Arts students from the Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education of DMMMSU romped away with major awards during the Ayat Fest 2023, a celebration of La Union culture and tradition, during the 173rd Foundation Anniversary Celebration of La Union. This was held at the Capitol Grounds, San Fernando City on March 17, 2023.
These arts students emerged as champions in the Kanta Sala (sing-dance) competition. Performers from San Fernando placed 2nd, and those from Rosario placed 3rd.
The BCAED students wowed the judges and audience with their captivating rhythmic moves to match their impeccable harmonic singing of the song Habanera de La Union which was composed by Mr. Renz Flores, their coach, and trainer in the BCAED program. The group of singers named Polifonico Agoeno (Polyphony of Agoo) was composed of Fherlyn Mae Alejo, Irah Kirstin Cases, Irene Grace Libayan, Irnalene Kaye Ramelb, Melody Ronquillo, Michael Gregor Buna, Raymond Galdones, Justin Nikko Umangay, Liniel Ymasa, and Christian Dior Javier. The competition which was participated in by performers representing various towns of La Union was judged by a panel of well-known artists and music experts. The winning team was awarded a specially designed trophy.
When the winners were announced, the crowed erupted in cheers and the arts students could not contain their joy. “We are thrilled to have won this competition, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of the Municipality of Agoo; our coaches – Mr. Renan Flores, who composed the song, and Mr. Yen Liclican, our choreographer; and our production directors, Rhaiza Bacani, Herschel Merice Kuan, and Joven Reyes,” one the students exclaimed.
Meanwhile, in the Timek ti Ayat Ilocano Vocal Solo Competition, Irnalene Kaye Ramelb, grabbed the 2nd Runner Up award. In this competition, participants from San Fernando City was the Champion and those from Rosario was the First Runner Up.
These art students hope to continue honing their skills and participating in more competitions in the future. Mr. Flores expressed his pride in the students’ achievement, saying, “this victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students and teachers in the culture and arts program.”
The Ayat Fest 2023 succeeded in its purpose to serve as a platform for the Province of La Union to celebrate as well as preserve its culture and arts. (By Ayu)