In a Memorandum Order* last 23 December 2015, the Commission on Higher Education declare the University of the Philippines School of Library and Information Studies as the first Center of Excellence among the universities and colleges with Library and Information programs in the Philippines.

Dean Kathleen Lourdes Obille commented: "This wouldn't have been possible without all of [the] faculty, staff, students and alumni. Let's not be complacent as there's more to be done. Being a Center of Excellence is both an honor and a responsibility. Let's continue being the best at what we do. Looking forward to a productive 2016 for SLIS."

The CoE designation is effective for three years, starting from 1 January 2016.

*CMO No. 38, s.2015