SLSU Bontoc celebrates SHINE @ 22 Charter Anniversary
The Southern Leyte State University (SLSU)–Bontoc Campus celebrated its 22nd Charter Anniversary through SHINE@22: Soar High in the Global Sky, a campus-wide celebration highlighting wellness activities, artistic showcases, and cultural performances that brought together students, faculty, staff, and guests.
Unlike previous years when anniversary events were spread across an entire week, the SLSU-Bontoc Campus administration, together with Unit and Office Heads, decided to compress the activities into a two-day celebration composed of Faculty Day and Family/Campus Day. The decision was made to ensure that academic schedules would not be significantly disrupted, particularly with the upcoming midterm examinations in March.
According to campus officials, the compressed schedule was designed to balance celebration and academic responsibilities, allowing students to participate in university activities while ensuring that classes continue and learning remains uninterrupted. The approach also aimed to minimize additional workload for faculty members during the midterm period.
The celebration formally opened on February 27, 2026, beginning with a dawn rosary at the Multi-Purpose Center (MPC), followed by a fun run along the campus–MAUS route that encouraged wellness and participation among members of the university community. A Zumba session and a communal breakfast later brought participants together in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Formal opening rites were held at the outdoor stage, beginning with the Philippine National Anthem led by Planning Officer Dr. Maria Fe Novere E. Amor, followed by the SLSU Hymn led by Annalou Oclarit and a prayer delivered by Jiva P. Cañonero.
In his Charter Anniversary message, Campus Director Dr. Dewoowoogen P. Baclayon highlighted the continued growth of the campus and reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence, institutional development, and community engagement.
Throughout the day, the campus hosted several activities including the SHINE Booth Showcase and SHINE Fair, where various offices and student groups presented their initiatives. A visual arts contest later featured student artworks that reflected creativity and diverse perspectives, while recreational activities across the campus grounds encouraged participation and camaraderie among attendees.
The evening program featured the SHINE@22 Gala, which gathered university officials, faculty, students, and guests for a formal celebration. The program opened with a grace led by Grace Joy Acub, followed by a Thai-Pinoy themed dinner prepared by the SLSU-Bontoc community.
Campus Director Dr. Baclayon delivered the welcome address, while University President Jude A. Duarte, DPA, delivered the Charter Anniversary and motivational message, emphasizing resilience, institutional growth, and the university’s vision of developing globally competitive graduates.
One of the highlights of the evening was the installation ceremony led by Dr. Peter June D. Dadios, marking an important institutional milestone for the university.
The gala also showcased performances from the Tikarol Performing Arts Conservatory and themed segments highlighting campus talents in creative arts, music, singing, and dance. Cultural presentations such as the “Ako’y Pinoy” repertoire and the “Land of Smiles” performance by faculty and staff further celebrated Filipino identity and unity within the campus community.
The February celebration was hosted by emcees Romel Pitong and Keana Kate Catambacan and concluded later that evening.
The anniversary festivities culminated on March 7, 2026 with HUGYAW Dance Festival, which featured performances from various SLSU campuses presenting Southeast Asian dances. The cultural showcase highlighted regional diversity and strengthened appreciation for Southeast Asian traditions among participants and spectators.
Organizers said the anniversary activities not only commemorated the university’s milestone but also emphasized the importance of balancing campus celebrations with the institution’s academic mission—ensuring that students continue learning while participating in meaningful university events.