DLC Contest Showcases Talent and Teamwork at Anda Plaza

DLC Contest Showcases Talent and Teamwork at Anda Plaza

By Michelle Deloso

The Drum and Lyre Corps (DLC) contest is one of the most exciting school activities where students are able to showcase their talents in music, movement, and teamwork. It is an event that brings together students from different schools who share a passion for performing and expressing themselves through rhythm and coordinated marching. On March 12, 2026, students, teachers, parents, and members of the community gathered at Anda Plaza to witness the performances of three competing schools. The event became a celebration of dedication, creativity, and cooperation as each group presented their carefully prepared routines.

A Drum and Lyre Corps is a group of students who perform music while marching and moving together in formation. During a performance, members play different musical instruments such as drums, lyres, cymbals, and other percussion instruments. While playing, they march in synchronized steps and create formations that change throughout the routine. These formations are designed to produce visually appealing patterns for the audience to watch. The combination of music, rhythm, and coordinated movement makes a DLC performance both entertaining and impressive.

Being part of a Drum and Lyre Corps requires dedication, discipline, and patience. Members must attend many practice sessions in order to master their roles. They need to memorize their steps, follow precise timing, and maintain proper spacing while marching. The success of a performance depends on how well each member performs their part. Even a small mistake can affect the entire formation or disrupt the rhythm of the music. Because of this, teamwork and cooperation are very important in a DLC group. Every member must rely on one another to create a smooth and organized performance.

Preparing for a DLC contest is not easy. Weeks before the competition, students from the participating schools spent many hours practicing their routines. They rehearsed their steps repeatedly to ensure that their movements would be synchronized. They also practiced their musical pieces to make sure the sound of their instruments blended well together. These preparations required patience and perseverance, but the students continued to practice because they wanted to perform their best during the contest.

The DLC contest was held at Anda Plaza, which served as the main venue for the event. The plaza provided a wide open space where the performers could freely march and create their formations. It also allowed the audience to clearly see every movement and pattern created by the groups. On the day of the event, the plaza was filled with excitement. People gathered early to secure good viewing spots, and the atmosphere became lively as everyone waited for the performances to begin.

Three schools participated in the competition: Anda High School, Candabong National High School, and Badiang National High School. Each school prepared a unique routine that reflected their creativity, discipline, and teamwork. The performances were judged based on several criteria, including synchronization, choreography, musicality, uniforms, production design, and overall presentation. Each group hoped to impress the judges and bring pride to their school.

The first school to perform was Anda High School. As they entered the performance area, the members stood proudly in formation while holding their instruments. Their uniforms were neatly worn, and their posture showed that they were ready to begin. The audience became quiet as the performers prepared to start their routine.

When the music began, the group started marching in rhythm while playing their instruments. Their movements were steady and organized as they followed the beat of the music. The performers carefully maintained their spacing while marching across the plaza. From the beginning of the routine, it was clear that the group had practiced well and was determined to deliver a good performance.

As the routine continued, the members transitioned into different formations. They moved from one position to another while maintaining their alignment and coordination. These formations were carefully arranged so that the audience could clearly see the patterns created by the group. The smooth transitions between formations showed the teamwork and cooperation of the performers.

The music played by the group filled the plaza with energy. The sounds of the different instruments blended together to create a strong and steady rhythm. The performers followed this rhythm while marching, making their routine look synchronized and organized. The audience watched attentively as the group continued their presentation.

One of the highlights of Anda High School’s performance was the teamwork displayed by the members. Each student played an important role in maintaining the group’s formation and rhythm. Their coordination allowed the routine to flow smoothly from one part to another.

Another unique feature of their performance was their band master. During the routine, the band master stood at the front of the group and danced while leading the performers. The band master moved energetically to the rhythm of the music, adding excitement to the presentation. The dance steps were simple but lively, which made the performance more engaging for the audience.

Because of the band master’s entertaining performance, Anda High School received the Band Master Award. Their routine showed strong teamwork and preparation, which impressed the judges and the audience. At the end of the contest, they were awarded Third Place for their performance. Their dedication and effort were evident throughout their routine, making their presentation enjoyable to watch.

