By Kairos Rye A. Jalando-on, The Centralian Link Intern

The visiting group from Kobe Shoin Junior High School takes a photo in front of the CPU 120 sign with the CPU-LILAC staff, and LOOB staff.

On February 24, 2026, students from Kobe Shoin Junior High School visited Central Philippine University for cultural immersion and an interview with a Japanese international student enrolled at CPU. The interview and exchange were conducted at the CPU Local and International Linkages and Affiliation Center (LILAC) with Director Lesley Joy Dignadice.

The group came to CPU through the non-profit organization, Love Our Own Bretheren (LOOB), whose aim is to promote grassroots inter-cultural and educational exchange between Japanese and Filipino youths, and support for the self-independence of the marginalized sector. This organization is led by Ms. Yukie Kobayashi, who serves as the Executive Director.

The subject of their interview was Ms. Miyuki Isoya, a 3rd year Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies Japanese international student. The students asked questions ranging from her experience as an international student at CPU to how she finds living in the Philippines to be and why she chose to attend CPU. After the interview, the group conducted a campus tour, where they were told a brief history of CPU.

When asked to comment on the interview, Ms. Isoya said the following:

“Since enrolling at CPU, I have had several opportunities to interact with Japanese visitors, but being interviewed about my university life was a first for me and a truly valuable experience. Because my daily life here is spent almost entirely in English, I was initially nervous about speaking Japanese for such an extended period after so long, but the students’ friendliness helped me speak freely and give them heartfelt answers. When they asked why I chose CPU and what challenges I faced, I made sure to convey that while studying abroad is rewarding, it also comes with many hardships. I wanted these ambitious students to understand that while dreaming is easy, achieving those dreams requires real perseverance. As I navigate the latter half of my third year with about one year remaining, I hope to continue growing into someone who can overcome both the joys and the struggles to successfully complete my journey at CPU.”

The visit of Kobe Shoin Junior High School students to Central Philippine University on February 24, 2026, fostered meaningful cross-cultural exchange and mutual understanding as Japanese youth engaged directly with a fellow international student, explored campus life, and strengthened grassroots ties between Filipino and Japanese communities through the dedicated efforts of LOOB and CPU-LILAC.