Romblon State University took center stage at USBONG 2025 (Uplifting Service through Borderless Opportunities and Network Growth), organized by CHED MIMAROPA on September 16โ18, 2025 at the Mindoro State University Amphitheater in Victoria, Mindoro, where higher education institutions (HEIs) across the region gathered to strengthen global pathways through internationalization, partnerships, and sustainable development.
On Day 2 of the conference, RSU led the sustainability dialogue, with Mr. Dave D. Lota, LPT, MIT, Head of the RSU SDG Center, opening the sessions by presenting the core concepts of sustainability and the SDGs. He emphasized that sustainability is no longer optional but a shared responsibility among HEIs.
This was followed by a roundtable session, showcasing RSUโs institutional practices. The panel was headed by RSU President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani, Ed.D., CESE, together with Dr. Gianinna Elaine M. Labicane, VP for Student Affairs & Services and International Relations Director; Mr. Jayson Reeves C. Mani, Global Rankings Unit Head; and Mr. Dave Lota, and moderated by Ms. Maria Josefa O. Punongbayan, Strategic Communications Office. The team highlighted RSUโs SDG initiatives, policy-driven approaches, and institutional alignment with global standards. Participants engaged in a dynamic Q&A on governance, leadership, and SDG integration, emphasizing RSUโs role as a regional thought leader.
To reinforce collaborative learning, the day featured an interactive workshop where participants were grouped into seven to design sustainability projects and draft policies for adaptation and implementation in their home institutions. This activity showcased the value of participatory and practical approaches to ensure that every HEI contributes concrete actions toward sustainable transformation.
The event also witnessed the launch of the RISE MIMAROPA Network (Regional Internationalization for Sustainable Empowerment) โ a platform uniting MIMAROPA HEIs to strengthen both sustainability and internationalization. True to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, RSU continues to champion collaboration and innovation, ensuring that no institution in the region is left behind.
Photo Credits: Mindoro State Universityย
Source/Credits: RSU International Relations Office
