By Ciarra Mae G. Imbang and Mary Angel Lou S. Tribiano
Various universities and colleges from Panay and Guimaras Island, participated in the ASEAN Exhibit featuring the culture, cuisine, and tradition of the ASEAN countries at Robinsons Mall, Jaro, Iloilo City, September 26-30, 2022.
The event was the product of the collaboration of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region VI and the Western Visayas Association of Higher Education Institutions (WVAHEI), that was in line with the 55th ASEAN Founding Anniversary.
The gallery shows the participating schools’ booths that represent the ASEAN countries.
West Visayas State University - INDONESIA
Salam pembuka!
Indonesians believe in the concept of gotong royong (mutual assistance) and mufakat (consensus), along with their national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in diversity). Jam Karet (rubber time) highlights the cultural attitude that life should not be rushed, everything has its time and place.
Central Philippine University – PHILIPPINES
Maligayang Bati!
The Philippine culture comprises a blend of Filipino and Spanish Catholic traditions, with influences of America and other parts of Asia. One thing that makes the Philippine culture unique is their use of the terms “po” and “opo”, as a sign of respect for the elders. Filipinos nurture the community spirit and camaraderie through “bayanihan”, a tradition of helping others without expecting something in return.
Iloilo Science and Technology University - CAMBODIA
Svakom!
Cambodians exude national pride. It is the home of Angkor Wat, and the birthplace of the great Angkor Empire, which ruled over many parts of Southeast Asia, during its peak from the 11th to 13th century. Cambodia is dubbed the Kingdom of Wonder, as a rich culture and heritage run through the veins of its people. From magical apsara dancers and traditional music, to elaborate ceremonies and stage shows, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant local scene.
Iloilo State College of Fisheries - VIETNAM
Lời chào hỏi!
Vietnamese culture includes ancestor veneration and worship, respect for community and family values, manual labor, and religious belief. The spiritual life of Vietnamese is influenced by three main religions: Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. Their important cultural symbols include 4 holy animals: Dragon, Turtle, Phoenix, and Unicorn.
Colegio de San Jose- MYANMAR
Haallo!
Myanmar’s tradition is an amalgam of folk and royal cultures. Buddhism has been a part of Myanmar’s culture since the 1st century AD, and blended with non-Buddhist beliefs. Most people in Myanmar adhere to a uniquely Burmese religion, based on the worship of nature spirits, or ‘Nats’. There are 36 Nats, representing human flaws or vices, in the officially sanctioned pantheon.
Northern Iloilo State University - SINGAPORE
Ni hao!
Singapore is a cosmopolitan society where people live harmoniously, and interaction among different races are commonly seen. The pattern of Singapore stems from the inherent cultural diversity of the island. The immigrants of the past gave the place a mixture of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences.
Capiz State University- MALAYSIA
Salaam!
Malaysia is a multicultural society. The main ethnic groups are the native Malays, the large population of Chinese, and Indians. The ethnicities retain their religions, customs, and way of life. The most important festivals for each group are their public holidays.
University of Antique- BRUNEI
Apa abarnya!
The Malay culture and the Islam are the great influences in Brunei. It has diverse demographics, with Malays comprising more than two-thirds of the population. The remainder consists of Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups such as Muruts, Dusuns, and Kedayans.
Aklan State University- LAOS
Somsoeny!
The Lao government divides the population into three main ethnic categories, according to the altitude at which they live: Lao Soung (higher mountain), Lao Theung (lower mountain), and Lao Loum (lowland). Laos developed its culture and customs, as the inland crossroads of trade and migration, in Southeast Asia over millennia. In Southeast Asia, traditional Lao culture is considered one of the Indic cultures, along with those of Burma, Thailand, and Cambodia
Guimaras State University - THAILAND
Thạkthāy!
Often referred to as ‘The Land of Smiles’, Thailand is renowned for the welcoming and warm disposition of its culture and people. Rice plantations and ornate temples are interspersed in and around busy cosmopolitan cities, reflecting the diversity of landscapes and lifestyles.
