Buwan ng Wika: Hearts Ablaze Toward Culture
“Buhay pa ba ang alab sa puso mo?” A touching inquiry from the movie GomBurZa, directed by Pepe Diokno, asked. This thought-provoking question challenges the hearts of the Filipinos. It pushes us to question how close we are to the tapestry of our heritage. The first event of the school year, Buwan ng Wika, reminds us of our culture and identity. The heart of Bayanihan remains fiery as the students aided each other in putting up the banderitas with the guidance of Teacher Katrina Lavador. It was a pleasing sight to see - the epitome of Bayanihan.
The event started with a graceful presentation from the JHS dance club department to Vice Ganda’s Rampa. The search for “MLBCSI’s Lakan and Lakambini” was filled with thrill and excitement from all the students and parents who watched. The contestants from all grade levels showcased their wits and beauty - the perfect representation of Filipinos. It was indeed proof that Filipino culture is still alive in our hearts. The adorable Kiersten Misterio from grade 2 and Marcus Sebastian Andador from grade 1 claimed the crown for the lower elementary department. The charismatic duo of the higher elementary department, Khayle Gavin A. Gacayan and Nathan Orville R. Quinapondan from grade 6, claimed the victory. The sophisticated pair, Hanzel Mae R. Perez and Edrian Jaime U. Aldas, both from grade 10, emerged victorious for the high school department.
The presentation from Nursery to Grade 6 followed these events. The students wonderfully performed their choreography, showing love for our culture. The Sabayang Pagbikas competition performances overflowed with passion, love, and, above all, patriotism. Grade 9 and Grade 10 shared their victory as they completed the competition with a tie. Everyone sealed the event with a dance, following the choreography led by Teacher Joy Aileen Cataluña. The dance illustrates the unity of Filipinos and the beauty of our culture as they danced in their cultural costumes.
Buwan ng Wika is indeed a staple to the events in the academe. It acknowledges the blood, sweat, and tears of our ancestors who fought for our independence. It celebrates our freedom, culture, and traditions - a constant reminder of our identity. If we don’t honor our culture, who will? The answer lies in the hearts and actions of each individual tasked with preserving and passing on the flame of our cultural heritage.
