The largest and pioneering collegiate Model United Nations in the Philippines, Benilde Model United Nations, held a three-day conference for its 27th iteration with the theme “Reenvisioning the Global Nexus of Sustainability through Homogenizing Multilateral Narratives,” exploring today’s era of intricate sustainability crises where multilateralism shapes global dialogue. Each day highlighted the unwavering efforts of BenildeMUN in addressing global issues and shaping the next generation of leaders.
The 27th Benilde Model United Nations was co-presented by AirAsia Philippines, proudly carrying its 2026 brand campaign, “LFG! Let’s Fly and Go!” As an airline that connects people, cultures, and ideas, AirAsia emphasizes empowering the next generation of leaders, diplomats, and changemakers.
On the first day of the conference, February 26, 2026, representing the company was Ma. Charmaine P. Servilla, Marketing Manager, who introduced the airline’s commitment to connecting people and ideas. Her message encouraged delegates to stay curious and globally engaged, urging them to explore the world while young and to view travel and exchange as catalysts for broader understanding.
Additionally, three guest speakers—Smiljana Knez, Leila Lora-Santos, and Ferdinand Francis Hermoso—were invited onstage for discussions. The opening plenary also featured drums and experimental dances, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for delegates before their respective committee sessions.
Ambassador Smiljana Knez delivered a presentation titled “Climate Diplomacy and Slovenia and the Importance of Multilateralism,” emphasizing the consequences of climate change and how diplomatic connections can help address these enduring challenges. She highlighted Slovenia’s experience to illustrate the urgency of environmental change. Following her, Assistant Secretary Leila Lora-Santos emphasized the importance of the younger generation as partners in achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Meanwhile, Prof. Ferdinand Francis Hermoso spoke about courage and commitment in working toward a sustainable future.
The second day continued with committee sessions and featured the program “Future-Proofing Our Home: Climate Change and the Quest to Attain the 2030 Agenda,” where Antonio Gabriel La Viña, Executive Director of the Manila Observatory, delivered his keynote address. He emphasized the importance of youth, stating, “You are very important to me as you are the future.” He discussed ongoing challenges faced by the United Nations, stressing the urgency of climate justice and the need for strengthened adaptation initiatives.
A panel discussion followed, facilitated by Events Officer Luis Albert Gallemit and UNSC Vice Chairperson Chriszel Kaiszie Nadong. Panelists included Lea Guerrero and Glenn Banaguas, who shared insights on the Philippines’ climate vulnerability, national development goals, disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, food security, agriculture, coastal livelihoods, youth engagement, and climate financing. The discussions emphasized that future-proofing the Philippines beyond 2030 requires long-term sustainability and climate adaptability.
On the final day, the 27th BenildeMUN concluded with a Diplomatic Soirée, where outstanding delegates from each council were recognized with awards such as Best Position Paper, Verbal Commendation, Most Outstanding Delegate, and Best NGO for UNFCCC. Top honors included the Carlos P. Romulo Award, Dag Hammarskjöld Award, and Felipe Agoncillo Award for Most Outstanding Delegation. Members of the organizing committee, including the Secretary-General, Deputy Secretary-General, and Director-General, were also recognized by their Secretariat heads.
The Benilde Model United Nations will continue its legacy as it prepares for its 28th edition next year, welcoming new delegates and addressing emerging global challenges.
