By Glen Andrea Omandam
Silliman University-Board of Trustees (SU-BOT) Chairperson Ricardo Balbido Jr. stressed “affordable and quality Christian education” during the first semester All-University Academic Convocation on July 15.
“Recent global events have considerably affected our local economy. Making our university affordable to our constituency is always a challenge that we face every waking day,” Balbido said.
He said SU as a non-profit institution ensures that it has the “liquidity reserves and alternative resources” to remain affordable.
“Whatever challenges we face, we cannot and will not compromise the quality and affordability of Christian education that Silliman delivers you,” he said.
SU reported a 30 to 40 percent drop in enrollment prior to a one-week enrollment extension in June, along with the tuition fee increase for the new academic year.
Meanwhile, The SU-BOT Chairperson also outlined developments for the University’s five C’s, which he described as expressions of SU’s identity for the academic year 2026–2027.
Balbido said that SU aims to have external experts to speak on specialized interests and topics specifically about financial concerns.
“Budgets are shifting to consider this trend and infuse more diverse learning experiences into their academic communities,” he said.
Balbido also said SU has become one of the first higher education institutions in the Philippines to adopt a framework for the responsible integration of artificial intelligence (AI), guided by the principles of contextualization, validation, and responsible use.
“The framework positions AI not as a replacement for human expertise, but as a tool that enhances teaching, learning, research, and university operations,” he said.
Moreover, Balbido said that the SU plans to standardize partnerships for internships, research, scholarships, and outreach.
“We are expanding collaborations with LGUs, non-governmental organizations, industries, and international partners to ensure that academic knowledge translates into meaningful impact,” he said.
Moreover, Balbido also said alumni engagement and fundraising efforts will be strengthened to sustain a community across generations and boundaries.
“As we remember our legacy with gratitude and move forward with hope, may we continue to build a Silliman that remains faithful to its Christian calling,” Balbido said. “Responsive to the needs of the times, and unwavering in its commitment to excellence.”
SU faculty, staff, and students from all college departments gathered at the Claire Isabel McGill Luce Auditorium as the university formally outlined its priorities, marking the opening of the first semester for academic year ‘26-’27.