The second school to perform was Candabong National High School. As they entered the performance area, the audience immediately noticed their confident presence. The members stood proudly while holding their instruments, showing that they were ready to give their best performance.

When the music began, Candabong National High School started their routine with energetic movements. Their marching steps were lively and strong, and their rhythm was clear and consistent. The performers moved together with confidence while playing their instruments, creating a powerful musical sound that echoed throughout the plaza.

One of the most noticeable aspects of their performance was their energy. The members performed with enthusiasm and passion. Even while marching and focusing on their movements, they continued to smile. Their smiles showed that they enjoyed performing, and this positive energy made the audience enjoy watching them even more.

Their choreography was also very impressive. The group performed creative movements while maintaining their formations. They moved quickly but remained organized and coordinated. The transitions between their formations were smooth and carefully planned, which demonstrated their extensive preparation.

The sound produced by their instruments was clear and balanced. Each instrument contributed to the overall musical performance, creating a rhythm that remained consistent throughout the routine. Their musical presentation matched their movements perfectly, making their performance both visually and musically impressive.

Because of their excellent coordination, Candabong National High School received the Best in Synchronization award. Their movements and music were perfectly matched, making their routine look well organized and polished.

They also received the Best in Choreography award because of their creative and energetic movements. Their routine included interesting patterns and lively marching steps that captured the attention of the audience.

Another award they received was Best in Musicality. This award recognized how well the sounds of their instruments blended together to produce a strong and balanced musical performance. Their rhythm remained steady throughout the routine, which helped maintain the energy of the presentation.

Because of their outstanding performance, Candabong National High School was declared the Champion of the DLC Contest. Their routine stood out because of their enthusiasm, coordination, and confidence. The judges were impressed by how well they combined music and movement to create an exciting and memorable presentation.

The last school to perform was Badiang National High School. As they entered the performance area, the audience immediately noticed their colorful and well-designed uniforms. The members stood in formation while holding their instruments, and their neat appearance made a strong impression on the crowd.

When the music started, the performers began their routine with steady and controlled movements. Their marching steps were precise, and their formations were clearly organized. The group showed strong discipline as they moved together across the performance area.

One of the most impressive parts of their routine was their production design. During the performance, the members created different formations that formed beautiful patterns on the ground. These formations changed several times throughout the routine, creating visually appealing designs for the audience to watch.

The transitions between these formations were smooth and organized. The performers moved quickly but maintained their spacing and alignment. Their ability to shift from one pattern to another without losing coordination showed their teamwork and preparation.

Their uniforms also attracted attention during the performance. The designs were neat and attractive, and the bright colors made them stand out while marching across the plaza. Because of their impressive appearance, Badiang National High School received the Best in Uniform award.

Another highlight of their performance was their Corp Majorette. The majorette performed confidently at the front of the group while guiding the performers. Her movements were graceful and expressive as she followed the rhythm of the music. She captured the attention of the audience with her elegant performance.

Because of her outstanding performance, Badiang National High School received the Best in Corp Majorette award. Her confidence and stage presence added excitement and elegance to the group’s routine.

The group also received the Best in Production Design award because of their creative formations and well-organized presentation. The patterns they created during their performance were visually impressive and showed the careful planning behind their routine.

With their strong and well-executed presentation, Badiang National High School won First Place in the contest. Their routine demonstrated discipline, preparation, and teamwork. The performers showed great effort in delivering a performance that impressed both the judges and the audience.

The DLC contest held at Anda Plaza became a memorable event for everyone who attended. The performances of the three schools showed the hard work and dedication of the students who participated. Each group presented a routine that reflected weeks of practice and preparation.

Events like the Drum and Lyre Corps contest play an important role in developing students’ skills and character. Through participation in such activities, students learn discipline, teamwork, patience, and responsibility. They learn how to work together to achieve a common goal and how to support one another during challenges.

Participating in a performance also helps students gain confidence. Standing in front of a large audience can be challenging, but it allows students to overcome their fears and become more comfortable expressing themselves. These experiences can help them grow both personally and academically.

The contest also allows students to express their creativity and talent. Through music and movement, they can present ideas and emotions that entertain and inspire others. The audience is able to appreciate the effort and dedication behind each performance.

