Dr. Ella Joy A. Ponce, IAO Chief of Engagement and Collaboration Division represented Central Luzon State University (CLSU) as a stakeholder from the higher education sector at the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) High-Level Forum 2026 with a theme of “Navigating Our Future, Together: Empowering People for a Resilient and Cohesive ASEAN” held on March 4, 2026, at The Peninsula Manila, Makati City.

Organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in coordination with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the forum convened key institutions to advance ASEAN’s socio-cultural agenda. Through her participation, Dr. Ponce engaged in discussions highlighting the critical role of higher education institutions in promoting inclusive development, strengthening regional cooperation, and aligning academic programs, research, and extension initiatives with the ASCC Blueprint. She also met and interacted with fellow stakeholders from government agencies, higher education institutions, and partner organizations, fostering potential avenues for collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The activity provided valuable insights that support CLSU’s internationalization efforts and reinforce its position as an active stakeholder in ASEAN initiatives, with potential applications in curriculum development, institutional partnerships, and community engagement aligned with regional priorities.