A Culture of Doing Good: SM invests in quality education through Asia Pacific College

Asia Pacific College (APC), established in 1991 through a partnership between SM Foundation and IBM Philippines, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to providing quality education. As a non-stock, non-profit institution under the SM Group, APC has recently achieved significant milestones that underscore its dedication to academic excellence and social responsibility.

Elevating Academic Standards

In early 2025, APC’s programs in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Multimedia Arts received certification from the ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA). This prestigious recognition affirms that these programs meet rigorous standards in teaching, research, and academic delivery. APC has also maintained its Autonomous Status from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for seven consecutive years, reflecting its unwavering commitment to curriculum development, faculty excellence, research, and community service.

Strategic Partnerships for Enhanced Learning

APC has forged meaningful collaborations to enrich its educational offerings. A landmark partnership with Carnegie Mellon University-Australia in 2022 laid the groundwork for capacity-building programs. This collaboration expanded in October 2023 with a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Adelaide. Supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this alliance aims to deliver digital transformation programs, enhancing public service delivery in Philippine government agencies.

Empowering Students in the Digital Age

Recognizing the importance of cybersecurity, APC launched the Digital Defender Program in late 2024 in partnership with Gogolook, a leader in the TrustTech industry. This initiative introduced the Whoscall application to the APC community, equipping students with tools to navigate and secure the digital landscape effectively.

A Vision for the Future

APC is actively pursuing university status within the next four to five years, aiming to expand its programs and reach more students, particularly from underserved communities. The institution is also enhancing its internationalization efforts through transnational collaborations, exchange programs, and initiatives that prepare students for the global economy.

Through these strategic initiatives and unwavering dedication to quality education, APC exemplifies the SM Group’s culture of doing good, transforming education into a powerful tool for societal advancement.