This paper documents the proceedings of the Higher Education Symposium, a forum dedicated to examining the structural and policy challenges facing the Philippine tertiary education sector. The discussion centers on the need for transformative reforms in institutional governance, the enhancement of research productivity, and the alignment of academic programs with both national development goals and global standards. Key themes include the sustainability of funding for state universities and colleges (SUCs), the integration of technology in specialized instruction, and the role of higher education in fostering social mobility and innovation. By synthesizing insights from academic leaders and policy experts, the proceedings offer a roadmap for strengthening the quality, accessibility, and resilience of the country's education system. Ultimately, the symposium emphasizes the critical need for collaborative stakeholdership to ensure that Philippine universities remain competitive and responsive to the demands of the 21st century.