The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – Manila held its two-day campaign event, the “Tanglaw Fest” from April 4-5, 2024 at the PUP Oval, following the theme of “Mga Kabataang Makabayan, Tara sa Biyaheng Tungo sa Mapagpalayang Lipunan!”, geared towards the call to action and awareness with pressing societal issues in the Philippines particularly Charter Change and PUV Modernization Program.
Spearheaded by the PUP Sentral na Konseho ng Mag-aaral (PUP SKM) among other formations, and led by Deniel Tolentino, Lance Casuyon, and CJ Diaz as the Overall Heads, this year’s festival centered on campaigns against the Charter Change (Cha-Cha) and the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), and call for a budget increase for the University.
During the first day of the event, an organized mobilization commenced in light of the campaigns followed by the second day’s highlight event with the United PUP Against Charter Change (UPACC) which collectively united PUPians against the issue.
Other solidarity speakers from Nnara Youth PUP, Samahang Janitorial, Bahaghari PUP, Kasarianlan PUP, Gabriella Youth PUP, PUP OSR, and the event’s Education and Campaign Committee grace the event, solidifying the goal of Tanglaw Fest as an advocacy-driven event.
The Festival also featured performances from the University’s homegrown talents; from individual performers to dance groups, pep squads, and university bands. Special guest Maxie Andreison, Queen of the Universe contestant, added glamour to the event.
It also held its first-ever “Let’s Get Drag: Serving the Community with Heels” contest, drag queens also showed their charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent with their advocacy campaigns incorporated in their couture throughout their performances. Drag Queens Asha Solé, Miz Hoesha, Tracy Audacity, Dulce Dollx, Edsa Xxtra, Renoah Arc, Mimarquise, and the first De-Serving Drag Superstar—Eliza, showcased their talents and artistry in the drag industry through this.
Despite ongoing classes held throughout the two-day event, PUPians didn’t hesitate to take part in this year’s Tanglaw Fest as the crowds went wild during the lipsync performances of the drag contestants and the Flash Mob by various formations inside the campus. Iskolars ng Bayan also enjoyed and loved the booths from participating sponsors and organizations filled with interactive games and prizes ranging from photo booths, quiz bees, candies, pins, and advocacy stickers among others.
As stated by PUP Tanglaw Fest Project Head Deniel Tolentino, the advocacy-based project – Tanglaw Fest leaves a challenge to every Iskolar ng Bayan to join the fight for a just and meaningful change as part of the marginalized sector of the society, the youth, among
workers and peasants who are often neglected and harmed by unjust administrative policies hampering full attainment of democratic rights.
“Bilang mga Iskolar ng Bayan at parte ng masa, tayo ang mapagpasya para sa ating bayan at nasa kamay natin ang kalakasan! Sa pagsuporta sa mga ganitong klaseng program, [ay] nagigiging susi [ito] upang magpalakas para ipaglaban ang ating mga karapatan at kampaniyang bitbit. Hindi natin dapat pabayaan ang mga isyung panlipunan. Mahalaga na hindi natin kalimutan na may lakas ang kolektibong nating paglaban”.
Towards the end of the two-day event, the Tanglaw Fest 2024 Project Head reminded the PUPians of the true essence of the event; to gather together to take a stand against injustices, call for changes in society, and fight for what is right against all odds.
Written by: Pauline Reinne Alcaria, Elyzza Pauline Carigma, and Rianna Yuraine Quiocho