National University (NU), one of the country’s oldest private institutions of higher learning, officially opened its 13th campus in the Philippines with a grand launch event on Saturday, signaling its continued expansion and commitment to accessible, quality education beyond Metro Manila.
The event, titled PAGHIMUGSO 2025 — a Visayan term meaning “birth” or “emergence” — was held at the North Wing of SM City Cebu.
It marked a historic milestone for NU as it planted its academic roots in Cebu, the Queen City of the South, and positioned itself to play a larger role in shaping the next generation of Filipino professionals in the Visayas region.
The launch was headlined by high-energy performances from the NU Pep Squad, reigning champions of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition, whose routines energized the crowd and reflected the university’s spirit of excellence.
Alumni athletes from NU’s celebrated basketball and volleyball teams also made appearances, underscoring the school’s reputation in both academics and sports. Their testimonials highlighted the values and discipline fostered by their time at NU, resonating with students and parents in attendance.
Top officials of the university, led by President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos H. Ermita Jr., were present at the event, along with members of NU’s leadership team. Their presence emphasized the strategic importance of the Cebu expansion to NU’s long-term vision.
Local government officials, including incoming Cebu City Mayor Engr. Nestor Archival, also attended, reaffirming public-private sector collaboration to strengthen educational infrastructure in the region.
Hundreds of attendees, including students, parents, and members of the academic community, gathered to witness the celebration. Many of the attendees were among the first enrollees to NU Cebu, forming part of its pioneering batch.
The event featured interactive segments, including a Q&A portion where 13 students won special prizes — a symbolic nod to NU Cebu being the 13th campus in the NU system.
NU Cebu is set to begin classes on July 21, 2025, for Academic Year 2025–2026. The campus offers undergraduate programs in Accountancy, Architecture, Computer Science, Psychology, Tourism Management, and Medical Technology.
It also has a Senior High School program with academic tracks in STEM, ABM, and HUMSS. Enrollment is currently open and will continue until slots are filled.
The campus promises modern facilities and industry-aligned curricula aimed at equipping students with future-ready skills.
NU emphasized that the Cebu campus will uphold its commitment to affordable, accessible, and holistic education while fostering excellence in academics, sports, and character formation.
Business News Asia