The 4th Series of the 5th Hanseatic League of Universities Conference
By Genevieve Balance Kupang, Siquijor Island, Philippines. Thank you for reading this series’ 2nd and 3rd articles.
In today’s evolving academic landscape, conferences transcend traditional venues, embracing vibrant spaces where knowledge and experience converge beyond walls. At the 5th Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) Conference, delegates embodied this progressive spirit, moving beyond the conventional halls of NORSU, SPUD, SU, and the Provincial Convention Center to immerse themselves in a living, natural classroom on Siquijor Island. This bold departure reflects the core ethos of both HLU and WURI—breaking barriers and empowering change—not only through dialogue but through deep engagement with an exotic island, culture, and nature. As WURI historian affirms, such moments allow scholarly collaboration to root itself in the rich tapestry of local heritage and ecological wonder, fostering innovation that resonates globally while remaining profoundly human, humane and connected.
On the third day of the 5th HLU immersive learning, Friday, July 11, 2025, delegates from the Philippines, Egypt, and Taiwan embarked on a day tour of Siquijor Island — an enchanting locale renowned for its natural wonders, healing traditions, and rich cultural heritage. The day began at 6:30 AM with the group meeting at the pier, welcomed by their knowledgeable tour guide, Mr. Didi Deles of InstaPay Travel and Tours. Their first stop was the Church and the Siquijor welcome signage.
5th HLU Conference delegates gather at the “Welcome to Siquijor” landmark during their island day tour. Representing Bangladesh, Egypt, Taiwan, and the Philippines, the participants come from a diverse range of institutions, from left to right: Easter College, Baguio Central University, Badr University in Cairo, Egypt, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), John Paul College (Oriental Mindoro), Tarlac Agricultural University, Ifugao State University, and Central Mindanao University.
The journey to Siquijor was an immersion into a realm of local lore. According to persistent sabi-sabi—the irresistible whisper of local tales that enrich any adventure—Siquijor has long captivated imaginations. It’s known as the “Island of Fire,” the “Mystical Isle,” and a magical place where worries are said to simply evaporate into the sea breeze, much like the ancient roots of its iconic balete trees, strangler figs, a type of fig tree in the genus Ficus.
Recognizing the profound mutual dependence and ecological interconnections within nature, WURI historian and applied cosmic anthropologist Genevieve B. Kupang, dwarfed by the towering centuries-old Balete tree along Siquijor’s Circumferential Road in Barangay Campalanas, Lazi, embraced its life-giving energy. Alongside fellow delegates, she offered gratitude to the tree, the surrounding air, spring water, microbes, and fish— acknowledging these as vital, interrelated species and elements that sustain ecosystem resilience within the greater cosmic web.
This mystical island provided a fitting milieu for an ongoing learning, particularly for the 5th HLU’s “Immersive Natural Classroom Experience.” Here, the theme, “BREAKING Barriers, Empowering Change,” truly came alive amid the myths and natural wonders. Breaking barriers often means stepping outside our comfort zones and plunging into enchanting spaces where ancient tales dance with postmodern minds, and innovation finds its rhythm with tradition. A classic example is the above 400-year-old tree, cared for by locals, symbolizes the deep spiritual and ecological bond Siquijor culture maintains with nature. The practice of hugging the tree and being grateful for its existence in the community reflects sensitivity and commitment to honoring such connections, embodying gratitude toward all cosmic beings.
HLU delegates enjoyed a refreshing fish spa treatment—an all-natural exfoliation—during the visit. From left to right: Vice President Dr. Yung-Ping Tseng of Taiwan’s National Chi Nan University; Prof. Erwin P. Ambasa, Assistant Director of the Office of Quality Assurance (OQA) at Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU); Dr. Marianne P. Villaruel, Director of External Linkages and International Affairs (ELIA), TAU; Ms. Caroline N. Gabis, Chief of Partnership Development, ELIA; Dr. Sheila R. Lingaya, Assistant Director for ELIA; Diana Dulnuan Pimental and Faith Belingon Napudo from IFSU; Genevieve B. Kupang, International Relations Officer at BCU; Dr. Cecilia O. Bucayong, Director of the Office of Environmental Safety and Management (OESM); and Dr. Jude William Genilo, WUNI President for Expert from ULAB.
Later in the afternoon, delegates experienced this immersive environment firsthand, not just swapping business cards but also sharing delightful stories while tiny and medium-sized fishes gently nibbled at their feet in a natural spa. Earlier that morning, the unique visit to a sacred healing hut at Balay Pahauli (Restoration Hut) in Barangay Cantabon offered a profound connection to the island’s timeless wellness traditions. Here, ancient rituals like “Tuob” (fumigation) and “Bolo-bolo” aimed to cleanse both body and spirit. Additional highlights featured the scenic ascent to Mt. Bandilaan, and a visit to the picturesque Salagdoong Beach, each location revealing unique facets of Siquijor’s mystique and natural beauty. This blend of the mystical, the natural, and the traditional provided a place for discovery, even for the most curious scientific minds.
