BukSU Celebrates ASEAN Month with Student Competitions

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) commemorated the 57th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in August by holding student competitions centered on the theme, “ASEAN: A Community of Peace and Prosperity.”

BukSU’s International Affairs and Linkages Unit (IALU) spearheaded the inter-college competitions, which included extemporaneous speech (SMARTalk), Digital Poster Making, and ASEAN Hymn Video Making.

“Through the various competitions, we have not only deepened our understanding and appreciation of ASEAN but also reinforced our commitment to fostering global citizenship and intercultural competence among our students and faculty,” said IALU Director Dr. Rizza R. Consad.

Winners were recognized during the culminating activity on August 28, 2024, at the BukSU Mini Theater.

In the SMARTalk competition, Trixy V. Morales, a Nursing student, secured first place with her speech on the question: How has ASEAN helped me to promote equality among people, including those of Indigenous Peoples?

“ASEAN has empowered me to promote equality through knowledge, attitude, and then taking action. Knowledge is always the first step. And everything uphill is always worth the climb. In this case, what is uphill is equality,” Morales said.

Karl David B. Saqui from the College of Public Administration and Governance took second place, followed by John Brooze E. Sagayan from the College of Education in third.

Other Competition Winners:

Digital Poster Making Competition:
1st place – Jessielo Catam-isan and John Mark P. Maglangit (College of Arts and Sciences)
2nd place – Alejandro M. Cuevas, Jr. and Dona Jane S. Belandres (College of Business)
3rd place – Khyle Ivan Khim V. Amacio (College of Technologies)

ASEAN Hymn Video Making Competition:
1st place – Akira Uy, Andronicus Jay Lagumbay, and Keith Clyde L. Muyco (College of Business)
2nd place – Marian Chloe G. Gewan, Gerardo B. Arañas, and Ronald James B. Valenzuela (College of Technologies)
3rd place – Chelsey Mae A. Isla, Mariah Nellie P. Icao, and Florelle Canedee G. Ladra (College of Education)

“These contests are not just about skills but also about promoting awareness of ASEAN’s rich culture, shared values, and the importance of regional cooperation,” said BukSU’s Vice President for Administration and Finance, Mr. Dante S. Victoria, Jr.

Established in 1967, ASEAN has fostered economic growth, social progress, and cultural development in the region. The celebration of ASEAN Day highlights the organization’s achievements and ongoing efforts to promote unity and collaboration among its member countries. (BukSU-Information Unit)