Every May, the Center for Creative Productions at the University of the Cordilleras (UC) proudly hosts Cordemayo, an annual cultural celebration that serves as a vibrant showcase of the dances, music, and heritage of the Cordillera region. This event stands as a powerful platform for the people of Cordillera to express their rich and diverse cultural identity, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary artistic forms to honor their roots while embracing modern influences.
Cordemayo features an impressive lineup of performances, with strong participation from the UC community. Students, faculty, and local artists come together to bring the rich culture of the Cordillera region to life. The performances encompass a wide array of artistic expressions, ranging from traditional dances and folk music to innovative presentations that explore the region’s cultural themes in a contemporary context.
One of the highlights of Cordemayo is the captivating performance by the UC Percussion and Orchestra, known for its unique fusion of traditional rhythms and modern orchestral arrangements. This innovative blend bridges the past and the present, creating a sound that resonates with both elders and the younger generation, fostering a sense of unity and continuity.
Equally enchanting is the UC Chorale, which captivates attendees with timeless songs and choral pieces that evoke the spirit of the Cordillera people. These melodies, often passed down through generations, tell poignant stories of the land, its people, and their enduring values.
The UC Featured Artists take center stage, showcasing the distinct musical styles of the region through both traditional and modern compositions. Their performances highlight the diversity and depth of Cordillera’s musical heritage, incorporating indigenous instruments and contemporary styles that reflect the region’s evolving cultural landscape.
The UC Dance Company and Dance Squad present a rich tapestry of dances, with each movement reflecting the cultural practices of the region. Their repertoire includes traditional group dances that narrate ancestral stories, dynamic solo performances, and contemporary choreographies that explore themes of unity and identity, all of which resonate deeply with the audience.
A standout group in this year’s Cordemayo is the Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, which emphasizes the unique traditions of each province in the Cordillera. Their performances highlight regional diversity through music, dance, and rituals that have been preserved for generations, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of the area.
Cordemayo is not just a celebration of Cordillera culture; it also aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education. The event promotes equitable access to education and cultural activities, ensuring that all community members, regardless of ethnicity, religion, disability, immigration status, or gender, have the opportunity to participate. This inclusive approach fosters a socially responsible and connected society, where cultural heritage is celebrated and preserved.
In addition to supporting SDG 4, Cordemayo also emphasizes SDG 4.3.2, which advocates for lifelong learning and the role of public events at universities in engaging and educating the broader community. By hosting such an event, the University of the Cordilleras contributes to creating an environment where education and culture are accessible and celebrated.
Furthermore, Cordemayo aligns with several of the University of the Cordilleras’ Key Result Areas (KRAs):
• KRA 1, G2: Promoting active participation in activities that celebrate the culture of the Cordillera region.
• KRA 1, G3: Producing timely and relevant performances that inspire and engage the community.
These KRAs reflect the university’s commitment to strengthening its cultural programs and encouraging community involvement, ensuring that Cordemayo is not only a celebration but also a meaningful educational experience for all participants.
As a vital celebration of the Cordillera region’s rich traditions and heritage, Cordemayo plays a crucial role in preserving the customs and practices of the region’s ancestors, ensuring that these traditions are passed down to future generations. This much-anticipated event draws attendees from all walks of life—students, faculty, local residents, and visitors from beyond the region. Each year, Cordemayo continues to showcase the vibrant and diverse culture of the Cordillera, fostering a deeper appreciation for its unique heritage and reaffirming the importance of cultural preservation, community engagement, and education.
Author: Rachelle Anne Fortes | CCP Technical Assistant
