In a heartwarming ceremony held at the University Boardroom on September 8, 2025, Saint Mary’s University formally welcomed two international students from Japan: Subaru Honda (Grade 12) and Miyu Oishi (Grade 10). The students will spend 10 months at SMU for academic and cultural immersion through the American Field Service (AFS) Program. 

The event, organized by the Internationalization Office, was attended by key SMU administrators, including Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, University President; Dr. Moises Alexander Asuncion, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. John G. Tayaban, Vice President for Administration; Mrs. Arianne Daran, Vice President for Finance and Treasurer; and Mr. Melencio Bernardino Jr., Principal of the Senior High School. 

The program began with the presentation of the AFS students and their host families, led by Mr. Samuel Damayon, Dean of Student Affairs and Services. This was followed by an acknowledgement of SMU administrators and guests, facilitated by Dr. Clara M. Gonzales, Head of the Internationalization Office. 

In his message, Dr. Palina expressed his optimism about the global opportunities that the AFS program would bring to Marian students. The AFS international students shared their initial experiences with their host families and at school, highlighting their immersion in the local culture. Their host families, including Mrs. Rona Gail Gamboa (host mother of Miyu Oishi) and Ms. Emelita Angeline Noble (host sister of Subaru Honda), were also present during the program, sharing heartfelt testimonies about the warmth of their host communities and the openness of SMU.