LAKE SEBU, SOUTH COTABATO — Putting a strong emphasis on cultural preservation, institutional synergy, and regional development, Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) led by by University President Atty. Cyrus E. Torrena, DPA, MNSA, took an active part in the 2nd Semestral Meeting of the Regional Development Council XII (RDC XII) – Subcommittee on Culture and the Arts (RSCA XII) held on October 22, 2026, at Helobung Hall, Punta Isla Lake Resort.
The meeting’s provisional agenda featured critical regional milestones and collaborative frameworks, highlighted by discussions on the Western Visayas 10-year Cultural Development Agenda presented by Ms. August Melody Andong, EnP. of DEPDev VI, and proposals concerning the upcoming formulation of the SOCCSKSARGEN 10-year Cultural Development Agenda (2027–2036) led by Ar. Jesuben S. Bongolan of the NCCA-Regional Exchange Unit.
Further enriching the agenda were insightful sessions on community resilience and heritage, including Art as Healing: Using Culture and Arts in Psychosocial Support after Disaster and Wars by Dr. Alma CeleSthia D. Aguja of MSU General Santos, and Lake Sebu: A Living Heritage of Culture, Arts, and Sustainable Development presented by Culture and Arts Coordinator Ms. Nenita Ganlal Kinan. The body also deliberated on institutional branding initiatives, such as the proposed RSCA XII Logo Making Competition, alongside updates on matters arising from previous meetings and the regional call for nominations for the prestigious Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan.
SKSU’s participation underscores its commitment to supporting regional cultural initiatives, strengthening institutional collaboration, and promoting the preservation of local heritage and artistic traditions. The meeting concluded with a learning visit to Lake Sebu, highlighting the importance of culture and heritage in sustainable regional development.