In addition to the performers, the contest also highlighted the support of teachers, coaches, and parents who helped guide the students during their preparation. Their encouragement and guidance played an important role in helping the performers achieve their goals.

The event also brought together members of the community who gathered to support the participating schools. Their cheers and applause created a lively atmosphere that motivated the performers to give their best.

In conclusion, the DLC contest held at Anda Plaza on March 12, 2026, was a successful and exciting event that celebrated the talents and dedication of student performers. Anda High School received the Band Master Award and Third Place, Badiang National High School won First Place along with several special awards, and Candabong National High School impressed the judges and audience and was declared the Champion of the contest.

The performances of the three schools demonstrated how teamwork, preparation, and confidence can create an outstanding presentation. The dedication and effort of the students made the event a memorable experience for everyone who attended. Through music, movement, and cooperation, the Drum and Lyre Corps contest showed that when students work together and believe in their abilities, they can create performances that are both inspiring and enjoyable.

 

Work Immersion Experience at Magic Ocean Dive Resort

 

Work Immersion Experience at Magic Ocean Dive Resort

by Nathanel Cedrick Compra

My journey as a work immersion student at Magic Ocean Dive Resort began on December 16. It was my first day as an immersionist, and I felt both excited and nervous because it was my first time experiencing a real workplace environment outside of school. Work immersion is an important part of our learning because it allows us to apply the knowledge we learn in school to real-life situations. It also helps us understand how different jobs are performed and how professionals work together in an actual workplace.

On that day, we arrived at the resort at around 9:30 in the morning. As soon as we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the staff. The resort had a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, which made me feel comfortable even though it was my first day. Shortly after arriving, we met Ma’am Grace, who was responsible for guiding and orienting us about our duties and responsibilities during our work immersion.

During the orientation, Ma’am Grace explained the rules and expectations that we needed to follow while working at the resort. She emphasized the importance of discipline, respect, responsibility, and teamwork. She also explained that work immersion students must always show a good attitude while working because we represent not only ourselves but also our school.

Ma’am Grace also introduced us to our work schedules. She explained that if we were assigned to the morning team, our schedule would be from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Because of this early schedule, we needed to wake up early in the morning so that we would not be late for work. Being punctual was very important because it shows responsibility and respect for the workplace.

On the other hand, if we were assigned to the evening team, the schedule would be from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The evening team would also have different tasks depending on the needs of the resort. Ma’am Grace assured us that the staff members would guide and teach us the tasks that we needed to perform. She explained that we should not be afraid to ask questions because the purpose of our immersion was to learn.

The orientation helped us understand what to expect during our work immersion. It also prepared us mentally and emotionally for the responsibilities we would experience in the following days. Even though I was a little nervous at first, I was also excited because I knew that this experience would teach me many valuable lessons.

During my journey as an immersionist at Magic Ocean Dive Resort, I experienced many different tasks and responsibilities that helped me learn about working in a real environment. On my second day, which was December 17, it was my first time being assigned to the morning team. Because our schedule started at 6:00 in the morning, I needed to wake up very early to prepare myself for work. Adjusting to this routine was not easy at first, but I understood that discipline and time management were important in any job.

When I arrived at the resort early in the morning, I immediately prepared myself for the tasks that needed to be done. As part of the morning team, we were assigned to different areas depending on where help was needed. Most of our tasks were related to housekeeping and maintaining the cleanliness of the resort.

One of our main responsibilities was cleaning the guest rooms. This included arranging the beds neatly, cleaning the tables and furniture, sweeping the floors, and mopping the rooms. Cleanliness is very important in a resort because guests expect a comfortable and relaxing place to stay. Making sure that the rooms were clean and well-organized helped create a positive experience for the guests.

Aside from cleaning rooms, we also helped maintain the cleanliness of other areas of the resort. These included hallways, outdoor spaces, and other guest facilities. Working in housekeeping taught me how important attention to detail is when performing tasks. Even small things like properly arranging pillows or making sure the floor was spotless could make a big difference in the overall appearance of the resort.

From December 18 until December 29, the staff assigned me the responsibility of cleaning the bathrooms. At first, I found this task challenging because cleaning bathrooms requires careful attention and proper sanitation. However, I understood that this responsibility was very important because cleanliness and hygiene are essential for the comfort and safety of the guests.

