On February 26, 2026, Southville International School affiliated with Foreign Universities (SISFU) reached a powerful milestone, celebrating its 28th Anniversary. This event served as a testament to nearly three decades of vision, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of global achievement in transnational education.

The anniversary theme highlighted SISFU’s growth from a bold dream into a premier institution that has produced over 1,500 graduates currently making their mark in diverse industries across the globe.

A Foundation of Gratitude and Leadership

The celebration commenced with a solemn Mass, grounding the SISFU community in gratitude. Following the service, the main program at Monarch’s Hub brought together the distinguished leaders who continue to steer the institution’s growth:

• Ms. Jocelyn Tizon, SGEN President
• Dr. Melva M. Diamante, SISFU Chairman
• Mr. Roger Bartholomew, SISFU Co-Founder
• Mr. Daniel Steel, Sr. Director for Strategy and Partnerships and Dean of Academics
• Mr. Rex Wallen Tan, SGEN Chief Technology Officer
• Mr. Leopoldo Gonzaga Anoche, Senior Director of SISFU Flex Programmes
• Ms Zheela Montecillo, SISFU Registrar and HR Head
• Mr. John George Pastor, Director of Academic Operations, Principal SISFU SHS and Allied Programmes
• Dr Astrid De Leon, SISC College Director
• Mr Rolly Donato, SGEN Academic Director

The event also received high-level recognition from global partners and local government leaders, including representatives from De Montfort University, Pearson, and CHED-IAS. Messages of support were also extended by Mayor Edwin Olivarez of Parañaque and Mayor April Aguilar of Las Piñas, reinforcing SISFU’s deep ties to both the local community and the international stage.

A Legacy of Vision: Limitless Global Opportunities

A defining moment of the day was the address by SISFU CEO and Founder, Dr. Genevieve Ledesma-Laurel. She reminded the “Paladins” (SISFU students) that global opportunities are limitless for those who prepare and persevere.

Dr. Ledesma-Laurel cited the success of her son, Mr. Rex Wallen Tan, as a prime example of the SISFU mindset. His technology leadership reflects the core values instilled at the school: innovation, excellence, and global readiness.

“SISFU began as a simple but powerful vision: to bring world-class, transnational education closer to Filipino students.” — Mr. Roger Bartholomew (Mr. B), Co-Founder

Empowering Success: Alumni and Student Spotlights

The 28th-anniversary celebration wasn’t just about looking back; it was about showcasing the tangible results of a SISFU education.

• Alumni Excellence: MBA alumna Ms. Elvie Sanchez, now Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at The Bellevue Hotels and Resorts Manila, shared a moving testimonial. She credited her SISFU education with providing the strategic leadership skills necessary to thrive in the competitive hospitality industry.
• Creative Talent: The vibrant campus culture was on full display with performances by Chloe Diga and Mr. Patrick Javier, winners of SISFU Got Talent, proving that Paladins are as creative as they are academically driven.

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28 Years Strong: Looking to the Future

As SISFU marks its 28th year, it continues to bridge the gap between local talent and global demand. By offering international degrees and diplomas right in the Philippines, the institution ensures its students are “world-ready” from day one.

With a legacy built by visionaries and a future fueled by innovation, SISFU remains a beacon of academic excellence in the Asia-Pacific region. Twenty-eight years strong—and the future has never looked brighter.