Driving SDG Localization Across the Philippines
With only a few years remaining in the 2030 Agenda, the Philippines faces the urgent challenge of accelerating progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While national policies provide strategic direction, meaningful progress depends largely on how local governments, universities, civil society organizations, businesses, indigenous peoples, youth organizations, and communities localize the SDGs.
SDSN Philippines
The University Sustainability Office at De La Salle University currently serves as the host institution of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network’s Philippines Network (SDSN Philippines) Secretariat, intent on leaving lasting change with the Network before handing leadership over to a new host institution in 2027.
Since its founding in 2015, SDSN Philippines has grown to host 50 institutional members and partners, including Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. From research institutes to state universities and colleges, and the country’s leading academic institutions, each member is committed to knowledge building and sustainability.
The Leadership Council, led by Dr. Francisco Magno, convened in August 2026 to discuss strategic partnerships, growth opportunities, and exciting projects that will come to fruition later this year.
National Roadshows
SDSN Philippines has continued its National Roadshows, bringing together universities and development stakeholders to identify regional priorities, document innovative practices, expand partnerships, and co-create collective actions that accelerate SDG localization.
In October 2025, DLSU and the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology held the first roadshow in Iloilo, Visayas. This was followed in April 2026 by the Luzon Roadshow, co-organized by DLSU with Ateneo de Naga University in Naga City. Together, the roadshows convened over 400 partners, attendees, speakers, and sustainability advocates.
The third Roadshow will be held in Davao City in October 2026. Co-organized by DLSU, Ateneo de Davao University, the University of Southeastern Philippines, and Davao del Sur State College, the upcoming SDSN Philippines Mindanao Roadshow expects unique stories and solutions from the region.
SDG Kapihan Initiative
The network will soon launch a new initiative, “SDG Kapihan.” In Tagalog, Kapihan is translated to "coffee place" or “coffee house.” The program will introduce a less intimidating format to discuss sustainable development, as compared to other forums or plenaries.
This knowledge-sharing initiative is designed for members and partners to share SDG-related projects, initiatives, and experiences, with central themes rotating per month, all while enjoying a cup of coffee. A key focus will be the country network’s project areas: SDG Localization, Zero Hunger, Education for Sustainable Development, and Carbon Neutrality.
To stay connected with the SDSN Philippines, explore its newly launched website and follow the Network on Facebook.
