“𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞? 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤! 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐦? 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥, 𝐰𝐞’𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭…”

The majority of students came to the event with the sole intention of meeting the attendance requirement. They were familiar with the routine: identify oneself as present and maybe coast the remainder of the day. After the first roll call, one student in particular seemed ready to nod off, anticipating a typical scenario. But as things went on, a slew of surprising performances and wild games turned the day into something worth staying for, swiftly defusing those expectations.

Numerous acts that got the crowd excited opened the program. There was always something occurring that kept everyone glued to their seats, whether it was the contagious cheers, the excitement of the dances, or the unexpectedly intense parlor games. One of the day’s more entertaining events was the sack race, which attracted spectators with its competitive spirit and exuberant competitors. The victorious team’s joyous celebrations contributed to the event’s overall enjoyment.

The Magdafil Klab’s “Katutubong Sayaw” and the Tik Tok Dance, however, were the true highlights of the day. The entire SJC Garden was filled with smiles and shouts during the Tik Tok Dance, and the “Katutubong Sayaw” effectively encapsulated the spirit of “Buwan ng Wika,” honoring Filipino culture in a way that was both touching and enjoyable. The performances had a certain something that had less to do with perfection and more to do with the energy and happiness they offered the audience, even in spite of a few wardrobe malfunctions.

That once-passive attendee became truly engaged by the end of the event. They were reminded of the importance of being present—not just for the sake of attendance but also for the memories these moments create—by this experience that began as a simple responsibility. As the day came to an end, they couldn’t help but think that, if this was going to be their last big college experience, it was definitely one to remember.

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Words and Photo by Aaron Manamtam | The Josephinian