by Acy de Guzman
Since last year’s Philippine Model United Nations left us a very good impression, surely, all of us also have waited for this year’s PhilMUN and expected for something bigger and better. But what if you were already expecting much more than the previous PhilMUN and it turns out that unfortunately, what came out is a plain and simple simulation one? What do you do?
The 13th Philippine Model United Nations was entirely unique from the past years. In fact, it was considered to be the biggest MUN ever. The number of delegates was really overwhelming. The most number of committees, dais, and staff members were also recorded. Second, it was the first time that the MUN was held outside the premises of DLS-CSB. We had the opening and closing ceremonies at Bayview Hotel and some of the committees at Torre Lorenzo and Burgandy Condominium. It was difficult especially with the logistics but it was also worth it. And third, which is considered as the landmark of DLS-CSB MUN history is the leap from DLS-CSB MUN to DLS-CSB Philippine MUN. It was during the 13th annual session where the most number of guest schools were able to participate including the students from Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao. There were great feedbacks from the guest participants. It enabled them to practice what they have learned in their school and inspired them to create similar projects. Moreover, it was the first time that we accepted participation from non-CDA students in DLS-CSB.
Indeed, it has left a legacy. And that made us want to have a better PhilMUN this year. And now that 14th PhilMUN finally opens its sessions, alongside are critics who question why is it that from having a P800 registration fee last year, now it has increased to P1500 and yet that are no really external venues that would make us think that this year’s registration fee is practical and worth it. Not everybody can afford it, actually. Talking about free-flowing coffee? I just don’t think it’s enough.
Despite the fact that we are not having an overwhelming number of students, the external venues, and not much of the guest delegates this year…let’s give the chance the present MUN that all these are just their weaknesses. Maybe, just maybe, the quality of the simulation they would give the students is something really worth the effort and payment. Maybe, we’re just saying that it’s plain and simple because we justify it by the external criteria since we’ve already had a taste of Bayview last year. Who knows if they’re having the thorough and careful selection of the theme, and the committees including their dais and topics and that’s far more than being in a hotel itself? Hopefully.
However, I am not closing my doors for the idea that it’s not really about conducting PhilMUN in a five-star hotel or whatever. I appreciate the efforts of the Corps of Diplomats and all those who are behind this because I know that they’ve done their best to make this PhilMUN another fulfilling experience for the CDA students. After all, it is the true essence of the MUN that should be seen all through out, and that is to practice diplomacy and enable the CDA seniors to help and guide the frosh CDA students.
