Let Culture Start With a Dance Step
OZAMIZ CITY - One lively way to introduce children to Ozamiz culture is through movement, especially after seeing how young performers participated in the 2026 Perangat Festival. Held for the city’s 78th Charter Anniversary, the festival featured school and barangay contingents presenting dances and ritual performances inspired by Subanen customs. Families can turn that idea into a simple weekend activity by watching recorded local performances together, asking children what they notice about the movements and costumes, then letting them create their own respectful dance routine. The goal is not perfect choreography, but giving children an enjoyable first encounter with cultural expression.
Turn Local Stories Into a Creative Afternoon
Culture becomes easier for young children to remember when they can make something with their hands. DepEd Ozamiz’s 2026 preparation for the Regional Festival of Talents included activities such as Bayle sa Kalye, Pintahusay, Likhawitan, and Sine Munti, giving learners different creative ways to express themselves through dance, painting, music, and film. Parents can borrow that approach by asking children to draw a favorite Ozamiz landmark, write a short story about a family tradition, create a simple song, or film a one-minute “mini documentary” about something familiar in their neighborhood. These small projects can make local identity feel personal rather than something found only in textbooks.
Follow the Example of Ozamiz’s Young Performers
Children can also discover culture by meeting the idea of performance with curiosity, rather than pressure to compete. In April 2026, six-year-old Ozamiz dancer Anaelle Carmella “Lala” Tapitan gained attention after winning eight gold medals at the Creation Cup Asian Open Dance Championships in Hong Kong, while representing Ozamiz and the Philippines. Her story can inspire parents to encourage children to explore dancing, music, drawing, storytelling, or other creative interests while learning about the people and traditions around them. A simple family “culture night” could feature a local song, a homemade costume inspired by festival colors, or a child’s own retelling of an Ozamiz story.
