UCU promotes Filipino culture, celebrates national heritage month

To honor Philippine culture, history, and legacy, Urdaneta City University, as initiated by the University Student Council, the Council of Leaders, and the Center for Student Leadership and Development, celebrated National Heritage Month on May 26, 2023 at the University Gymnasium.

Aside from the short talks on Pamanang Sining and a free film showing, the endeavor showcased beauty, talents, and creativity through competitions: NagPINTAsen painting competition, Pamanang Awit Para Sa Bayan singing competition, and the Flores de Orata 2023.

Out of ten contestants, Melan C. Tibig of the College of Teacher Education won first prize in the NagPINTAsen painting competition, while Mina B. Engeres of the College of Engineering and Architecture, and Rejoice M. Patrial of the College of Health Sciences won second and third prizes respectively.

Necole Hernandez from the College of Health Sciences championed in the Pamanang Awit Para Sa Bayan singing competition, while the second prize went to Dorothy Fermin of the College of Teacher Education, and the third prize went to Lord Justin Jefferson A. Cruz of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Perhaps, the most-awaited competition of all was the Flores de Orata 2023, where a parade of beauties and colorful arks represented by each college were witnessed. The crowned Reyna Flores 2023 was Cherry Ann Taynan, a student from the Technical-Vocational Institute, who also won the Best Ark award. Khristine Diaz of the College of Health Sciences won second place, and Lorrain Holloway of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management won third place.

Under the Presidential Proclamation no. 439, s. 2003, the month of May has been annually celebrated as the National Heritage Month. This observance aims to create among the Filipino people a consciousness, respect, and love for the legacies of the nation’s cultural history.