Baguio Central University participated in the 5^th Annual Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) Conference, held from July 9 to 11, 2025, in Silliman University (SU), Negros Oriental State University (NOSU), and St. Paul University Dumaguete, Dumaguete City. Themed "Breaking Barriers, Empowering Change," this three-day event gathered 211 registered participants-change-makers, esteemed leaders, innovators, and scholars from various universities united in breaking barriers and fostering empowered, forward-thinking responses to today's complex issues.

According to Honorary President Dr. Dong-Sung Cho, the Hanseatic League of Universities draws inspiration from the historic Hanseatic League-a centuries-old alliance that flourished on the principles of trust, openness, and cross-border collaboration. Established in April 2018 by ten visionary university presidents at Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen, the Netherlands, the HLU was founded to rekindle the spirit of cooperation that once united nearly 190 city-states across Europe from the twelfth to seventeenth centuries.

Today, the HLU stands as a vibrant global partnership, dedicated to advancing knowledge-sharing, innovation, and sustainable development. Guided by four core visions-practice-oriented program development to serve society and industry, a customer-focused approach for prospective students, inclusive service for both members and non-members, and a commitment to mutual learning-the alliance seeks to create meaningful opportunities for growth and collaboration. In pursuit of these ideals, the HLU introduced the World's Universities with Real Impact (WURI), now the World University Ranking for Innovations ranking system, a pioneering initiative designed to recognize and celebrate universities that make genuine contributions to society. Through these efforts, the HLU continues to champion a future where openness, innovation, and shared learning drive progress for all.

CAR HEI delegates Dr. Jeffrey S. Ingosan (University of the Cordilleras), Dr. Genevieve Balance Kupang (Baguio Central University), and Jessica Balag-ey (Easter College) with international HLU Board Member Dr. Ibrahim H. El Kaila (Badr University, Cairo, Egypt) and WURI President for Expert Dr. Jude William Genilo (University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh). Photo taken at the Luce Auditorium, Silliman University. Credit: 5th HLU Conference Facebook Page.

Dumaguete City, known as the "City of Gentle People," offered an inspiring and welcoming environment for this gathering. The opening ceremony at Silliman University's Luce Auditorium featured cultural performances, welcome remarks and keynote presentations from notable figures including.... HLU president-elect Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi, former CHED commissioner Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, former HLU president Samuel Martin Barbero, and honorary HLU president Professor Emeritus Dr. Dong-Sung Cho, Dr. Carl E. Balita, Founder, President and CEO of Dr. Carlo E. Balita Review Center, Dr. Dina S. Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines, and Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, CHED Chairperson. The event was skillfully guided by Prof. Muffit Herlyn Pampilo as the lady of Ceremonies.

In his welcome remarks, Pres. Noel Marjon E. Yasi expressed "A warm welcome to the 5th Annual Hanseatic League of Universities Conference here in the vibrant heart of Dumaguete City-a place renowned for its rich academic heritage and serene beauty. Known as the "City of Gentle People," Dumaguete embodies the spirit of learning and hospitality, making it the perfect setting for our gathering.

 Years ago, the Hanseatic League redefined collaboration across borders, fostering trade, trust, and transformative ideas. Today, we draw inspiration from that legacy, uniting as universities committed to intellectual exchange, innovation, and collective progress. This year's Conference theme, Breaking Barriers, Empowering Change, calls us to strengthen partnerships, advance sustainable solutions, and reimagine education's future amid global challenges. Together, let us ignite bold ideas and actionable collaborations for lasting impact."

Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, HLU Board Member and former CHED Commissioner-who championed NORSU's role as this year's co-hosts-reflected on the vital mission of educators. His message deeply resonated with the writer of this article: "We break barriers by challenging outdated systems, redefining excellence to embrace true inclusion, decolonizing knowledge, democratizing opportunity, and making diversity a standard, not just a slogan," he said, capturing the essence of this year's theme. Darilag emphasized that empowering change begins with empowering stakeholders through the three Ps: purpose, power, and perspective. He urged participants to innovate with intention and integrity, calling on HLU members to lead research that addresses real-world challenges and champions sustainability, digital equity, lifelong learning, and social impact- transcending institutions, borders, and disciplines.

Former CHED Commissioner Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag (center), with WURI President for Expert Dr. Jude William Genilo (Bangladesh), HLU Honorary President Dr. Dong-Sung Cho (Korea), NORSU President Noel Marjon E. Yasi, and WURI Historian Dean Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang. Photo taken at the Negros Oriental Convention Center.

Participants engaged in breakout sessions hosted by Negros Oriental State University, Silliman University, and St. Paul University Dumaguete, focusing on key topics such as student engagement, mobility, entrepreneurial spirit, ethics and integrity, among others. Siquijor State College, one of the co-hosts, facilitated some of the breakout sessions led by Dr. Ruji P. Medina, Director, Strategic Planning, Engagement, Accreditation, and Rankings (SPEAR),  and Dr. Barbara B. Gom-os, Quality Assurance Officer. The conference also fostered camaraderie through a Welcome Dinner, Closing and Fellowship Dinner with Cultural Presentation, strengthening bonds among delegates.

