Ms. Jalilah Balawis Sarip, an MSU-IIT Economics student, was selected as one of 50 delegates from the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand to participate in the Champions for Peace 2026 Regional Workshop on Resilience and Social Cohesion. The workshop was held in Singapore from January 25 to 31, 2026, convening youth leaders from across Southeast Asia.

Representing the Philippines, Ms. Sarip engaged in a regional initiative focused on strengthening peacebuilding efforts, promoting resilience, and fostering social cohesion in diverse communities. The program created a space for dialogue, shared learning, and critical reflection among participants from varied national and cultural backgrounds.

Throughout the workshop, discussions examined how societies navigate diversity amid increasingly complex social environments. Participants explored how diversity, while widely celebrated, requires intentional and sustained engagement to ensure it becomes a source of unity and collective progress. Sessions also highlighted resilience and hope as active forms of agency that empower individuals and communities to respond constructively to challenges.

Her participation reflects the expanding role of Economics students beyond traditional economic discourse, demonstrating how economic perspectives can contribute to conversations on social cohesion, governance, and community-based peacebuilding. The experience marks a meaningful milestone in her continued engagement with regional collaboration and youth leadership initiatives.

report by Clarkent Potestas | VP for Publications