Every morning, after completing my personal daily routine at home, I arrived at the resort before our shift started. At around 6:10 AM, I would begin cleaning the bathrooms. My tasks included scrubbing the sinks, cleaning the mirrors, washing the toilet areas, mopping the floors, and making sure that everything was properly sanitized. I also checked if there were enough supplies such as tissue, soap, and paper towels.

I usually finished cleaning the bathrooms at around 6:30 AM. After completing my assigned task, I would go to my co-immersionists to help them with their work. One of the tasks that we often did together was setting up the tables for breakfast. This task required us to arrange the plates, utensils, glasses, and table decorations neatly so that everything would look presentable for the guests.

Once we finished setting up the tables, we would go to the kitchen area to help the staff with small tasks. Sometimes we helped carry supplies, prepare utensils, or organize materials that the kitchen staff needed. Helping the staff made us feel like we were part of the team, and it also helped reduce their workload during busy hours.

At around 9:00 AM, we were given time to eat our breakfast. This was also a moment for us to relax and talk with our fellow immersion students. After eating, we were given a 30-minute break to rest and regain our energy.

At around 10:00 AM, we would continue working again. During this time, we usually focused on housekeeping tasks such as cleaning rooms, organizing supplies, and making sure that the resort facilities were ready for the guests. We usually worked on these tasks until around 11:30 AM.

There were times when the work became tiring, especially when the resort had many guests. During busy days, there were more rooms to clean and more tasks to complete. However, these experiences helped me realize that hard work and patience are very important in any job.

I also learned the value of teamwork during our work immersion. Many tasks could not be completed alone, so we needed to cooperate and help each other. By working together, we were able to finish our tasks more efficiently.

Another important lesson I learned was the importance of having a positive attitude. The staff members always encouraged us to do our best and reminded us to stay positive even when the work was challenging. Their guidance helped us become more confident in performing our tasks.

Through this experience, I learned how to be more responsible and professional. I learned how to follow instructions carefully and how to complete tasks properly. I also learned how to communicate respectfully with staff members and fellow workers.

Working in a real environment also helped me understand how businesses operate and how employees contribute to the success of an organization. Seeing how the staff worked together to maintain the resort made me appreciate the effort and dedication required in the hospitality industry.

My work immersion experience at Magic Ocean Dive Resort was one of the most valuable learning experiences I have had as a student. It gave me the opportunity to experience the reality of working in a professional environment and taught me lessons that cannot easily be learned inside the classroom.

Through the tasks that I performed each day, I learned the importance of discipline, responsibility, patience, and teamwork. I also gained practical skills in housekeeping, time management, and communication. These skills will be very helpful for me in the future, whether in my studies or in my future career.

The staff at the resort played an important role in making this experience meaningful. Their guidance, patience, and encouragement helped me become more confident in performing my responsibilities. They also taught me how professionalism should be practiced in the workplace.

This work immersion experience also helped me develop a positive work attitude. I learned that every job is important and that every task should be done with dedication and care. Even simple tasks like cleaning or arranging items require effort and attention.

Overall, my journey as an immersionist at Magic Ocean Dive Resort was an unforgettable experience. It allowed me to grow as a student and as a person. The knowledge, skills, and lessons that I gained from this experience will continue to guide me as I pursue my goals in life and prepare for my future career.

 

The Adventure in Lamanok Island

The Adventure in Lamanok Island
By: Allen Dave Gultiano

Lamanok Island is a mysterious place located in Badiang, Anda, Bohol. The island is famous for its unique rock formations, spirits, and ancient rituals associated with it. Visiting Lamanok Island on January 6, 2026, was an adventurous experience for me, as it was my first time visiting a place rich in both history and natural beauty.

Lamanok Island offers three main activities: a mangrove tour, snorkeling, and an island tour. However, I chose to explore and discover the island itself. Upon arrival, the tour guide reminded us to remain calm, avoid shouting, and show respect to the island. With this reminder, I felt ready for a meaningful experience.

My adventure at Lamanok Island began as I boarded a boat and paddled my way toward the island. Along the way, strong waves appeared, causing the boat to shake. Despite this, I reached the island safely. Upon arrival, I was amazed by the beauty of my surroundings, which encouraged me to proceed to my next destination.

