By Asst. Prof. Randy A. Lero

CPU Tumandok Dance Company members pose for a photo after representing Iloilo at MIDFEST 2026 in Intramuros, Manila.

The Central Philippine University (CPU) Tumandok Dance Company represented Iloilo at the Manila International Dance Festival (MIDFEST) held from September 25 to 27, 2026, in Intramuros, Manila.

The festival brought together dance companies from 46 universities and colleges across the Philippines, with the CPU Tumandok Dance Company as the lone representative from Iloilo City and province.

The festival formally opened with Manila city officials led by Mayor Isko Moreno, along with representatives from the Department of Tourism and the Intramuros Administration.

Throughout the three-day festival, the CPU Tumandok Dance Company performed at various venues, including Fort Santiago, Plaza Moriones, Centro de Turismo, and Plaza de Mexico.

The group was also selected to perform during the festival’s gala night alongside participating groups from China, South Korea, Chiang Kai Shek University, the University of the Cordilleras Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, the Oro Dayaw Cultural Ensemble of Cagayan de Oro City, and the Salab Banua Dance Troupe of Tarlac State University.

The CPU Tumandok Dance Company presented dances originating from Iloilo, including La Jota Sevillana, Areuana, and Saot sa Perdon, a research-based dance. The group also performed La Jota Cagayana during a pocket show.

During the closing ceremony, the group was nominated as a Cultural Ambassador and Sinag ng Kultura of MIDFEST 2026.

The CPU delegation was composed of nine student dancers and their adviser and artistic director, Asst. Prof. Randy A. Lero.