The University of Northern Philippines buzzed with global camaraderie as the institution celebrated International Students’ Day on October 10, 2025, with a vibrant event titled “Wika, Laro, Kultura: A Filipino Heritage Day for International Students.” Held at the UNP Tadena Hall, the celebration saw a strong turnout of international students from Thailand, Indonesia, Ghana, Nigeria, and the USA, all eager to participate despite their demanding academic schedules.
The day was a dynamic mix of educational and recreational activities designed to immerse the foreign students in Filipino culture while also sharing their own. A key highlight was the dance tutorial exchange, where students from Thailand led a basic Thai dance tutorial, teaching simple cultural steps to both fellow international students and Filipinos. In a reciprocating gesture, Filipino students also conducted a folk dance tutorial, fostering a beautiful cross-cultural exchange through movement and rhythm. Adding more color to the celebration, the Thai students performed their traditional dance, San Larn Serng, as a special intermission number that delighted the audience.
Bridging the language gap was the Basic Ilokano and Filipino Workshop, where foreign students were thoughtfully paired with local Filipino students to practice essential greetings and “daily survival expressions.” The workshop was facilitated by Mark Louie Tabunan as the speaker, transforming language practice into a lively and interactive experience.
Laughter and high energy filled the hall during the Palarong Kultura (Cultural Games) session. Participants enthusiastically engaged in traditional Filipino games like Lawin at Sisiw (Hawk and Chicks), with a memorable highlight being the “Smash the Pot” game led by the Thai students. Cash prizes were also awarded to the winners, adding excitement and fun to the friendly competitions. This segment was expertly handled by facilitators Dr. Eric Reotutar and students from the BPED program.
The celebration was not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate, featuring a delicious array of international cuisines such as Som Tam and Pad Kee Mow. Adding a fun element of chance to the festive atmosphere was the “Soi Dao” (Lucky Draw), which students joined during breaks and after the main activities.
A heartwarming message was also delivered by Dr. Rolando A. Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who warmly welcomed the international students and emphasized the beauty of diversity and cultural exchange within the university. He expressed how UNP continues to open its doors to learners from across the globe, creating an academic community built on respect, friendship, and shared growth. Dr. Navarro also encouraged the students to cherish every moment of their stay, saying that beyond academics, it is these shared experiences of laughter, learning, and cultural discovery that truly make UNP a second home for all.
The event also featured welcome remarks from Student Council President Jake Axel Tacadena, who extended his warm greetings to all participants and highlighted the importance of unity and mutual appreciation among local and international students. To cap the day’s celebration, Dr. Mariano Avila, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), delivered the closing remarks, expressing his gratitude to everyone who made the event a success and emphasizing the value of friendship and cultural understanding fostered through such gatherings.
Organized by the International Affairs and External Linkages Office (IAELO) under the leadership of Director Dr. Sally Jarin, in partnership with the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), the event was hailed as a resounding success. Participants departed with a glow, having gained valuable new cultural experiences and shared plenty of laughter, underscoring the success of UNP’s mission to create a welcoming and culturally rich environment for its global community.