My first destination on Lamanok Island was a cave that served as an ancient burial site. Inside, I saw bones placed in coffins and large clam shells along the right side of the cave. According to our tour guide, these were the remains of early humans who once inhabited the area and were buried there after death. Next, we visited the Red Rock Hematite Painting Cave, where a large cross and ancient paintings could be seen on the rock wall. The paintings symbolized “here” or “we are here” and were created using a paste made from plants and animal fat mixed with water. The native people used their fingers or animal tails to apply the pigment onto the cave walls.

We then proceeded to the Ca Iska Rock Shelter and Bat Cave. On the way, I saw small monkeys hanging from the trees, unaware of our presence, which surprised me. Upon arriving at the cave, I was astonished to see many bats resting on the ceiling. The cave was said to have been inhabited by a woman who lived alone in the early 1880s. People feared her because they believed she was a witch who killed infants and young children. No one dared to visit the island until she reportedly died. After hearing this story, I felt a chill run down my spine and the hairs on my neck stood up. Because of my fear, we decided not to proceed further and instead moved on to another cave.

Afterward, I felt calmer when we visited the Shaman Cave, where rituals were performed during Holy Week. Roosters were commonly offered, while some shamans also sacrificed pigs, cows, or other animals depending on their requests. Many visitors had also left money and personal belongings in the cave as offerings. Another interesting fact about Lamanok Island is that it remains rich in wildlife. Bohol’s tarsier, known as mawmag in our dialect, can be found there, and flying lemurs or kagwang may also be seen if one is lucky enough. Finally, we returned home safely, and I felt grateful that our trip ended without incident.

Overall, my experience on Lamanok Island was truly memorable. I learned many things and experienced emotions such as fear, curiosity, and deep respect for the island. I realized the importance of respecting other cultures, nature, and the traditions passed down by our ancestors. Lamanok Island taught me that a place should not only be visited, but also respected and cared for.

 

Sinulog sa Cebu: Tagbilaran City’s Historic Victory

 

Sinulog sa Cebu: Tagbilaran City’s Historic Victory
By Diane Jinayon
All Rights Reserved

Sinulog sa Cebu is an annual Filipino cultural and religious festival celebrated every third Sunday of January in Cebu City. It is the country’s central devotion to the Santo Niño and is widely recognized as one of the largest cultural and religious festivals in the Philippines. The 2027 Sinulog celebration reportedly attracted more than 5.2 million attendees. Aside from its strong religious significance, Sinulog is also known for its lively street parties, which usually take place on the eve of the main festival. Because of its grandeur and scale, the event is often referred to as the “Grandest Festival in the Philippines” by both locals and participants.

The Sinulog Grand Showdown for 2026 was held on January 18, 2026, at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC). The program began at 9:15 a.m. and concluded with the grand parade and ritual showdown. A total of 37 contingents participated in the event, including 12 out-of-town contingents. These came from the Kalivungan Festival of Amas, Kidapawan City; Zamboanga City High School–Main; Bais City; Tabaco College (Albay); Muntinlupa City; Talon-Talon National High School (Zamboanga City); Maria Clara L. Lobregat National High School (Zamboanga City); Malita, Davao Occidental; Tagbilaran City; Antipolo City; Zamboanga Sibugay; and Las Piñas City. A special guest contingent from the MassKara Festival also joined the celebration.

Eight contingents represented Cebu Province and nearby cities, including Toledo City, Carcar City, Alcoy, Mandaue City, Carmen, Dumanjug, Moalboal, and Asturias, with Danao City participating as a special guest contingent. Meanwhile, 17 Sinulog sa Dakbayan contingents took part, representing Basakanon, Basak Pardo, Barrio Luz, Guadalupe, Banilad, Binaliw, Mabolo, San Nicolas Proper, Inayawan, San Roque, Tisa, Kasambagan, Babag, Tribu Kinaiyahan, UP Cebu, Labangon, and Talamban.

The grand parade passed through major streets such as P. del Rosario Street, Imus Road, General Maxilom Avenue, Osmeña Boulevard, and R. Landon Extension before returning to the Cebu City Sports Complex. The festival atmosphere was vibrant and colorful, highlighted by energetic street dancing and intense ritual showdowns.

