Sustainability in higher education institutions (HEIs) has become increasingly essential in fostering environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic responsibility. Community colleges, as accessible and community-rooted institutions, played a vital role in this agenda. This study aimed to assess the sustainability practices of three community colleges in Negros Occidental – LC 1, LC 2, and LC 3 – by evaluating the level of integration of sustainability efforts, institutional commitment, and the effectiveness of policy implementation. It also examined the differences among institutions in these areas. A quantitative-descriptive research design was employed. Data were collected through a structured survey administered to 575 respondents comprising faculty, administrators, and staff from the three colleges. Descriptive statistics were used to determine levels of sustainability integration, commitment, and policy provision. The Kruskal-Wallis H test was applied to assess significant differences among institutions regarding integration, institutional commitment, and policy implementation in five key areas: sustainability practices, waste management, energy conservation, water conservation, and clean air. Findings indicated a high level of sustainability integration and institutional commitment across all three colleges, with LC 1 consistently demonstrating higher scores. However, significant differences emerged in the effectiveness of institutional policies, particularly in their implementation and strategic alignment with sustainability goals. Challenges identified included limited funding and resource allocation, inconsistent faculty involvement, and varying degrees of community partnership and stakeholder collaboration. The results underscored the importance of formalizing and institutionalizing sustainability policies, improving resource support, and actively engaging both internal and external stakeholders. Strengthening conservation efforts, embedding sustainability in institutional operations, and fostering a culture of environmental and social responsibility were critical for long-term impact. The findings contributed to the ongoing discourse on sustainability in Philippine HEIs and offered practical, localized strategies for enhancing sustainability practices in community colleges.

Keywords: Sustainability, Higher Education Institutions, Institutional Commitment, Community Colleges, Environmental Stewardship, Policy Implementation.

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