SDSN Philippines General Assembly 2025 & Leadership Council Meeting

SDSN Philippines successfully held its General Assembly 2025 online through Zoom, due to inclement weather, bringing together its Member Institutions and Business Partners for a day of knowledge exchange, partnership-building, and strategic planning. As the Network is composed of academic and research institutions, non-governmental organizations, and civil society organizations, it is uniquely positioned to tackle knowledge gaps in solutions-building for sustainable development.

The event opened with an invocation and the national anthem, followed by Welcome Remarks from Dr. Francisco Magno, Chair of the National Leadership Council, who emphasized the critical role of collective action in accelerating SDG progress in the Philippines. He reminded participants of the responsibilities and purpose of SDSN, and what it entails to be a member.

Participants then heard a series of thematic presentations from member institution representatives. Mr. Ed Valenzuela from Ateneo de Manila University discussed advancements and community initiatives related to SDG 2: Zero Hunger. Dr. Harold Bueno from Far Eastern University, shared updates on Education for Sustainable Development, emphasizing institutional strategies for integrating SDGs in curriculum and student engagement. Dr. Nathaniel Bantayan, of the University of the Philippines – Los Baños, presented their progress on carbon neutrality initiatives, particularly in campus operations and environmental stewardship. Dr. Jeanette Bayona and Dr. Rex Paulino of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology delivered insights into SDG localization, showcasing approaches and frameworks that strengthen community-level SDG integration. Ms. Rafaella Justine Marie Villena, National Coordinator, highlighted ongoing efforts of SDSN Youth Philippines in mobilizing young leaders nationwide.

After a short health break, members participated in Network Project Meetings, allowing institutions to discuss ongoing collaborations, share updates on flagship initiatives, and align priorities for the coming year. Representatives from each group were able to share a synthesis of their discussions, and recap potential areas of collaboration within the SDSN Philippines sphere. The General Assembly concluded with Closing Remarks from Mr. Antonio Carlos Maralit, who underscored the importance of sustained participation and shared responsibility among members.

Leadership Council Meeting

In the afternoon session, the Leadership Council reconvened for its meeting. Strategic directions, governance matters, upcoming events, and action plans for enhancing SDSN Philippines’ impact in 2025 and beyond were crucial points the council members discussed in depth. The 2025 SDSN Philippines General Assembly reaffirmed the network’s commitment to advancing the SDGs through collaborative research, community engagement, and evidence-based policies. With renewed partnerships and strengthened ties, SDSN Philippines continues to serve as a national platform for transformative solutions toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.