After the competition, winners were announced in several categories. In the Sinulog-Based Category, fifth place went to Mandaue City (₱750,000), fourth place to Banay Labangon (₱1,000,000), third place to Carcar City (₱1,500,000), second place to the Municipality of Dumanjug (₱2,000,000), and the champion was Tagbilaran City, which received ₱3,000,000.

For the Free Interpretation Category, fifth place was awarded to Tribu Carmenon (₱750,000), fourth place to Lambo Mabolo (₱1,000,000), third place to Hudyaka sa Bais (₱1,500,000), second place to the Kalivungan Festival of the Province of Cotabato (₱2,000,000), and the champion was Toledo City, which received ₱3,000,000.

In the Best in Street Dancing category, fifth place went to Hudyaka sa Bais Festival (₱200,000), fourth place to Lumad Basakanon (₱300,000), third place to the Kalivungan Festival (₱500,000), second place to Carcar City (₱700,000), and first place to Toledo City (₱1,000,000).

For Best in Musicality (Free Interpretation), Lumad Basakanon placed fifth, Tribu Carmenanon fourth, the Province of Cotabato third, Hudyaka sa Bais second, and Toledo City won first place. In the Sinulog-Based Category, Best in Musicality awards were given to Zamboanga City’s Maria Clara L. Lobregat National High School (5th), Carcar City (4th), Banay Labangon (3rd), Banaun Cultural Group (2nd), and Tagbilaran City (1st). Best in Costume awards were given to Banay Labangon for the Sinulog-Based Category (₱100,000) and Toledo City for the Free Interpretation Category (₱100,000).

For the first time in Sinulog history, Tagbilaran City participated in the Sinulog Grand Showdown and made history as the first contingent from Bohol Province to win the prestigious competition. The city’s entry, Pundok sa Nagkahiusang Bol-anon, was declared overall champion in the Sinulog-Based Category Ritual Showdown and also won First Prize for Best in Musicality (Sinulog-Based).

The contingent was composed of 400 members, including 100 dancers, 200 props handlers, and 100 instrumentalists. Their dedication, discipline, and teamwork resulted in a synchronized and culturally rooted performance that captivated audiences during the Sinulog Grand Parade.

 

My Most Memorable Experience as an Immersionist at Anda Pearl Premier Resort

 

My Most Memorable Experience as an Immersionist at Anda Pearl Premier Resort

by EJ Magadan

Some days, I felt both excitement and overwhelming self-doubt. Other days reminded me how hard work truly is and how I needed to push myself every single day. There were mornings when I woke up feeling tired and unsure if I could keep up with everything I needed to learn and accomplish. From talking to guests, washing dishes, asking help from my co-immersionists, to coordinating with the staff and the people around me—everything required courage. Still, I am glad I took the risk and was willing to learn everything I could.

It was challenging, to be honest, especially when I made mistakes because I lacked knowledge or failed to ask how things should be done. There were bad days and there were good days. By taking small steps, I began to feel that I was no longer doing things just because I was an immersionist, but because they were important and would help me in the future.

I am just an ordinary person with no special knowledge about this kind of work. At first, I felt out of place and doubted whether I could do it. However, with the people around me, I found the strength and courage to face something new. The good side of the experience was that everyone believed in me and was willing to help. The resort staff taught me many things—from learning how to be patient and kind, to always smiling at the people around me. Through this, I found ways to overcome challenges that had been a hindrance to me since my first day. As I worked through every challenge, relationships grew stronger, and tasks slowly started to become enjoyable.

Looking back to December 15, when I first started, I realized how much I learned and how much I grew. The challenges helped me become stronger and taught me how to handle difficult situations. I learned that you don’t need to be perfect at everything, nor do you need special talents or skills to work well. With hard work, perseverance, and commitment, every effort pays off. I am proud of everything I went through, and I could not have achieved this without the help of the people around me.

Both the good and bad days taught me that everything takes time and does not need to be rushed—it’s a matter of moving forward step by step. This experience taught me that a privilege like this is not about being inferior or better than others, but about using the opportunity to gain knowledge, learn from it, and make the most of every moment we are given.