DOrSU kicks off National Arts Month 2026
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) welcomed National Arts Month 2026 with an opening program held on February 16, at the University’s Bantayog-Wika ng Mandaya.
With this year’s theme, “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting,” students, faculty, and staff gathered to honor the transformative power of the arts.
In his opening remarks, President Emeritus Dr. Edito B. Sumile, Vice President for Academic Affairs, highlighted the arts’ role in shaping critical thought, strengthening cultural identity, and fostering institutional pride.
Arianne Michael Sim Tuano, Head of the Office of Student Culture and Arts Literacy, presented the rationale for National Arts Month, emphasizing its observance under Presidential Proclamation No. 683. Tuano explained that the arts play a crucial role in shaping national identity, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering creative expression across generations. He framed this year’s celebration as a platform for truth-telling, courage, and social consciousness, where realities are confronted, identities affirmed, and intellectual strength cultivated.
Quoting Pablo Picasso, “Art is a lie that makes us realize the truth,” Tuano elaborated that art does not always mirror reality literally; it may exaggerate, abstract, or dramatize experiences to reveal deeper truths.
University President Dr. Roy G. Ponce formally declared the opening of DOrSU’s National Arts Month activities and encouraged active participation. He described art as a vehicle for truth and justice and reiterated the university’s commitment to cultivating creativity among students. Dr. Ponce also acknowledged areas for improvement in advancing cultural programs, emphasizing that sustained effort is needed to nurture artistic growth.
Performances rounded out the program, led by the Dagmay-Ani Dance Troupe’s opening number that drew from local movement and cultural motifs, and intermission sets by Mujaher Onofre and Quantone that showcased the range of talent within the DOrSU community.
As part of the celebration, DOrSU formally opened the Kwadro Visual Arts Exhibit with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the University Learning and Information Resource Center (LIRC). The exhibit runs until February 27 and is open to all DOrSU constituents.
Aside from the exhibit, the University has lined up more activities for the month, including a Mandaya and Kagan culture dance and music workshop and the first-ever DOrSU Film Festival featuring student-produced films on social realities, creativity, and moral courage. Minimal fees will be collected, with proceeds earmarked for Project HOPE to support the university’s outreach initiatives.
Observed every February, National Arts Month recognizes the vital role of the arts in nation-building and cultural preservation. Through this celebration, DOrSU reaffirms its commitment to nurturing artistic expression and fostering a campus culture that values truth, creativity, and courage.
Article | Keynt Harly Adol
Photos | Joomer Jake Caballero
