The Communication and Journalism Department (CJD) from the College of Liberal Arts and Communication (CLAC) of De La Salle University–Dasmariñas (DLSU-D)’s successfully held COMPACT 2026: Kapistahan, a three-day celebration that brought together CJD students, faculty, and alumni in honoring Filipino culture, creativity, and professional growth.
The celebration officially opened with a colorful showcase of Philippine festivals, led by students from the AB Communication and AB Digital and Multimedia Journalism programs . First to third-year students paraded from JFH Kubo to Tanghalang Julian Felipe , representing iconic local festivals such as Panagbenga, MassKara, Sinulog, Pahiyas, Kadayawan, Hermosa, and Karakol.
Each group presented their festival-inspired attire and performances, culminating in a lively dance showcase. The MassKara Festival group (COM12) emerged as the Festival Dance Performance Champion, also earning Best Festival Attire and Best Cheer awards. The Pahiyas Festival group (COM31) was named 1st Runner-Up, while the Panagbenga Festival group (COM11) secured 2nd Runner-Up.
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In the afternoon, students attended “Filipino Pista!”, a cultural talk by professor and former National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) chairperson Felipe de Leon Jr., who shared insights on the origins and deeper meanings of Filipino festivals and cultural identity.
The second day highlighted Filipino cuisine through an engaging culinary session at JFH Kubo. Guest speaker Chris Carangian, a DLSU-D alumnus and graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, demonstrated the preparation of Pansit Langlang, a historic dish referenced in El Filibusterismo.
Students gained insights into the origins of Filipino dishes, their ingredients, and cultural significance. Chef Carangian also shared his personal journey as a former DLSU-D student, offering inspiration to aspiring communicators and creatives.
The final day featured “Your Career Move,” a career-oriented program held at Tanghalang Julian Felipe. The session opened with remarks from CLAC Dean Edwin F. Linesis, setting up the tone for a day focused on professional direction and industry insights.
Distinguished alumni from various fields shared their experiences and advice, providing guidance for CJD students in choosing their major track. For the film track, creative director Erika Reyes and filmmaker iuIvonne Balcuba discussed their journeys in filmmaking and creative direction.
For public relations, media relations director Julius Macalagat offered insights into strategic communication, while professional host, TVC anchor, and entrepreneur Jazmine Estorninos shared her experience transitioning from public relations to advertising.
In the field of journalism, correspondent JC Cosico and defense correspondent Bryan Castillo, both from TV5 Network Inc., provided valuable perspectives on working in the news and media industry, drawing from their experiences as practitioners and alumni.
The celebration concluded with a unifying pledge led by COMPACT 2026 Chairperson Marco Polo, where students, faculty, and alumni collectively committed to using their talents and skills to promote and preserve Filipino culture and traditions.
Through COMPACT 2026, the CJD community not only celebrated the richness of Filipino heritage but also empowered future communicators to carry forward a strong sense of identity, purpose, and cultural responsibility.
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