By Princess Zandra Deniese Cruz
From words to worlds FEPS Al Shahba proudly celebrated Lingua Palooza on October 27, 2025, highlighting this year’s theme: “Language and Culture: Roots of Identity, Keys to the Future.”
The celebration opened with a dynamic performance by the Drum and Lyre Corps, filling the air with excitement and pride. Their rhythmic beats filled the campus with excitement and anticipation. Following their lively number, students from KG 1 to grade 10 proudly joined the parade, showcasing their colorful costumes. The vibrant display celebrated the diversity of cultures and languages across the world. After the parade, the girls’ program took place first, followed by the boys’ program, each showcasing the school’s creativity and appreciation for diversity.
The celebration featured a wide variety of performances that truly showcased the students’ passion and talent. From heartfelt poem recitals and expressive interpretative dances to engaging Balagtasan, Arabic conversations, and cultural showcases, every act reflected the spirit of the event. Elementary pupils charmed the audience with their grace and enthusiasm, while the high school students impressed everyone with their confidence and depth of expression.
Highlights from the program included the poem recital by Diadem Mary Quibin (7D – Euclid), whose heartfelt delivery captivated the audience with every word. The Arabic song performance by Paula Mehetabel Arduo (9C – Dalton) beautifully reflected pride in language and heritage, while Anaiah Estares (9C – Dalton) moved the crowd with her soulful rendition that echoed sincerity and emotion. The Balagtasan performed by Misha Dlemish Tan, Chloe Jezmine Gochy, and Louis Manuel Elegoyo (grade 10) stood out for its wit, passion, and powerful message, leaving the audience in awe of their command of language and expression.
Adding even more color and energy to the stage, the Maharlika Dance Troupe (MDT) delivered a vibrant cultural dance that lifted the spirit of the entire crowd. Their performances celebrated unity and creativity, perfectly embodying the day’s theme. Every performance, whether spoken, sung, or danced, became a reminder that language is more than communication; it is a bridge that connects hearts and cultures.
The event concluded with inspiring closing remarks from Ms. Seprina T. Sancajo, who expressed pride in how FEPSians continue to celebrate diversity and identity through language and culture. Her message encouraged everyone to keep embracing their roots while learning from others, as both are keys to building a shared future of understanding and respect.
Throughout the week, various contest activities were held, giving students the opportunity to showcase their linguistic skills and creative talents. Competitions such as radio broadcasting, declamation, and debate brought out the best in FEPSians, fostering friendly competition and teamwork. The weeklong celebration concluded today, November 3, 2025, with an awarding ceremony that honored the outstanding winners of these contests. The atmosphere was filled with pride and excitement as students and teachers alike celebrated the hard work, dedication, and talent of all participants.
Languages are more than words; they are the vessels of our stories, dreams, and heritage. They connect us across generations, bridge differences, and remind us that through understanding and expression, we can truly see, hear, and feel each other.
Lingua Palooza 2025 celebrated not just the voices of our students but the voices of humanity itself. FEPS Al Shahba once again proved that language and culture are the true roots of identity and the keys to the future.
Photos by Nica Aceya Belarmino, Angelo Gutierrez, and Raya Pagal