Feast of the Immaculate Conception: “Preserving Traditions, Upholding Culture”

History, Traditions, Language and Values are vital into uniting us as a nation. Culture of a nation resides in the heart and mind of its citizens; it is an art elevated into beliefs. It is not something that could separate us from each other, but rather, it brings forth a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity, because the beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people, their traditions and beliefs. Strengthening a country’s culture is important because it is its brand, in it resides the identity of the nation.

The University of the Immaculate Conception had their 4th installment of the socio-cultural show which is held annually to fulfill the 5th mission of UIC which is to promote and strengthen Filipino Culture and Values. The show was performed at the University of the Immaculate Conception Bajada Campus last December 8, 2018 at 6:00pm as part of the celebration of their feast day which began last December 4 of the same year. The gala was composed of the Ignacian Cultural Dance Troupe and Ignacian Musical Ensemble, the institutional organization for dance and music of UIC.

‘Panulundong Sayaw: Revisiting Classic Philippine Folk Music and Dances’ was the title of their fourth show, preceded by Pasidungog, Pagtuo and Sinina. College students inclined in dancing from all programs became a part of the dance troupe of UIC, which are also the performers of the gala. The socio-cultural night became an exclusive UIC show, but complimentary tickets to invite outsiders were also given. Some schools were also invited to perform on the show. These are Ateneo de Davao University both College and Senior High School Program, Rizal Memorial Colleges and Davao Doctors’ College.

Panulundong Sayaw which is translated as Dance Heritage is this year’s title because they want to look back and present to the audiences the common folk dances which are written in books like “Maglalatik”, “Pandanggo” and “Tinikling”. This is also a form of a tribute to those national artists for dance, according to Mr. Rene Babiera II, Dance Troupe Moderator and Director of Panulundong Sayaw, “mostly among mga sayaw kay researched siya sa mga National Artist. Pero ang majority is researched and choreographed by Ramon Arevalo Obusan.” Babiera also shared that their consultant for this event is the dance director of Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group making sure that this production will showcase the artistry and excellence in the form of performing arts.

In line of their feast day was also a reaching out program and community service. This is when the personnel and faculties of UIC go to the community as a form of payback for the fruitful years the UIC community is harvesting. Aside from the gala performance, it was also their Alumni Homecoming, as part of it, there was a little social gathering with the guests.

“For us not to forget our intangible heritage, an annual cultural presentation is held,” according to Mr. Babiera. He also emphasized that preserving our culture, values, tradition and heritage is important because it is the identity of our nation. He also added that the nation’s diverse culture is what makes a Filipino brand and it is our most priceless possession that is why upholding it, is vital and must be our concern. (Andrea Jeanne G. Abundo & Sheena Rose G. Leteral | HCDC Masscom Interns)