West Visayas State University took part in the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community High-Level Forum 2026 on March 4, 2026 at The Peninsula Manila, joining regional leaders and stakeholders in discussions aimed at strengthening a resilient and people-centered ASEAN Community.
The forum was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which currently chairs the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community pillar under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, represented WVSU as part of the Philippine higher education delegation endorsed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
Discussions focused on identifying actionable strategies to advance a resilient, cohesive, and people-empowered ASEAN while strengthening cooperation across the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars of the regional bloc.
Meanwhile, Mr. Johnric Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator of DagYoung Student Ambassadors, also attended the forum, representing the youth sector through the National Youth Commission. His participation highlighted the role of young leaders in shaping inclusive and future-ready pathways toward the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
Through its participation, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to international engagement and regional cooperation, contributing to ongoing conversations that aim to empower ASEAN citizens and strengthen collaborative solutions to shared challenges.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
