By Vanessa Therese Ledesma, BACOMM4, Centralian Link Intern
CPU-Kindergarten learners, advisers, and parents gather on stage at Robinsons Place Pavia for a commemorative photo during the “Light Up and Shine” Culminating Activity.
The Central Philippine University Kindergarten (CPU-K) Interest Group successfully held its culminating activity, titled “Light Up and Shine, ” on February 28, 2026, at Robinsons Place Pavia.
The event highlighted the learners’ talents while emphasizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Through music, movement, and art, the young Centralians demonstrated that, even at an early age, they can actively participate in advocacies that promote holistic development and inclusivity.
The program formally opened with a prayer led by CPU-Kindergarten Librarian Ma’am Janeria Joy C. Espinosa, followed by the singing of the National Anthem led by Mrs. Angel Le C. Pagtanac, CPU-K Adviser.
Dr. Cecile G. Dagohoy delivered the opening remarks, expressing her gratitude for the invitation and delight in witnessing the children’s performances. She reflected on the theme “Light Up and Shine,” describing it as fitting for young learners who naturally radiate joy and capture attention wherever they go. Dr. Dagohoy commended the dedicated team of educators headed by the Kindergarten Principal, Ma’am Praise Enriquez Glory, for their steadfast commitment to the Central Philippine University’s vision of providing exemplary Christian education for life. She also acknowledged the vital role of parents in nurturing the children and concluded with a declaration from Matthew 19:14, reminding everyone of Christ’s love for children.
In her welcoming remarks, Kindergarten Principal Ma’am Praise Enriquez Glory warmly greeted the parents, students, and guests, including former CPU-K Principal Ma’am Hannah C. Siosan. She described the event as a joyful milestone that reflected months of practice, patience, and perseverance. She proudly highlighted the growth of each interest group. From the Singing Group and the Rainbow Ringers handbell choir to the Body Movement Group and the Visual Arts Group, emphasizing that their talents are gifts from God, nurtured with discipline and sustained by His grace. She reminded the audience that the event was more than a showcase of talents; it was a testimony of God’s faithfulness.
The Rainbow Ringers opened the performances with an orchestrated handbell rendition of “Ode to Joy,” demonstrating coordination and harmony. This was followed by a lively performance of “I Am a Friend of God” by the Singing and Body Movement Groups, who danced and sang with confidence in front of parents, families, and mallgoers.
The Visual Arts Group presented “Masterpiece,” creatively expressing through dance that every child is uniquely made. The Kinder Cub Body Movement Group then energized the audience with their performances of “Gummy Bear” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.”
The Singing Group returned to the stage with “Shine Like Stars,” wearing star headbands that beautifully reflected the program’s theme. The Rainbow Ringers once again impressed the audience with their coordinated handbell performance of “Jesus Loves Me.”
A meaningful highlight of the program was the Visual Arts Group’s presentation centered on “The Rights of a Child.” In support of the Sustainable Development Goals, the children confidently declared twelve rights, including the right to basic needs provided by God, the right to be born well, the right to play and enjoy childhood, the right to freedom and peace, the right to moral upbringing, the right to grow in a good environment, the right to safety, the right to a just government, the right to holistic development, the right to a loving family, and the right to quality education. They affirmed that children are gifts from God, concluding with the powerful message: “All children are a gift from God.”
The Rainbow Ringers enchanted the audience once more with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” followed by a live painting session by the Visual Arts Group. With canvases prepared on stage, the young artists created artworks in real time, amazing parents and guests with their creativity and skill. Subsequently, they proudly presented their finished masterpieces to the audience.
The Singing Group performed “This Is Me,” celebrating confidence and self-expression, while the Body Movement Group delighted everyone with a Fashionista performance, confidently strutting the runway and striking poses.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Kindergarten Interest Group Coordinator Ms. Rhea E. Abalayan, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parents, guardians, advisers, and Robinsons Place Pavia for their partnership and support. She emphasized the dedication of the advisers in nurturing the children’s interests and developing their skills.
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates, a photo opportunity for advisers, coordinators, and learners, and a final dance number by the CPU-Kindergarten Interest Learners. A simply perfect finale to a celebration of talent, faith, and purpose.
Through “Light Up and Shine,” the young Centralians not only showcased their abilities but also embodied the university’s commitment to Christian education and the global call to support the Sustainable Development Goals.