JEONJU, South Korea – The Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) Liping Tagalog Folkloric Group (LTFG) proudly represented the Philippines at the World Cultural Dance Festival 2026, delivering a vibrant performance of traditional Philippine folk dances at the Jeonbuk National University Arts Center on July 10, 2026. The group’s presentation showcased the richness of Filipino culture and earned positive recognition from the international audience for its authentic portrayal of the country’s heritage.

The Philippine delegation was led by Dr. Ma. Leonora C. Sta. Ana, Director of the Culture and the Arts Development Office (CADO), together with Dr. Regulus A. Caibigan and Mr. Lester Parungao, adviser and co-adviser of the BASC Liping Tagalog Folkloric Group (LTFG), respectively. Student performers included Althea Laxamana, Pauleen Jade Escalante, Aaliyah Donna Viola, Althea Joy Mempin, KC Sanchez, Rafael Laxamana, David Lawrence Lamiel, Roy Sumaway, Aljorge Atienza, and John Michael Balagtas.

Also joining the delegation were BASC LTFG alumni Mr. Aljohn Gimeno, Ms. Marvie Lyka Imbien, Ms. Jhanine Custodio, and Ms. Maria Julianne Riego, along with BASC faculty members Dr. Jennifer I. Guevarra, Dr. Robert A. Capalad, Mr. Sonny E. Dela Cruz, Dr. Imee D. Esguerra, Dr. Anthony C. Ortega, and Dr. Yosef Eric C. Hipolito. The performance was presented under the artistic direction and choreography of Engr. Diosdado Dimagiba and Mr. Oswald Solis, whose creative leadership brought Filipino traditions to life through dynamic and culturally rich performances.

Organized by the International Youth Fellowship (IYF), the World Cultural Dance Festival 2026 is one of the major events of the IYF, held from July 5 to 21, 2026, in South Korea. Following the festival activities in Jeonju, the BASC delegation is currently participating in the 2026 IYF World Camp in Busan from July 12 to 15, where they are taking part in leadership, cultural, and educational programs alongside delegates from around the world. The delegation will then proceed to Gumi, South Korea, from July 16 to 20 for additional cultural presentations and exchange activities before concluding the program with visits to Incheon and Seoul on July 21.

The festival and the World Camp serve as international platforms for cultural exchange, bringing together youth delegations from different countries to celebrate diversity through traditional dance, music, and the performing arts while promoting international friendship, leadership, and the IYF’s Mind Education program.

According to the festival program, participating delegations take part in a series of cultural exchange activities, rehearsals, team meetings, leadership sessions, and preparation programs leading up to the Final Contest and Awards Ceremony. These activities are designed to strengthen intercultural understanding while providing young performers with opportunities to share their cultural heritage and learn from fellow participants around the world.

Through its participation in the IYF World Cultural Dance Festival 2026, the BASC Liping Tagalog Folkloric Group has not only showcased the richness of Philippine cultural heritage but is also strengthening international cultural understanding and youth collaboration. The delegation’s participation reflects BASC’s continuing commitment to preserving Filipino traditions while fostering global partnerships through culture, education, and the performing arts, demonstrating the College’s dedication to promoting Philippine culture on the international stage. 

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Photo Credit: IYF Organizer fr Rep of South Korea