The University of the Cordilleras (UC) continues to preserve, promote, and share Filipino and Cordilleran identity through a diverse set of artistic expressions and cultural events. Through local, national, and international platforms, UC mounted and participated in more than ten major cultural events involving over 200 student-artists from various UC-CCP performing groups.
UC Shines on National Stage: 2024 Aliwan Fiesta
In June 2024, UC brought Cordilleran heritage to the national spotlight at Aliwan Fiesta in Pasay City. The university sent over 150 student performers representing Baguio City. Their presentation of “Tawid,” a dance rooted in Mountain Province, earned UC both the Pride of Place Award and Runner-Up honors among 15 competing contingents.
The performance highlighted Cordilleran heritage on a national stage, raised awareness of regional culture, and boosted institutional pride for UC and Baguio City. It demonstrated how local traditions can resonate across the country and gain recognition alongside the Philippines’ best cultural contingents.
SAYTURA and Sining na Buhay: UC’s Cultural Pillars
UC produces public and accessible concerts such as SAYTURA: Sayaw at Kultura ng Pilipinas, featuring the Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble and the UC Dance Company. The event presents traditional and contemporary Filipino dances grounded in cultural narratives. It supports cultural education among young audiences and reinforces UC’s role in promoting Philippine dance traditions and cultural heritage in the community.
Sining na Buhay was also staged during the opening of the annual University Green is In celebration. The showcase featured a diverse lineup of performers from the Center for Creative Productions, including the UC Featured Artists, UC Chorale, and UC Percussion and Orchestra. Each performance was designed to stir emotion and create meaningful experiences through a mix of classic and contemporary pieces that resonate with audiences across generations.
International and Local Cultural Outreach
At the 2024 Polish Independence celebration, UC deployed 26 performers who delivered cultural presentations and festive percussion pieces from the Percussion and Orchestra. Their participation showcased the rich cultural tapestry of the Cordillera region while emphasizing the value of collaboration in promoting education and cultural heritage.
UC also supported the Tanabata Festival 2024, organized with the Filipino Japanese Foundation of Northern Luzon. The event encouraged intercultural understanding between Filipino and Japanese communities and emphasized the role of language and cultural exchange in fostering mutual respect and environmental mindfulness.
On campus, UC held Paskuhan sa UC 2024, a joyful Christmas lighting celebration that brought together students, employees, alumni, and families. The program featured public performances at Gate 1 by the university choir, percussion and orchestra groups, and the dance company. The event highlighted the power of unity and cooperation across departments in creating shared cultural experiences.
Beyond campus, UC showcased SAYTURA and Sining na Buhay during An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2024 at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park. The public concert featured more than 90 performers from the Center for Creative Productions. It offered both locals and tourists an opportunity to experience the traditions and values that shape Baguio creativity and the Cordillera region.
These events demonstrate UC’s commitment to making culture accessible beyond university walls. The engagements provided inclusive public access to cultural experiences, encouraged appreciation of Cordilleran and Filipino identity, and strengthened UC’s contribution to cultural heritage. Through free and open performances, the university continues to build spaces where communities can celebrate creativity, tradition, and cultural pride together.
References:
The University of the Cordilleras at the 2024 Aliwan Fiesta. Retrived from https://ccp.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/06/29/celebrating-heritage-and-achievement-the-university-of-the-cordilleras-at-the-2024-aliwan-fiesta/
Celebrating Polish Independence: A Cultural Collaboration between the Embassy of Poland and the University of the Cordilleras. Retrived from https://ccp.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/11/06/celebrating-polish-independence-a-cultural-collaboration-between-the-embassy-of-poland-and-the-university-of-the-cordilleras/
Paskuhan sa UC 2024. Retrived from https://ccp.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/12/02/paskuhan-sa-uc-2024/
An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2024. Retrived from https://ccp.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/12/14/an-enchanting-baguio-christmas-2024/
Celebrating Culture and Sustainability: The Tanabata Festival 2024. Retrived from https://cas.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/07/11/university-of-the-cordilleras-honors-japanese-tradition-with-tanabata-festival-2024/
Saytura (Sayaw at Kultura ng Pilipinas). Retrived from https://ccp.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/11/22/saytura-2024-sayaw-at-kultura-ng-pilipinas/
Sining na Buhay 2024. Retrived from https://ccp.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/11/21/sining-na-buhay-2024/
