Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has officially forged a partnership with Youth Advocates Through Theater Arts (YATTA) to co-host the Tanghal Visayas 2025, a  university and community- based theater festival in the Visayas Region, set on September 26-28 at BiPSU Naval campus. 

The formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was held today, May 21, at the Office of the President Convergence Hall led by Dr. Victor Catigbe Cañezo, Jr., university president, and Aaron Kaiser Garcia, executive council member of the National Committee on Dramatic Arts (NCDA) of National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). 

Also present to witness the signing were Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, vice president for Student and External Affairs; the chairperson of the Cultural Affairs Development Unit (CADU) Kevin S. Tanguihan; and Felipe Bacay, artistic director of Teatro BiPSU.

YATTA or Youth Advocates Through Theater Arts serves as the implementer of Tanghal Visayas, a flagship initiative of the National Committee on Dramatic Arts (NCDA) under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

This youth advocate group aimed to empower local communities and academic institutions by using theater as a tool for dialogue, education, and advocacy on pressing social and environmental issues.

Under the said  agreement, YATTA will take the lead in organizing the event ensuring it is diverse, inclusive, and aligned with national and regional concerns. 

Moreover, the organization will be responsible for designing promotional materials, coordinating with around 12 theater groups from across the Visayas, and managing travel logistics for approximately more than 100 participants. 

BiPSU, in turn, will provide key logistical and operational support, including free access to venues for workshops and performances, technical equipment, and manpower assistance.

The university will also offer accommodations for participants and facilitators at its dormitory facilities and help identify potential partners and sponsors from the public and private sectors.

"BiPSU is honored to co-host Tanghal Visayas 2025 in partnership with YATTA," said Dr. Canezo. "We are excited for this event as it provides a platform for young people and communities to raise their voices, share stories and inspire change through the arts and culture, ” he added. 

The MOU remains in effect until the conclusion of Tanghal Visayas 2025, with provisions for renewal or revision subject to mutual agreement.

[This news article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 - Quality Education,  SDG No. 13 - Climate Action, and SDG No. 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities.]