Pinoy Power in NYC: PH Universities on Global Mission

Five of the Philippines’ premier academic institutions took center stage in a series of educational events in New York, aimed at promoting the country as a top destination for higher education among Filipino-American and international students.

Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU), Cebu Institute of Technology–University (CIT-U), De La Salle University (DLSU), University of the Philippines (UP), and University of Santo Tomas (UST) engaged with students, parents, and educators during a three-day outreach organized by the Philippine Consulate General in New York and the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI).

The Philippine Consulate General in New York warmly welcomed the academic delegation upon their arrival and expressed full support for the initiative, recognizing it as a timely opportunity to showcase the strength and global competitiveness of Philippine higher education.

The outreach began with the inaugural Philippine University Fair at the Philippine Center in Manhattan on May 31. University officials presented their academic programs, international collaborations, and student experiences. Leading the delegations were Dr. Maria Luz C. Vilches of AdMU; Engr. Bernard Nicolas S. Villamor of CIT-U; Br. Bernard S. Oca FSC of DLSU; Dr. Leo DP Cubillan of UP; and, from UST, Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., PhD, joined by Dr. Philipina A. Marcelo and Assoc. Prof. Jacqueline O. Lopez-Kaw, DCL.

The presentations were followed by an interactive Q&A session, where attendees inquired about admissions, scholarships, and opportunities for campus visits.

The universities participated in the Philippine Independence Day Parade along Madison Avenue and hosted booths at the accompanying street fair. The public engagement attracted not only alumni but also new audiences interested in exploring educational opportunities in the Philippines.

The delegation concluded its New York visit with outreach programs at two Brooklyn public high schools—The High School for Global Citizenship and Clara Barton High School for Health Professions—where university representatives discussed the quality, affordability, and accessibility of Philippine education. Several students expressed interest in pursuing studies in the Philippines.

The three-day campaign served as a platform to reconnect with Filipino-American youth and introduce Philippine universities as viable, globally competitive institutions. It also helped strengthen academic and cultural partnerships between the Philippines and the United States.