The College of Teacher Education celebrated Filipino Values Month 2024 with a vibrant two-day event themed “Celebrating Together with Excellence: Uniting CTEzens’ Values for a Meaningful and Uniquely Ilocano Christmas.”

Held on November 27-28, the celebration showcased creativity, unity, and cultural pride through various activities that brought together students, faculty, and staff in the spirit of camaraderie and Filipino values.

Highlights included the recycled parol making contest, which emphasized sustainability and creativity, and the bayanihan Christmas tree making. Faculty and students of the B Technology and Livelihood Education and B Technical-Vocational Teacher Education decorated the college grounds with Ilokano-inspired designs, demonstrating community and pride.

On the second day, the festivities continued with the Kakanin ti Paskua Cooking Contest, celebrating Ilokano culinary traditions, and the opening of the CTE Christmas Exhibit 2024. The exhibit featured student artworks that captured the essence of the holiday season. In her inspirational message, Dean Ma. Teresa Susan Manzano reminded attendees of the true spirit of Christmas: kindness, togetherness, and hope.

“This Christmas art exhibit is more than a showcase of creativity—it is an invitation to pause, reflect, and celebrate the beauty of the season. Each piece captures the essence of Christmas, from the warm glow of candlelit evenings to the joyful gatherings that fill our hearts with cheer,” she added.

The event culminated with a festive Christmas tree lighting ceremony, featuring performances by the Danggay Saririt Vocal Ensemble, a talent showcase, an Ilokano caroling contest, and the official lighting of the CTE Christmas symbol. First-year students of the Bachelor of Physical Education program won the caroling contest.

The celebration highlighted unity, creativity, and generosity, leaving the community inspired to share the warmth and joy of the season while cherishing their cultural heritage.

Article by Marnie P. Tabilin. Photos by Ma. Rochelle F. Cabrales.