17/12/2025
ππππππππππ | LC joins Dance Dayo '25: Indak ng Lahi at SPSPS
Dance Dayo: Indak ng Lahi 2025 brought together culture, movement, and youthful energy as it was hosted by St. Paul School of Professional Studies (SPSPS) at the SPSPS Quadrangle on December 16. The event opened with the announcement of the two main competition categoriesβCreative Folkdance and Hip-Hopβsetting the tone for a day-long celebration of dance, artistry, and regional identity. A total of 12 schools from different parts of Eastern Visayas participated, showcasing the regionβs rich diversity and talent.
The participating schools were Abuyog Community College, AMA Computer Learning Center, Burauen Community College, Eastern Samar State University, Eastern Visayas State UniversityβTanauan Campus, Eastern Visayas State UniversityβMain Campus, Leyte Colleges, Leyte National High School, Leyte Normal University, St. Scholasticaβs College, University of the Philippines Tacloban, and Sagkahan National High School. Each institution was warmly welcomed by the organizers and the audience, highlighting unity through artistic expression.
The program formally began with an invocation and the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a vibrant production number from the Leyte Dance Theatre together with the Performing Arts Group of SPSPS. Their performance energized the crowd and officially marked the start of the competition. The criteria for judging in the Creative Folkdance category were then presented to ensure transparency and fairness.
The Creative Folkdance competition commenced with participating schools performing one by one. Sagkahan National High School, Leyte National High School, and Leyte Normal University delivered routines that highlighted Filipino traditions blended with modern choreography, drawing strong applause for their creativity and cultural interpretation.
Following the folkdance segment, the criteria for judging in the Hip-Hop category were read. The Hip-Hop competition featured performances from EVSU Main Campus, Leyte Normal University, Leyte Colleges, Eastern Samar State University, EVSU Tanauan Campus, University of the Philippines Tacloban, St. Scholasticaβs College, AMA Computer Learning Center, Abuyog Community College, and Burawen Community College. Each group showcased high-energy routines that emphasized synchronization, musicality, and stage presence.
Winners in both categories received trophies and cash prizes. Prior to the announcement of winners, plaques of appreciation were awarded to the judges in recognition of their time, expertise, and valuable contribution to the success of the event. In the Creative Folkdance category, Leyte National High School emerged as 2nd Runner-Up, Sagkahan National High School claimed 1st Runner-Up, and Leyte Normal University was crowned Champion.
Alyssa Mae Rodriguez, a member of LNU Indak, expressed her joy, saying, βIβm so happy, especially considering that it was the groupβs first time participating in Dance Dayo since it was established.β The victory was especially meaningful as it marked the groupβs debut in the competition, affirming their hard work, preparation, and artistic growth on a regional stage.
Certificates of participation were awarded to all 12 schools in recognition of their effort and commitment to the arts. One of the judges also shared an inspiring message, stating, βWhatever the result, this doesnβt define who you are as artists,β emphasizing the importance of passion, perseverance, and self-expression beyond competition results.
For the Hip-Hop category, Leyte National High School placed as 2nd Runner-Up, EVSU Tanauan Campus earned 1st Runner-Up, and AMA Computer Learning Center (ACLC) secured the Championship title once again, making them back-to-back champions and marking their second consecutive win.
Abegail, a member of the ACLC Dance Academy, proudly shared, βWe are very proud kay syempre amon school an amon gin seserbihan, nag papasalamat kami nga diri kami gin papabayan han school,β expressing pride in representing their school and gratitude for the unwavering support they received throughout their journey. Her statement highlighted how the schoolβs commitment to its dancers played a crucial role in boosting their confidence and performance.
The awarding ceremony was followed by a photo opportunity led by various school publications present at the event, marking a successful and memorable celebration of Dance Dayo: Indak ng Lahi 2025.
| π· H. Apus, H. Cahindo via K. Regala, Leyte Times