The NORSU Dance Troupe captivated the audience with their vibrant cultural performance during the Fellowship Dinner on July 10, 2025, showcasing the rich heritage and artistic spirit of Negros Oriental.

By participating in this transformative event, Baguio Central University reaffirms its commitment to nurturing international partnerships, fostering innovation, and promoting educational excellence that transcends borders and empowers communities worldwide. Represented by International Relations Officer Dr. Genevieve Balance Kupang and the Graduate School Dean, Baguio Central University joined a distinguished group of global academics and leaders committed to advancing international cooperation and academic excellence. Notably, Dr. Kupang was appointed as WURI historian by Dr. Cho, the founder of WURI.

During the Breakout Session on Ethics and Integrity at NORSU, Kupang engaged with the presenters, expressing appreciation for their insights and posing a thoughtful question on the topic.

CAR HEI delegates Dr. Steve A. Solano, Head of Institutional Quality Assurance at King's College (KC); Genevieve Kupang, International Relations Officer of Baguio Central University (BCU); Bryan Dangpilen of KC; Jessica Balag-ey, Research Development and Extension Officer at Easter College (EC); and Dr. Daisy B. Olli, Dean of the Department of Criminal Justice Education at EC, together with foreign participants.

Champions of Ethics and Integrity: Dr. Jeffrey S. Ingosan (UC), Dr. Maria Josefa O. Punongbayan (RSU), Dr. Marissa M. Carale (SPUD), and Dr. Joel C. Sagut (UST) unite with passionate participants from diverse universities, capturing a moment of shared commitment to uphold values that shape education. Photo taken at Negros Oriental State University Audio-Visual Room.

The Hanseatic League of Universities Annual Conference truly embodies the Hanseatic spirit-bringing together universities and partners from around the world to share ideas, spark innovation, and forge lasting collaborations that shape the future of higher education. This year's gathering, with 211 participants from countries including Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Egypt, Korea, the Philippines, and Taiwan, highlighted the power of global unity and collective progress. Baguio Central University's active involvement in this dynamic forum reaffirms its commitment to embracing this legacy of cooperation, innovation, and transformative change-living the Hanseatic spirit as it advances toward a brighter, more inclusive academic future.

Breakout Session on "Funding for Sustainability," focusing on innovative models for institutional growth and responsible stewardship. Speakers Assoc. Prof. Ma. Jocelyn E. Cuadra, Dr. Las Johansen Caluza, Dr. James Brian Flores, and Engr. Emir Lenard SF Sicangco, together with session participants, pose for a group photo. Photo taken at St. Paul University, Dumaguete.

Announcement of the 2025 WURI Ranking During the HLU Conference

The conference's highlight was the official unveiling of the WURI Global Ranking 2025 on July 10-a system developed by HLU to assess universities based on their genuine impact on society. The joy and pride were clearly visible on the faces of attendees as they celebrated the remarkable success of the cases submitted. Everyone shared in each other's happiness, exchanging warm hugs and heartfelt congratulations.

Baguio Central University Ranks Among Global Top 400 Innovative Universities

Baguio Central University proudly joins universities worldwide in celebrating its outstanding performance in the 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). Standing out among 1,253 universities from 87 countries that submitted 4,866 innovative programs, BCU achieved remarkable rankings: 12th in Culture and Values, 21st in Empowerment-Based Management, and 47th in Funding for Sustainability, while securing the 302nd spot among the global Top 400 Innovative Universities. These impressive accomplishments reflect the passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit of the entire BCU community. The International Relations Officer extends heartfelt gratitude to BCU President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, Vice Presidents Dr. Perfecto M. Lopez, Dr. Elma D. Donaal, and Amalia F. Ancheta, CPA, as well as the Deans, faculty, staff, and students whose collective efforts continue to drive innovation and positive change. With deep joy and pride, Baguio Central University continues to soar from strength to strength.

Dean Genevieve B. Kupang, WURI Historian, shares a meaningful moment during the closing of the 5th Hanseatic League of Universities Conference, fostering global collaboration. Photo taken at Luce Auditorium, Silliman University. Photo credit: 5th HLU Conference Facebook Page.

On behalf of BCU President Madam Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, Kupang conveyed sincere appreciation to the host institutions-Silliman University, Negros Oriental State University, St. Paul University Dumaguete, and Siquijor State College-for their warm hospitality and impeccable organization, which greatly enriched the overall experience. She also extended heartfelt gratitude to the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) and the WURI Foundation Board of Trustees for their unwavering support. Mabuhay ang HLU! Mabuhay ang WURI!

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Source: Pressenza