CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines – Samar State University joined the nation in celebrating Buwan ng ASEAN 2025 through a vibrant program held on August 26, 2025 at the SSU Convention Center Lobby, with the theme “Sama-sama sa Pag-unlad.” The celebration showcased the essence of ASEAN integration as students, faculty, and staff came together to honor the shared vision of unity, progress, and cultural appreciation across the region.
The day began with a colorful Parade of ASEAN Nations at the SSU grounds, following the university’s flag-raising ceremony. Faculty and staff proudly donned cultural costumes representing ASEAN member states, bringing the vibrance of Southeast Asian culture to life. A ribbon-cutting ceremony signaled the official opening of the celebration.
In his message, University President Dr. Redentor S. Palencia highlighted the significance of ASEAN, founded to accelerate economic growth among member states, advance social progress and cultural development, and strengthen peace and sustainability across the region. He also emphasized the importance of anchoring SSU’s curriculum on global education, with Peace Education as a key proponent, reminding the SSU community of its vital role in helping achieve the ASEAN Vision.
A highlight of the program was the inspiring testimonials of SSU’s international exchange students. Jevah Mae V. Piamonte, who joined a student exchange program in Indonesia, reflected: “Academic collaboration is not just about sharing knowledge; it is about building bridges of understanding. It is about learning to appreciate our differences and celebrating our shared heritage.”
On the other hand, Dave A. Prudenciado, who represented SSU in Vietnam, shared how the exchange transformed him personally and academically. “This exchange program gave me more than just knowledge – it gave me friendship, cultural understanding, and personal growth. My advice to everyone is simple: always stay humble, work hard, and grab opportunities when they come. You will be surprised how far life can take you.”
The program was made livelier with the SSU Piktaw Cultural Ensemble’s performance of the Curracha dance, a showcase of Filipino artistry and tradition. Meanwhile, the Kultura ng Sining exhibit brought ASEAN closer to home through cuisines prepared by the Food Technology faculty and students, offering free tastes of diverse Southeast Asian flavors.
Adding flair to the festivities, the ASEAN Ramp featured office and college representatives who took center stage in their cultural costumes. Their presence on the ramp served as both a creative showcase and a visual reminder of ASEAN’s unity in diversity, drawing admiration from the audience.
Through this year’s Buwan ng ASEAN celebration, SSU reaffirmed its commitment to advancing global awareness, cultural understanding, and collaboration. By embracing the ASEAN spirit of unity in diversity, the university continues to nurture students who are globally competitive yet deeply rooted in shared values of peace, progress, and cooperation.