USTP Oroquieta celebrates National Arts Month through cultural fest
By Mark Joseph Laranjo and Hans Richard Rabillas, General Education Unit Instructors, USTP Oroquieta
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Oroquieta, Misamis Occidental (USTP Oroquieta) celebrated National Arts Month on March 2, 2026 through the vibrant Pelikultura and Cultural Fest 2026, anchored on the national theme “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting.” The campus-wide celebration highlighted the artistic talents of students, faculty, and staff, emphasizing how creativity reflects truth, courage, and cultural identity within the university community.
The day’s activities opened with the Parada ng USTP Pelikultura, a lively procession of various departments and offices, followed by a synchronized dance performance by first-year students that energized the crowd. In her opening message, Office of Student Affairs Head, Ms. Quimby Clavicillas emphasized the importance of nurturing creativity alongside academic excellence. The morning program also featured the Himig Malaya Chorale, whose stirring rendition of the National Anthem and the USTP Hymn set an inspiring tone for the celebration.
Student talent took center stage during the “Sulyap-Sining” competitions, which included Spoken Word Poetry, Comedy Drama, and Tawag ng Tanghalan. One of the most anticipated highlights was the USTP The Voice Grand Finale, where Ian Caparoso Dajao from the TLE Department captured the championship title with a powerful vocal performance that earned enthusiastic applause from the audience. The afternoon also featured a Maikling Pelikula showcase, where faculty and staff presented short films that demonstrated their creativity beyond the classroom, with the Administrative Staff securing the top award.
The celebration culminated in a colorful Cultural Show and traditional Larong Pinoy activities, bringing together performances in dance, music, and cultural fashion. Students also participated in games such as kadang-kadang and Chinese garter, while faculty members competed in a Pinoy Quiz Bee, won by the General Education Department. Despite the afternoon heat, the spirit of celebration remained high as the TLE Department was declared the Overall Champion, culminating in a grand finale performance that highlighted unity, artistry, and cultural pride.
Beyond the competitions and performances, the celebration served as a meaningful platform that aligns with the campus’s mission of providing holistic education that nurtures not only scientific and technological competence but also creativity, cultural awareness, and social responsibility. By encouraging artistic expression and appreciation of Filipino traditions, the event reflected the university’s vision of developing well-rounded individuals who contribute to nation-building through innovation, culture, and service.
The successful celebration of Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting thus reaffirms USTP Oroquieta’s continued dedication to fostering the beauty of art, creativity, and cultural appreciation within its academic community.