The University of the Cordilleras’ Center for Creative Productions (CCP) achieved a remarkable milestone at the CHED Zonal Creativity Summit 2024, held on October 18 & 19, 2024. Themed “Hugpungan: A Showcase of Creative Products and Services from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Region,” the summit celebrated the vibrant culture, culinary delights, and artisanal products of the Cordillera region. The CCP’s standout exhibit earned them the prestigious title of Best Exhibit Champion on October 19, 2024, a testament to their innovative presentation and dedication to showcasing the creative potential of the region.
The first day of the summit was dedicated to the CCP’s exhibit, highlighting “CordeMayo,” a collection that featured an impressive range of innovative products and services representing the best of the Cordillera region. The exhibit included a diverse array of offerings, from intricate arts and crafts to food innovations and cultural displays, immersing visitors in the rich heritage and contemporary creativity that define the region. Each product told a story of tradition, skill, and passion, creating a vibrant tapestry of Cordilleran culture.
Among the showcased items were traditional handicrafts such as woven textiles, hand-carved wooden pieces, and indigenous art, alongside contemporary works that blended modern design with cultural elements. This fusion illustrated how Cordilleran culture continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in its traditions.
The culmination of the exhibit on October 19 saw the CCP awarded the Best Exhibit Champion title, a well-deserved recognition of the team’s hard work and creative brilliance. This accolade reflects the CCP’s commitment to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera while emphasizing its contributions to the creative industries.
Special recognition was given to the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) at the University of the Cordilleras for their exceptional culinary support. The talented chefs from CHTM prepared and presented traditional dishes that were pivotal to the exhibit’s success, offering visitors an authentic taste of Cordilleran cuisine and enriching the cultural narrative of the exhibit.
The CHED Zonal Creativity Summit 2024 served as a vital platform for showcasing creative products and services while celebrating the diverse cultures, foods, and products of the Cordillera. The event underscored the importance of creativity in preserving and promoting the region’s traditions while fostering innovation and progress.
The CCP’s winning exhibit beautifully integrated art, food, and culture in an educational and inspiring manner. By highlighting the beauty of Cordilleran products, the center celebrated the region’s unique identity and shared it with a broader audience. This achievement was not only a proud moment for the University of the Cordilleras but also a testament to the talent, creativity, and cultural pride that thrives within the university and the Cordillera region.
The success of the Hugpungan exhibit at the CHED Zonal Creativity Summit 2024 marks a significant milestone for the Center for Creative Productions. Their victory stands as a win not only for the university but also for the Cordillera region, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and creative potential. The recognition as Best Exhibit Champion highlights the CCP’s ongoing commitment to promoting the uniqueness of the region and contributing to the broader creative industries. As the Center for Creative Productions continues to shine, this victory will undoubtedly inspire future generations of artists, creators, and innovators to explore and share the rich cultural heritage of the Cordilleras. The event also reinforces the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, exemplified by the significant impact of CHTM’s culinary department on the exhibit’s success.
Author: Rachelle Anne Fortes | CCP Technical Assistant
