Building Global Linkages through the Misamis University International Exchange & Cultural Learning Program 2025

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Building Global Linkages through the Misamis Unive ....

Cris James - MU Marketing Department

December 4, 2025 4:00 P.M.

Cris James - MU Marketing Department

December 4, 2025 4:00 P.M.

Building Global Linkages through the Misamis University International Exchange & Cultural Learning Program 2025

[Day 1] Arrival and First Impressions

On November 2, participants Ma’am Diwi Syukriah, Assistant Vice Rector; Lili and Alya Dwi Lestari from Universitas Persada Indonesia YAI in Jakarta, Indonesia; Kavineeta Velmuruga from INTI International University in Malaysia; Dr. Korakit Choomgrant, Assistant Professor and Vice Dean for International Affairs and Educational Quality Development; along with Sasiwan Kajornritdet and Thanita Chamnanhut from Kasetsart University in Bangkok, Thailand, arrived in Ozamiz City, Philippines.

They were warmly and graciously welcomed by Misamis University, where they immediately experienced the renowned hospitality of the Filipino people. The heartfelt greetings, inviting campus atmosphere, and vibrant local surroundings created a positive and memorable first impression, laying the groundwork for a meaningful and culturally enriching program ahead. The program is strongly supported by the University President, Dr. Karen Belina F. De Leon, in line with the university’s commitment to further strengthening and advancing its internationalization initiatives.

[Day 2] Exploring Tudela and Panguil Bay Bridge

Misamis University brought the delegation to Tudela’s Subanen Village, a cultural enclave dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditions, artistry, and ancestral practices of the Subanen community, the indigenous people of Misamis Occidental. Here, participants gained deeper insight into Indigenous customs, craftsmanship, and community life. They later visited the Panguil Bay Bridge, an impressive engineering achievement and currently the longest water-spanning bridge in Mindanao, which crosses Panguil Bay and connects Misamis Occidental and Lanao provinces. The visit offered a glimpse of the region’s growing infrastructure developments, blending natural beauty with modern progress. Day 2 served as a compelling introduction to both the cultural heritage and socio-economic landscape of Misamis Occidental and nearby provinces.

[Day 3] Opening Ceremony and Cultural Foundation

November 4 marked the formal commencement of the exchange program. Participants attended the opening ceremony and orientation sessions that outlined the program's objectives and key components. During the lecture session, they were introduced to the Philippine country profile, essential Filipino values, and cultural traditions, building a strong foundation for understanding the nation’s historical and social identity.

[Day 4] Educational Tour to Paglinawan Farm and Pidua-an Falls

The group traveled to Paglinawan Farm in Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur, where they observed community- based organic farming practices and learned about sustainable agriculture in rural Philippine settings. The visit highlighted local efforts in food security, environmental stewardship, and livelihood development. In the afternoon, participants visited Pidua-an Falls in Don Victoriano, a destination known for its natural serenity. The scenic trek and refreshing environment provided a meaningful balance of learning, reflection, and appreciation of the province's natural heritage.

[Day 5] Traditional Filipino Games and Cultural Night

Celebrating Filipino creativity, playfulness, and communal spirit, participants took part in playing traditional games such as patintero and tumbang preso, offering them a fun and interactive way to experience Filipino childhood fun games. The evening culminated in a vibrant Cultural Night filled with music, traditional dances, and artistic performances representing the diverse cultures of the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The event strengthened intercultural understanding and fostered deeper international friendships.

[Day 6] History, Politics, Tourism and International Perspectives

The program provided an in-depth academic exploration of Philippine history, its political system, and the evolving landscape of local tourism. One of its major highlights was an international lecture on Psychology delivered by Ms. Dewi Syukriah, Assistant Vice Rector of Universitas Persada Indonesia Y.A.I. Her presentation greatly enriched the program by offering comparative perspectives on Psychology in Indonesia and the Philippines, fostering meaningful cross-cultural academic dialogue.

