The United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, which led to the establishment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals serve as a framework for countries to align efforts toward fostering peace, prosperity, and global partnership for people and the planet. They represent a universal call for action to ensure holistic development for present and future generations.   As the National University, the University of the Philippines (UP) affirms its commitment to the SDGs by establishing the University of the Philippines-Centre International de Formation des Autorités et Leaders Philippines (UP-CIFAL Philippines). As the research, training, and capacity-building hub for sustainable development in the Philippines, UP-CIFAL endeavors to support UP’s role as a national leader in SDG advocacy and implementation.  Last 05-06 December 2024, UP-CIFAL Philippines successfully conducted a two-day Strategic Planning Session and Workshop.  During the event, the following insights were raised and discussed by the participants:  The important role of HEIs in implementing and localizing the SDGs within their localities and communities. They also serve as a catalyst for innovation and solutions to current global challenges. There is a moral and existential imperative for inculcating the principles of sustainable development. The university’s sustainability efforts cannot be simply reduced to compliance for budgetary and international ranking purposes. Limited faculty, student, and staff awareness and engagement towards the SDGs. Budgetary and infrastructure constraints in implementing SDG-related plans and programs.  In line with the insights raised, UP-CIFAL will conduct a needs assessment exercise in cooperation with the UP System, UP Diliman, UP Manila, UP Los Baños, UP Open University, UP Baguio, UP Visayas, UP Cebu, UP Tacloban, and UP Mindanao.