Dr. Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria Reappointed as President of Universidad De Manila
Manila, Philippines — September 2, 2025 — The Universidad De Manila (UDM) proudly announces the
reappointment of Dr. Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria as its University President, following the unanimous vote of
the UDM Board of Regents (UDM-BOR). Her appointment comes after she successfully served the
unexpired term of her predecessor, Ms. Malou Tiquia, steering the university to unprecedented growth and
global recognition.
reappointment of Dr. Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria as its University President, following the unanimous vote of
the UDM Board of Regents (UDM-BOR). Her appointment comes after she successfully served the
unexpired term of her predecessor, Ms. Malou Tiquia, steering the university to unprecedented growth and
global recognition.
During her first four-year tenure, Dr. Tria transformed UDM into one of the fastest-rising higher education
institutions in the country. Under her leadership, UDM secured its place in the 2025 Times Higher
Education (THE) Impact Rankings, positioning the university within the 1001–1500 global band out of
more than 2,300 universities worldwide. The institution excelled particularly in the categories of No
Poverty, Gender Equality, Partnerships for the Goals, and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, affirming
UDM’s relevance in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Her administration also achieved 100% Certificates of Program Compliance (COPC) for all 18
undergraduate programs and obtained Level II ALCUCOA Accreditation in record time—achievements
that secured UDM’s reputation as a center of quality education. In licensure examinations, UDM
consistently outperformed national averages, boasting a 92.41% passing rate in Criminology, 83.33% in
Nursing, and 100% in the 2025 Special Licensure Exam for Teachers.
Beyond academic performance, Dr. Tria championed research and innovation through the regular
publication of the NILAD Journal and faculty participation in global conferences. Her leadership also
strengthened UDM’s internationalization thrust, resulting in over 50 international partnerships with
universities and organizations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. These collaborations opened opportunities
for student exchanges, joint research projects, and curriculum development, enhancing UDM’s global
standing.
Infrastructure development also marked her term, most notably with the inauguration of the Amb. Francis
Chua Technology Wing in 2024—a state-of-the-art facility designed to prepare students for the digital
future. Social support programs, such as the distribution of over ₱171 million in Social Amelioration
Program (SAP) funds and the ₱3.5 million Taas Noo Manileño Graduation Gift, further demonstrated
UDM’s commitment to student welfare and inclusive education.
In accepting her reappointment, Dr. Tria expressed gratitude and outlined her vision for the university’s
next chapter.
“Universidad De Manila will continue to be an institution that uplifts lives and transforms futures. Our
vision is to strengthen UDM as a globally engaged local university—committed to excellence in research,
innovation, and sustainability, while remaining deeply rooted in serving the youth of Manila. We will
continue to align our programs with the UN SDGs, expand our international networks, and nurture ethical
leaders prepared for the challenges of the 21st century,” she said.
Her renewed leadership is expected to consolidate the gains of her first term and chart an even bolder path
for UDM’s future, making it not only a university for Manila, but also a university for the world.
