Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception celebrated the ASEAN month following its theme, “Buwan ng ASEAN: Sama-sama sa Pag-unlad”. College students, Non-teaching Personnel, and the Admin participated the event, guided by its motto: “One Vision, One Identity, and one Community.”
The celebration began with a Eucharistic mass to welcome the event, presided over by Rev. Fr. Jose Litigio, OFM. In his homily, Father Jose shared wisdom on embracing our differences and loving all that we are— under the name of Jesus and as true Franciscans. “We unite not in uniformity, but in diversity,” he said.
After the mass, Franciscans walked together in the Parada ng ASEAN, a colorful display of culture and solidarity. Students from different college departments dressed in the traditional attire of different ASEAN nations, waving flags and showcasing the beauty of each country’s identity.
This celebration reminds us that unity does not mean we should all be like one, rather we all should be united as one. As Sister Mary Michael said, “As Franciscans, we advocate unity in diversity.” We are called to love our differences, embrace the unique existence of each individual and learn from one another’s culture. We advocate to inclusivity and sustainability as we aim to become globally competent citizens, united despite differences in language and race, we celebrate this day to see the beauty of the world in the way each culture and tradition is lived.
The Performing Arts Company expressed cultural pride through folk dances such as the Chavacano de Zamboanga and Bulaklakan. The event was further enriched by the trivia games played by representatives from each department, along with faculty administrators, answered questions about the distinct identities of Asian country.
Capping off the event by the giving of certificates of recognition and the announcement of departmental winners of who portrayed best, representing a Southeast Asian country.
The “Parada ng ASEAN” and the entire culmination shared true commitment to our school, our nation, our country, and our people. We all come from different corners of the world, from nations diverse in culture, language, and religion, yet we are all recognized for the same goal: inclusivity, peace, stability, and prosperity in a shared Southeast Asian Identity, united as one family. Indeed, we uphold ASEAN’s motto, “One Vision, One Identity, One Community.”
By: Lloyd Jean Meredores | The Reach Out Publication | Feature Writer
