Bringing together students from several Asian and Nordic countries to exchange ideas and discuss shared concerns on a sustainable future, ASPNet Osaka hosted the UNESCO ASPnet Osaka International Forum 2026 from January 9 to 13, 2026, in Osaka, Japan. The international forum gathered members of the ASPnet network from five Asian countries, continuing a series of collaborations that began in 2004. It has been 12 years since this high school student conference was first held in 2013.
Representing the Philippine Normal University (PNU), Mr. Kobe Brylle L. Tolentino from the Faculty of Languages and Literature (FLL) and Ms. Princess Yheza C. Tolentino from the Faculty of General Education and Experiential Learning (FGEEL) participated in discussions, presentations, and intercultural activities that allowed them to share the Philippine perspective while learning from other young leaders from Japan, Lithuania, South Korea, and Thailand. Accompanying the students was Mr. Jeffrey C. Ginez, Head of the Center for Advocacy, Research, and Training – Center for Teaching and Learning (CART-CTL), who served as their chaperone and mentor throughout the forum.
The Philippine delegates presented the current situation in the Philippines on sustainability issues, highlighting the worsening state of plastic waste and the low level of public awareness of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They also delivered a cultural presentation featuring unique aspects of Filipino culture and performed a poetry recital. Throughout the five-day event, the delegates immersed themselves in Japanese culture by staying with a host family and visiting Todai-ji Temple and Osaka Castle.
At the conclusion of the forum, participants received certificates of participation. Reflecting on their experience, the PNU delegates emphasized the importance of expanding student exposure to global conversations on sustainability, strengthening linkages with UNESCO schools, and advancing PNU’s commitment to developing future educators who are globally aware and socially responsive.
