Echague, Isabela—The Association of State Colleges and Universities – Solid North (ASCU-SN) 2024 Sports and Socio-Cultural Festival, hosted by Isabela State University (ISU), took place from July 1 to 5, 2024. This year’s festival, themed “ABANTE NORTE: Embracing Differences, Celebrating Togetherness,” brought together 27 State Colleges and Universities from Regions 1, 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region to celebrate and showcase the richness of their diverse cultures.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, President of ISU, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of hosting this year’s event. Dr. Aquino emphasized the importance of reinforcing the values of teamwork and respect throughout the festival’s activities. “This event is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of our unity in diversity,” he stated, highlighting the festival’s goal of fostering a deeper sense of community among the participants.
Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang, KSU and ASCU-SN President, provided a historical backdrop on the inception of ASCU-SN. He explained that the festival was initially conceptualized as a platform for employees to bond and strengthen their camaraderie. “The ASCU-SN Festival was designed to be an avenue where we could celebrate our unique identities while building a stronger, more unified network of State Colleges and Universities,” He added.
The festival featured a vibrant array of sports competitions, dance performances, and various socio-cultural activities. Participants competed in traditional Filipino games, modern sports, and showcased their talents in music, dance, and visual arts. The event also included educational forums and workshops aimed at promoting cultural awareness and understanding.
One of the highlights of the festival was the grand parade, where each participating institution displayed their cultural heritage through colorful costumes, traditional music, and dance performances. This parade not only exemplified the theme of the festival but also served as a visual and auditory feast that captivated both participants and spectators alike.
The evenings were filled with cultural nights, where each region presented performances during the live band competition and search for Mr. and Ms. ASCU-SN 2024. These cultural nights were not just a display of talent but also a profound reminder of the diverse yet harmonious tapestry that makes up the ASCU-SN community.
Throughout the festival, participants had the opportunity to engage in meaningful interactions, exchange ideas, and forge new friendships. The spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect was palpable, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt included and celebrated.
The ASCU-SN 2024 Sports and Socio-Cultural Festival was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. It accentuated the significance of embracing diversity and celebrating togetherness, reinforcing the notion that unity and respect for each other’s differences are the foundations of a strong and vibrant community.
As the festival concluded, the participants carried home not only medals and trophies but also cherished memories and a renewed sense of solidarity. The ASCU-SN Festival continues to be a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of unity in diversity, inspiring future generations to uphold these values in their respective institutions and beyond.
