TSU celebrates ASEAN 58th anniversary, showcasing cultural diversity, collaboration

Tarlac State University (TSU), through the Office of International Affairs and Linkages (OIAL), proudly celebrated the 58th ASEAN Celebration on October 16-17, 2025, at the TSU Hotel, Villa Lucinda Campus. With the theme “Towards an Inclusive and Sustainable ASEAN Future,” the two-day event exhibited the University’s commitment to promoting internationalization and cultural appreciation among its academic community.

Kicking off the celebration on October 16, the IZN Hybrid Seminar gathered TSU faculty members, non-teaching personnel, and students both in-person and online via Zoom. Distinguished guest speakers Dr. Novi Andayani Praptiningsih, M.Si from the Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof.Dr Hamka (UHAMKA) and Ms. Joyce Santiago Savage, a TEDx and Global Motivational Speaker, provided insightful information on topics like Stress Management and Resilience in Challenging Times: Thriving, Not Just Surviving, emphasizing the value of mental health and flexibility in the constantly changing academic environment.

In the afternoon, unity and creativity were in full display during the ASEAN Exhibit Competition, where the Team Main, composed of members from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS), College of Business and Accountancy (CBA), and the College of Public Administration and Governance (CPAG), clinched the first place for their exhibit on Cambodia’s vibrant culture, cuisine, and festivals.

The following day, October 17, the excitement continued as TSU's teaching and non-teaching staff engaged in friendly competition as part of the ASEAN Family Feud. The event tested participants’ quick thinking and knowledge about Southeast Asian trivia questions. The CBAces team from the College Business and Accountancy (CBA) emerged as champions, where they bested 12 other teams, and ultimately outsmarted the CASS Maninisid na Dolphins in the semi-final round.

TSU faculty and non-teaching staff captivated the audience with their charm, elegance, and ASEAN-inspired costumes during the Mr. and Ms. ASEAN 2025 pageant, which culminated the two-day celebration. As part of TSU's 119th Foundation Week celebrations, the event showcased the participants' beauty and self-assurance as well as the university's solidarity in honoring cultural diversity.

The 2025 ASEAN celebration served as a lively reminder of the university's responsibility to advance regional cooperation and to promote inclusivity, sustainability, and teamwork both inside and outside of the academic community.

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