Boldly advancing internationalization and women’s empowerment, the College of Teacher Education (CTE) ignited a dynamic cross-border dialogue through “Hari Katrini dan Gabriela: A Cross-Cultural Celebration of Girls’ Power among Indonesians and Ilocanos” on February 4, 2026.
Held at the CTE Academic Building, the event united CTE with students from Universitas Negeri Surabaya and Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, transforming the campus into a hub of global exchange on gender, leadership, and shared regional heritage.
In her welcome remarks, College Dean Dr. Ma. Teresa Susan Manzano stressed that the celebration was more than a ceremonial gathering, as it paid tribute to the shared history, values, and enduring legacy of Indonesian and Ilocano women. She highlighted that investing in the empowerment of girls and young women creates a ripple effect—strengthening families, preserving culture, and contributing to nation-building.
Building on this message, Dr. Joey-Nell Marzan presented the program rationale, which focused on deepening conversations on gender and leadership within educational and cultural contexts. She likewise introduced the diverse roster of participants who enriched the activity, including student buddies from the Bachelor of Secondary Education–English (BSEd-English) and Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) programs, students from the Bachelor of Secondary Education–Social Studies (BSEd Social Studies) program, and the Indonesian SEA Teachers, underscoring the program’s inclusive and collaborative spirit.
The academic segment of the exchange program delved deeply into the historical evolution of women’s rights across Southeast Asia. Dr. Victoria Arce delivered an insightful lecture on the definition and development of feminism in the Philippines, tracing its roots and continuing relevance in contemporary society. This was followed by a compelling presentation by SEA Teacher participant Liana Fitriya, who highlighted the life and legacy of Hari Katrini, a Javanese princess renowned for championing women’s education and economic empowerment in rural Indonesian communities during the early 20th century. Enriching the discussions, BSEd Social Studies students mounted a creative tribute to Gabriela Silang, highlighting her enduring legacy as a powerful emblem of leadership, courage, and resistance in Philippine history.
The program seamlessly shifted from discussion to hands-on cultural exchange, spotlighting both culinary arts and physical education. Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education (BTLEd) students showcased Filipino flavors by preparing Ube Biko, while Indonesian participant Faiza Aulia Faheem Aqilla shared her culinary heritage with Mie Ayam, a popular egg noodle dish. The cultural immersion extended to the playground, where BPEd students guided the Indonesian guests through Patintero and Piko, traditional Filipino games that sparked laughter and friendly competition.
Closing the event, College Assistant Dean Dr. Leilani Raquepo summarized the day’s achievements, praising the active participation of everyone involved and highlighting that women’s empowerment creates positive impacts for all. The program concluded with a formal token-giving ceremony, led by the college dean, assistant deans, and program heads, as a gesture of gratitude to the Indonesian students.
Photos by Joey-Nell Marzan.
