Honoring and preserving Novo Ecijano heritage, the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology–San Isidro Campus (NEUST-SIC) joined the province in commemorating the 129th First Cry of Nueva Ecija at the San Isidro Town Plaza today. Students from SIC showcased cultural dances and performed a song alongside various institutions from the municipality of San Isidro.

Voice of Patriotism

The Campus Youth Ministry of SIC performed the patriotic song “Ang Bayan Ko,” with vocals by Arvan Ashley Vallarta, Edrielyn Mae Reyes, and Arlyn Perez, together with their adviser, Mr. John Derrick Samin. The group rendered the song to pay tribute to the nation’s history and to highlight the value of independence. Arvan Ashley Vallarta, a CYM member from the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management, expressed his sentiments about the performance. “…para sakin hindi lang ito basta awitin lamang, ito ay sumimbulo sa pag kakaisa ng bawat Pilipino na makamit ang Kalayaan laban sa mga mananakop, napakasarap po sa pakiramdam na mapabilang sa isang makasaysayang araw na ito,” Vallarta said. They also led the singing of the National Anthem along with other members of the CYM.

Steps of Heritage

The Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Physical Education students swayed to the rhythm in three cultural dances: Maral Dad Libun, Salakban, and Dumendingan. Carl Dayao, one of the performers in Salakban, a traditional dance that depicts Kapampangan occupational folk dance that mimics the process of trapping a mudfish, shared his thoughts on the experience. “It is an honor to perform and celebrate the independence of Novo Ecijanos,” he said. Drix Garcia, a dancer of Maral Dad Libun, a traditional festival dance that reflects communal life and rituals, shared his feelings about representing NEUST in such a historic provincial celebration. “Being part of this event that honors the culture and history of our province adds a deep sense of connection and purpose,” Garcia said. Ivan Wesley Andres, one of the dancers of Dumendingan, a traditional dance that highlights the cultural identity and heritage of indigenous communities, shared the message they wanted the audience to feel while watching the performance. “We aimed to connect the audience with the lesser-known traditional dances in our country, such as the Dumendingan, and spark their curiosity while promoting cultural vibrance, pride, and a deeper understanding of our rich heritage,” Andres said. Dr. Kenneth S. Samonte, Ms. Anjela Marie L. Guevarra, and Ms. Rosenell B. Flores served as their coaches.

Celebrating History, Inspiring Unity

On September 2, 1896, the historic “First Cry of Nueva Ecija” marked the beginning of the Novo Ecijanos’ fight against Spanish colonizers under the leadership of General Mariano Llanera and General Pantaleon Valmonte with an estimated 3,000 soldiers from Cabiao, Cabanatuan, and Gapan marching toward San Isidro to the tune of the Banda de Cabiao. Through Republic Act No. 7596, September 2 was declared as Nueva Ecija Day to honor the victory of Novo Ecijano heroes who drove out the Spaniards and fought for the freedom of Filipinos oppressed under colonial rule.