University of Luzon Cultural Arts Director and Company Explores Filipino Heritage at Bale-Balayan Museum

Cultural immersion created another meaningful opportunity for the University of Luzon to strengthen its commitment to preserving Filipino heritage through the arts. Prof. Restituto O. Fernandez, University Cultural Arts Director, visited the Bale-Balayan: Museum for the Poor and Center for Transformation through the Arts upon the invitation of its visionary director, Mr. Peter de Vera.

Joining Prof. Fernandez were Mr. Jeffrey Bachar, Artistic Director of the Ligliwa Dance Troupe of Mangatarem National High School; Prof. Daniel Xerxes S. Padrid, BPEd Program Coordinator and ULTDC Coordinator; Rhedlen Infante and John Lloyd Cruz of the University of Luzon Theater and Dance Company; and Micko Morales Magsano. Together, they experienced playing indigenous bamboo musical instruments, gaining a deeper appreciation of traditional Filipino music through hands-on learning activities that enriched their professional education in cultural arts.

Located in Angeles, Pampanga, Bale-Balayan has become a nurturing learning environment where children from underserved communities develop skills in music, dance, and cultural performance while building confidence, creativity, and cultural identity. The visit on May 28 gave the group the opportunity to experience the museum’s mission firsthand and witness how the arts are used to preserve Filipino culture and empower young people. More than a museum, it serves as a cultural sanctuary that safeguards Filipino cultural heritage and demonstrates how education and the arts can inspire social responsibility within communities.

In this aspect, the University of Luzon and the Bale-Balayan Museum share a common goal of preserving the cultural heritage and revitalizing the youth’s interest and appreciation for our traditional music and arts. Bale-Balayan provides children with opportunities to develop their skills in music, dance, and cultural performance, shaping future advocates of Filipino culture. In the same way, the University of Luzon continues to champion the youth with education, cultural dance performance, and community involvement. Through their shared dedication, both institutions demonstrate how culture and education can inspire lives, strengthen communities, and leave a meaningful legacy for future generations.

The visit reflects the University’s commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It supports SDG 4: Quality Education by expanding learning opportunities through cultural immersion, strengthening professional education, and promoting educational strategies that deepen appreciation of Filipino traditions. It also advances SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by preserving cultural heritage, encouraging community participation in the arts, and helping ensure that Filipino traditions remain meaningful for future generations.