Ozamiz youth introduced to Subanen ways of life through arts and culture workshops

To champion social change through art practices and cultural exposures, a group of educators conducted a two-week development outreach which encouraged the youth of Ozamiz City to immerse themselves to the broader community of the province of Misamis Occidental.

Titled Tagpuan: Ani-A, the initiative was organized by the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP), in partnership with La Salle University (LSU) Ozamiz to expand the technical and creative skills, practice collaboration as a means of holistic Lasallian formation, and increase social involvement in their communities. The project was spearheaded by SACP dean Magda de Leon, Theater Arts faculty member Jocelyn Lao, Social Development Coordinator and Dance Program faculty member Mycs Villoso, Theater Arts alumna and operations assistant Meryl Lucasan, and Production Design alumna Kimberly Villanueva. 

The involvement of the Subanen, the indigenous people of the Zamboanga Peninsula, was an integral part of the project. Prior to the workshop proper, the educators engaged in substantive conversations, which led to a deeper understanding and appreciation of their traditions, values, and narratives. Through this engagement, the team was equipped with the foundations to better guide the students of LSU to learn more about the rich history and heritage of the Subanen ethnic group through arts and culture. 

Identity, resilience and connection to nature were the central themes of the sessions. The involvement of the Subanen in the classes promoted inclusivity and sustainable practices, as it enriched the insights of the participants.

The acting lessons facilitated by Theater Arts faculty member Opaline Santos enabled Lasallians to discover the plight of the Subanen people in safeguarding their culture. They recognized their ability to adapt and survive as they encapsulated their experiences into performances. 

Under the mentorship of Music Production educator Janine Flores and dance coach Villoso, the learners were not only introduced to semiotics which symbolized spirituality, ancestry, and resiliency. They were likewise motivated to incorporate them into arrangements and movements to deliver a unique storytelling experience.

Production Design chairperson Lawyn Cruz and faculty member Jaydee Jasa motivated students to channel their ingenuity as they recycled and transformed used household items. These include rugs, which were turned into costumes and props which reflected the history and character of the Subanen. 

The SACP likewise tapped the Culinary Arts Management of the Benilde School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management to offer educational opportunities which explored the relationship between food and storytelling.

This part of the program, which championed the symbolism of nourishment in survival, highlighted the legacy of the Subanen through food and health. It was spearheaded by Program chairperson and chef Margarita Marty, together with chefs Giselle de la Cueva, Franz Monteclaro, and Jester Arellano, who guided the attendees into preparing Subanen specialties using the available ingredients. 

Creative Industries Management Program chairperson Alain Camiling focused on contextualizing project leadership in the arts, culture, and creative industries through actual projects as case studies and learning materials. Meanwhile, SACP Production House coordinator Irene Romero focused on introducing the fundamental principles of stage management and discussed the essential skills and technical practices needed to prepare and execute a production. This was evident in Dalong Seklat, the integrated final performance which served as the culminating activity of Tagpuan: Ani-A. 

Written and directed by Benilde Dance Program faculty member Madonna Tinoy, the three-act play featured members of the Subanen tribe. It provided an opportunity for the students to apply their newfound talents and abilities, and practice their core duties as Lasallians as they built cross-cultural partnerships and enhanced community engagement through arts and culture.