By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU President Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy (in barong), CAO Director Crista Huyong (Left) and Artistic Director Randy Lero (Right) with the Friendship guests from Japan.

Kawachinagano International Friendship Association (KIFA) and Yao International Center both from Osaka, Japan came to visit Iloilo City and stayed from January 24-29, 2024. They were accommodated at the Missionary House courtesy of Ma’am Angel Robles. The guests had the chance explore the city, enjoy the sites and tasted the different Ilonggo delicacies and native foods (Thanks to the ever- hospitable Cultural Affairs Office Director Crista S. Huyong and Artistic Director of Tumandok, Prof Randy Lero for bringing them into the highlights of Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2024). Their itinerary also included visits to the cultural heritage sites and a trip to Guimaras Island – home of the golden mangoes.

The guests made a courtesy call to CPU President Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, after which they had a tour of the campus. They also watched the unique performances and artistry of the Ilonggos at the Kasadyahan Festival in Iloilo City.

The KIFA organization of Japan hosted the Tumandok Dance Company of CPU during the Cultural Exchange Program in 2019 and 2023 in Osaka, Japan. The Tumandok Dance Company is the official dance troupe under the CPU Cultural Affairs Office (CAO).