July 20, 2025 – Mindanao, Philippines — Several universities across Mindanao are gaining global recognition for their research and academic performance, according to the 2025 report of the AD Scientific Index, a global ranking platform that tracks the productivity and impact of scientists and institutions based on Google Scholar citations.
The AD Scientific Index evaluates over 2.6 million scientists and 24,500 institutions from 221 countries. Its methodology focuses on transparent, real-time, and discipline-inclusive rankings that reflect both long-term and recent research impact.
MSU-IIT Tops Mindanao Rankings
Leading the list for Mindanao this year is Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), which climbed one rank higher to secure the region’s top spot. Known for its strong research culture and consistent academic performance, MSU-IIT remains a dominant force in Mindanao’s higher education landscape.
Following closely is Central Mindanao University (CMU), which made a significant leap, rising 18 positions from last year. CMU’s steady growth in research output has placed it second among Mindanao-based institutions in this year’s ranking.
Another standout performer is MSU-General Santos, which surged 23 spots, claiming the third spot. Its impressive rise reflects an expanding focus on scientific research and faculty development.
Breakthrough Performance: Davao Oriental State University
One of the most remarkable developments in the 2025 rankings is the dramatic rise of Davao Oriental State University, which jumped 104 positions from its 2024 standing. The university’s inclusion among the top gainers in the country signals a growing emphasis on research and academic excellence in previously underrepresented institutions.
Top 10 Mindanao Universities (2025)
- Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology ▲ +1
- Central Mindanao University ▲ +18
- Mindanao State University – General Santos ▲ +23
- Davao Oriental State University ▲ +104
- Western Mindanao State University ▼ -9
- Saint Michael College of Caraga ▼ -9
- Caraga State University ▲ +6
- University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines ▼ -9
- MSU – Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography ▼ -9
- University of the Philippines – Mindanao ▼ -2
Other Notable Institutions
The report also ranked over 70 Mindanao-based universities and colleges. Among the notable institutions are:
- University of Mindanao
- Ateneo de Davao University
- University of Southeastern Philippines
- Bukidnon State University
- Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan
- Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
- Holy Cross of Davao College, which rose 26 spots
- La Salle University Ozamiz, up by 8 places
- JH Cerilles State College, which climbed 40 ranks
Additionally, Sultan Kudarat State University was among the top gainers nationwide with a 50-rank increase, while Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology improved by 37 positions.
A Sign of Growing Academic Momentum
The rankings reflect not only institutional strength but also growing research activity in Mindanao’s higher education sector. Many of these universities have increased their focus on faculty research, graduate programs, and international collaboration—factors that directly contribute to improved academic visibility and performance.
These achievements also underscore the potential of regional institutions to compete globally, especially when supported by strategic leadership, research funding, and capacity building.
As Mindanao’s universities continue to climb the global academic ladder, the region reaffirms its critical role in shaping a stronger, research-driven future for Philippine higher education.