ASEAN Roadshow 2023 ‘Biyaheng Palawan’ Sparks Enthusiasm for ASEAN in Palawan State University
Students of Palawan State University showcased the national costumes of ASEAN countries made of recyclable materials during the ASEAN National Costume Contest.
PALAWAN 21 November 2023 – The Office of ASEAN Affairs joined hands with Palawan State University in holding the ASEAN Roadshow 2023: Biyaheng Palawan on 09 November 2023. The event aimed at deepening understanding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) among the youth and promoting ASEAN culture.
In his welcome address, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Enrique A. Manalo, emphasized the importance of understanding the shared history and values of ASEAN Member States. He highlighted ASEAN's commitment to addressing challenges such as climate change, regional peace, and the digital divide. "As we look around us, we see the dynamism and potential of ASEAN nations on full display. With a combined population of over 660 million people and a rapidly expanding middle class, our economies have become a magnet for global investors and partners, and the opportunities that arise from our collective strength are boundless,” Secretary Manalo said.
Assistant Secretary of the Office of ASEAN Affairs, Daniel R Espiritu, in turn, stressed the vital role of the youth in regional development and security, echoing sentiments expressed by ASEAN Leaders at the 42nd ASEAN Summit held in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia.
The ASEAN Roadshow 2023 featured a dynamic and interactive ASEAN Village, showcasing booths representing each of the ASEAN Member States. Several ASEAN missions in the Philippines contributed to the affair. The vibrant display allowed students to explore the diverse cultures, traditions, and innovations in ASEAN.
A highlight of the event was the ASEAN National Costume Contest, where students showcased traditional attire from ASEAN countries made of recyclable materials. Students also competed in an on-the-spot poster-making contest centered on the theme "Philippine ASEAN Chairship 2026." The posters expressed their vision for the upcoming chairship.
Also the ASEAN Philippines National Secretariat, the Office of ASEAN Affairs gave a comprehensive talk on ASEAN History and Milestones, covering the three (3) pillars of the ASEAN Community: Political Security Community Pillar, Economic Community Pillar, and Socio-Cultural Community Pillar. The talk sparked the students’ interest, who actively participated in discussions about ASEAN. A trivia game was held after, where students won special prizes.
A representative from the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity was also present. He addressed the students and emphasized their vital role in preserving the rich biodiversity of Palawan.
The Roadshow concluded with a ceremony to honor the winners of the various contests. The event fostered a sense of unity, understanding, and pride for the ASEAN community among the students.
The DFA Office of ASEAN Affairs turned over ASEAN books and a set of ASEAN flags to Palawan State University as a token of gratitude.
The ASEAN Roadshow is a year-round project of the Office of ASEAN Affairs with Philippine schools. The inaugural first leg of the Roadshow was held in October this year at the University of Santo Tomas. END
The Office of ASEAN Affairs, represented by Acting Director Lynn Gutierrez, turns over ASEAN books and ASEAN Flags to the Palawan State University.
The Resource Speakers, members of the Organizing Committees of the Office of ASEAN Affairs and Palawan State University, students from various colleges pose for a photo.