UST MAM : Student-led ASEAN Simulation

Story by Christianna Jem C. Gonzales | Photos by Jaime Augusto Carpio

The University of Santo Tomas Model ASEAN Meeting held its onsite simulation since the pandemic hit. Last February 15, 16, & 17, organized by UST Asian Studies Society students, the academic simulation aimed to promote innovative development, peaceful community participation, and inclusive engagement among the 10 ASEAN member states. This followed the organization’s principles and mechanisms — utilizing comprehensive research and analysis to shape domestic and international policies. The student-led event mirrored the principles and workings of ASEAN by developing a streamlined version that upholds the goals of the actual summit meeting, while addressing current and pertinent issues. Specifically, discussions are ignited around the three key community pillars of ASEAN—Economic, Political-Security, and Socio-cultural.

UST MAM Delegates, Professors, Staff, and Steering Committee in the UST Central Laboratory for UST MAM Day 1

Professors and Delegates with H.E. Ambassador Quintana

Its 10th Installation with the theme “Forging a Sustainable ASEAN: Intensifying Intra-Regional Cooperation towards Resiliency” recognized the gravity to analyze the sustainability and vulnerability of ASEAN’s principles and mechanisms in tackling future regional issues. The theme aimed to assess current shortcomings within the regional bloc, while also seeking to enhance its effectiveness and resilience in navigating the new normal era.

Prof. Arlen Ancheta delivering her topic: Environmental Diplomacy in the ASEAN Region

Her Excellency Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso delivering her topic: Future of ASEAN: Towards a Vision of Resilience and Relevance into 2045

UST MAM Secretary-General Emmanuel John Sancho

Delegates came from Ateneo De Naga University, De La Salle University, De La Salle university – Laguna, Lyceum of the Philippines University Manila, Mariano Marcos State University, University of Baguio, University of the East – Manila, University of the Philippines – Diliman, and University of Santo Tomas, who also bagged awards for Best Position Paper, Best Delegate, Best Chairperson, where awards were given to each pillar. Also, the Best Opening Speech for the Head of Government.

Delegates from Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam

As the pioneer among Model ASEAN Meetings in the Philippines since its establishment in 2015, UST MAM has been a platform to stimulate and cultivate critical thinking and leadership abilities among its participants by engaging them in analyzing regional issues in Southeast Asia channeling awareness and appreciation of ASEAN among individuals, while also serving as a platform to actualize comprehension of international relations and diplomacy within Southeast Asia, emphasizing the ASEAN Way.