THE INSTITUTE of ASEAN-European Studies (IAES) of the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) continued its mission of fostering global dialogue by hosting its latest Ambassador’s Lecture Series on February 26 at the school’s Cross Theater. The event brought together a distinguished assembly of diplomats, community leaders, and students to re-examine the evolving landscape of international relations through the lens of the younger generation.
Sheryl Jo Urdaneta, the concurrent head of IAES and Center for Linkages, Internationalization & Language Studies, opened the session by emphasizing the critical timing of such a forum.
She noted that IAES prides itself on being a platform for relevant and important discussions, and stressed that it is vital to re-examine the role of the youth in shaping the country’s future amidst various economic, political, and academic challenges.
Keynote speaker, Chinese Consul General Zhao Xiuzhen, delivered a profound message on how young people can serve as essential bridges connecting the world.
Focusing on the pillars of economy, technology, education, and culture, the Consul General highlighted the exponential economic growth in China and the vast possibilities available to ordinary young people today.
“While platforms may be technological, the shared aspiration among our youth to create, connect, and improve lives runs deep,” she remarked.
Consul General Zhao further illustrated the strength of the youth through their leadership in the technological revolution, noting that Chinese youth are no longer just users but also leaders and pioneers. In the cultural sphere, she observed a shift where young people are “actively becoming creators”, citing the rise of e-sports, traditional Chinese-style music, and the revival of Hanfu culture.
Before her talk ended, Consul General Zhao issued a resonant challenge to the youth of both China and the Philippines: “to remain curious, kind, and collaborative”, urging them to build “young bridges of friendship” through concrete actions—whether by learning languages, collaborating on projects, or objectively sharing their respective cultures to break down misunderstandings.
The lecture concluded with a brief open forum where students engaged the Consul General on topics ranging from education to the youth’s contribution toward a shared future.
The event was graced by Malaysian Consul General Dedi Faisal Ahmad Saleh, Consul Mohammad Ikhwan Ariff Muhammad Yusoff, Steve Arquiza of the Davao City Chinatown Development Council, Mark Seng of the Davao Design Society, and representatives from the Assumption College of Davao, the University of Mindanao, and Rizal Memorial Colleges.
