SM supermalls proudly congratulates National University (NU) on its strong UAAP Season 88 performance and 125th-year milestone as the continued partnership between the two institutions helps make affordable and high-quality education more accessible to Filipinos nationwide.
NU boys’ basketball team (UAAP Media)
Guided by the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” NU secured 35 podium finishes in UAAP Season 88, composed of 13 Gold, 13 Silver, and 9 Bronze trophies. The achievement reflects the University’s strong culture of resilience, accountability, and consistent performance in collegiate athletics.
SM Supermalls continues to support National University’s mission of developing future-ready Filipinos through affordable education, values-driven leadership, and competitive sports.
Established in 1900, NU is the country’s first private, non-sectarian university. Today, SM’s corporate social arm in education serves more than 84,000 students with 15 campuses nationwide. From around 1,800 students before the SM partnership, NU has grown into one of the country’s fastest-growing educational institutions.
The partnership traces back to the vision of the late Henry Sy Sr., who believed education is the greatest equalizer. Under the leadership of Hans T. Sy, SM Supermalls and NU continue to advance that mission by making quality and affordable education more accessible to Filipinos nationwide through disciplined and purposeful expansion.
NU baseball team (UAAP Media)
Through its “Education That Works” philosophy, NU continues to strengthen programs in business, technology, allied health, engineering, psychology, and liberal arts, producing graduates prepared for industry demands.
The University’s strong academic performance is reflected in its QS Asian Ranking badge, Rank 13 placement in the Webometrics 2025 Philippine Rankings, and inclusion in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.
National University in Manila
NU’s excellence also extends to sports, highlighted by the NU Pep Squad securing its 9th UAAP Cheerdance championship title and the NU Men's Volleyball Team achieving a historic 6-peat championship run in men’s volleyball. The University also continues to build champions through milestones such as the historic 108-win streak of the NU Women’s Basketball Team and back-to-back Golden Double volleyball championships (Seasons 86-87).
SM Supermalls continues to support NU through integrated campus developments within SM communities, making education more accessible to Filipino families.
“Education and community grow together when learning is accessible and part of everyday life,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, evp for marketing at SM Supermalls.
He added that “SM Supermalls will continue working alongside NU to help shape future leaders, champions, and professionals.”
NU awardees during the UAAP closing ceremonies (UAAP Media)
NU also continues to strengthen leadership, volunteerism, and community engagement programs that reinforce empathy, integrity, and civic responsibility among students.
Under the leadership of Chairman Hans T. Sy and President and CEO Renato Carlos H. Ermita Jr., NU continues its nationwide expansion, with new campuses planned in Iloilo, Urdaneta, General Santos, and Marilao.
“NU grows because we invest in people, not profit,” said Dr. Ermita. “SM Supermalls and NU move with the same purpose. Both are built for Filipinos.”
As National University marks its 125th year, SM Supermalls reaffirms its commitment to supporting institutions that expand opportunities and make education more accessible and impactful for every Filipino.