Foundation University Alumnus Jo-Dann Darong Named 2026 AsiaGlobal Fellow

Foundation University proudly congratulates distinguished alumnus Jo-Dann N. Darong on his selection as a 2026 AsiaGlobal Fellow by the Asia Global Institute of the University of Hong Kong. The University of Hong Kong is ranked 11th globally in the QS World University Rankings and holds the #1 spot in Asia in the QS Asia University Rankings.

The AsiaGlobal Fellows Program is one of Asia’s most prestigious leadership initiatives. It brings together exceptional global leaders from the government, business, academia, civil society, and international organizations to address critical policy and development challenges.

This year’s program received over 2,500 applications worldwide, and only 17 were selected as fellows. The fellowship runs from September 7 to November 13, 2026, combining online sessions, intensive residential programs in Hong Kong, and study missions in Mainland China.

​Darong has built a remarkable record of excellence, beginning right here at Foundation University. Darong completed his Bachelor of Science in Commerce, major in Economics, at Foundation University in 2007. He graduated with University Pin Honors and earned recognition as the Most Outstanding Graduate of his batch.

He represented Foundation University at the Ayala Young Leaders Congress, the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines, and the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations. The University named him Most Promising Alumnus in 2022 and Outstanding Alumnus in 2024. These early opportunities  helped shape the leadership skills he brings to national service today.

Currently, Darong serves as Director III at the Department of Trade and Industry. He also serves as the focal person for international relations and head of communications of the Competitiveness and Innovation Group, while also serving as Assistant Director of the Bureau of Competitive Development.

According to the Asia Global Institute, Darong's selection recognizes his distinguished work, contributions, and initiatives in the Philippines. During the fellowship, he will pursue research on how Asian cities build and sustain their global standing, with particular focus on institutions, innovation ecosystems, creative industries, and place-based development strategies that foster urban competitiveness, resilience, and inclusive growth.

Darong joins a distinguished list of global leaders who have earned international recognition while staying rooted in Foundation University’s core values of excellence, commitment, integrity, and service - values he first embraced as a student on our campus. We look forward to the insights he will bring back to our country and to future generations of Foundationites.