Northwestern University Holds First-Ever Asean Day: A Celebration of Inclusivity and Sustainability
The first ASEAN Day at Northwestern University was held at the Worship Center on August 29, 2025, highlighting the theme “The ASEAN Way: Inclusivity and Sustainability.” The event brought together students, faculty, and leaders in a dynamic program aimed at deepening awareness of ASEAN’s mission while strengthening internationalization efforts.
The program opened with welcoming remarks from Prof. Jezreel Larry Caunca, Acting Director of the PhilForesight Institute, who emphasized the significance of regional engagement and student participation in global conversations. He encouraged the audience to view ASEAN not only as a regional organization but also as a platform for inclusive growth and long-term cooperation.
Moreover, Prof. Karl Lenin C. Benigno, Vice President for Administration, in his keynote address, highlighted the critical role of inclusivity and sustainability in ASEAN’s policies and leadership. “Inclusivity means making sure no one is left out, whether in ASEAN initiatives like the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights and the ASEAN Youth Volunteer Program, or on campus by ensuring smaller organizations and quieter voices are given equal priority alongside larger ones,” he stated.
On sustainability, he urged students to think beyond symbolic acts like tree planting, emphasizing that it means making decisions today that protect the future. He highlighted ASEAN’s Smart Cities Network as an example of efforts to create livable, safe, and green environments, noting the university’s commitment to become the region’s first smart campus by 2032, integrating technology and safety measures in line with ASEAN’s vision.
Additionally, Dr. Charliemane A. Bullalayao, Vice President for Academic Affairs, also addressed the delegates, affirming the university’s role in advancing ASEAN’s goals. He emphasized that being a deregulated institution positions Northwestern University to pursue academic innovation while producing graduates who are socially responsible and globally competitive. “Inclusivity must be a practice, not just a principle. Sustainability must be a way of life,” he said, challenging students to lead with vision and responsibility.
Another highlight of the program was the recognition of Political Science students who completed 25 online certificate courses under the ASEAN Youth Organization Academy. These courses ranged from diplomacy and environmental governance to digital economy and social journalism. The awarding, led by Prof. Jezreel Larry Caunca celebrated students’ achievements in engaging with ASEAN’s critical regional issues.
The event also featured a Quiz Show about ASEAN affairs and a Couch Talk segment, wherein student delegates from Northwestern University shared their experiences at the 1st Ilocos Norte Model ASEAN Meeting (INMAM), held from August 8–10, 2025, at the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Supreme Student Council President Marc Laurence Faylogna, as he expressed gratitude to all participants, organizers, and guests for the success of ASEAN Day. He also acknowledged the efforts of student leaders, particularly CASSO and KWAGO, adding, “Leadership is not about always being seen but about ensuring that something worth seeing actually happens.”
Through this pioneering event, Northwestern University reaffirmed its place as an active partner in advancing ASEAN ideals, empowering its students to be informed, inclusive, and future-ready leaders for Southeast Asia.
