By: RJ Lou G. Felasol
apiz State University Mambusao Satellite College through the Office of Socio-Cultural Affairs headed by Dr. Caster A. Kapunan, scocio-cultural affairs chairman, initiated a virtual celebration of the National Arts Month ‘22.
This year’s celebration was anchored on the theme of the National Arts Month, “Sining ng Pag-asa,” which aims “to recognize arts as a source and expression of hope as shown in the creative ways we respond to the effects of the pandemic, natural calamities, and other social realities, as well as the arts’ role in improving our community life as Filipinos,” according to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).
In the inspirational message of Satellite College Director Dr. Adelfo Z. Virtudazo during the opening program, he shared his insights that despite the trials that people encounter such as COVID-19, typhoons and high prices of basic commodities, they still hope for a better tomorrow, thus it is the arts of hope.
Dr. Kapunan in his opening remarks gave an overview of the National Arts Month celebration. He mentioned Presidential Proclamation no. 683 signed in 1991 by the late Pres. Corazon C. Aquino declaring February as National Arts Month “to celebrate artistic excellence and pay tribute to the uniqueness and diversity of the Filipino heritage and culture” and NCCA is tasked to lead the celebration.
The highlight of the celebration is the showcase of students’ talents in the field of singing and dancing.
Every curricular year level and section of all curricular programs gathered themselves and performed a unity dance to the tune of “Sumasayaw ang Langit.”
Aside from the unity dance, singer students and teachers showcased their talents through music entries. Prof. Janice D. Ballera performed her original composition “Panakayon” which won 3rd Place in the jingle video composition category during the CAPSU Pagtukib 2021.
Several students also presented their performances in interpretative and hiphop dances with the Kalingawan Performing Arts Group as the front act.
The researched folk dance “Inilusan” of Dr. Caster A. Kapunan which depicts the Mambusaonons culture of sharing was also performed during the event.
Prof. Olga L. Llanera, adviser of the Supreme Student Council, in her closing remarks left a message of inspiration for the students.
“The use of social media applications such as TikTok and Facebook where students express their talents and emotions is essential especially during these trying times,” Prof. Llanera said.
Students have already missed the activities they used to conduct before the pandemic, especially those activities where they could display their talents like singing and dancing.
But the celebration of the National Arts Month gave these students the opportunity to showcase their God-given talents amid the pandemic. Everyone was hopeful that in the next National Arts Month celebration in school, they will be performing on stage in front of live audience.