The annual celebration of the Regional ASEAN-UNESCO Day took place in the spacious gym of the Maasin City National High School on October 17, 2025. With the theme โCultures in Harmony: An ASEAN-UNESCO and United Nations Day Celebration,โ the event aims to accentuate the importance of cultural diversity and the fostering of unity and peace around the globe.
Country booths representing Mexico, Columbia, the Philippines, and many others from each district/private school were displayed for everyone to see and give appreciation for, with the purpose of promoting each countryโs unique cultureโfrom the distinctive taste of their dish down to the entertainment that attracts the tourists.
After introducing the remarkable individuals behind the Department of Education, the event then formally commenced. A doxology prayer carried out by the students from MCNHS as an expression of praise.
Teachers, delegates, and students eagerly awaited the highlight of the eventโthe search for Mr. and Ms. United Nations 2025โas it began.
Dance performances came about after a fleeting break. The spectators’ eyes feasted on the commendable expertise of the performers as their bodies moved to the rhythm, with both playful and earnest movements mastered into performances.
The national costumes of each country were put into a kaleidoscopic display. Shortly after, the Q&A portion began. The feisty contenders were put under pressure, yet they gave such spirited answersโones that were a million times worth advocating forโin such a pressurizing moment.
The winners for the 3 different categories were as follows:
Booth Contest
1st Place: College of Maasin (Philippines)
2nd Place: District 2 (South Korea)
3rd Place: District 4 (Oceania)
Dance Competition
1st Place: Maasin City National High School
2nd Place: College of Maasin
3rd Place: Maasin Christian Academy
Mr. and Ms. United Nations 2025
Winner: District 1 (South Africa)
1st Place: Maasin Christian Academy (Mexico)
2nd Place: SJC (Mexico)
Congratulations to the winners! Such a movement, where diversity is embraced as strength in a world longing to overcome division, is truly worthy of celebration. May peace, unity, and cultural diversity bloom in the gardens of our globe and grow naturally within the souls of each one of us.
#RegionalAseanUnescoInformationDrive2025
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Words: Ma. Contesa Ronariese Rufin | The Josephinian
