SSC Goes Global: Co-Hosting the Hanseatic League of Universities in Dumaguete
When opportunity comes knocking, Siquijor State College (SSC) answers with purpose and pride. The College proudly served as one of the co-hosts of the 5th Annual Conference of the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU), held from July 9 to 11, 2025, in Dumaguete City, Philippines. The event brought together global leaders and institutions in higher education to promote innovation, collaboration, and sustainability under the theme βBreaking Barriers, Empowering Change.β
Spearheaded by SUC President II, Dr. Steven J. Sumaylo, Siquijor State College joined Silliman University (SU), Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), and Saint Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD) as proud co-hosts of this prestigious international conference. The event aimed to strengthen partnerships across institutions, create meaningful dialogue on global education trends, and provide a platform for breakthrough ideas that drive institutional growth.
The official SSC participants were Dr. Josel B. Mansueto, Vice President for Administration and Finance, and Dr. Roel D. Taroc, Vice President for Partnership, Research, Innovation, Monitoring, and Extension (PRIME). Leading the SSC working committee was Dr. Ruji P. Medina, Director of Strategic Planning, Engagement, Accreditation, and Ranking (SPEAR). Supporting the team were Hon. Cyd A. Sarmiento, Director of External Affairs and International Linkages; Mrs. Philna S. Palongpalong, Director of Extension Services; Mr. Christopher Y. Sabado, Director of Network and ICT Support; Mr. Kurt T. BelciΓ±a, Information Technology Officer I; Mr. Jull Arcel C. Orlina, Quality Assurance Officer V; Mrs. Liezl Beth Eunice B. Suan, Research Chair of the College of Arts and Sciences; and Mrs. Barbara B. Gom-os, Quality Assurance Officer IV.
One of the conferenceβs keynote speakers, former CHED Commissioner Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, emphasized the urgency of reforming outdated education systems and championing inclusive, mission-driven learning. HLU Honorary President Dr. Dong Sung Cho also shared the inspiring story of the Leagueβs foundation and the impressive expansion of the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), which now includes over 1,200 member universities around the world.
The successful co-hosting of this international event reflects SSCβs growing role in the global education community. Like a torch lighting the way forward, the experience has brought SSC closer to its vision of becoming a university. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Steven J. Sumaylo, Siquijor State College continues to step boldly into the future, embracing every opportunity to lead, innovate, and grow.
