The morning brilliance met an audience filled with anticipation as the Binalaybay and Sugidanon Contest of the 2026 University Days showcased compelling chronicles at the Quezon Hall Merged Room on January 28.
University Student Council (USC) Vice Chairperson Psalms Matthew Saligumba opened the event by emphasizing the richness of the Hiligaynon language. In his opening remarks, he underscored the vital importance of cultural preservation through the Hiligaynon Category Contest.
Contestants from different colleges illuminated the stage with performances that echoed the spirit of this year’s University Days theme, “BANAAG SANG WEST: Celebrating our Radiant Gleam in Illuminating Generations.” Each piece served as a living testament to the university’s mission of safeguarding Hiligaynon for the generations yet to come.
Thirteen Binalaybay contenders delivered memorized poems rich with emotion and local color, weaving verses that spoke of heritage, struggle, and pride. Meanwhile, twelve Sugidanon participants brought forth heartfelt narratives—stories born from lived experiences, aspirations, and hope—anchored in themes of perseverance and passion.
Ensuring a fair and esteemed evaluation, the university welcomed distinguished alumni from the University of the Philippines Visayas—John Ian Allenciaga, Eliodora Dimzon, and Noel Galon De Leon—as members of the panel of judges. Performances were assessed under strict guidelines: entries must be written and delivered solely in Hiligaynon, align with the official theme, run for three to five minutes, and be presented without background music, sound effects, or props.
Through eloquence, authenticity, and unwavering pride in their roots, Taga-West students once again proved that brilliance thrives not only in classrooms, but also in the voices that keep culture alive.
#BANAAGsangWEST2026#OneWVSU
#WVSUTransformingGenerations#WVSUexcels
2026 University Days Special Coverage by WVSU Student Publications
Caption by Keiane Grace Casera, The Innovator
Photos by Kim Janna Provido, The Innovator
