In support of the 54th Founding Anniversary of Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), the WVSU Center for International Linkages and Public Information (CILPI) organized the first-ever ASEAN Day celebration on August 27, 2021, with the theme We care, we prepare, we prosper, honoring the chairmanship of Brunei Darussalam’s chairmanship this year.
A Virtual Panel Discussion on Women in the ASEAN Region was the highlight of the celebration It brought into light the strength, power, and challenges of the women in South East Asian nations. Six female panelists were invited from different countries in South East Asia, namely: Indonesia, Laos, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. An expert from one of WVSU’s partner universities in Taiwan was also invited as guest panelist.
A poll regarding what questions the WVSU community wanted to ask the women in the ASEAN region was conducted by the CILPI Office to determine what specific questions will be asked during the Panel Discussion proper. Most of the answers geared towards shaping society and empowerment:
“Let’s all of us be the push for everyone who need strength. Let’s be the hands for everyone needs help and let’s be the shoulder to everyone who are tired and mourning.” -Ms. Dona Saraswati Galindo, Indonesia-Philippines
“Women, we have to voice out. We want to contribute to our society.” -Prof. Shuchuan Liao, Asian University, Taiwan
“Once you’ve already achieved for yourself what you’ve dreamt achieving, then it’s time to give back and to help others to achieve their dreams.” -Atty. Jo Kristine Celera-Revil, Philippines
“Women is really strong, I want women to be aware of their rights and also be more confident.” -Ms. Somsavanh Outhavy, Laos
“Be yourself to the fullness. Everyone matters.” – Ms. Ninalyn Sulit-Cacananta, Singapore-Philippines
“Do not let discrimination weaken or degrade your spirit, for you yourself dictate your destiny. Be strong and stay strong.” – Asst. Prof. Dr. Napisa Waitoolkiat, Thailand
Prof. Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, CILPI Director, also encouraged the WVSU community to take part in every opportunity in the ASEAN, “It’s time to think about what we can contribute as WVSU community. After all, we are one ASEAN.”
The event was in partnership with the Gender and Development Office, Development Communicators’ Society, and Young Journalists’ Society.
To note, the Chairmanship of ASEAN Anniversary rotates every year alphabetically, according to the English name of the ASEAN member-country.# – Zennia Mirasol/CILPI