[Day 7] Experiencing the Perangat Festival

Participants traveled to Oroquieta City to witness the lively Perangat Festival. Colorful costumes, rhythmic dances, and energetic street performances, participated in by dance groups from different provinces of Mindanao, allowed them to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural identity and community pride. The festival showcased the vibrancy of local traditions as well as the celebratory spirit and beliefs of the Filipino people.

[Day 9] Creative Workshops and Presentations

A dynamic introduction to university spirit and student life welcomed the participants as they observed the MU Parade and the opening ceremony of the annual Intramurals. Their experience was further enriched by the Cheerdance Competition and the Battle of the Bands, where they witnessed the remarkable talent, creativity, and enthusiasm of Misamis University students.

[Day 10] MU Intramurals and Competitions

They engaged in collaborative workshops designed to help them synthesize their experiences from the program. Through group discussions, creative activities, and output presentations, they connected their cultural learnings with academic reflection, demonstrating both personal and intellectual growth. Their presentations were very enlightening as they compared the similarities and differences among the participants’ home countries.

[Day 11] MSME Lecture, Filipino Cooking, and Educational Insights

Entrepreneurship, culinary traditions, and educational development are highlighted. Participants attended an MSME lecture that explored local business practices and community-based enterprises. They also joined Hospitality Management students and faculty in preparing Filipino dishes, allowing them to experience the country’s culinary heritage firsthand. A session on educational leadership and the transformative role of schooling in nation-building provided deeper insights into Misamis University’s academic vision and commitment to cultivating future leaders.

[Day 12] United Nations Day Celebration and the SDGs

MU's United Nations Day celebration centered on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting global awareness and international cooperation. Keynote speakers Ms. Krista O'Brien of Arizona State University, USA; Dr. Alberto E. Lopez-Carrion of the International University of Valencia, Spain; and Ms. Mabel A. Gutierrez, representing Atty. Lily Freida C. Macabangun-Milla of the CHED International Affairs Service shared their expertise on sustainability and global education.

Participants from Indonesia and the Philippines included panelists Dr. Sularso Budilaksono (Universitas Persada Indonesia YAI), Engr. Marvin Calpito (Panpacific University), Drs. Bawa Mulyono Hadi, M.M. (Akademi Sages), and Dr. Ing. Farid Wajdi, M.Sc. (Universitas Serang Raya) during the panel discussion. Student representatives were Bonife Leo O. Lubay and Joshua Paul D. Agustin (Misamis University); Shaheed A. Jalad and Khalil Fhil Meade (Universidad de Zamboanga); Nafila Fakhrurriza (Akademi Bakti Palang Merah Indonesia); and Sofyan Abdilah Wijaya and Luthfiyah Salsabila (Universitas Amikom Purwokerto), who shared student-led program initiatives and enriched the discussions with presentations on sustainable innovations.

[Day 13] Heritage, Nature, and History Tour

Participants embarked on a heritage and nature tour beginning at the Cotta Shrine of Ozamiz and continuing to the historic town of Jimenez, one of the country’s National Cultural Treasures. The visit offered insights into Spanish-era architecture and local religious traditions. The group then traveled to Dapitan City to explore the Rizal Shrine, where Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ National Hero, spent his years in exile during the later years of Spanish colonization. This immersive journey blended natural beauty, cultural preservation, and historical reflection.

[Day 14] Final Output Presentation and Closing Program

On the program’s second-to-last day, participants finalized and presented their workshop outputs, many of which proposed strengthened academic, cultural, and institutional collaborations. The closing program was a meaningful celebration of the bonds formed, the knowledge shared, and the intercultural experiences that defined the two-week exchange.

[Day 15] Departure and New Beginnings

The program concluded on November 16 as participants departed for their home countries. They carried with them newly gained knowledge, strengthened partnerships, enriched cultural understanding, and lasting memories of their experiences in Misamis University and the province of Misamis Occidental and nearby places, marking the beginning of new opportunities for global collaboration and friendship.