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Sining Bulakenyo (SiBul) Connects Thru the World
24 June to 4 July 2009
2nd Arsena International Folklore Festival, Jakarta, Indonesia
by Rodel M. Fronda
Sining Bulakenyo (SiBul), from the Province of Bulacan, the official dance company of Barasoain Centre for Innovative Education (BarCIE) of the University of Regina Carmeli in Malolos City, represented the Philippines in the recently concluded 2nd Arsena International Folklore Festival held in Jarkarta, Indonesia. The festival was organized by CIOFF Indonesia and Arsena Media Kreasi.
International Folk dance groups from Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Poland and the Philippines participated in the festival. Performances held during the two-week festivities were a great experience for SiBul, who for the first time joined the international arena outside the country.
In its six years of existence, this may be considered the best achievement for the group that will definitely provide more opportunities and open better horizons in the future. One of the highlights in their Indonesian stint was the performance at the Embassy of the Philippines in Jakarta. Ambassador Vidal Erfel Querol and his wife, who are native of Baliuag, Bulacan, were so elated and proud of hosting the group.
The trip was made possible by so many people who openly supported SIBUL-BarCIE led by the Bulacan Provincial Governor Joselito R. Mendoza, PYSEACO Head Ms. Elizabeth L. Alonzo and her staff, Congresswoman Marivic Alvarado, Guiguinto Mayor Isagani Pascual, Bulacan Tourism Officer Emma Gonda and Guiguinto Accountant Eugenio Payungayong,. Special thanks should also be given to dear friends like Tita Lalaine Lopez, Torvic Marcelo, Dra. Georgette Dionisio, Arlene Pascual, Joy Francisco, Tita El, Kaka Estrella, Tess Roque, Ding Dimagiba, Jonathan de Jesus, Pepot Vinta, Darlo Ibay, Charne Noprada, our dear Mam Sonjee, Ody Oyales, MDE of Pagadian, Barasoain Kalinangan, PYSEACO and so many others including the families and relatives of the dancers and staff of the touring party who have made their dream a reality.
For ten unforgettable days, SiBul performed gracefully and proudly showcasing the diverse, rich and colourful culture of the Philippines. They enjoyed the various activities of the festival like animation, street parade, city tour, press conferences, acquaintance parties, cultural tours and performances. The stint once again proved the friendliness of the Filipinos and showed the world that we are indeed a nation of talents and artists.
Hopefully, now that we’re back to work, in school and the daily rehearsals and performances, the group will still find time to get in touch with their new found friends and perhaps meet again to perform together once more.
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