The Ship of Dreams and Friendship Bringing together more than 300 young leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states and Japan, the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) is a diplomatic cultural exchange program held annually. It is sponsored by the Japanese government and supported by the member countries of the ASEAN. In the Philippines, it is being organized and implemented by the National Youth Commission (NYC) under the office of the President. The program is now on its 44th year of successfully linking the youth of the ASEAN and Japan, widening their international outlook, and fostering friendship and cooperation as they live together in MS Nippon Maru for 52 days. Activities on-board include discussion groups, seminars, cultural presentations, sports and recreation. There are also courtesy calls, institutional visits, interaction with the local youth, community service, and homestay experience in every port-of-call. These activities entail a unified response to social issues around the globe that will bridge gaps for a fortified ASEAN and Japan. More importantly, participants are tasked to conduct post-program activities for their chosen beneficiaries when they return to their country. Through the post-program activities, participants will be able to utilize and pass forward what they have learned on board.