by John Vincent Balustre
Turning the night into a flair of artistry abound with talent, identity, and ingenuity, resident cultural groups (RCG) of Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) animate the stage as they pay homage to national artists of this year's Alampat: Gabi ng Sining 2024, held at the institute gymnasium, on February 23, Friday.
A nod to the annual celebration of National Arts Month, the event shared the honor of having the National Artist for Music, Ramon P. Santos. In his speech, he emphasized that art such as music is beyond entertainment but carries a philosophy that unveils our understanding of humanity. “...we give importance to art, we give importance to ourselves as human beings because the arts reflect our humanity, our culture,” he added.
Diverse performances that feature a tribute to tradition and the foundations of artistic industry unfolded starting with Kalilang Traditional Music Ensemble's delicate showcase of cultural identity, Integrated Developmental School (IDS) Ringkiran’s acknowledgment to Lucio San Pedro and Lucrecia Kasilag’s musical pieces, the Echoes Band's rendition of Rayan Cayabyab’s songs, MSU-IIT Orion's performance in recognition to Ang Kiukok, and Kalimulan’s production honoring Ramon Obusan’s contribution to the art of dancing and cultural work. Lastly, Octava’s touch of Ramon Santos’ musicality equally earned warm gestures from the crowd and the national artist himself.
In the earlier part of the program, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Gaudencio Petalcorin; Vice Chancellor for Public Affairs, Nancy Echavez; and the university Chancellor, Alizedney Ditucalan, wowed the guests with an opening production, in chorus with Hajji Alejandro's hit song ‘Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika.’
Along with the chancellor’s inspirational message, Dr. Christine Godinez Ortega, President and Chairman of the Board of Mindanao Creative and Cultural Workers’ Group, Inc.; and Director of the Center for Culture and Arts, Prof. Amado C. Guinto, Jr. addressed the audience as well, officially opening the slate of presentations.
The program pulled the curtains to a close with a performance together delivered by the various resident cultural groups, this time, along with MSU-IIT Contemporary Dance Group, Cheering, and the Arnis Team. The singing of Silahis Gloria and the Hymno ng Pamantasang Mindanao followed suit.
The IITian community then greeted Prof. Ramon P. Santos with a birthday song for his special day on February 25.
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