SMU Engages in Benchmarking and Gains Valuable Insights from SLU’s Cultural Showcase
Baguio City, Philippines, March 25, 2026 — Cultural Affairs Office head, advisers and student officers of Saint Mary’s University (SMU), together with the Dean of Student Affairs and the University President, conducted a benchmarking visit to Saint Louis University (SLU) as part of their continuing efforts to strengthen SMU’s cultural programs and performing arts initiatives.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by the Director of SLU’s Center for Culture and the Arts, along with the advisers and trainers of the university’s performing groups. The initial session served as an avenue for meaningful exchange of insights from both institutions, highlighting more of SLU’s best practices in managing and developing student performers through structured training, collaboration, and artistic discipline.
Following the session, the delegation was given a comprehensive tour of SLU’s cultural facilities. They visited various dedicated spaces for each performing group, including practice rooms, dressing areas, and the university’s theater hall. These facilities reflected SLU’s strong institutional support for the arts, providing an environment that nurtures both creativity and professionalism among student performers.
As the day progressed into the evening, the delegation witnessed the staging of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The program began with a formal opening and a solemn prayer, setting a reverent and anticipatory atmosphere for the performance. What followed was a remarkable production that captivated the audience.
The performance stood as a true testament to theatrical excellence. From powerful vocal delivery and compelling character portrayals to outstanding choreography and technical precision, each element contributed to a production that went beyond entertainment and embodied meaningful storytelling. The experience left a lasting impression on the delegation, offering valuable perspectives on performance, production, and artistic expression.
More than a benchmarking activity, the visit became an opportunity for reflection and growth. The delegation gained insights that can further enhance SMU’s own cultural and performing arts programs, reinforcing its commitment to fostering excellence and preserving the culture of performance.
As the delegation returned to SMU after the event, they carried with them not only memories of an outstanding theatrical production, but also a renewed vision for elevating the university’s artistic endeavors in service of its community.
Baguio City, Philippines, March 25, 2026 — Cultural Affairs Office head, advisers and student officers of Saint Mary’s University (SMU), together with the Dean of Student Affairs and the University President, conducted a benchmarking visit to Saint Louis University (SLU) as part of their continuing efforts to strengthen SMU’s cultural programs and performing arts initiatives.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by the Director of SLU’s Center for Culture and the Arts, along with the advisers and trainers of the university’s performing groups. The initial session served as an avenue for meaningful exchange of insights from both institutions, highlighting more of SLU’s best practices in managing and developing student performers through structured training, collaboration, and artistic discipline.
Following the session, the delegation was given a comprehensive tour of SLU’s cultural facilities. They visited various dedicated spaces for each performing group, including practice rooms, dressing areas, and the university’s theater hall. These facilities reflected SLU’s strong institutional support for the arts, providing an environment that nurtures both creativity and professionalism among student performers.
As the day progressed into the evening, the delegation witnessed the staging of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The program began with a formal opening and a solemn prayer, setting a reverent and anticipatory atmosphere for the performance. What followed was a remarkable production that captivated the audience.
The performance stood as a true testament to theatrical excellence. From powerful vocal delivery and compelling character portrayals to outstanding choreography and technical precision, each element contributed to a production that went beyond entertainment and embodied meaningful storytelling. The experience left a lasting impression on the delegation, offering valuable perspectives on performance, production, and artistic expression.
More than a benchmarking activity, the visit became an opportunity for reflection and growth. The delegation gained insights that can further enhance SMU’s own cultural and performing arts programs, reinforcing its commitment to fostering excellence and preserving the culture of performance.
As the delegation returned to SMU after the event, they carried with them not only memories of an outstanding theatrical production, but also a renewed vision for elevating the university’s artistic endeavors in service of its community.
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Written by: Nizza Vivienne B. Pugong, BIBAK Adviser
