The University of the Cordilleras proudly hosted CordiMayo 2026 on May 22 and 30, 2026, a two-day celebration of the rich and vibrant cultural heritage of the Cordillera region. The event was held at the UC Theater and the SM City Baguio Atrium, bringing together students, cultural performers, and community members in honoring Cordilleran traditions. Organized by the Center for Creative Productions (CCP), the festival served as a tribute to the region’s artistry, identity, and cultural legacy, reflecting the University’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous heritage.
Celebrating Identity Through Performance: The Arts Festival
CordiMayo 2026 opened with a series of captivating performances from the University of the Cordilleras’ talented artists. The program began with the UC Featured Artists, who performed a selection of Ilokano and Cordilleran songs, followed by the UC Chorale’s rendition of “Itetem” and “Banwar.” The audience was then treated to impressive performances by the UC Dance Company, UC Percussion Orchestra and UC Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, whose energetic and dynamic presentations set an exciting tone for the celebration.
Expanding the Celebration Beyond the University Community
The new highlight of CordiMayo 2026 was the expansion of the celebration beyond the university community. For the first time, the UC-CCP invited five cultural groups to participate and showcase their talents through performances representing their assigned Cordillera provinces. Held at the UC Theater on May 22, this initiative provided a platform for cultural exchange and strengthened community involvement in the preservation and appreciation of Cordilleran traditions.
The first group that showcased the Province of Abra was the Salibi Cultural Group from Easter College. Salibi is a student-led performing arts troupe dedicated to preserving and promoting Cordilleran indigenous heritage. During CordiMayo 2026, they performed the Baliwes and Sakuting dances of Abra.
The second group was the Kadangyan Cultural Heritage Group, which represented the Province of Ifugao. Recognized as one of Baguio City’s premier Ifugao cultural performing groups, they are committed to showcasing the province’s rich traditions. During the event, they performed the Dinuyya, a traditional dance practiced in different municipalities of Ifugao.
The third group was Kayaw di Umili, which represented the Province of Kalinga. The group promotes and showcases the culture and traditions of Kalinga and was crowned champion of the Panagbenga 2026 “Rhythm of the Highlands: A Showcase of Culture and Dance” competition. During CordiMayo 2026, they performed the Banga Dance, Sakpaya, Tajok, Chalichog, Segseg, and Laga Dance.
The fourth group was the Kontad Highland Cultural Dance Troupe, which represented the Province of Benguet. Based at Benguet State University, the group is dedicated to preserving and promoting Cordilleran culture through education and performance. During the event, they showcased the Tayaw, Tallak, and Bendian dances.
The fifth group was the Iyaman Cultural Group, which represented Mountain Province. The group promotes indigenous Cordilleran traditions through music, dance, and theater and placed Second Runner-Up in the Panagbenga 2026 “Rhythm of the Highlands: A Showcase of Culture and Dance” competition. During CordiMayo 2026, they performed the Ballangbang and Sakuting dances.
Lastly, UC Saeng ya Kasay represented the Province of Apayao. As the flagship cultural performing group of the University of the Cordilleras Center for Creative Productions(UC-CCP), it showcases the music, rituals, and dances of the Cordillera. During CordiMayo 2026, they performed the Taddo and Talip dances of Apayao.
For the second day of CordiMayo 2026, the University of the Cordilleras Center for Creative Productions (UC-CCP) brought the celebration beyond the university campus and into the heart of the community at the SM City Baguio Atrium. This special public showcase allowed a wider audience, including residents, shoppers, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts, to experience and appreciate the rich traditions and artistic talents of the Cordillera region.
The event featured performances from all UC-CCP performing groups, each presenting a unique display of music, dance, and cultural expression. Through their vibrant and engaging performances, the groups highlighted the beauty of Cordilleran heritage while fostering cultural awareness and appreciation among members of the public. By bringing CordiMayo to a public venue, UC-CCP strengthened its commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement, making the festival more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals
CordiMayo 2026 supported the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through cultural performances and community engagement activities, the festival promoted cultural awareness and celebrated the rich heritage of the Cordillera region.
By showcasing traditional music, dances, and indigenous practices, the event provided educational opportunities that deepened public appreciation of Cordilleran culture. The participation of various cultural groups and community partners also strengthened collaboration and reinforced efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
A Beacon for Cultural Preservation
Through CordiMayo 2026, the Center for Creative Productions (CCP) reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting Cordilleran culture. The festival brought together performers, students, and community members in a shared celebration of the region’s traditions and identity.
Held at both the UC Theater and SM City Baguio Atrium, the event extended cultural appreciation beyond the university and into the wider community. More than a celebration, CordiMayo 2026 served as a meaningful platform for education, cultural preservation, and community engagement, embodying the true spirit of Tatak UC.
Author: Darryl T. Ignas | CCP Production Coordinator
