Please join us in celebrating the vibrant culture of Lianga.
Let the rhythms and movements
transport you to a world of beauty and tradition.
In the quaint town of Lianga, a centuries-old legend has been passed down through
generations, telling the story of resilience, unity, and the power of honoring one's heritage. A
severe drought had plagued the town, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen.
Amidst the despair, an elderly woman's vision sparked a beacon of hope.The elderly woman,
revered for her wisdom and kindness, dreamed of a bountiful harvest and abundant waters.
However, this prosperity came with a condition: the community must come together to honor
their heritage. Inspired by her vision, the people of Lianga united in a remarkable display of
solidarity.
With renewed purpose, the towns people organized a vibrant festival, showcasing their rich
cultural traditions. Traditional dishes were prepared, colorful costumes crafted, and ancient
dances rehearsed. As they celebrated, the skies responded, pouring forth life-giving rain. The
drought ended, and the land flourished. The sea, once barren, teemed with fish. This legendary
festival, now known as the Inatu Festival, has become an integral part of Lianga's identity. It
serves as a poignant reminder of the community's capacity for unity and collective action. By
embracing their heritage, the people of Lianga transcended adversity, ensuring a brighter
future.
The word 'Inatu' stems from the Kamayo language, translating to 'our very own,' a phrase that
embodies Lianga's distinct character and deep-rooted cultural traditions. The Inatu Festival
continues to thrive, celebrating the triumph of community spirit over adversity. Through music,
dance, and traditional cuisine, the people of Lianga honor their ancestors and the gods,
acknowledging the wisdom of the elderly woman's vision.
October 17th marked a spectacular day in Lianga as the streets of Barangay Poblacion came
alive with the Inatu Festival Street Dancing Competition. Seven contingents from local schools
and universities showcased their vibrant cultural attire and mesmerizing dance moves,
captivating the crowds.
Participating schools included:
1. Anibongan National High School
2. Davisol National High School
3. St. Christine National High School
4. Diatagon Catholic High School Inc.
5. R. Moreno Integrated School
6. Lianga National Comprehensive High School
7. North Eastern Mindanao State University-Lianga Campus (sole tertiary-level competitor)
The air was electric as each contingent took to the quadrangle of NEMSU- Lianga Campus, their
colorful costumes and energetic performances reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Lianga.
The Inatu Festival, with its emphasis on community and tradition, brought together students,
teachers, and locals in a celebration of unity and pride. Through their dazzling displays, the
participants demonstrated their dedication to preserving Lianga's cultural identity. As the
crowds cheered and applauded, it was clear that the true spirit of Inatu had been ignited – a
spirit of community, creativity, and joy.
The pursuit of excellence is a journey, not a destination. For the cultural dancers of North
Eastern Mindanao State University-Lianga Campus, this journey is fueled by discipline,
commitment, and an unwavering passion for their craft. As they strive to secure a back-to-back
title, their story serves as a testament to the power of dedication and teamwork.
The road to success is never easy. It demands blood, sweat, and tears – a discipline that only
the most devoted can endure. But for these dancers, their love for their university and their
craft goes beyond mere discipline; it's a commitment to excellence. They pour their hearts into
every performance, every step, and every gesture, driven by a fierce loyalty to North Eastern
Mindanao State University-Lianga Campus.
Self-doubt and fear of failure can creep in, but the dancers' unwavering resolve propels them
forward. While some may have doubted their abilities, others drew strength from their
convictions, motivating themselves to push beyond boundaries. The believers among them
emerged victorious, conquering their fears and doubts.
This unyielding spirit is the hallmark of North Eastern Mindanao State University-Lianga Campus
cultural dancers. United in their quest for excellence, they embody the values of perseverance,
teamwork, and creativity. Through their performances, they showcase not only their artistic
prowess but also the rich cultural heritage of their region.
As they aim to clinch a back-to-back title, the dancers' inspiration is palpable. Their passion is
contagious, spreading like wildfire through the campus and beyond. They are ambassadors of
their university, carrying the torch of excellence and pride.
In conclusion, the cultural dancers of North Eastern Mindanao State University-Lianga Campus
exemplify the true meaning of commitment, discipline, and heart. Their journey serves as a
beacon of inspiration, reminding us that with unwavering dedication and passion, we can
overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.
