Sto. Niño Dancers Triumph in DWCSJ's 80th Anniversary Street Dance Competition

The streets of San Jose came alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic drum rolls, and spirited performances as the Divine Word College of San Jose (DWCSJ) celebrated its 80th Foundation Anniversary with a grand Street Dance Competition on February 10, 2025. The event showcased four major religious celebrations in the Philippines, namely the Sto. Niño Festival of Cebu, the Nazareno of Quiapo, the Manaoag of Pangasinan, and the Peñafrancia of Bicol. Participants donned elaborate and colorful costumes, captivating the audience with their well-choreographed routines and symbolic representations of faith and devotion. The competition saw the entire DWCSJ community and the residents of San Jose come together in joyous festivity as the street dancers paraded around the town proper. Each contingent embodied the spirit of their respective religious traditions, showcasing unique dance steps that reflected the essence of their devotion. After the dynamic street performances, the final showdown took place at the Fr. McSherry Gymnasium, where the talented performers delivered their best routines in front of an enthusiastic crowd and esteemed judges. Emerging as the grand champion was the Sto. Niño group, whose high-energy performance and synchronized movements captivated the judges. The Manaoag family secured second place, while the Nazareno family took third, and the Peñafrancia family claimed the fourth spot. The Street Dance Competition not only highlighted the rich religious and cultural traditions of the country but also strengthened the unity and spirit of the DWCSJ community. It was a fitting tribute to the institution’s eight decades of commitment to education, faith, and service. As the celebrations continue, DWCSJ looks forward to more meaningful events that will inspire and bring together students, faculty, and the entire community in the years to come. (Photo-Pioneer)