In a bid to expand its international engagements and foster meaningful cultural exchange, Davao de Oro State College, in collaboration with Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) and Xavier University Junior High School – Ateneo de Cagayan (XUJHS), hosted HABI: Threads of Culture and Inclusivity in the ASEAN Community on November 21, 2025, via Zoom.

The virtual program sought to bring the richness and diversity of Filipino culture to a global audience, with particular emphasis on strengthening intercultural understanding among member institutions of the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net).

In particular, the HABI initiative showcased various facets of Filipino life and heritage, including iconic tourist destinations, traditional and contemporary cuisine, marine biodiversity, agricultural practices, Filipino language and literature, Indigenous Peoples’ cultures, and the country’s songs and music.

Participants from ATU-Net countries were treated to an immersive presentation designed to highlight both the uniqueness and shared values of Southeast Asian communities.

In her message, DdOSC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay commended the organizers for championing cultural diplomacy through education.

“Programs like HABI demonstrate how cultural exchange can transcend borders. Through sharing our stories, traditions, and identity with the world, we not only celebrate who we are as Filipinos but also strengthen friendships across the ASEAN community,” stressed Dr. Matunhay.

Meanwhile, DdOSC Internationalization Unit Head Karesha Faith C. Cañetan emphasized that the HABI program marks only the beginning of the College’s broader global engagement initiatives.

Currently, the ATU-Net is composed of 46 higher education institutions across Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, India, Bangladesh, China, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan