LUNA, Apayao – More than 500 students from the province stepped out of their classrooms and into the spotlight at Luna Central School on March 10, for the Division Festival of Talents as part of the annual events of the Department of Education.
With the theme “Skills for All: Inclusive Education for Globally Competitive Bagong Pilipinas,” the festival puts learners to the test in competitions that will showcase their creativity, skills, and innovation.
Luna Public Schools District Supervisor Wilfreda Gamio, reminded participants that talent is only as valuable as the effort put into developing it. “I just want to congratulate each and every one of you, especially the participants who will be performing today. You are all talented, you are all winners, and congratulations because you are representing your districts in this very meaningful event. You are given many talents, use these talents for your future and you will gain more,” she said.
Meanwhile Chief Education Supervisor Joy D. Saleng emphasized that the festival is not only about winning and being competitive, but more about growth, learning, and passing on knowledge.
“This is not just a showcase of what you have practiced in your school but it is more than that. We say that we are learning from here, we stay excellent from here, we strive from here, and we explore from here. We can innovate from here, and most of all, we can pass on our knowledge and skills to others. It is not just a showcase of what we have; it is about sharing and giving back. We are given unique gifts, and it is up to us to use them to make a difference,” she stated.
The competition line-up was as diverse as the students themselves. Sining Tanghalan challenged learners in story retelling, drama, creative writing, and traditional dance, while the HistoPop and Araw ng Kagitingan events tested their knowledge in history quizzes and oratorical contests. Tagis-Talino, STEMazing, and Technolympics put a spotlight on technical and vocational skills, from electrical work to dish gardening and food processing.
Aside from the performances, the festival was also a reminder that education is about growth. Saleng stressed that shaping well-rounded learners means developing character, creativity, and resilience, aside from academic excellence.
“We want to make sure that our learners will develop promptly as morally, socially, spiritually, and physically. We want them to be well-rounded individuals who are ready to face the challenges of the world,” she added.
The best performers from this event will advance to the Regional Festival of Talents in Mountain Province from March 30 to April 2, carrying the name of Apayao as they compete at a higher level. By Krizza Joy Castillo
