CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – “There is something about dance that captured my heart.”

Sean Jabes Fajardo, past president of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) Gintong Amihan Dance Troupe, shared that one of the reasons he joined the dance troupe was to feed his hunger. “I am so hungry,” he said, to acquire new skills and learn the cultural dances in the country.

Dancing offers a unique venue for self-expression. It allows you to convey a message or your emotions through movement, said Fajardo.

But dance was not his first option; Fajardo shared that he was a musician first because his parents did not allow him to join any dance troupes in their city, Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur. But despite the setback, he did not hesitate to audition for the Gintong Amihan dance troupe, especially after he enrolled at USTP and became a trailblazer.

“I think each step I take feels like a journey through history or a celebration of culture, a testament to the universal language of the dances,” he said.

Fajardo deems being part of an extraordinary dance troupe here in Cagayan de Oro a blessing.

“I got to meet VIPs, our clients, and, of course, celebrities or talented artists, which gives you excitement,” he added.

Dance is also not just about passion but also consistency. 

Some performers may be passionate about dancing but lack the consistency to train and learn the techniques.

Even if it is tiring, draining, and stressful because of academics, “I give myself time to train despite how little or short it is,” he said.

Fajardo became a member of the dance troupe in 2021. One word he could not forget since being a member was discipline. He said their trainer, Ruben Balane, instilled in them the value of discipline.

“As a performer, you need to be disciplined and professional, especially with clients,” he shared.

Fajardo shared his interest in cultural dances and finds the diverse culture of the country very beautiful.

“Nindot kaayo makatuon ka sa sayaw nga Higa-onon, sa vibrant piece of the Subanen, and steps of the Maranao. Thankful ko kay I have the wealth of knowledge nga nag-feed sa ako karon [It's great that you can learn the Higaonon dance, the vibrant piece of the Subanen, and the steps of the Maranao. I am thankful because I have the wealth of knowledge that feeds me now], and I think that is a unique advantage for me as a student and as a performer as well,” Fajardo shared. (JMOR/PIA-10)