Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the International Affairs Office (IAO) and in collaboration with the Waypoints Project, held the ASEAN Month Forum titled “Maritime Priorities and Opportunities for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship” on August 26, 2026, at Reimers’ Hall, CLSU.

Organized in celebration of ASEAN Month, the forum brought together experts, university officials, government representatives, faculty members, and students for discussions on maritime governance, national interests, and emerging opportunities as the Philippines prepares for its ASEAN Chairmanship.

The forum featured three distinguished resource speakers: Atty. Neil Silva, Legal Officer of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea (UP IMLOS); VADM Jose Luis Alano (Ret.), Chairman of the Foundation for the National Interest; and Atty. Glenda R. Rumohr, Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development.

Through their respective discussions, the speakers provided perspectives on the Philippines’ maritime priorities, the importance of protecting and advancing national maritime interests, and the opportunities for strengthening regional cooperation through ASEAN. The forum also emphasized the role of academic institutions, government agencies, and young people in promoting greater awareness and informed discourse on maritime issues.

Representing the student sector as reactors were John Lincona, a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (BAIS) student, and Aliana Joy M. Singian, a Bachelor of Science in Development Communication (BSDC) student. The student reactors shared their reflections and insights on the presentations, highlighting the relevance of maritime concerns to the youth and the importance of engaging students in discussions on regional cooperation, national development, and the country’s role in ASEAN.

The activity was graced by Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, University President, together with representatives from various government institutions and sectors. Dr. Raul D. Divina, City Administrator of the Science City of Muñoz, represented Hon. Mayor Baby Armi L. Alvarez during the event.
Representatives from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources–National Freshwater Technology Center (BFAR-NFTC) and BFAR Region III, as well as faculty members and students from various colleges and units of the University, also participated in the forum.

Following the discussions, the guests were given a campus tour showcasing selected CLSU facilities and centers. The tour included Dungon: Museo de CLSU, the Central Luzon State University Center for Central Luzon Studies Museum (CCCEM Museum), the Small Ruminant Center (SRC), and the Freshwater Aquaculture Center (FAC), providing the visitors with a glimpse of the University’s history, research initiatives, and contributions to agricultural and fisheries development.

Through the ASEAN Month Forum, CLSU reaffirmed its commitment to fostering informed dialogue, international cooperation, and greater awareness of issues affecting the Philippines and the wider ASEAN region. The activity likewise provided an avenue for the academic community to engage with maritime experts and contribute to conversations relevant to the country’s preparations and priorities for its upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship.