The 13 state universities and colleges in Central Luzon gathered at the Tarlac State University Gymnasium on Tuesday afternoon (February 28) as TSU hosted the National Arts Month celebration of the Culture and the Arts Association of State Universities and Colleges in Region III (CAASUC III).
TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco, as the current chairperson of the CAASUC III Executive Board, and Culture and the Arts Head Prof. Marcelino P. Balanquit, as the current chairperson of the CAASUC III Board of Management, debuted a service awards to recognize the contributions and dedication of former and current members of the Executive Board and Board of Management.
Awardees are members who rendered three years of service in CAASUC III.
“Being the host of this very significant event is exciting and an honor. Being with the state universities and colleges’ presidents and representatives of Region III should be treasured and proud of," Pres. Velasco said in his message during the program.
The celebration also featured performances from SUC representatives who showcased their talents in music and arts. Majority of the performances are chorale singing and folk dancing.
Some performers danced to the contemporary and hip-hop genres, while a couple of musicians belted OPM songs and played musical instruments. Moveover, rap singing and spoken word poetry were accomplished by the student artists as well.
Pres. Velasco extended his gratitude to the officials who made the celebration possible.
“I commend the effort and determination of the individuals who support our culture, which prioritizes cultural diversity and communal life. I appreciate everyone who has supported this, especially our SUC presidents, Board of Management, service awardees, key officials, and guests,” he said.
The month-long National Arts Month celebration, also known as “Ani ng Sining,” dates back to 1991 when President Corazon C. Aquino declared February as the National Arts Month by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 683.
The participating SUCs under the CAASUC III are Aurora State College of Technology, Bataan Peninsula State University, Bulacan Agricultural State College, Bulacan State University, Central Luzon State University, Don Honorio Ventura State University, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Pampanga State Agricultural University, President Ramon Magsaysay State University, Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, Philippine State College of Aeronautics, Tarlac Agricultural University, and Tarlac State University as the host institution.
