UNP Celebrates ASEAN Month 2025 with Colorful Parade and International Seminar
The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) recently completed its ASEAN Month 2025 celebration with a colorful “Parada ng ASEAN” and an international seminar on September 1, 2025. Themed “Buwan ng ASEAN: Sama-Sama sa Pag-unlad” (ASEAN Month: Together for Progress), the events highlighted the university’s focus on regional collaboration and sustainability.
Parada ng ASEAN
The celebration began with the Parada ng ASEAN, which transformed the traditional Monday flag-raising ceremony into a vibrant celebration of culture and unity. Students from various colleges participated by wearing traditional costumes that represented the ten ASEAN member states, allowing the university community to appreciate the region’s cultural diversity.
During the parade, students displayed a variety of traditional outfits while marching across the campus, embodying the spirit of ASEAN’s unity in diversity. The event was attended by UNP’s executive officials, faculty, administrative staff, and students, who showed their support for the participants. The presence of academic leaders underscored the university’s commitment to fostering international and intercultural education, deemed essential for developing globally competitive graduates.
Coordination and Focus on Cultural Understanding
The activities were coordinated by the International Affairs and External Linkages Office, led by Director Dr. Sally Jarin. This office focuses on enhancing UNP’s connections within the ASEAN framework and emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural understanding and student engagement to promote international solidarity.
The ASEAN costume parade not only served as a cultural exhibition but also celebrated unity, reinforcing UNP’s engagement with the global community. The College of Teacher Education (CTE) & Laboratory Schools was awarded for Best ASEAN Traditional Costume for their representation of Malaysia.
International Seminar on Sustainability
The festivities concluded with a hybrid international seminar titled “Green Horizons: Cultivating Sustainability and Resilience in the ASEAN Context.” This seminar was attended by students and faculty from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand in person at UNP Tadena Hall and through Zoom. Esteemed speakers shared insights on sustainability challenges and technological advancements in the region.
Mr. Henry Jordan Moskovitz, a Peace Corps Volunteer in Vigan, addressed climate change as a significant sustainability issue. Dr. Dhananjay Kumar from Assam Down Town University discussed innovative agricultural practices employing artificial intelligence and smart technologies. The discussions aimed to address environmental challenges and explore pathways toward sustainable development in the ASEAN region.
Source: UNP News Release
