TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN — Cagayan State University strengthened its role in advancing internationalization and regional cooperation as it co-hosted the 2026 ASEAN Month Celebration with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED RO2), bringing together higher education institutions across Region II.

Anchored on the theme “ASEAN Connect: Celebrating Unity in Diversity Through Education, Culture, and Innovation,” the celebration brought together regional HEIs to promote collaboration, cultural appreciation, and shared learning on ASEAN and internationalization.

Cagayan State Uiversity joined CHED RO2 and partner HEIs- St. Mary’s University, St. Paul University Philippines, University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao, Nueva Vizcaya State University, Isabela State University and University of Cagayan Valley in forging a MOA on Building Resilience and Innovation in Developing Global Engagements (BRIDGE) Initiative and the “Adopt an Institution” Framework for Internationalization.

The partnership seeks to strengthen regional internationalization capacities through designated Internationalization (IZN) Champions who will collaborate on international partnerships, research visibility and publication, student and faculty mobility with credit recognition and university rankings readiness.

The celebration also featured cultural performances by the Cagayan State University Athena Performing Arts Bureau, Dionysian Trio, and Rondalla Ensemble, while the Parade of Colors featuring Mr. and Ms. ASEAN candidates and Flavors of ASEAN through vibrant booths reflected the collective efforts of CSU and participating HEIs in showcasing the diverse cultures, traditions and cuisines of ASEAN member states.

Discussions on AUN-QA by Fr. Ranhilio Aquino and quality assurance for internationalization likewise provided participating HEIs with insights into strengthening institutional quality systems and preparing for greater regional and international engagement.

For Cagayan State University, the co-hosting of the ASEAN celebration and its participation in the BRIDGE Initiative reinforce the university’s commitment to expanding global partnerships, creating international opportunities for students and faculty and contributing to a more connected, quality-driven and globally competitive higher education community in Region II.