Participants from St. Paul University Philippines (Tuguegarao), National Chi Nan University (Taiwan), Tarlac Agricultural University, and Ifugao State University forge bonds amidst the towering trees and cool mountain breeze, embarking on a rejuvenating forest bathing experience—Shinrin-yoku, as it’s known in Japan—before reaching the summit of Mt. Bandilaan. United by curiosity and camaraderie, the group immersed themselves in nature’s tranquility, savoring the quiet rhythm of the forest while sharing laughter and reflections on the path. Their ascent to Siquijor’s highest point became not just a physical journey but a celebration of international friendship, mindful exploration, and the healing power of nature.
From the Viewing Tower of Mt. Bandilaan National Park, the HLU participants joyfully shouted, ‘I love Siquijor!’ This park, with its unique blend of scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and deep spiritual heritage, truly stands out as a must-visit destination for nature lovers and seekers of extraordinary island experiences.” DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.19340.42887
Video link: https://youtube.com/shorts/B75xO21MO8o?feature=share
So, from formal, air-conditioned halls to Siquijor’s lush, soul-calming landscapes, this conference took “learning by experience” to an entirely new, vibrant level. It’s a beautiful testament that sometimes, breakthroughs and the most restorative insights don’t just happen inside the conference halls and convention center—they flourish when we step outside it, embracing an island as our grandest classroom.
The journey to Cambugahay Falls is arguably Siquijor’s most famous attraction. The cascading, multi-tiered waterfalls with their inviting turquoise pools offered moments of refreshing dips and joyous rope swings. This natural sanctuary fostered both playful camaraderie and curiosity among the delegates.
HLU delegates embraced the magic of Cambugahay Falls—bamboo rafting, turquoise pool swims, rope swinging, “fairy walk,” and natural photography in this scenic beauty.
Lunch was savored seaside at Salagdo-ong Beach Resort, famed for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. The group enjoyed local cuisine and black ice cream (with activated charcoal), fostering cross-cultural exchange against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery.
Savoring a relaxing lunch with stunning ocean views at Salagdoong Beach Resort.
Marianne P. Villaruel, Sheila R. Lingaya, Caroline N. Gabis, and Genevieve B. Kupang pose together at Salagdo-ong Beach Resort.
After lunch, one group brought Jessica Balag-ey to the Siquijor Port as she has an evening flight, while other delegates explored the historic Lazi Church and Convent, celebrated for their Spanish colonial architecture and centuries-old stories of faith and endurance. These National Historical Landmarks provided a contemplative space to connect Siquijor’s striking natural landscapes with its deep cultural roots.
The journey then took a quieter turn at Hapitanan Beach, where delegates enjoyed a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush jungle. Here, two delegates embraced tranquil swims and childlike joy on swings and “flying broomsticks,” their carefree movements captured by photographers and local videographers, embodying the spirit of wonder.
The final stop was the mystical old Enchanted Balete Tree, a centuries-old giant whose roots cradle a natural spring. Delegates immersed themselves in the unique fish spa experience, delighting in the gentle nibbling of small, medium, and large fish—a symbol of Siquijor’s healing legacy. This serene encounter awakened a shared sense of gratitude and reverence for nature’s gifts.
Ibrahim H. El Kalla (BUC, Egypt), Marianne P. Villaruel, Sheila Lingaya, and Genevieve Kupang shared childlike smiles and laughter, captured in creative photography at Salagdo-ong Beach Resort.
As evening approached around 6:30 PM, the delegates boarded the Fast Craft back to Dumaguete, their hearts and minds enriched by a day that artfully blended ecological wonders, historical treasures, and healing traditions.
Reflecting on the experience, WURI historian Kupang observed that this immersive journey exemplified how academic collaboration transcends borders, rooting global conversations in the intimate stories and landscapes of a small island. Through shared moments at Cambugahay Falls, the Balete Tree, and beyond, delegates renewed their commitment to breaking barriers and empowering change — values at the heart of their scholarly pursuits and collective progress. Over dinner in Dumaguete, delegates from Tarlac Agricultural University expressed heartfelt gratitude for the deep sensitivity to nature and other beings, a sensibility thoughtfully shared by the applied cosmic anthropologist accompanying them.
In a heartfelt post on his Facebook page, Mr. Didi Deles expressed his gratitude:
“Thank you, Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU), for the trust and confidence you’ve placed in us! ✨
It was truly an honor and joy to serve you during your one-day tour on the enchanting island of Siquijor. From your warm arrival at the port to the serene centuries-old Balete Tree, the picturesque Paliton Beach, the historic Lazi Church and Convent, the refreshing Cambugahay Falls, the soulful Paulinian healing experience, the majestic Mt. Bandilaan, and the scenic Salagdoong Beach — every stop was a story, and every moment was a memory worth keeping. We are deeply grateful to be part of your journey. We hope Siquijor left you with a sense of wonder and peace, and may the memories bring inspiration wherever life takes you. Looking forward to the next journey together! ✨
With heartfelt gratitude, Instapay Travel and Tours”
Stand by for the next in the series.
5th Annual Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) Conference
Photo credits: Didi Deles, Jr., Sheila R. Lingaya, Marianne P. Villaruel, Caroline N. Gabis
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#2025AnnouncementofWURIRankings
About the Author:
Genevieve Balance Kupang is the WURI historian for 2024-2025.
