The University of Northern Philippines’ College of Teacher Education (CTE) celebrated Indigenous traditions and Ilocano heritage through two major cultural events on November 8, 2025, bringing together students from various programs in a vibrant showcase of identity, inclusivity, and community spirit.
Students from the Bachelor of Physical Education, Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education, and Master of Arts in Teaching Physical Education programs came together at the College of Teacher Education Function Hall to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Month under the theme “IParanod ken IPannakkel ti Kultura dagiti Katutubo: Honoring and Empowering Indigenous Heritage.” Simultaneously, students and faculty marked Ilocano Heritage Day at the CTE grounds with the program “Gender Responsive Culture: Highlighting Ilocano Culture in Education,” which emphasized culture-based, gender-inclusive teaching and learning.
College of Dean Dr. Ma. Teresa Susan Manzano emphasized education’s vital role in safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting inclusivity as she addressed the audience at both events. Highlighting the Indigenous Peoples’ Month celebration, keynote speaker Mrs. Agnes Eloisan-Fuerte of the Tinguian community shared the rich cultural heritage of Tinguian groups from Abra, Kalinga, and Apayao, detailing their rituals, artistic traditions, and musical instruments, including the tongatong, saggeypo, and gangsa. The program culminated in a vibrant cultural showcase, with WAWAGI Tinguian dancers performing the Tadek, while students actively participated in unity dances and explored indigenous instruments and traditional attire, bringing the celebration to life.
The Ilocano Heritage program at the College of Teacher Education showcased a vibrant blend of culture and gender inclusivity, featuring student-led zarzuelas and traditional songs. Judges Mr. Alimar Along, Dr. Eleuteria Pacpaco, and Mr. Efren Barcena Jr. recognized outstanding performances, awarding Reymark Manding as Best Actor, Jenny Lyn Carolino as Best Actress, Angelica Salarzon as Best Supporting Actor, and Joana Marie Suguitan as Best Supporting Actress. Many of the performances highlighted themes of acceptance and LGBTQ+ visibility within Ilocano narratives, reflecting a contemporary approach to cultural storytelling.
Both the Ilocano Heritage and Indigenous Peoples’ Month programs were realized through close collaboration among CTE program heads, faculty, and student organizations. The Indigenous Peoples’ Month celebration was facilitated by PE and Arts Education faculty and students, while the Ilocano Heritage event was spearheaded by the Young Minds Educators Club, the BEEd program, and the MAEd program under the guidance of Dr. Rainalda Rambuyon and Dr. Eleuteria Pacpaco, with continued support from Dean Ma. Teresa Susan Manzano.
Together, these events emphasized the college’s commitment to integrating cultural literacy, inclusivity, and community-engaged learning into its academic programs.
Article by Dr. Anastacia Joven and Dr. Matilde Concordia, Photos by John Patrick Ecal and Marvin Pimienta
