On March 22, 2025, the University of the Cordilleras (UC) Featured Artist lit up the stage during SineMusiKain: Montañosa Film + Music + Food Fair, held at the scenic Rose Garden, Burnham Park, Baguio City. This event was part of the Montañosa Film Festival 2025, a celebration of creative expression through film, music, and local cuisine.
From the opening note to the final bow, the audience was treated to a vibrant showcase of musical artistry. Each performance resonated with heart and soul, captivating not only the audience’s attention but also their deep admiration.
The UC Featured Artist members performed a diverse selection of local and international hits, each reinterpreted with passion and precision. Hazel Dawn Carbonel opened the evening with a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Yesterday, When I Was Young” by Glen Campbell, setting an emotional tone that carried throughout the show.
Shaira Nicole Borac moved the crowd with her heartfelt take on “Nobela” by Join the Club. Her duet with Jerchricel Moncada, performing “Oo” by Up Dharma Down, was a standout moment—delicate, powerful, and deeply moving.
Roland Sajot delivered a soulful performance of “Huwag Na Lang” by True Faith, while Gian Dethan Cuz brought nostalgia to life with his rendition of “When I Met You” by Apo Hiking Society. The evening reached its climax with Jerchricel Moncada’s commanding performance of “Spoliarium”, backed by an electrifying live ensemble featuring Jazen Loreto Catungal on electric guitar, Ken Rainer Quizon on acoustic guitar, Mick Jagger Galapon on bass, and Roland Sajot on drums.
This event aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education. By participating in the Montañosa Film Festival, UC students gained hands-on experience in live performance, musical collaboration, and audience engagement—skills that are essential to promoting inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education through the arts.
In line with the Center for Creative Production’s (CCP) Key Result Area (KRA) 1, Goal 2, which emphasizes active participation in cultural activities led by LGUs or private sectors, UC’s involvement in SineMusiKain 2025 further demonstrates its commitment to community engagement and institutional collaboration through the performing arts.
The UC Featured Artist’s dynamic performance at SineMusiKain 2025 not only showcased musical excellence but also reinforced the vital role of the arts in education, cultural promotion, and community building. By aligning with SDG 4 and CCP’s KRA 1 Goal 2, the event highlighted how creative platforms can empower students, foster meaningful partnerships, and celebrate Filipino heritage. As part of the Montañosa Film Festival, this experience marks another meaningful step toward nurturing the next generation of artists and cultural advocates.
Author: Janhzel G. Fernandez
