PROACTIVE discussions on global issues accompanied SBCA’s third Model United Nations (MUN) resilience as they pushed through last Oct. 26 despite typhoon Kristine. After the supposed first and second days were suspended, the event was condensed into a single day while still catering to and providing a quality experience to the participants.  

     With the theme “The Future of International Good Governance,” the MUN discussed three prevailing and vital global issues. These issues were carefully chosen to create multifaceted solutions to address current challenges facing different populations worldwide.

     The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) highlighted the promotion of sustainable tourism practices in Southeast Asia and the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics. Tourism was significant in this topic, as it ensures that tourism allows growth while considering environmental conservation and social well-being.

     The World Health Organization (WHO) prioritized women’s health and access to hygiene products in conflict-ridden areas. The goal was to address a pressing humanitarian issue in conflict zones, as this conflict often leaves women unable to access basic hygiene, affecting their overall well-being and dignity.

     Then, for the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), cybersecurity and cyberterrorism in the age of Artificial Intelligence and safeguarding government security. This aimed to tackle means to protect government operations and public safety from AI-driven attacks. The Delegates looked at different factors and aspects to ensure cybersecurity.

     The MUN committee believed the event could empower the youth by developing understanding and empathy and fostering critical thinking. It is also meant to inspire and create a commitment to collective progress.

     The three committees were assigned to different venues to focus on their issues. The UNWTO held its meeting at Manny Reyes Hall, the UNSC at the Moot Court, and the WHO at Balcruz Hall.

     In his commencement speech, Dr. Andres Ignacio C. San Mateo, Jr., Vice President of Academic Affairs, highlighted the role of MUN in teaching delegates to navigate the complexities of global governance and to collaborate, negotiate, and communicate with others to strive towards a common goal. “The students in this room today might one day be future leaders in their own right,” he concluded.

     In an interview with THE BEDAN HERALD, Sofia Osorio (IV-BAIS), SBCA MUN Executive Director, she stated that the event was made possible through meticulous planning and adaptability. She also believes that the event's success could be rooted in leveraging the knowledge and skills of each team member to overcome the challenges. 

     “The committee hopes that all participants left the conference with a renewed sense of accountability to themselves, their communities, and their global future, ready to contribute meaningfully toward real-world solutions,” Osorio concludes. 

     This year’s MUN also invited international participants from Thailand’s Thammasat University. Other participants were from Brent International School, Subic, SBCA Integrated Basic Education, Senior High School, and Tertiary School students.