Lantern Parade, Street Dancing returns in UCU's 57th anniversary

A celebration is indeed worthy of festive lights and dances, as Urdaneta City University brought back its Lantern Parade and Street Dancing competition after a long time, in continuation of the opening of the 57th Founding Anniversary, held at the Urdaneta City Cultural and Sports Complex on February 28, 2023.

The parade of lanterns, presented by the different colleges of the University, and the various supporters from the officials, employees, and students, painted the streets of the city. Acting University President, Dr. Amihan April C. Mella-Alcazar, together with the two Vice-Presidents, Dr. Josephine S. Lambinicio of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Raquel D. Pascua of Administrative Affairs also joined the momentous walk.

Out of eight contestants, the Malangsi Festival of Bayambang, performed by the College of Engineering and Architecture, won the championship title. CEA's performance highlighted the primary product of the town, which is fish caught from Mangabul Lake, and the bountiful harvest it brings. What more entertained the crowd was the performer's "boodle fight" segment and the "Sayaw sa Bangko," which was perfectly executed despite the difficulty and danger of the dance.

The College of Criminal Justice Education's rendition of The Pandan Festival garnered second place. At the same time, the College of Health Sciences' version of the Pindang Festival secured the third spot.

There was a massive audience consisting of the UCUian community, mostly from student supporters rooting for their respective colleges, and some families and friends of the group contestants. The event has been a powerful comeback after the previous silent celebrations of the foundation due to the pandemic