Young delegates power PASUC 2026 opening

Delegates from across the Philippines gathered at the West Visayas State University College of Medicine Auditorium on April 6, 2026, for the Mr. and Ms. PASUC 2026 press conference, part of the National Culture and the Arts Festival.

The pageant aims to showcase talent and excellence while fostering cultural pride and unity among state universities and colleges.

Organizers said the event goes beyond competition by serving as a platform for connection and cultural exchange.

They also stressed the importance of creating a space where diverse traditions are respected and shared.

“As we open this celebration, we look beyond representation and into connection. Let this be a space where cultures meet without competing, where heritage is shared without being diminished,” said Dr. Bonna S. Palma, local contest head master.

Participants echoed that message as they reflected on their journeys to Iloilo.

Trixie Diane C. Maza, the female delegate from Region II, said cultural appreciation can be experienced through simple interactions, including sharing food with locals during a long trip.

“I traveled 16 hours just to set my foot in this city, and I am proud… someone offered me food, and that made me realize the love people put into their culture. That inspired me to represent my region not just here, but to the whole nation,” she said.

The program concluded with a cultural gift exchange ceremony, during which delegates shared products from their respective regions to reinforce the festival’s goal of promoting unity through cultural understanding.

PASUC is the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges, while WVSU has previously documented participation and wins in PASUC-NCAF events, underscoring the festival’s continuing role in highlighting student talent and regional culture. (Story by Julie Mae Bulong, Kim Ashley Galfo, Jamaica Gandecila, Jericho Guelos, Kyla Joy Paganpan, Jelyn Patriarca, and Jenica Regno)