By Ivy Grace M. Bunnat
What does it take to fulfill a university endeavor? For the Supreme Student Council (SSC) of Baguio Central University (BCU), it takes courage, time, group effort, initiative, careful planning, and the help of the advisers Mrs. Gladys O. Soliweg, Dr. Michael T. Sebullen, consultant Engr. Lorelie S. Malit, head of the Student Services Office Ms. Sheenah Pearl L. Pangda, and the international relations officer and dean of the Graduate School Dr. Genevive Kupang. The SSC has passed through four levels of the accreditation process and finally received their Certificate Of Accreditation for the UNESCO Clubs Philippines during the conducted International Assembly of the Youth for UNESCO on the 29th of November to the 1st of December 2024, held at the Citystate Asturias Hotel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.




As a newly accredited Club for UNESCO, the SSC has actively observed various activities in preparation for participation in the upcoming International Assembly. They noted events such as the One Town One Product (OTOP) initiative, paper presentations, a quiz bee, and a poster-making competition, among others organized by the event hosts. This engagement allows the SSC to better understand the framework and opportunities available for collaboration and contribution at the assembly.


Miss Ivy Grace M. Bunnat, the president of the SSC, achieved remarkable success at the competition, securing two out of four special awards: Miss Congeniality and Best in Talent. Her captivating performance featured two magic acts that resonated with the statement, “Since war begins in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that defenses of peace must be constructed.” As a Political Science student with units in Professional Education, she emphasized that children often emulate the behaviors of adults. She advocated for creating magical experiences that teach children about peace rather than violence.
In her explanation for choosing magic as her talent, Miss Bunnat humorously noted her inability to sing or dance like other candidates, quipping that her performances might cause “bad weather.” Drawing from her four years of study in Political Science, she cleverly engaged the audience and judges with her tricks, eliciting laughter and appreciation.
Additionally, Mr. Joemary Q. Dulay participated in the Poster Making Competition, while Miss Kathleen Geryls B. Chua and Mr. Karl Matthieu B. Rillera showcased their knowledge in the quiz bee. Together, these participants exemplified the spirit of creativity and collaboration at the event.

During the Cultural Night, the BCU SSC connected with delegates from various backgrounds through active participation and the sharing of cultural practices. Notably, they formed bonds with delegates from Kalinga, a fellow Cordilleran group. This enriching experience not only fostered mutual understanding but also celebrated the diverse cultural heritage of the region, highlighting the importance of collaboration and unity among youth in promoting peace and cultural appreciation.

To end the UNESCO Youth Assembly in Palawan, the delegates embarked on an adventurous city tour, connecting with fellow participants and Palawan’s indigenous people. At the Butterfly Sanctuary, they took a moment to learn about the local scorpion population—a fascinating addition to the sanctuary’s more famous turtles and butterflies.
This enriching experience wouldn’t have been possible without the support of several key individuals and organizations: former SSC Vice President Emmanuel Esteban, current SSC Treasurer Jessie B. Dontogan, former SSC College of Criminal Justice Education Representative Clyde Brixter B. Selga, current College of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts Public Information Officer Jessver Castaneda, JCI Las Chicas del Baguio, University President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, and the entire BCU community.
*Edited by Genevieve B. Kupang
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