For its 12th installation, the University of Santo Tomas Model ASEAN Meeting (UST MAM) made its comeback this year as one of the pioneer universities for Model ASEAN Meetings from February 19 to 21, 2026, at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila. The event hosted 50 delegates from different universities across Metro Manila who came forward to serve as catalysts for discussions on regional cooperation within the ASEAN context.
The 12th UST MAM was graced by Ms. Sheila Freitas, Technical Director to the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to the Philippines. The opening plenary was also attended by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of DFA-ASEAN Affairs and Spokesperson for ASEAN 2026, Mr. Dominic Xavier M. Imperial, who represented the Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary, Hon. Ma Theresa P. Lazaro, as well as Undersecretary Alexander S. Lopez of the National Maritime Council. They addressed the attending students and guests with speeches aligned with the event’s theme.
In line with the spirit of ASEAN prosperity and in time for the Philippine chairmanship of the ASEAN Summit 2026, UST MAM held its 12th installation with the theme, “United in Continuity: Driving Innovative Solutions for Regional Stability towards a Prosperous and People-Centered ASEAN.” As the Philippines takes the helm in hosting the ASEAN Summit at the international level, the 12th UST MAM provided a space to emulate this experience for its dele conversations toward connectivity beyond digital means. Meetings under the three pillars of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) focused on discussions that foster genuine collaborationgates and guests, aligned with the Philippine Chairship theme of “Navigating Our Future, Together.”
With ASEAN’s continued commitment to collective strength, unity, and a shared vision of an innovative and inclusive future, the 12th UST MAM steered and partnership toward a people-centered community.
These discussions come at a significant time, with the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste’s entrance into ASEAN underscoring the importance of regional collaboration amid impactful changes not only to the organization but also to the entire region.
For more than a decade, UST MAM has remained a key platform for students aspiring to enter the international field of diplomacy through simulations that closely mirror ASEAN’s methods, processes, and core values. Through these simulated meetings, delegates step into the role of diplomats, engage in meaningful discourse, and craft diplomatic resolutions that further strengthen ASEAN connectivity.
This 12th UST MAM serves as a reminder of the importance of cross-border connectivity and the value of building a people-centered ASEAN region where prosperity is experienced by and for the people.
With its comeback year, the event invites future participants to take part in opportunities as ASEAN and the region continue to grow. Support the UST Model ASEAN Meeting by following its official social media accounts on Facebook (facebook.com/ustmam2026), Twitter (@USTModelASEAN), and Instagram (@ust.mam).
