university aims to deepen its global engagement while honoring its origins.

“We will continue creating programs and partnerships that honor our roots in fisheries while pushing us toward global relevance,” he said.