The University of the Cordilleras hosted the ASEAN ALLUYON (Advancing Local Learning, Unity, Youth and Opportunities through Networks) on October 13 to 14, 2026, at the UC Theater. Spearheaded by the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR), the activity carried the theme “Weaving Indigenous Knowledge, Heritage and Higher Education into ASEAN Connectivity.” The UC Center for Creative Productions (UC-CCP) participated in the opening program, where student-artists from the UC Dance Company and the Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble showcased the diverse cultures of the Philippines through music and dance.
UC-CCP also joined the Booth Competition under the theme “TASTE. MOVE. CONNECT” The Philippines in the ASEAN Community, highlighting Philippine food and dance and their similarities with those of other ASEAN countries. The booth was designed by CCP Multimedia Editor Zyleene Gabriel and featured an informative television display on the ASEAN member countries. In collaboration with the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM), the Center presented the “Philippine Culinary Showcase: Ancestral Roots to the Modern Stage,” a menu that paired Philippine dishes with ASEAN counterparts. These were the Pinikpikan Confit Canapé (Vietnam), Pancit Habhab Banana Leaf Small Bite (Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore), Hotteok-Style Piyaya (Malaysia and Indonesia), Chicken Piyaparan Tartlets (Malaysia, with similar dishes in parts of Indonesia and Singapore), and Sparkling Ginger-Lemongrass-Kalamansi palate cleanser (Indonesia).
UC-CCP was named Champion of the ASEAN ALLUYON 2026 Booth Competition. By combining a thoughtfully designed booth, an informative ASEAN display, and a culinary presentation rooted in Philippine heritage, the entry showed how food, art, and design can foster regional understanding. The victory also underscores the teamwork of the Center’s student-artists and staff and affirms UC-CCP’s role as a cultural ambassador of the University.
The activity supports Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, particularly Target 4.7, by promoting appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development. It also aligns with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, particularly Target 11.4, by safeguarding and promoting Philippine cultural heritage through performance and cuisine. Additionally, it supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, particularly Target 17.17, through the collaboration of CHED-CAR and other different Colleges.
The participation also advances the Center’s Key Result Areas and Goals. Under KRA 3, Sustainability and social responsibility that foster impactful change, it supports Goal 5 (KRA G5), which seeks the active participation of staff and students in initiatives that reflect UC’s culture, strengthen community identity, and promote sustainable social impact. Under KRA 5, Global competitiveness and internationalization in education and university operations, it supports Goal 9 (KRA G9), which calls for strategic collaborations with professional organizations and government agencies.
The Center for Creative Productions remains committed to elevating Philippine culture on regional and international platforms. Through participation in activities such as ASEAN ALLUYON 2026, CCP continues to strengthen partnerships and provide its student-artists with opportunities to connect with the wider ASEAN community.
Author: Lhorexcel D. Bombarda | CCP Digital Creative Artist
