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CMC Social Work and ICA Strengthen Cultural and International Engagement through Kultura ang Kizuna 2.0

The Center for International Affairs and Linkages (CIAL) commends the Social Work Department of Central Mindanao Colleges (CMC) for the successful conduct of “Kultura ang Kizuna 2.0: Strengthening Friendship through the Partnership of Central Mindanao Colleges, Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc., and Rissho Kosei-kai, Japan” held on August 25, 2026.

The initiative brought together CMC, the Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc. (MCLFI), and Rissho Kosei-kai, Japan in a meaningful engagement centered on culture, friendship, community, and shared learning. Through this partnership, participants were given opportunities to connect across cultures, exchange experiences, and strengthen relationships grounded in mutual respect and understanding.

The CIAL recognizes the leadership of Mrs. Sharlyn Lee Armstrong, Program Head of the Social Work Department, whose guidance and support contributed to the successful implementation of the initiative. The activity reflects the department's commitment to extending the values of Social Work beyond the classroom through meaningful community engagement and international partnership.

Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the engagement was the participation of the Institute for Culture and the Arts (ICA), which showcased Philippine culture through Himig Pawan and Likhang Pawan. The presentations provided an opportunity to proudly share Filipino music, artistry, and cultural expression with the international participants.

The CIAL likewise acknowledges Madame Marivic Q. Pascual, Director of the Institute for Culture and the Arts, for her leadership and support in bringing Philippine culture to the forefront of the engagement.

More than a cultural activity, Kultura ang Kizuna 2.0 demonstrates how partnerships can become bridges for friendship and understanding. The collaboration of CMC, Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc. and Rissho Kosei-kai, Japan highlights the value of sustained collaboration in creating meaningful spaces where people from different backgrounds can learn from one another and build lasting connections.

The initiative also reflects the important role of culture in international engagement. While participants were given opportunities to experience Japanese perspectives and traditions, the showcase of Himig Pawan and Likhang Pawan likewise allowed Filipino culture to be shared and appreciated, creating a genuine two-way exchange between communities.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the initiative supports SDG 4: Quality Education by creating meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by promoting inclusion and intercultural understanding, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening collaboration among academic, community, cultural, and international partners.

The Center for International Affairs and Linkages expresses its sincere appreciation to the Social Work Department, under the leadership of Mrs. Sharlyn Lee Armstrong; the Institute for Culture and the Arts, under the leadership of Madame Marivic Q. Pascual; the Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc.; and Rissho Kosei-kai, Japan for their collective efforts in making Kultura ang Kizuna 2.0 a meaningful celebration of friendship, culture, and partnership.

As Central Mindanao Colleges continues to nurture meaningful connections with communities and partners across borders, Kultura ang Kizuna 2.0 reminds us that internationalization is ultimately about people—coming together, learning from one another, celebrating what makes each culture unique, and discovering the shared values that bring us closer.

Through partnerships built on friendship and mutual understanding, CMC continues to build bridges that connect cultures, enrich lives, and create opportunities for shared growth beyond borders.

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