DAVAO CITY – National University officially launched its first Mindanao campus on Saturday, April 25, during the PANUNDAYAW: NU Davao Grand Launch at SM City Davao, with national and local officials highlighting expanded access to quality education and opportunities for students in the Davao region.
City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte, in a message delivered by Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, welcomed the university. He emphasized education as a key priority under Davao City’s 12-point agenda.
“Education is one of the key priorities under the 12-point agenda of the City Government of Davao, anchored on our commitment to produce globally competitive, innovative, and values-driven individuals across all sectors of society,” Mayor Duterte said.
He added that NU Davao is expected to help produce globally competitive and values-driven individuals while expanding access to quality education for young Dabawenyos.
Mayor Duterte said the city recognizes institutions committed to academic excellence and holistic formation, adding that NU Davao’s programs are expected to equip students with knowledge, skills, and competencies while molding future nation-builders and responsible citizens.
Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II, in a message read by Councilor Diosdado Angelo Mahipus Jr., described the university’s launch as a significant addition to the city’s educational landscape.
He added that NU’s presence would help shape students through education anchored on compassion, integrity, innovation, resilience, and patriotism.
Vice Mayor Duterte emphasized the role of education in preparing individuals to face evolving national challenges. He urged educators to guide students and learners to remain open to mentorship as they develop skills and perspectives that can address societal concerns.
NU Philippines Chairman and SM Prime Holdings Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Hans T. Sy said the expansion to Davao aligns with the institution’s goal of bringing educational opportunities closer to students outside Metro Manila.
“I am very happy that National University is now here because we are continuing the legacy of my father, Henry Sy, who always believed that education is the real equalizer. I wish he were here to see this,” Sy told Davao reporters.
Sy noted that the university aims to reach 100,000 students by 2027 or 2028, but stressed that expanding access to education for deserving Filipinos remains the priority.
He added that locating the campus within SM City Davao helps manage costs by leveraging the mall’s existing infrastructure, keeping tuition more affordable while providing students with exposure to a real business environment.
Sy also said the university plans to expand further across Mindanao, with Davao serving as a strategic starting point.
Commission on Higher Education-11 Education Program Supervisor Dr. Liza Suan said the launching strengthens the region’s academic landscape by bringing a historic institution to Davao.
Suan noted that the campus offers world-class facilities and industry-aligned programs that would help transform students into future leaders and innovators.
Department of Education-11 Director Dr. Alan G. Fernando also welcomed the university, citing support from Schools Division Superintendents across the region and potential enrollment for senior high school.
Fernando said NU Davao’s trimester scheme helped DepEd understand new academic structures and may benefit future institutions adopting similar programs.
He added that eligible senior high school students enrolling at NU Davao may receive subsidies of up to P20,000 under DepEd programs, further expanding access to education.
NU President and Chief Executive Officer Renato Carlos Ermita Jr. said the Davao campus is the university’s first in Mindanao and its 15th campus nationwide, forming part of NU’s plan to establish 20 campuses in 10 years.
Ermita said the university currently serves about 84,000 students and aims to expand opportunities in regions with growing demand for higher education.
“The university plans to partner with local industries to align academic programs with economic needs and contribute to Davao’s continued growth through education,” Ermita said.
Engr. Jonathan Nick Santos, senior assistant vice president for operations in Mindanao for SM Supermalls, said the campus reflects a shared commitment to making education accessible and affordable.
Santos added that integrating the university within the mall creates a modern learning hub that connects academic learning with real-world experiences.
NU Davao Executive Director Edwin J. Loma said the campus represents an academic commitment to quality and discipline, offering senior high school and college programs including architecture, computer science, medical technology, psychology, accountancy, management accounting, and tourism management.
Loma said the NU campus aims to serve as an academic home for Mindanao, emphasizing character formation, competence, innovation, and opportunity for students in the region.
