Five higher education institutions (HEIs) from across Southeast Asia came together for the International Youth Talk on July 17, 2026, hosted by Go Study Global Education – China. Centered on the theme of learning across borders, the virtual event fostered intercultural dialogue, knowledge sharing, and academic collaboration among students from the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Participating institutions included John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod (Philippines), Van Lang University (Vietnam), Politeknik Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin (Malaysia), Universitas Ma Chung (Indonesia), and Politeknik Negeri Malang (Indonesia).
Representing JBLCF–Bacolod were Mdpn. John Daryl Gabayeron, Mdpwn. Angela Joy Tupas, and Mdpn. Earl Luiz Militar, who delivered a presentation entitled “Learning Skills Across Borders for Maritime Students.” Their presentation highlighted the importance of developing global competencies, cross-cultural communication, and lifelong learning to prepare future maritime professionals for the demands of the international shipping industry.
Following their presentation, the student speakers actively participated in the question-and-answer session, engaging in meaningful discussions and exchanging perspectives with participants from the different ASEAN countries.
The International Youth Talk served as a valuable platform for JBLCF–Bacolod students to broaden their global perspectives, strengthen intercultural understanding, and learn from the diverse experiences and best practices shared by fellow student leaders across the ASEAN region. The event further reinforced the institution's commitment to internationalization and to developing globally competitive graduates.