𝐍𝐄𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝐠𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬!
True to its vision of being a globally renowned university, the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) has brought together international students for the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Discovery Camp Program.
Organized by the College of Management and Business Technology (CMBT) – Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) Department, NEUST International Cultural Engagement (NiCE) 2025 was a week-long program carrying the theme “Diverse Connections through Culture and Experience: Bridging Cultures for a Sustainable Future.”
According to Dr. Lora Yusi, Director IV of the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office III (CHEDRO3), this gathering is a shared vision to weave diverse cultures and experiences into the fabric of our global community.
“We recognize that our differences are not divisions, but rather the threads that strengthen our collective narrative,” said Director Yusi. “Bridging cultures is not merely an act of tolerance, it’s an act of empowerment.”
The CHEDRO3 Director also commended the whole NEUST community for continuously making progress, particularly in its internationalization initiatives.
Meanwhile, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo said that NICE 2025 stands as a meaningful platform for honoring cultural diversity and fostering international collaboration.
“NICE 2025 offers enriching experiences that cultivate adaptability, empathy, and global-mindedness among students and educators alike. These transformative engagements are deeply aligned with NEUST’s mission to develop graduates who are not only academically excellent but also globally competent and socially responsive,” said President Jugo.
“At NEUST, we believe that a meaningful education is one that transforms lives, connects communities, and inspires a more inclusive future,” added the NEUST President.
Twenty-eight (28) students from different countries such as Brunei, Canada, China, Indonesia, and the Philippines participated in activities from May 4 to 10, 2025 to explore Filipino heritage and its relevance to global issues like sustainability, education, and economic development, aiming to inspire advocacy for international cooperation and sustainable practices in their future careers.
The delegation included Elizabeth Leony, Latifatuz Zidny Ilmaya, Kayla Cesa Ramani, Natalie Kurniawan, Gilbert Turnip, Yunita Theresia Hutabarat, Zahira Salwaghaida Hasna Ammara, and Talitha Vania Dhea Sukmana from Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia; Jia Xinyi, Zhengyu Li, Tianhao Wang, and Zhou Yusheng from Sias University, China; Alize Stoa, Kamiel Dumanowski, Kenna Sadlemyer, and Reynerio Lorenzo from Medicine Hat College, Canada; Liam Clifford from Justice Institute of British Columbia, Canada; Noor Hamizahtul Azimah Binti Nizlani from Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Brunei Darussalam; and Leian Faith Naval from Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, Philippines.
Representing NEUST were Ron Vincent Talplacido, Sarah Jane Cruz, Michaela Sagnit, Francis Matthew Santos, Franclen Adrineda, Kyla Marie Vargas, Mickaela Guevarra, Adrian Obedoza, and John Mark Pangilinan.
𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲
Throughout the week, participants took part in a dynamic series of cultural, educational, and environmental activities aimed at deepening their appreciation of Filipino heritage and promoting sustainable practices.
On May 5, 2025, the Literary, Culture, and the Arts Development Center (LCADC), headed by Dr. Jose Mangahas, facilitated a Cultural Show and Workshop where participants learned and performed traditional Filipino dances, music, and songs, celebrating the country’s rich artistic legacy.
The following day, May 6, attendees enjoyed the Food and Local Product Expo organized by the CMBT-HTM, which showcased Filipino delicacies and locally made products and was complemented by a session on Filipino language and traditions conducted by the Institute of Language and Literature (IOLL), offering insights into the nation’s cultural roots.
On May 7, the focus shifted to environmental awareness during the “Sowing Seeds, Sustaining Futures: An Environmental Journey” session held at NEUST Gabaldon Campus, that featured tree planting, a biodiversity exploration, and a seminar highlighting Gabaldon’s natural treasures, emphasizing the importance of ecological stewardship.
The week continued with a scenic tour on May 8 in Palayan City and Pantabangan, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the local government units of both areas where participants immersed themselves in the natural beauty and local culture of these destinations.
The week-long experience culminated in a cultural immersion in Baguio City on May 9, where participants explored the “Summer Capital of the Philippines0” that offered a deeper understanding of Filipino heritage and the vibrant culture of the Cordilleras.
The program was spearheaded by CMBT Dean Dr. Sarah Alvarez, with support from Dr. Alma Pia Garcia, Dr. June Jay Irvin Pula, and Dean Alec De Leon, in collaboration with the NEUST Office of International Affairs (OIA) led by Atty. Eric Claudio.
As part of the UMAP Discovery Camp, NICE 2025 fostered global competence, sustainable development, and international cooperation—aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The NICE 2025 concluded on May 10, 2025, through a closing program held at NEUST Mini Convention Center.
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