The University of Northern Philippines brought vibrant Filipino heritage to the spotlight on October 2, 2026 with “TAWID: A Lens into the Past through Traditional Songs and Dances,” a cultural showcase held at the UNP Gymnasium.
Spearheaded by the Department of Physical Education of the College of Arts and Sciences, the event bridged generational divides through vibrant traditional dances and cultural performances, inviting students and faculty to reconnect with the enduring traditions and stories that define Filipino identity.
Setting the tone for the celebration, Dr. Marie Graciel Balbuena, Head of the Department of Physical Education, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the UNP Administration and the College of Arts and Sciences for their unwavering support and assistance in making the cultural showcase a successful and meaningful celebration of heritage.
Ms. Rachelle Ann Imperial, President of the UNP Student Council, in her message emphasized the enduring connection between one’s roots and the journey toward the future.
“Where we came from will always be a part of what carries us into the future ahead.” Ms. Imperial said.
She urged students to hold fast to their cultural roots as they step into an ever-changing world, reinforcing the university leaders’ shared emphasis on heritage as a crucial anchor for personal growth and community identity.
UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna highlighted the vital responsibility of preserving both Ilocano and broader Filipino heritage, describing cultural identity as an essential foundation for the future.
“Culture is like building a home,” Dr. Cadorna noted. “It needs to have a solid foundation so that it will become strong, beautiful, and can overcome the challenge of time.”
Dr. Cadorna praised the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Physical Education for spearheading the show, highlighting its role in reconnecting young people with enduring traditions.
Adding to the leadership messages, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rolando Navarro emphasized the university’s commitment to provide experiential platforms where students can actively celebrate their roots.
“Through the traditional dances, we are given a meaningful opportunity to journey across time, to look into our past and appreciate the richness of our heritage, and to understand the values and stories that shaped our communities,” Dr. Navarro remarked.
The cultural celebration featured the Danggay Sarririt Cultural Dance Troupe and the Danggay Sarririt Vocal Ensemble, which captivated the audience through a vibrant repertoire of traditional folk dances, music and songs. Their performances showcased the beauty and diversity of Filipino cultural expressions while giving students and members of the University community an opportunity to reconnect with traditions passed down through generations.
The ceremony drew to a meaningful close with the closing remarks of the Officer-in-Charge Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Grace Garcia, who expressed her appreciation to the University Administration, faculty members of the Department of Physical Education, event organizers, performers, and students for their collective efforts in making the TAWID Cultural Show a meaningful and successful celebration.
More than a vibrant showcase of music, dance, and artistic expression, the event emerged as a meaningful celebration of cultural heritage, bridging generations through the stories, customs, and traditions that shape the community’s identity. It emphasized that the wisdom and practices of the past remain relevant in guiding the present while inspiring future generations. The University reinforces its commitment to preserve cultural traditions and empower the younger generation to carry their richness and significance forward.
Photo by Noelle Tacas
