November 14, 2023 - The first day of the School Plus-Home Gardens cum Biodiversity Enhancement and Enterprise (SHGBEE) International conference concluded with an Amity Night and Fellowship Dinner where delegates were entertained through a live Cultural Presentation of the University Physical Education instructors, Balangaw Dance Troupe and Rondalla Ensemble at the Mount Ballo Hall, CPSU-Main Campus.
Central Philippines State University, as the host, provided an environment for participants to relax, enjoy, and connect, fostering future collaborations dedicated to sustainability and cultural diversity.
The event commenced with a prayer led by Ma’am Nelly Cabual, BOR secretary, which was immediately followed by the “Pasundayag” show of the University’s Rondalla ensemble with Sir Francis Emoy as the key player and conductor performing the different Philippine local folk songs.
The show continued as the Physical Education instructors and Balangaw dance troupe, draped in colorful attire, also showcased their talents through traditional dances of the Philippines such as the “Ili-Ili Tulog Anay”, “Lapay Bantigue” from Masbate, “Pas-an Saging” from Tan-awan and “Kondansoy” from Cebu with musical accompaniment by the CPSU Rondalla. The show’s highlight was the challenging yet fun-filled “Tinikling” dance of Leyte as guests were also invited on stage to join the dance.
Dr. Manny Reyes of Kansas State University (KSU) and one of the main collaborators of the event expressed in his speech his pride in the Filipino culture saying, “I am a Filipino by heart. After seeing the culture, the joy and hospitality of the Filipinos and Filipinas were shown today by Central Philippines State University”.
He continued by stating the main banner of the conference which is about food security and biodiversity with the kindergarten and 12 graders as their target beneficiaries in S+HGP. Emphasizing the decreasing population of Filipino farmers in the Philippines is what the School Plus-Home Gardens cum Biodiversity Enhancement and Enterprise (SHGBEE) aimed to promote especially to the young learners so that they can engage in food production. “I am Excited because we, as a community, are working so that the youth will return to agriculture.” He added.
Likewise, Sir Vara Prasad one of the representatives of Kansas State University also highlighted the importance of culture and food security. He expressed his gratefulness to the Philippines for inviting him, as his first time to visit the country. His talk zoned into the importance of agriculture for the future especially in ensuring food security leading to national security.
Alsp present during the event were Dr. Aladino Moraca, CPSU President, Dr. Fernando Abello, VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Angelie Rose Lumba, Director for Research and Development as the event main facilitator, Dr. Joean Escober, Director for International Affairs, Dr. Jimmy Degillo, Director for Extension and Community Services, Dr. Michael Bacolod, CAF dean, Dr. Josephine Emoy, Director for IMPDC and documentation staff, representatives of CPSU Extension campuses, Ma’am Socorro Llamas, University Supply Officer, and CPSU personnel from different colleges, among others.
As the SHGBEE 2nd International Conference kick-started on a high note, it showcases the essential link between cultural richness and sustainable endeavors. Attendees departed the event inspired by the harmonious blend of traditions and sustainability showcased on the opening night, setting the tone for an engaging and impactful remaining activity ahead.
The Cenphilian
Photos: J.Romero