By Mikee Natinga Norico
Participants engage in hands-on workshops during the Sining Bayanihan: Trash2Art event, highlighting sustainable practices. Photo Credits to CPU Biological Society Facebook page.
Last August 30, 2024, Central Philippine University (CPU) marked its 57th ASEAN Month celebration, with a vibrant event themed “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience.” The celebration, held at the CPU Alumni Promenade Concert Park, was organized by the CPU Cultural Affairs Office (CAO), Local and International Linkages and Affairs Center (LILAC), and CPU Republic (CPUR).
This year’s event, titled “Sining Bayanihan: Trash2Art,” aimed to strengthen community bonds and promote sustainable practices. Participants transformed everyday waste into stunning works of art, showcasing the power of collaboration and creativity. The full-day event was filled with insightful talks, engaging activities, and a celebration of ASEAN’s shared identity. Faculty members, staff, student organizations, fraternities, and other members of the CPU community gathered to contribute to the cause.
The celebration began with opening remarks from Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs. She discussed the significance of the ASEAN community and its importance to the Philippines. She highlighted the visit of H.E. Ambassador Noel M. Servigon, the Philippine Ambassador to Romania, and how it underscored the importance of regional cooperation. She also commended the collaborative efforts of the CPU Republic, CAO, and LILAC in organizing the said event.
Following Dr. Romarate’s address, Prof. Ernesto S. Saquibal, Jr., a CPU alumnus and faculty member from the Department of Social Science, delivered an insightful lecture. He explored the history and significance of ASEAN as a political and economic union of 10 Southeast Asian countries. Prof. Saquibal discussed ASEAN’s role in fostering intergovernmental cooperation and promoting economic, military, and educational integration among member nations. He emphasized that by 2025, ASEAN aims to be the fourth or fifth-largest regional economy in the world.
Mr. Efraim Alfaras, a renowned visual artist and co-founder of the Centralian Visual Artist Society (CenVAS), shared his inspiring journey as an artist and introduced the concept of upcycling waste materials to create art. He demonstrated how discarded plastics, and other materials can be transformed into functional and aesthetically pleasing creations.
Participants were engaged in hands-on activities, learning about sustainable art practices and gaining a deeper appreciation for waste reduction and environmental conservation through artistic expression.
The event concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from CPU President Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy. He emphasized the importance of continuing the ASEAN spirit of unity and collaboration, not only in the context of the university but also in the broader Southeast Asian region. Dr. Dagohoy highlighted the significance of building a stronger, more resilient community for future generations, rooted in cooperation and mutual understanding.
In his speech, Dr. Dagohoy reminded everyone of the importance of faith and unity, quoting Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean on your own understanding; in all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
The 57th ASEAN Month celebration at CPU serves as a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering a sense of community, sustainability, and creativity. It also served as a reminder of the shared cultural identity within ASEAN and the role of the university in promoting environmental awareness through artistic innovation.