SLSU-Hinunangan's PHATFit Folk Dance Festival 2023 Showcases Filipino Cultural Heritage
The Southern Leyte State University – Hinunangan Campus (SLSU-HC) successfully held its much- anticipated Physical Activities Toward Health and Fitness - 3 (PHATFit) Folk Dance Festival 2023 yesterday, December 6, at the Student Welfare & Development Center, SLSU-HC.
The event, organized and spearheaded by Mr. James Vincent Caingcoy, PHATFit Instructor, brought together the vibrant talents of all 2nd-year students enrolled in the PATHFit-3 class. The festival aimed not only to promote physical well-being but also to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through traditional folk dances.
The venue buzzed with energy as 10 groups, comprising students from various departments and programs of SLSU-HC took the stage to showcase their skills in folk dance. The performances highlighted the diversity of Philippine culture, featuring traditional dances such as Arigay, Tinikling, Itik-itik, Sayaw sa Bangko, Tiklos, Pandanggo Sta. Clara, and Polka Sa Nayon, wherein the group of BSIT (Information Technology) students was announced as the grand champion for the event.
The festival's significance extended beyond physical fitness, serving as a platform to impart the importance of preserving and passing on the rich traditions embedded in Filipino folk dances. Each performance was a colorful and lively representation of the unique cultural elements inherent in these dances.
One of the festival's highlights was the Kuratsa Derby, which added an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the night. The competition showcased the participants' creativity and mastery of the Kuratsa, a traditional Philippine dance known for its lively and flirtatious movements.
Mr. Caingcoy expressed his satisfaction with the event, emphasizing the importance of incorporating cultural appreciation into health and fitness activities. "PHATFit goes beyond physical exercise; it's about embracing our roots, celebrating our identity, and fostering a sense of community," he remarked.
The PHATFit Folk Dance Festival 2023 not only promoted a healthy lifestyle among the students but also served as a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and community engagement. The participants left the event not only physically invigorated but also with a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Philippine traditions showcased through the art of folk dance.
