SU celebrates ASEAN Month

Silliman University (SU) marked ASEAN Month in August 2026 with a series of activities highlighting regional cooperation, cultural diversity, environmental heritage, and greater awareness of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The celebration kicked off on August 10 with the first joint flag-raising ceremony of the School of Public Affairs and Governance (SPAG), College of Mass Communication (CMC), and College of Performing and Visual Arts (COPVA).

SPAG Dean Johanna Adanza-Diago, CMC Dean Irma Pal, and COPVA Dean Don Flores joined faculty, staff, and students from the three academic units in the ceremony, which emphasized national identity alongside the ASEAN values of unity, cooperation, diversity, and regional solidarity.

ASEAN awareness was also incorporated into the Hibalag Festival, part of SU’s 125th Founders Day celebration. The Internationalization Office, SPAG, and Office of Student Services set up informational displays featuring ASEAN member countries, including their flags, food, and cultural traditions.

On August 28, the University opened a photo exhibit at the SU Main Library featuring the birds of Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park through the works of SU alumnus Matthew V. Fernandez and friends of the University. The exhibit commemorates the designation of Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park as the 59th ASEAN Heritage Park.

Sponsored by SU Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management, the Biology Society, SU RPI, SPAG, and the Internationalization Office, the exhibit will run until November 2026.

The activities formed part of the University’s observance of ASEAN Month and its efforts to promote greater appreciation of Southeast Asia’s shared cultures, natural heritage, and regional identity among the Silliman community.