By Shanea Mae A. Nalaunan
Photos by Gian Kyra Morones, Marc Given Alvarez, and Joanna Rose Bermejo
Mindanao state colleges and state universities showcased their rich culture and traditions through spectacular performances during the third day of the SUC Fair 2023 at SM City Iloilo’s Activity Center.
Mindanao, a particularly anticipated region in terms of performance, enthralled the audience with their stunning attire adorned in vibrant colors, accompanied by the resonant sounds of their indigenous instruments.
They showcased their cultural dances and songs, all in line with the theme “Pagsinadya: Celebrating Cultural Diversity of Mindanao.”
Dr. Imelda F. Legaspi, Director IV of the Office of Student Development and Services at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), warmly welcomed the esteemed guests from various regions and recognized the key contributors to the success of SUC Fair 2023, including Dr. Joselito Villaruz, the president of WVSU, who served as the event’s host, as well as the presidents of other SUCs who brought their students to the city.
“Bringing students from different SUCs allows us to take a glimpse into the cultures of other regions, fostering a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for our incredibly rich cultural heritage in the Philippines,” said Dr. Legaspi.
The live cultural show started with Region 9 of Zamboanga Peninsula performing PELULA (Jose Rizal Memorial University), SOHTEN AND TALAK dance (JH Cerilles State College), followed by Mi Ciudad de Zamboanga and Chavacano de Zamboanga (Western Mindanao State University) on the second part.
On the third set of the performances, PANGALAY HA PATUNG (Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University), SINGKIL (JH Cerilles State College), JANGGAY (Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University), and BAILE LATINO SUITE comprising of Flamenco and Spanish origin dances (Western Mindanao State University).
Region 10 performances started with HIGAONAN SUITE (Bukidnon State University), SUBANEN DANCE-THALEK (Northwestern Mindanao State University), MARANAO DANCES-KINI-KINI, MALONG & KINAKULANAG (University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines), KINAMIGUIN SUITE (Camiguin Polytechnic State College), and JOTA QUIRINO (Northwestern Mindanao State University).
Region 11 as the last region to perform showcased the ATA Manobo Tribe Dance (Davao Del Norte State College).