CHED-NCR Opens 2026 ASEAN Month Celebration and Inaugural NCR ASEAN Dialogue
The Commission on Higher Education National Capital Region (CHED-NCR), in partnership with Quezon City University (QCU), officially opened the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Month Celebration and the 1st NCR ASEAN Dialogue on August 3, 2026, at the QCU Auditorium.
Anchored on the theme, “Strengthening ASEAN Awareness and Building Future Ready Higher Education through Regional Cooperation,” the event gathered higher education leaders, educators, students, and stakeholders to celebrate ASEAN solidarity while promoting regional cooperation and internationalization in higher education.
The opening program commenced with an invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem led by the Tanghalang QCU Chorale, setting the tone for a meaningful celebration of shared identity and collaboration among ASEAN member states.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Theresita V. Atienza, President of QCU, underscored the importance of cultivating ASEAN awareness among educators and learners. She emphasized that strengthening regional consciousness and academic collaboration prepares higher education institutions to respond to global challenges while contributing to the advancement of the ASEAN community.
Representing CHED NCR, Victorino P. Datuin, Chief Education Program Specialist, formally declared the celebration open. In his message, he reaffirmed CHED NCR’s commitment to promoting internationalization, regional engagement, and stronger partnerships among higher education institutions across the National Capital Region and the ASEAN region.
Following the opening ceremony, participants took part in the 1st NCR ASEAN Dialogue, which served as a platform for discussions on regional integration, academic cooperation, and strategies for developing future-ready higher education. The dialogue encouraged the exchange of ideas and best practices that support innovation, mobility, and collaborative learning across ASEAN.
By hosting the opening of the 2026 ASEAN Month Celebration, QCU continues to strengthen its commitment to internationalization and regional partnership. Through initiatives that promote collaboration, intercultural understanding, and academic excellence, the University remains steadfast in preparing globally competent graduates and contributing to a more connected and resilient ASEAN community.
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