Sayaw at Kultura ng Pilipinas (SAYTURA), organized by the University of the Cordilleras (UC) Center for Creative Productions (CCP), is an annual cultural production that celebrates the richness and diversity of Filipino heritage through dance. First launched in 2023 in celebration of National Arts Month, the event has since evolved into a dynamic platform that promotes cultural awareness, preserves traditional art forms, and showcases the artistry and talent of student performers. On February 27, 2026, UC presented this year’s production at the UC Theater, featuring two showtimes: a 2:00 PM matinee performance for UC students and a 6:00 PM gala show open to the public. The event highlighted performances by the UC Dance Company, UC Dance Squad, and the UC Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble.
The program brought to life the vibrant traditions of the Philippines, fostering a deeper appreciation of the country’s cultural identity while celebrating the expressive power of dance as a medium for storytelling and heritage preservation.
The production showcased a diverse repertoire of Filipino dances, reflecting both cultural authenticity and artistic excellence. Among the highlights were Muslim dances from Mindanao, such as Pag-apir and Singkil, which demonstrated elegance, intricate storytelling, and rich indigenous symbolism. The performers also presented selections from the Maria Clara suite, including Cariñosa, Flores de Mayo, Mariposa, Paseo de Narciso, and Bulaklak sa Halamanan. These dances emphasized grace, refinement, and the enduring influence of the Spanish colonial period on Filipino culture.
This year’s Saytura also featured a compelling performance by the UC Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, which showcased the rich cultural heritage of the six provinces of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Through a dynamic and expressive presentation, the ensemble brought to life the distinctive traditions, rituals, and movement vocabulary of the Cordilleran people, with particular emphasis on the province of Ifugao. The performance vividly illustrated indigenous identity, communal values, and the profound connection between culture, ancestry, and the highland environment of Northern Luzon.
The production concluded with the lively Rural Suite, featuring Karatong, Salakot, Polka sa Nayon, Sayaw sa Bangko, and Tinikling. These dances captured the simplicity, joy, and vibrancy of rural Filipino life, leaving the audience with a sense of pride and appreciation for everyday traditions. Through these performances, the event not only enhanced the dancers’ technical skills and artistic expression but also fostered a deeper cultural understanding and engagement among viewers.
Beyond entertainment, the event aligns with key institutional priorities and global development frameworks. It supports Key Result Areas (KRAs) on student development, cultural preservation, and community engagement by providing students with opportunities to cultivate discipline, creativity, and teamwork. Moreover, it contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting inclusive and holistic learning through the arts, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The program also reflects the Four Pillars of Education—learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together, and learning to be by fostering cultural awareness, collaboration, and personal growth.
Through Saytura, the UC Center for Creative Productions reaffirms its commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino culture. As the program continues to evolve annually, it aims to further elevate the quality of performances, expand its audience reach, and ensure that the country’s rich cultural traditions are sustained and appreciated by future generations.
Author: Rachelle Anne Fortes | CCP Technical Assistant
