By Mikee Natinga Norico
Best Indigenous Design winners pose with Prof. Jarrlyn Law P. Jaco (2nd from L), faculty member of DLMCH – CAS, during the CE Arts Exhibit at the CPU Alumni Promenade Concert Park.
In celebration of student creativity and cultural expression, the Department of Languages, Mass Communication, and Humanities (DLMCH) of Central Philippine University (CPU) mounted a two-day event combining a visual exhibit and a talent competition from May 15 to 16, 2025. Held at the CPU Alumni Promenade Concert Park and the Rose Memorial Auditorium, the event featured performances, exhibitions, and a fashion show that showcased the talents and ingenuity of CPU students. It also formed part of the College of Arts and Sciences’ (CAS) centennial celebration.
With the theme “Echoes Across the Eras: A Celebration of Creative Expressions,” the exhibit highlighted the works of CE Arts students from various year levels and course sections. A total of 23 booths featured diverse themes, reflecting the evolution of Philippine arts and culture—from popular culture and indigenous crafts to visual arts across historical periods.
The event opened on May 15 at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park with a ceremonial program hosted by emcees Danielle Virl Idemne and Melody Suarez. Ms. Maryam Abdelqader led the opening prayer, followed by Jyrrianne Masangkay conducting the National Anthem and Alma Mater Song. CAS Dean Dr. Stella G. Fernandez delivered the welcome remarks, while Prof. Clarece Benjamin introduced the panel of judges and presented certificates and tokens.
One of the event highlights was the Runway of Indigenous Designs, where nine pairs of students modeled outfits inspired by various Philippine regions. The team of Sundel Marie Dagmil and Sean Michael Morrera, representing Central Mindanao, won the award for Best Indigenous Design.
The Philippine Popular Culture Booth, one of the 23 booths featured in the CE Arts Exhibit, highlights evolving trends and icons in Filipino media and entertainment.
Booths were judged and awarded in several categories:
- Best Booth Overall: Western Visayas Booth
- 1st Runner-Up, Best Booth Overall: Evolution of Films: Frames of the Century (also awarded Best CE Arts 1 Booth)
- 2nd Runner-Up, Best Booth Overall: Evolution of Films: Eksena Mo ‘To
- Best CE Arts 2 Booth: Western Visayas Booth
- Best CE Arts 3 Booth: The Rococo Booth
According to Prof. Jarrlyn Law P. Jaco, the exhibit was not only a final course requirement but also an opportunity for students to apply creativity, originality, and patriotism in industry-relevant contexts. “Judges enjoyed the fashion show and spent over an hour exploring the exhibit,” she shared, noting that the students exceeded expectations.
On May 16, the celebration continued at the Rose Memorial Auditorium with the GEHUM 1 Got Talent Contest, a half-day showcase of performances by General Education Humanities students. Seven individual and group acts competed, presenting music, drama, and spoken word on stage.
Top winners included:
First Place: Minsan Psych, Minsan Hindi
- Second Place: Liyan Marie M. Ronquillo
- Third Place: Enpsychologia
This vibrant cultural showcase marked the conclusion of the CE Arts and GEHUM 1 culminating activities, highlighting the DLMCH’s ongoing commitment to fostering artistic expression, cultural appreciation, and interdisciplinary learning.
The events also served as the department’s contribution to the College of Arts and Sciences’ 100-year celebration and were attended by students, former and current CAS faculty, and other members of the CPU academic community.