On November 21, 2025, academic leaders, members, staff, and students from the University of Baguio played host to the 6th International Training for International Students, Student Leaders, and Advisers (ICTISSLA), also known as “Visita Escola,” at the UB Science High School Multi-Purpose Hall.
In partnership with the Philippine International Friendship and Understanding Association, Inc. (PIFUA), the prominent event gathered student leaders, faculty, and representatives from universities across the Philippines, demonstrating the growing importance of international collaboration and leadership development.
Leaders in Collaboration and Cross-Cultural Dialogues
This year’s convention saw the participation of academic delegates from 11 universities nationwide, including Saint Louis University, Silliman University, University of Cebu, Adventist University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Davao University, Centro Escolar University, Jose Rizal University, LPU Batangas, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, University of Makati, and the University of Santo Tomas. The diversity of the attendees underscored the national reach and significance of the ICTISSLA program, which serves as a platform for fostering leadership skills, cultural exchange, and global awareness among young student leaders.
Alt Text: Snapshots from the recent Visita Escola training, on November 21, 2025
A central feature of the event was the Cultural Presentation (Cordilleran showcase), which provided a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage and immersions from the Cordillera region. The UB BIBAK Ubbun Kaafuan (UBBUK) group performed the Torayan/Halep dance, inviting participants to join in a community dance, while the UB Voices Chorale delivered an evocative rendition of Idemdem Malida, a traditional Cordilleran war song. These performances were not only captivating but also served as an important reminder of the value of preserving indigenous cultures and sharing these traditions with a wider audience.
Key contributors included the UB Management Team and the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), under the leadership of Dr. Froilan Aspa and coordinated by Ms. Joanne Christine Fatima Uraga. The Linkages Office, led by Director Melanie Rulla-Saro, also played a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event. The efforts of the staff and students from the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management were crucial in delivering a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
Alt Text: Snapshots from the recent Visita Escola training, on November 21, 2025
Following the cultural performances, visiting delegates and representatives were taken on a guided tour of the campus, hosted by students from the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM). This tour highlighted the institution’s state-of-the-art academic facilities and community-oriented learning spaces, showcasing how the university integrates cultural appreciation, hospitality training, and leadership formation into its curriculum. The tour also provided an opportunity for guests to see firsthand the university’s commitment to promoting quality education and inclusive student experiences.
SDG Initiatives For Leadership Training and Global Mindfulness
The event’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was evident throughout its proceedings. Goal 4 (Quality Education) was central to the program’s focus on leadership training and cultural learning opportunities that fostered global-mindedness, and Goal 5 (Gender Equality) reinforced UB’s dedication to ensuring equitable opportunities for leadership development, regardless of gender.
Goal 10 (Reduced Inequality) was addressed by bringing together participants from diverse regions, backgrounds, and academic disciplines, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and celebrating the Cordilleran heritage, while the synergy between these institutions reflected the principles of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), demonstrating the power of cooperative efforts in advancing both educational and cultural exchanges.
Alt Text: Snapshots from the recent Visita Escola training, on November 21, 2025
The 2025 ICTISSLA proved to be more than just an academic gathering. It was a vibrant celebration of diversity, a platform for meaningful dialogue, and an opportunity to empower the next generation of leaders. Through the exchange of ideas, the sharing of cultural experiences, and the formation of new partnerships, the event successfully demonstrated the transformative power of training and collaboration in shaping future leaders.
The success of this year’s ICTISSLA was made possible through the collective efforts of the University of Baguio’s various units and stakeholders. By highlighting the role of indigenous cultures in the educational sphere, the event exemplified the university’s commitment to inclusivity and educational equity; thus, the partnership between UB, PIFUA, and the participating universities was a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines the event.
The 6th ICTISSLA “Visita Escola” was a resounding success, reaffirming the University of Baguio’s commitment to promoting leadership, fostering cultural exchange, and advancing the SDG-driven mission of creating a more inclusive and interconnected world. Through its collaborative partnerships, commitment to quality education, and focus on sustainable development, the University of Baguio continues to be a leader in fostering global-minded student leaders who are equipped to contribute to society at large.
Alt Text: Snapshots from the recent Visita Escola training along with SIHTM represntatives, on November 21, 2025
