The 11th PASUC-NCR Culture and Arts Festival, held under the theme “Paghilom, Pagbangon at Pagsulong,” unfolded on February 27, 2024, at Rizal Technological University (RTU). The day began with a reverent Eucharistic Celebration, setting a solemn tone for the subsequent cultural festivities.
Transitioning into the afternoon, the Opening Ceremony featured the grand entrance of the Executive Board and the Delegation. Dr. Kristine Y. Opulencia, RTU Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs (VPASA), delivered a warm welcome remarks emphasizing the significance of the gathering.
Following the welcome, Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, President of RTU, took the stage to deliver an inspiring speech. “Let us celebrate the riches of our heritage, honoring the traditions that bind us and the innovations that propel us toward a brighter future. As we showcase our talents and share our stories, may we inspire one another to persevere, to dream, and to thrive… together, let us weave a tapestry of dreams and aspirations, each spread a testament to our collective journey towards healing, growth, and progress,” Pres. Yangco passionately articulated.
Dr. Rodolfo L. Ducut, RTU Vice President for Finance and Administration (VPFA), introduced the Guest Speaker, Hon. Cong. Mary Mitzi L. Cajayon-Uy, 2nd District Representative of Caloocan City – represented by her Chief of Staff – Atty. Jessica R. Vitug-Jurado.
In her message, she emphasized the crucial role of state universities and colleges as the gold standard for educational excellence. “Our state universities and colleges should serve as the gold standard for educational excellence, providing the best possible education for our students,” expressed Cong. Uy. “To achieve this, we must invest in state-of-the-art facilities, attract world-class faculty, and support groundbreaking research. It’s a tall order, but as the saying goes, ‘Aim for the moon, and even if you miss, you land among the stars.
The Congresswoman also underscored the significance of culture and the arts in shaping the identity, history, and aspirations of the nation. “Let us not forget the vital role that culture and the arts play in our society. They are the threads that weave the colorful tapestry of our nation, capturing our identity, history, and aspirations. By championing culture and arts education, we not only nurture the talents of our students but also contribute to the enrichment of our collective cultural heritage”, she said.
The cultural festivities reached a crescendo with a captivating musical production, where all university choir delegates united in a melodic rendition of “Liwanag sa Dilim,” under the guidance of Mr. Renier Aguilar of RTU.
The formal declaration of the 11th PASUC-NCR was conducted with utmost significance, led by Dr. Bert J. Tuga, the esteemed PASUC-NCR Chair and President of the Philippine Normal University (PNU). This pivotal moment garnered support from distinguished university presidents, each contributing to the collective commitment to academic excellence and cultural enrichment. The supporting presidents included Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, President of RTU; Dr. Marwin M. Dela Cruz, President of the Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PHILSCA); Dr. Rogelio T. Mamaraldo, President of Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST); Dr. Reynaldo P. Ramos, President of the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP); Dr. Rene M. Colocar, President of Marikina Polytechnic College (MPC); and Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, President of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP). Together, these leaders symbolized a united front in the pursuit of educational excellence and the advancement of cultural and arts initiatives within the academic community.
With the formalities concluded, the 11th PASUC-NCR Culture and Arts Festival opened avenues for diverse cultural showcases, academic competitions, and collaborative endeavors. The festival embodies the spirit of “Paghilom, Pagbangon at Pagsulong,” fostering cultural appreciation and promoting academic excellence among participating institutions.